Harrisburg, April 29, 2013 –Following the state Insurance Department’s approval today of Highmark’s proposed merger with the West Penn Allegheny Health System (WPAHS), state Sen. Jim Brewster released the following statement:

“After a long and extensive process, I am pleased that the state Insurance Department has approved this merger.  It will mean better delivery of health-care services, reduced costs to consumers, greater job and economic development opportunities and a robust level of competition throughout the region.

“This merger can only enhance the already world renowned reputation of Western Pennsylvania’s health-care institutions.  I applaud the state Insurance Department’s ability to forge a compromise in this difficult and complex matter.

“I will continue to monitor this process to ensure that all consumers and employees in our region benefit as a result of the approved merger.”

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