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Antitrust policy in Florida and throughout the United
States traditionally has addressed two major areas of concern: (1) the
effects on market competition of changes in industry structure due to mergers
and acquisitions; and (2) the impact of various pricing policies and non-price
practices on the viability of market competition. The State of Florida
has long been a leader in antitrust enforcement, acting vigorously, for
example, to curtail bid-rigging among road construction firms and among
suppliers of milk to public school districts. Of special current concern
in Florida and elsewhere is the most appropriate policy toward mergers
in the health care industry, including mergers among hospitals, health
maintenance organizations, nursing homes, and pharmaceutical companies.
Florida officials are also concerned presently about potential violations
of the antitrust laws that may have led to overcharges for health care
services. PPRC can sponsor major research projects and conferences on primary
areas of current antitrust concern. These activities can assist policy
makers in Florida and elsewhere by: (1) providing a more refined analysis
for assessing the competitive impact of prospective changes in industry
structure; and (2) differentiating industry practices that enhance competition
from those that undermine market competition. |