One of the largest health insurance companies in the United States is about to get even larger.
Anthem, managed by the Blue Cross and Blue Shield Association, is reported to announce a $48 billion acquisition deal with Cigna, the New York Times reports. Although the deal has not been confirmed, representatives from both organizations are expected to make an announcement later this week.
Both groups are reported to remain in discussion over management and payment specifics. The deal is appraised at $187 a share.
Earlier this year, Anthem officials announced that hackers attacked the company's computer system, compromising the personal information of millions of customers around the country.
"Anthem was the target of a very sophisticated external cyber attack," Anthem President and Chief Executive Officer Joseph Swedish wrote in an e-mail statement.
"Anthem will individually notify current and former members whose information has been accessed. We will provide credit monitoring and identity protection free of charge so that those who have been affected can have piece of mind."
Compromised information included names, birthdays, Social Security numbers, addressed and employment data, USA Today reports. Although specific credit card information was not released, it is likely that hackers may still be able to access that data given the previously-mentioned material that was breached.
An estimated 80 million customers, including both current and former clients, were said to be affected by the hack. Analysts have speculated that it may be the largest health care breach to date.
