(a) Notwithstanding the fact that a merger or consolidation may limit free economic competition, the Commission may approve the merger or consolidation of 2 or more hospitals if the merger or consolidation:
(1) Is not inconsistent with the State health plan or any institution-specific plan;
(2) Will result in the delivery of more efficient and effective hospital services; and
(3) Is in the public interest.
(b) Notwithstanding the fact that a merger or consolidation or the joint ownership and operation of major medical equipment may limit free economic competition, a hospital may engage in a merger or consolidation or the joint ownership of major medical equipment that has been approved by the Commission under this section.
Structure Maryland Statutes
Title 19 - Health Care Facilities
Subtitle 1 - Health Care Planning and Systems Regulation
Part II - Health Planning and Development
Section 19-115 - Duties of Commission in Health Planning and Development
Section 19-116 - Studies of Systems Capacity in Health Services
Section 19-118 - State Health Plan
Section 19-119 - Institution-Specific Plan
Section 19-120 - Certificate of Need -- Health Care Facilities
Section 19-120.1 - Certificate of Conformance
Section 19-121 - Certificate of Need -- Health Maintenance Organizations
Section 19-122 - Certificate of Need -- Domiciliary Care Projects
Section 19-124 - Certificate of Need -- Direct Admissions Into Comprehensive Care Nursing Bed
Section 19-125 - Certificate of Need -- Ambulatory Care Facilities
Section 19-126 - Certificate of Need -- Action on Applications
Section 19-128 - Appeal of Administrative Decision