Cerner’s acquisition of Siemens Health Services clears first regulatory hurdle

The U.S. Federal Trade Commission has granted early termination of a regulatory waiting period in Cerner’s purchase of Siemens Health Services, according to a statement from the company.

The waiting period fell under the Hart-Scot-Rodino Antitrust Improvements Act of 1976, and its termination satisfies one of the conditions to the closing of the pending $1.3 billion acquisition. Other customary closing conditions remain, but the transaction is still expected to close in the first quarter of 2015, according to Cerner.

"We're pleased to have cleared this important regulatory hurdle and to be one step closer to integrating Siemens Health Services and its clients into the Cerner family," said Dick Flanigan, Cerner senior vice
president, in the statement.

Evan Godt
Evan Godt, Writer

Evan joined TriMed in 2011, writing primarily for Health Imaging. Prior to diving into medical journalism, Evan worked for the Nine Network of Public Media in St. Louis. He also has worked in public relations and education. Evan studied journalism at the University of Missouri, with an emphasis on broadcast media.

Around the web

CCTA is being utilized more and more for the diagnosis and management of suspected coronary artery disease. An international group of specialists shared their perspective on this ongoing trend.

The new technology shows early potential to make a significant impact on imaging workflows and patient care. 

Richard Heller III, MD, RSNA board member and senior VP of policy at Radiology Partners, offers an overview of policies in Congress that are directly impacting imaging.