1. (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. (1) Is not inconsistent with the State health plan or any institution-specific plan;
   2. (2) Will result in the delivery of more efficient and effective hospital services; and
   3. (3) Is in the public interest.
2. (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.

Added as Health-General § 19-123 by Acts 1985, c. 109, § 2, eff. June 1, 1985. Amended by Acts 1988, c. 6, § 1, eff. July 1, 1988. Renumbered as Health-General § 19-130 and amended by Acts 1999, c. 702, § 2, eff. Oct. 1, 1999. Renumbered as Health-General § 19-129 by Acts 2001, c. 565, § 2, eff. July 1, 2001.