Texas-based Anesthesiology Provider, U.S. Anesthesia Partners, Accused of Establishing Illegal Monopoly

The Federal Trade Commission sued U.S. Anesthesia Partners, the largest anesthesiology provider in Texas, claiming it has established an illegal monopoly through aggressive acquisitions of other anesthesia practices. The FTC alleges that USAP, founded by private equity firm Welsh Carson in 2012, exploited Texas' fragmented market for anesthesiology to buy up independent practices rapidly. The FTC argues that USAP has used its monopoly power in key regions to significantly raise prices for anesthesia services. USAP denies the allegations, arguing the FTC lacks medical understanding of the anesthesia field and that its actions ensure patients' access to quality care.