The Aetna-Humana merger has big ramifications for the health care industry. We asked some industry experts about what the merger—and rumors of subsequent dealings in the health care industry—means for brokers, consumers and the industry in general. Here's what they said:

“Too early to tell what it means for consumers. We should expect more of these announcements. It only makes sense, as carriers are forced to spread their costs over a wider base of policyholders. In this case, bigger really is better. It's the only way to meet the regulatory mandates and have any hope of making a profit. As a lifelong voluntary guy, I always see things through that prism. I think these mergers will only prolong the inevitable and rates will continue to climb, no matter what. That means gaps will get bigger and voluntary will remain the best answer. Good news, for sure, if you're in that business.”

—Brian Hicks, Benefits Selling columnist and author of “The Tinderbox Tapes”