Hackensack Meridian And JFK Medical Center Announce Intent To Merge

HACKENSACK, NJ— Hackensack Meridian Health and JFL Health announced today they will begin the merger process.

The decision to acquire Edison-based JFK Health was approved by the Meridian Health's Board of Trustees Wednesday night, according to NJ.com, and a formal announcement was made Thursday morning.

The acquisition, which comes on the heels of Hackensack University Health Network's own acquisition by Meridian, still has to be approved by the NJ Health Department.

Both hospitals are not-for-profit. Meridian Health is an 11-hospital network, whereas JFK was one of the last remaining independent hospitals in the state.

“We are very excited about this affiliation. JFK Health is an award-winning health system trusted by the residents of its community, and has established a network of providers and services, including its academic programs,” Robert C. Garrett, co-CEO of Hackensack Meridian Health said in a press release. “JFK and Hackensack Meridian Health share a common mission to provide the best care in a compassionate, patient-focused environment. We look forward to working with JFK Health on integrating its strengths with those of Hackensack Meridian Health.”

Raymond Fredericks, president and CEO, JFK Health, echoed this sentiment.

“We share a culture and vision for the future of health care that reinforces JFK Health’s role in the community,” Fredericks said in the same press release. “Along with Hackensack Meridian Health, we will enhance our delivery of top-quality, coordinated patient care to our diverse community. We are proud of the more than 20 year relationship we have with Meridian successfully running Home Care and Satellite Rehabilitation facilities.”

Image via Google Maps, taken in 2012