FTC inquiry pauses $615M healthcare staffing merger
The merger between two of the largest healthcare staffing firms in the U.S. has been delayed following a regulatory filing from the Federal Trade Commission (FTC).
The deal between Aya Healthcare and Cross Country Healthcare was finalized in December and was expected to close in the first half of 2025. However, this pause by the FTC delays the deal until the second half of the year.
Cross Country confirmed the FTC’s request in a filing with the U.S. Securities and Exchange Commission (SEC), adding that Aya had received the same letter. The FTC is requesting more information regarding the merger and its market impact, though no specifics were revealed.
“The company and Aya have been working cooperatively with the FTC and will continue to do so,” the filing reads. “The company now expects that the merger will close in the second half of 2025, subject to the approval of the company’s stockholders and the satisfaction or waiver of other customary closing conditions specified in the merger agreement.”
Both companies specialize in providing "travel nurse" temporary staffing solutions for hospitals, health systems and provider groups. The merger is valued at $615 million.
HealthExec reached out to both companies for comment.
Chad is an award-winning writer and editor with over 15 years of experience working in media. He has a decade-long professional background in healthcare, working as a writer and in public relations.