Hill-Rom receives US regulatory clearance for Welch Allyn acquisition

Hill-Rom has announced that its acquisition of Welch Allyn has been given the green light by the US Federal Trade Commission.

The regulator has granted early termination of the waiting period required under the Hart-Scott-Rodino Antitrust Improvements Act of 1976, thus bringing the $2.05 billion (1.32 billion pounds) takeover a step closer.

Announced last month, the definitive merger agreement between the companies is expected to close before the end of September 2015, subject to other customary closing conditions.

Between them, the organisations offer nearly two centuries of medical device innovation. The combination of their unique strengths will facilitate the development of new technologies to enhance outcomes for patients and caregivers.

John Greisch, president and chief executive officer of Hill-Rom, said: "We look forward to welcoming the Welch Allyn team to Hill-Rom and combining our two great companies to continue our shared mission of improving patient outcomes and reducing patient costs."