Code of Conduct: Integrity Standard - Fair Competition Q&A
| Q: A representative of one of our competitor’s proposes that we both freeze our prices for one of our products for a six-month period to show our mutual commitment to restraining health care costs. The other company’s representative says this is legal because we are limiting the price we will charge consumers. Is it legal? |
A: No. It may be illegal. Maximum price fixing agreements may be just as illegal under the antitrust laws as minimum price fixing agreements. You should avoid any discussion of prices with competitors and consult with the Legal Department anytime you receive a similar proposal.
| Q: Do I have to have a specific reason for refusing to do business with a particular producer, vendor, or consultant? |
A: We have broad discretion to decide with whom we will do business as long as we have legitimate business reasons and are not engaged in anti-competitive practices. If you have any questions about whether a particular practice is anti-competitive, contact the Legal Department.
Remember, if you do not understand, or if you have any questions concerning, this Integrity Standard or any other part of the Code, contact your Supervisor, a higher level Supervisor, any of the Corporate Resources or call the Corporate Integrity HOTLINE (1 800 838-2552).
Integrity Standard - Fair Competition
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