Organizations form new joint venture bringing together Lifepoint's Highpoint Health System with Ascension Saint Thomas to enhance access, clinical excellence and service

Lifepoint Health and Ascension Saint Thomas have formed a joint venture to expand access to high quality care and services in Northern Middle Tennessee.

As part of the joint venture, the organizations will jointly own Highpoint Health System, a regional health system owned by Lifepoint Health that includes Sumner Regional Medical Center and Sumner Station in Gallatin, Trousdale Medical Center in Hartsville, Riverview Regional Medical Center in Carthage and more than 15 affiliated clinics and sites of care. This partnership brings together the organizations' clinical excellence, best practices and talented caregivers to collaborate in new ways that improve access to clinical programs and specialty care for patients and communities.

"Today is an exciting day for our company and for our communities in Middle Tennessee," said David Dill, chairman and chief executive officer, Lifepoint Health. "We have long respected Ascension Saint Thomas for its commitment to excellent quality, innovation, and partnership in improving the lives of patients. By working together, we can do even more to advance the health and well-being of our friends and neighbors here."

This new collaboration is the second joint venture partnership for the two health systems, as Lifepoint Health and Ascension Saint Thomas also jointly own Ascension Saint Thomas Rehabilitation Hospital in Nashville.

"Lifepoint is a strong and trusted partner, and we share a commitment of making communities healthier," said Fahad Tahir, president and chief executive officer, Ascension Saint Thomas. "The positive impact we can make together to build and expand our clinical programs will have a multiplying effect for the health of our region and the communities we serve."

The hospitals and sites of care included in the joint venture will be co-branded with Ascension Saint Thomas and will be majority-owned and operated by Lifepoint Health. Each hospital's current leadership team remains in place and no significant changes are anticipated for employees. Moving forward, the Highpoint hospitals will adopt the names of Highpoint Health – Sumner, Highpoint Health – Trousdale, and Highpoint Health – Riverview.

"We are proud of all we have accomplished here in Gallatin and beyond, and we know we can do even more by working with an outstanding partner like Ascension Saint Thomas," said Rod Harkleroad, market president of Highpoint Health and chief executive officer, Highpoint Health – Sumner. "We are looking forward to rolling up our sleeves together to tackle some of the most pressing healthcare issues we face in this region, including growing our specialist base and services."

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