FTC challenge blocks Virginia hospital chain’s merger

Virginia-based hospital chain Inova Health System has abandoned its plans to merge with Prince William Hospital due to a legal challenge from the Federal Trade Commission. The commission and Virginia Attorney General Robert F. McDonnell had filed a legal challenge against the merger, saying it would violate federal antitrust laws and lead to increased costs and reduced coverage for Northern Virginians. The merger was expected to be completed at the end of May.