Baptist Memorial Health Care has announced plans to formally merge with Anderson Regional Health System (ARHS) come January 2024.
Baptist Memorial, which is headquartered in Memphis, Tenn., currently serves as the largest health system in Mississippi and the state’s fourth largest employer. At this time, Baptist operates 22 hospitals across west Tennessee, Mississippi, and east Arkansas.
“Both organizations are proud of the exceptional care we provide. ARHS has a proven track record of success in this region, and we’re very experienced in delivering care in all types of Mississippi communities,” Jason Little, president and CEO of Baptist Memorial Health Care, said. “Together, we have more than two centuries of combined healthcare experience, and we want to use this knowledge and expertise to bring a new level of care to this community.”
The Baptist system currently employs more than 19,100 people and contributed more than $455 million in community benefits and uncompensated care to communities in fiscal year 2022.
ARHS, located in Meridian, is known as the most comprehensive health system throughout east Mississippi and the west Alabama area with two hospitals, a regional cancer center, and a network of clinics.
“As part of our strategic plan to strengthen the mission of ARHS, a partnership with a larger health system provides a number of benefits for patients, physicians, and employees,” John G. Anderson, president and CEO of Anderson Regional Health System, explained. “The combination of these two faith-based systems supports a shared vision to enhance the delivery of clinical services. By joining Baptist Memorial, ARHS will be stronger and more equipped to meet the needs of our patients for many years to come.”
With the new partnership, Baptist Memorial is now expected to serve more than half of Mississippi’s population.
