The U.S. Department of Justice’s Antitrust Division, joined by the Ohio Attorney General, has filed a civil antitrust suit against OhioHealth, alleging the health system used contracting practices that unlawfully restricted competition and increased healthcare costs. The case, United States of America et al v. OhioHealth Corporation, puts a spotlight on how enforcers are continuing to scrutinize not just mergers, but also the day-to-day terms health systems negotiate with commercial payers.

That distinction matters.