The New York State Department of Financial Services is holding a hearing on September 8 to learn more about how New York could be affected by a merger between Anthem and Cigna. Any interested person can submit comments in writing, or even better, attend a hearing on the issue this Thursday in downtown Manhattan. The hearing starts at 10:00AM, on the 6th floor at 1 State Street.

HCFANY has expressed concerns about this merger before, and will do so again on Thursday. The hearing is completely open to the public (you can review the public notice here). Anyone can testify by signing up in advance (just email public-hearings@dfs.ny.gov, and put “ANTHEM-CIGNA 2016 HEARING” in the subject line).  HCFANY’s testimony recommends that DFS reject the merger, for the following reasons:

1. The Anthem-Cigna merger will reduce competition in New York State.
2. Competition produces better services at lower costs, even in the complicated world of health insurance.
3. Remedies or conditions used by regulators in past health insurance mergers have failed to truly protect consumers.

You can read our talking points here for help in crafting your testimony, but the important thing is to tell your own story – DFS wants to hear from you! HCFANY believes this merger will make issues like customer service and affordability even more difficult for New Yorkers, and we think New Yorkers should let DFS know how those problems are affecting them. Even if you do not want to speak in public about the merger, it is important for consumers to attend the hearing – it shows DFS that we care about this issue. If you cannot attend, you can also submit written testimony up until September 15.