3 Western Md. Hospitals Pursue 'Affiliation'
HAGERSTOWN, Md. (AP) -- Owners of the hospitals in Frederick, Hagerstown and Cumberland say they're studying the possibility of joining forces for their continued stability.
The announcement Thursday doesn't specifically mention a potential merger of the Frederick Regional Health System, Hagerstown-based Meritus Health and the Western Maryland Health System of Cumberland. But Meritus President Joe Ross wouldn't rule out that possibility in a telephone interview with The Associated Press.
The independent, not-for-profit organizations say they're studying the merits of "affiliation and collaboration" to maintain high-quality, cost-effective health care. They call it a "potential alliance."
They say they have contracted with the California-based Berkeley Research Group to conduct a feasibility study. Ross says he expects a report in 45 days that will more clearly delineate the options they may pursue.
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