GREENEVILLE, TENNESSEE -- Adventist Health System and Wellmont Health System have reached an agreement to share ownership of Takoma Adventist Hospital, a partnership that will enhance community health care for the people of Greene County.
Adventist will transfer ownership of the 108-bed hospital to a new, not-for-profit corporation, with Wellmont serving as the majority owner. The hospital name will be changed to Takoma Regional Hospital to reflect Wellmont’s regional market.
Officials expect the new partnership to be finalized within 90 days, pending due diligence and customary regulatory review.
“This partnership aligns Takoma Adventist Hospital with a regional leader and allows us to deliver stronger and more efficient patient care to our community,” said Jimm Bunch, chairman of the Takoma hospital board of directors. “This relationship will expand clinical programs and provide access to a larger specialty physician network.”
Added Dr. Richard Salluzzo, Wellmont’s president and chief executive officer, “This partnership brings together the unique strengths of Wellmont Health System and Adventist Health System for the benefit of people in Greene County and the surrounding region. Adventist has a proud tradition of excellent, faith-based medicine. Wellmont is defined by our commitment to patient safety and physician leadership.
“Together, we will take a strong hospital and make it stronger – not only for the patients we serve today but also for generations to come.”
The new partnership will have no effect on any scheduled patient appointments, surgeries, community health events or classes. Patients with questions may call (423) 639-3151.
“I am excited for the future of Takoma Adventist Hospital,” said Carlyle Walton, Takoma Adventist’s president and CEO. “Our Christian vision of creating a healing sanctuary for all those whose lives we touch will be enhanced through this change.
“Extending the healing ministry of Christ will remain our mission and cornerstone for how the hospital is operated.”