The Federal Trade Commission (FTC) has announced a preliminary agreement with U.S. Anesthesia Partners Inc. (USAP) aimed at settling litigation concerning antitrust violations in the Texas anesthesia market.

This settlement addresses allegations that USAP engaged in a decade-long scheme to consolidate anesthesia services, effectively creating a dominant provider that could impose higher prices on consumers. The FTC's complaint highlighted that USAP's actions led to Texans paying tens of millions of dollars more annually for anesthesia services.

While the specific terms of the settlement remain confidential to facilitate ongoing negotiations, the agreement is designed to restore a competitive market structure in Texas. The FTC has indicated that the settlement aligns with its longstanding best practices.

If USAP does not fully execute the settlement, the FTC is prepared to return to district court to litigate the unlawful acquisitions. The Commission's vote to authorize this preliminary settlement was unanimous, with a 2-0 decision.

Additionally, the FTC has authorized its Health Care Division staff to seek a stay while USAP works on implementing the necessary relief for Texas consumers. Any final order resolving the litigation will require both a Commission vote and approval from the District Court.