That possibility has hit shares of most drugstore operators on fears that the online retailer would leverage its vast ecommerce platform in prescription drug sales. A deal would make CVS-Aetna a one-stop shop for customers' health care needs - ranging from employer healthcare and government plans to managing benefits and running drug stores. The deal between companies in two very concentrated industries will likely prompt concern about their rivals having an access to market, or foreclosure, two antitrust expert said. Advertisement Continue reading the main storySome analysts said the deal could also trigger a wave of consolidation across the industry. It could be a possible catalyst for higher health insurance sector valuation, BMO Capital Markets analyst Matt Bosch said, adding that WellCare Health Plans, Humana and Centene could be possible acquisition targets.

Source: New York Times October 27, 2017 13:41 UTC