Health system merger deserves a wait-and-see approach
The announcement of the merger of Independence Health System with West Virginia University Health System on Wednesday morning, just two years after a 2023 merger created Independence, could leave some questioning what’s to come.
Health system acquisitions nationwide have often led to reduced services at smaller, more rural facilities within a larger system. Mergers have also often led to staffing cuts due to system redundancies.
However, it’s far too soon to make assumptions the move will result in negative outcomes.
WVU Medicine announced part of the deal for the merger includes an investment of $800 million for modernization across Independence Health’s holdings. Those involved have also promised the merger will not result in layoffs or staffing redundancies.
Additionally, joining a larger network can provide cost benefits due to economies of scale and shared resource pools, and allow access to a larger pool of medical experts and increase collaboration.
The deal is expected to shape between now and next year and then goes on for review for state and federal regulatory approval, likely by late next year.
In the meantime, we urge the community to take a wait-and-see approach as details emerge and to expect some hiccups as the transition takes place. We hope promised improvements come to fruition and management keeps to their word regarding staffing.
Long-term, the merger could be a positive change. Until the deal is approved and begins to be implemented, there’s no way to know. It’s too early to assume the worst.
— JP
