Sierra Shareholders OK Merger

Sierra Health Services(SIE Quote) said after the market close Wednesday that 99% of shareholders entitled to vote at a shareholder meeting approved a merger with UnitedHealth Group(UNH Quote).

Under the acquisition agreement, announced in March, Sierra shareholders will receive $43.50 for each of their shares. The Las Vegas-based health-care services company said ultimate completion of the transaction depends on regulatory approvals, though both companies expect the deal to close before year's end.

After closing Wednesday's regular session down 3 cents, Sierra's shares rose 29 cents, or 0.7%, to $41.76 in aftermarket trading. UnitedHealth slid 28 cents, or 0.5%, to $51.47 in aftermarket trading after closing down 4 cents for the day.