J.C. Blair and PinnacleHealth Enter Partnership Negotiations

Updated on May 22, 2013

Two Pennsylvania Health Systems, PinnacleHealth System, Harrisburg, and J.C. Blair Health System, Huntingdonannounced today they have entered into a period of exclusive partnership negotiations. The organizations are considering clinical affiliations and close corporate alignment to offer expanded high-quality healthcare services in the Huntingdon region. The agreement began on May 17, 2013.

The careful evaluation of partnership options stems from each organization’s recognition of the importance of maintaining quality, healthcare service in local communities.

“PinnacleHealth System is honored to be selected for these strategic partnership discussions,” said Michael A. Young, president and CEO of PinnacleHealth System. “We look forward to exploring the potential of such an arrangement with an outstanding hospital with a long history like J. C. Blair. We share the common mission of putting our patients’ needs first, which creates a strong foundation for our potential alignment.”

The J. C. Blair Health System consists of J. C. Blair Memorial Hospital, its medical services organization that provides primary and specialty care physicians, rehabilitation services through a joint venture with HealthSouth, as well as a foundation. The hospital celebrated its 100th year anniversary in 2011.

PinnacleHealth System operates Harrisburg Hospital, Polyclinic Hospital, Community General Osteopathic Hospital, the Helen M. Simpson Rehabilitation Hospital, as well as many outpatient centers. Both organizations value the opportunity to work together as both model excellence in providing healthcare services that offer the best possible care for every patient.

“J.C. Blair has a rich history of providing healthcare to the Huntingdon County area for more than 100 years. These discussions illustrate our commitment to continuing that local care,” said Lisa Mallon, president and CEO of J.C. Blair Health System. “Our shared vision with PinnacleHealth to increase access to needed, integrated, quality healthcare creates a strong start to these negotiations. Both organizations would be pleased to expand the types of healthcare services that are available locally.”

About PinnacleHealth System

PinnacleHealth is a pioneer not-for-profit healthcare system dedicated to providing and improving the health and quality of life for the people of Central Pennsylvania since 1873. A proven leader in medical innovation, PinnacleHealth offers a wide range of services from primary care to the most complex surgeries and Magnet recognition for nursing excellence. The healthcare network includes four campuses (Community, West Shore, Harrisburg and Polyclinic) and medical services, including family practice, imaging, outpatient surgery and oncology, at multiple locations throughout the region. For a complete list of services, visit our website at www.pinnaclehealth.org.

About J.C. Blair Health System:

J.C. Blair Health System is the healthcare leader in Huntingdon County, serving the community’s healthcare needs and striving to deliver the best outcome for every patient for over 100 years. The Health System includes J.C. Blair Memorial Hospital, a 104-bed, non-profit community hospital; J.C. Blair Medical Services which employs over 30 primary care and specialty physicians and nurse practitioners; J.C. Blair Rehabilitation Services; and J.C. Blair Memorial Hospital Foundation. For a complete description of services and physicians, visit our website atwww.jcblair.org.

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