FTC and state attorneys general probe Epic's alleged antitrust conduct

The Federal Trade Commission has begun a preliminary investigation into Epic Systems Corp., the leading provider of electronic health-record software, to assess potential antitrust breaches. Investigators are looking at Epic's employee non-compete clauses that restrict former staff from joining competing health-tech firms, as well as its alleged practice of leveraging its dominant position to deny rivals access to patient data.

State attorneys general across the country have also contacted the company for information. The scrutiny follows several private lawsuits, including claims by CureIS Healthcare and Particle Health that Epic blocked their access to data and pressured customers to drop third-party tools. Epic has denied engaging in anticompetitive behavior, highlighting its interoperability achievements. The agency has not indicated when, or if, charges might be filed, and the investigation could extend for years.