FTC Bureau of Competition Director Statement Regarding Fairfield Medical Center’s Sale to Adena Health

On Sept. 1, 2026, Adena Health announced its acquisition of Fairfield Medical Center (FMC), a hospital system in southeastern Ohio. The announcement follows a Federal Trade Commission investigation of an earlier attempt by a different acquirer-OhioHealth-to buy FMC.

Commission staff's investigation of OhioHealth's proposed acquisition of FMC raised serious competitive concerns: the proposed transaction risked raising costs and reducing the quality of care for Ohioans. The investigation also raised concerns regarding the thoroughness of FMC's process to identify potential buyers. FTC staff coordinated closely with the Ohio Attorney General's Office throughout its investigation.

In light of these concerns, FTC staff encouraged FMC to seek alternative potential buyers through a robust sales process. That comprehensive sales process attracted interest from multiple potential buyers and ultimately resulted in the abandonment of the Ohio Health/FMC proposed transaction and the partnership of FMC with Adena Health. The partnership with Adena Health will allow FMC to continue serving patients in Ohio over the long term, without the competitive risks posed by the previously proposed OhioHealth deal.

FMC's decision to engage in a thorough shop process and move forward with Adena Health-instead of OhioHealth-underscores the Commission's commitment to rigorous enforcement of the antitrust laws and to preserving competition for healthcare in local communities across the United States.

In response to Adena Health completing its acquisition of FMC, Chairman Andrew N. Ferguson issued a statement joined by Commissioner Mark R. Meador regarding best practices for firms when they "shop" for a buyer.

FTC Bureau of Competition Director Daniel Guarnera offered the following remarks:

"The Commission remains vigilant in preserving healthcare competition, especially when reviewing deals involving hospitals that serve rural communities. Today's announcement should serve as a reminder that we will stop bad hospital deals. This matter should also serve as a reminder to firms, including hospitals, that might wish to make a failing firm argument. The standard is demanding, and if you have not searched broadly for a buyer, we will work expeditiously with firms to investigate whether there is a better buyer and, if the Commission deems it necessary, go to court to block a bad deal. I'm pleased that staff's dedicated work resulted in a better deal for the people of Ohio without the need to resort to litigation. This is a win for the Commission, for FMC, and, most importantly for FMC's patients and employees."