FTC files new motions to stop hospital merger in Georgia

The Federal Trade Commission is seeking a temporary restraining order and preliminary injunction to prevent further integration between Phoebe Putney Memorial Hospital and Phoebe North, or Palmyra Medical Center, in Albany, Ga., the Albany Herald reported. "As the Transaction is now consummated, we request that this Court enjoin any further integration of the acquired hospital's assets and operations, and preserve the status quo at Phoebe North (formerly Palmyra), pending the outcome of the Commission's expedited administrative proceeding," the amended complaint states. The FTC had filed to oppose the hospital mergers back in April 2011, claiming it would stifle competition and increase costs. Article