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You’d be hard to replace: Provider competition in narrow network insurance markets

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  • Kleiner, Samuel A.
  • Koch, Thomas G.
  • Lau, Christopher V.

Abstract

This study analyzes hospital competition within narrow network health insurance products. We characterize the implications of provider mergers when narrow networks are present. The existence of narrow network insurance plans can lead merger-induced price effects through competitive restraint, leading to merger effects beyond those due to direct, head-to-head competition. We empirically apply these findings to a proposed acquisition that was investigated by the Federal Trade Commission and find evidence suggesting that accounting for narrow networks generates substantially larger price effects.

Suggested Citation

  • Kleiner, Samuel A. & Koch, Thomas G. & Lau, Christopher V., 2026. "You’d be hard to replace: Provider competition in narrow network insurance markets," International Journal of Industrial Organization, Elsevier, vol. 106(C).
    • Handle: RePEc:eee:indorg:v:106:y:2026:i:c:s016771872600024x
    DOI: 10.1016/j.ijindorg.2026.103271
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