Competition and Integration of US Health Systems in the Post-COVID-19 New Normal: Cross-sectional Survey

BACKGROUND: How do health systems in the United States view the concept of merger and acquisition (M however, the significance of technology disruption-driven competition was weak (P=.05). The influence of customer service-driven competition in the combined model was significant and negative (P<.001). CONCLUSIONS: Competition-driven integration has subtle influences across health systems. Environment uncertainty-related competition is a significant factor, with underlying contingent factors such as revenue concerns and leadership as the leading causes of integration plans. However, technology disruption may hinder integrations. Undoubtedly, small- and low-revenue health systems facing a high level of competition are likely to merge to navigate the health care business successfully. This trend should be a focus of policy to avoid monopolistic markets.