2 Major NJ Hospitals Eye Merger: What Does It Mean For Patients, Staff

Two major New Jersey hospitals are considering a merger.

Hunterdon Health and Hackensack Meridian Health have signed a letter of intent to explore a partnership between the two not-for-profit health systems, a step the organizations said is aimed at enhancing patient care, expanding access to services and accelerating innovation.

The decision follows a vote by the Board of Trustees of both healthcare systems authorizing the organizations to move forward with the exploration of a merger.

The organizations said the letter of intent is not a final agreement and that no immediate changes are planned to patient care, physician practices, employee roles, compensation or benefits.

"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."

Kristy Alfano, Interim President and CEO of Hunterdon Health, who will succeed Gavin when he retires June 30, said the signing starts a longer review.

"The signing of a letter of intent marks the beginning of the next step in a thorough and lengthy process," Alfano said. "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."

Hackensack Meridian Health CEO Robert C. Garrett said the systems share a common vision.

"We are so excited at the opportunity to partner with Hunterdon Health as we look to transform healthcare in the future," Garrett said. "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."

Board leaders from both systems said the organizations see alignment in mission, values and community commitment.

Hunterdon Health Board Chairman K.C Rondello, MD, said the letter of intent is "the appropriate next step" toward a long-term partnership.

Hackensack Meridian Health Board Chairman Keith Banks said the proposed partnership would help the network pursue better patient outcomes and stronger community support.

The organizations said they intend to work toward a definitive agreement.