The UK Competition Authority finds that a merger between two hearing implant providers could lead to higher prices for the national health service, reduced quality and slower innovation for UK patients who rely on hearing aids (Cochlear / Oticon)

Hearing implants merger could mean worse deal for NHS and patients* The merger of 2 leading providers of hearing implants could lead to higher prices for the NHS, and reduced quality and slower innovation for UK patients who rely on these life-changing devices. The Competition and Markets Authority (CMA) is concerned that Cochlear’s proposed purchase of Oticon Medical – the hearing implant division of Demant –would have a negative impact on patients who