A CVS-Aetna deal may force Wal-Mart to buy Humana, according to an analyst reporting on the CNBC website.
Dr. Ana Gupte, a senior healthcare services analyst at Leerink Partners sees a natural connection between Wal-Mart and Humana as a reason the retail giant could acquire the insurer. Humana would steer members to Wal-Mart pharmacies for deals on prescription co-pays.
Walgreens, Cigna and Anthem also may be among those who are looking to strike a deal, according to Gupte.
She sees a potential deal for Humana going for more than $46 billion, saying a buyer would have to pay a "25 percent to 30 percent premium now."
CVS $66 billion deal with Aetna would be the largest ever in health insurance history.
How Backup Power Needs Vary Across Healthcare Settings
Flexible Design Strategies Help OhioHealth Maximize Clinical Space
New Bass Center for Childhood Cancer and Blood Diseases Opens
Encompass Health Rehabilitation Hospital of Daytona Beach Opens
What Healthcare Facilities Can Learn from a $49 Million Window Failure