The merger between health networks in Pennsylvania is moving forward as Lehigh Valley Health Network and Jefferson Health have signed a definitive agreement to combine. This was announced on Wednesday by LVHN, with the completion of the deal expected later this summer pending final reviews and execution of closing conditions.
The new health system resulting from the merger will rank among the 25 largest in the United States and is expected to be one of the top 15 nonprofit health systems in the country. With access to 30 hospitals and 700 outpatient sites, the combined system will have a workforce of 65,000 individuals.
Joseph Cacchione, CEO of Jefferson, will continue in his role as CEO of the Jefferson enterprise. Brian Nester, president and CEO of LVHN, will become executive vice president/chief operating officer of the Jefferson enterprise and president of the legacy LVHN, reporting directly to Cacchione. Nester had previously stated that since there is no overlap between existing networks, there are no immediate job cuts expected. However, there may be some reductions down the road as synergies are sought between facilities within the new network.
