In a letter dated September 23 and sent from Deaconess CEO Shawn McCoy to Baptist Health Deaconess Madisonville officials, the News Edge has confirmed that a Letter of Intent has been signed between Deaconess and Jennie Stuart Health to “explore an affiliation.”
This, the letter states, “could lead to Jennie Stuart Health becoming part of Deaconess Health in Kentucky.”
McCoy went on to write that officials are “currently engaged” in due diligence, allowing both parties to fully evaluate the potential integration of Jennie Stuart with Deaconess.
Pending further board approvals and standard regulatory review, the letter also noted any terms of affiliation would be finalized in late 2024.
McCoy’s memo emphasized that this “potential affiliation” would not impact the Deaconess commitment to Madisonville, as that relationship remains a cornerstone of the company’s presence in the Commonwealth.
An exploration of Jennie Stuart Health, McCoy closed, aligns with strategic goals of “expanding access to high quality healthcare in the region,” complements “missions and goals with all other [Deaconess] hospitals,” and that any movement is seen as “an opportunity to strengthen” the overall network.
Founded in 1892 by a group of Protestant ministers and layman called to care for the sick, Deaconess Health Systems is now more than 130 years old.
It is considered a premiere provider of healthcare to more than 1.5 million in southwestern Indiana, western Kentucky and southeastern Illinois, and involves more than 19 wholly-owned, joint-ventured, sponsored and/or affiliated hospitals in the tri-state.
