Jefferson and Lehigh Valley Health Network (LVHN) announced today that they have signed a non-binding letter of intent to create a leading integrated care delivery system, including a national research university and an expanded not-for-profit health plan.

Following the negotiation and execution of a definitive agreement, regulatory approvals and completion of closing conditions, the combined system will be better positioned to improve the health and well-being of rural and urban communities through its health care delivery network, learning environment and Medicare, Medicaid and federal health care exchange insurance offerings in eastern Pennsylvania and southern New Jersey, a press release states.

Upon closing, the combined system would operate 30 hospitals and more than 700 outpatient sites of care, supported by more than 62,000 employed faculty, clinicians and staff.

“The health care landscape and our communities’ needs are changing; it is critical leading systems evolve and make investments in the future of care and wellness-growing and protecting access to enhanced, affordable, high-quality and innovative care, particularly for historically under-served patients,” said Joseph G. Cacchione, MD, Chief Executive Officer, Jefferson. “Combining Jefferson’s and LVHN’s resources will allow us to meet the changing needs of our diverse communities faster, more efficiently and more effectively. Together-with our combined network of resources and sites of care, managed care expertise, education and research capabilities-we will have the ability to make significant improvements to health outcomes and address health disparities in this region, and beyond, to the benefit our communities, patients, physicians, faculty, staff, students and health plan members.”

“We are thrilled to be combining with Jefferson and excited about the immediate and long-term benefits this combination will create for the communities of the Lehigh Valley and eastern Pennsylvania,” said Brian A. Nester, DO, MBA, President and Chief Executive Officer, Lehigh Valley Health Network. “In Jefferson, we have found an ideal partner that shares our culture and commitment to excellence in clinical care and a learning environment, and that has done a fabulous job in establishing a highly successful health plan with a sharp focus on the well-being of Medicaid and Medicare beneficiaries. The expertise derived from these operations is becoming a crucial competency for health systems to deliver on their mission, and Jefferson Health Plans will help drive improvements in health outcomes, especially in vulnerable populations. We are also very excited about the opportunity to expand academic and talent development programs that will further bolster our provider pipeline and enhance our ability to attract and retain top talent to the benefit of the communities we both serve.”

The parties expect to sign a definitive agreement and close the transaction in 2024, pending completion of all necessary regulatory reviews and closing conditions. Both Jefferson and LVHN will continue to operate as separate, independent entities until the combination closes.

Upon the closing of the transaction, Jefferson’s Cacchione will continue to serve as Chief Executive Officer of the Jefferson Enterprise. LVHN’s Nester will serve as Executive Vice President/Chief Operating Officer and President of the legacy Lehigh Valley Health Network, reporting directly to Cacchione.