RARITAN TOWNSHIP, N.J. (Hunterdon County) — Hunterdon Health and Hackensack Meridian Health have signed a letter of intent to explore a proposed merger aimed at expanding patient care, improving access to services and accelerating innovation, the health systems announced.
The announcement follows votes by the boards of trustees of both health care systems authorizing the organizations to move forward with exploring a merger.
“We believe that partnering with Hackensack Meridian Health has the potential to strengthen our ability to deliver high-quality care, invest in our workforce, expand services, and enhance the patient experience for generations to come,” said Patrick Gavin, President and CEO of Hunterdon Health. “The letter of intent establishes a framework for our two organizations to conduct additional due diligence and evaluate opportunities to align resources, expertise, and capabilities in support of their shared commitment to high-quality, community-based healthcare.”
Hunterdon Health and Hackensack Meridian Health said the proposed partnership would allow the organizations to use shared resources, expertise and technology to support a comprehensive health care delivery system focused on health outcomes, clinical research, academic and community benefit programs, and accessible care.
“The signing of a letter of intent marks the beginning of the next step in a thorough and lengthy process,” said Kristy Alfano, Interim President and CEO of Hunterdon Health, who will succeed Gavin when he retires June 30. “In the days ahead, we will remain focused on what matters most – our patients, our employees, our physicians, and our communities – as together we explore opportunities to build on our strengths and ensure that high-quality healthcare remains available close to home.”
“We are so excited at the opportunity to partner with Hunterdon Health as we look to transform healthcare in the future,” said Robert C. Garrett, CEO of Hackensack Meridian Health. “We share a vision for the future of medicine—one rooted in innovation and truly patient-centered care. By coming together, we’ll be able to improve access to top-tier care, expand services and programs to the great communities that Hunterdon and HMH serve, and invest in research and technology that make it easier for patients to take control of their health. Together, we’re committed to making high-quality health care more accessible and affordable for the communities we serve.”
Leaders from both organizations said the decision to sign the letter of intent was based in part on alignment of mission, values and commitment to local communities.
“After thoughtful deliberation, the Board concluded that signing a letter of intent with Hackensack Meridian Health is the appropriate next step to develop a long-term partnership between our two healthcare systems, based on the strong alignment we see between our two organizations,” said K.C Rondello, MD, Chairman of the Hunterdon Health Board of Trustees. “While there is much work ahead, we are excited to explore how a partnership could help us build an even stronger future for patients, caregivers, and the communities we serve.”
“This proposed partnership with Hunterdon Health will accelerate our network’s mission to change health care for the better,” said Keith Banks, Chairman of the Hackensack Meridian Health Board of Trustees. “Jointly, we can help improve the lives of the people in our communities. By merging our strengths, we’re building a culture focused on better patient outcomes and stronger community support. It’s an exciting step that will help us attract great talent, grow sustainably, and keep meeting the needs of our patients for years to come.”
The organizations said the letter of intent is not a final agreement. No immediate changes are planned to patient care, physician practices, employee roles, compensation or benefits as the health systems work toward a definitive agreement.
