The systems announced Wednedsay morning that they signed a letter of intent to bring their operations together.
Two healthcare providers serving the Philadelphia area announced plans Wednesday morning to merge.
Einstein Healthcare Network and Jefferson Health, which were part of the same organization before they split a decade ago, hosted a press conference and ceremonial signing of a non-binding letter of intent to unite once again.
Stephen K. Klasko, MD, MBA, president and CEO of Thomas Jefferson University and Jefferson Health, spoke alongside Barry R. Freedman, president and CEO of Einstein Healthcare Network, according to a notice released by both organizations.
"As two academic medical centers that have embraced a no-limits approach to a very different future, we are a perfect match," Klasko said in a statement.
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Freedman said the proposed merger would enable Einstein to continue carrying out its mission while also pursuing growth opportunities.
โBoth Jefferson and Einstein are aligned in our belief that together we can redefine how patient care is delivered, how health professionals are educated, how research discoveries are brought to patients, and how the health of our communities can be improved," Freedman said in the statement.
If, after a period of due diligence, both organizations opt to move forward with the proposed merger, they will sign a definitive agreement subject to regulatory approval.
The deal would mark Jefferson's sixth acquisition since Klasko was hired as CEO in 2013, as The Inquirer's Harold Brubaker reported.
Steven Porter is an associate content manager and Strategy editor for HealthLeaders, a Simplify Compliance brand.