Abington Health, Holy Redeemer call off merger

Abington Health and Holy Redeemer Health System called off their plans for a merger Wednesday, amid intense pressure from activists who opposed the plan because it would have meant an end to abortions, which Abington has been performing. The two institutions released a brief joint statement Wednesday afternoon, saying that officials were disappointed but that their decision was "in the best interests of both organizations." Representatives for both health systems declined requests to interview officials. The merger, announced just three weeks ago, was officially termed a "partnership" between Abington and the Catholic-run Redeemer.