Epworth Foundation - proposed acquisition of Cedar Court Private Hospital
Type of assessment
Informal Review
Reference
25119
Acquirer(s)
Epworth Foundation
Target(s)
Cedar Court Private Hospital
Industry
Private hospitals
Summary
Epworth Foundation propose to acquire Cedar Court Private Hospital.
Outcome of assessment
Not opposed
Total review days *
25
Commenced public review
4th August 2006
Date completed
7th September 2006
Market definition
The ACCC considered the effect of the proposed acquisition on the local market (in southern and eastern Melbourne) for private rehabilitation services to private rehabilitation service purchasers.
The ACCC also considered the effect of the proposed acquisition on the local markets (Melbourne CBD and eastern Melbourne) for general overnight private hospital services to hospital services purchases.
Competition analysis
The ACCC considers that Epworth's proposed acquisition of Cedar Court will not result in a substantial lessening of competition in any market. This view is based on the fact that a number of competitors exist in the relevant markets that will provide service purchasers (health funds, Department of Veterans Affairs, WorkCover and the Transport Accident Commission) with viable alternatives. Further, service purchasers will continue to have countervailing power in their dealings with Epworth.
Review timeline
Date
Event
4th August 2006
ACCC commenced review under the Merger Review Process Guidelines. Market inquiries commence
25th August 2006
Closing date for submissions from interested parties
5th September 2006
Proposed date for announcement of ACCC's findings.
7th September 2006
ACCC announcement that it will not oppose the proposed acquisition.
* Total Review days = Total business days less public holidays and time during which the review was suspended.
