Jefferson and Lehigh Valley Health Network (LVHN) have officially signed a definitive agreement to merge, creating a unified health system across Eastern Pennsylvania and Southern New Jersey that would rank among the top 15 not-for-profit health systems in the U.S.

"Through our integrated operating model, the combined organization will provide the communities we serve with access to the highest quality care, the benefits of continuous research and innovation, a network of specialists, clinical trials, and so much more, while also building an organization that prioritizes health through value-based care," said Dr. Joseph G. Cacchione, CEO, Jefferson. "This combination promotes access, choice, innovation, opportunity, increased equity and stability—for patients, physicians, faculty, staff, students and health plan members, and our communities at-large."

The integration will bring together 30 hospitals and over 700 care sites, supported by more than 65,000 employees. The combined entity is set to offer expansive educational and recruitment opportunities, improve health plan access for vulnerable populations, and invest in innovative technologies to enhance patient outcomes.

Brian A. Nester, DO, MBA, president and CEO of LVHN, highlighted the merger's strategic fit. "As our teams worked together, we confirmed our initial belief that Jefferson is the ideal partner for LVHN, our teams, and our patients," Nester noted.

Post-merger, Cacchione will continue as CEO of the Jefferson enterprise, while Nester will assume the roles of executive vice president/chief operating officer of the Jefferson enterprise and president of the legacy LVHN. Additionally, Baligh R. Yehia will become executive vice president/chief transformation officer of the Jefferson enterprise and president of the legacy Jefferson Health.

Until the merger is finalized, both Jefferson and LVHN will operate independently, ensuring uninterrupted patient care throughout the integration process.

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