This is the latest of the acquisitions and mergers that have occurred since 2001. Two-thirds of the 188 transactions were completed by just 34 multiple acquirers, with United Health and Coventry acting as acquirers in 10% of all transactions. Blue Cross/Blue Shield Organizations, including WellPoint and Anthem, were responsible for another 10%. 63 acquirers made only one acquisition over this 3 1/2 year period, including Aetna, while CIGNA made none. Among PPOs, First Health acquired six companies, while PHCS, Interplan, and ppoNext acquired six between them. Blockbuster deals like United/Oxford and the pending Anthem/WellPoint transaction grabbed the headlines. The Coventry/First Health acquisition proves to be yet another “changing of the guard” for health plans looking to enhance their suite of services.