US faith-based health system AdventHealth has entered a definitive agreement to take over the management operations of St Luke's Hospital in Columbus, North Carolina.
This move aims to integrate the hospital into AdventHealth's regional network, reflecting its national brand portfolio.
St Luke's Hospital, which is a community-owned facility, plays a critical role in providing access to healthcare in the Western Carolinas.
It is an inpatient, outpatient, and critical access healthcare system featuring several ambulatory care clinics.
The hospital is supported by nearly 300 teammates dedicated to improving the health of the Carolina Foothills region.
As part of the latest agreement, AdventHealth will also be joined by St Luke's Hospital’s associated physician and ambulatory care clinics.
Upon joining AdventHealth, St Luke's Hospital will soon be renamed as 'AdventHealth Polk'.
The renaming of the hospital to AdventHealth Polk is a strategic step to align with the AdventHealth network.
The Polk County Board of Commissioners has already approved the necessary changes to St Luke's current lease agreement, paving the way for this transition.
AdventHealth Polk will further join AdventHealth Hendersonville, enhancing the provision of healthcare services in Western North Carolina.
AdventHealth Hendersonville, president/CEO Brandon Nudd, said: “AdventHealth and our team in Hendersonville are looking forward to having the exceptional St Luke’s team as partners in caring for the people of Western North Carolina.
“Our hospitals share a legacy of providing high-quality, faith-based care that focuses on the whole person – body, mind and spirit.”
The completion of this transition is expected to take place by October.
It is currently subject to the approval of the government and other regulatory bodies.
Until the transition is finalised, the current management of St Luke's Hospital will continue to lead operations.
AdventHealth assures that the transition will be seamless for all physicians, team members, and consumers.
