UPDATE: Vanderbilt University Medical Center (VUMC) just announced plans to fully acquire Tennova Healthcare-Clarksville from Community Health Systems Inc. (CHS), marking a significant expansion in healthcare services for the Clarksville community. This urgent development aims to enhance patient care and access in a rapidly growing region.
The acquisition, which follows VUMC’s 20% minority stake in the hospital since 2021, will transform the 270-bed facility into a vital part of Vanderbilt Health’s network. VUMC is committed to expanding healthcare services to meet the increasing demand in the Clarksville area, which has seen a population surge of 24% over the past decade, making it Tennessee’s fifth largest city.
Jeff Balser, MD, PhD, President and CEO of VUMC, expressed the urgency of this move: “Expanding our services in Clarksville allows us to better serve the health care needs of this rapidly growing area.” VUMC plans to hire substantially all employees from Tennova Healthcare-Clarksville who are in good standing, ensuring continuity of care for patients during this transition.
As part of the integration, VUMC is set to introduce a range of adult and pediatric services, enhancing the medical offerings available locally. Already established programs include an OB-GYN hospitalist program and radiation oncology services from the Vanderbilt-Ingram Cancer Center.
Jane Freedman, MD, Deputy CEO and Chief Health System Officer for VUMC, stated, “Integrating the Clarksville hospital into our regional network is an exciting step forward. We look forward to collaborating with the dedicated physicians, nurses, and staff to support the community and expand access to care.”
Patients will experience no interruption in care during the transition process, which is currently under regulatory review. Tennova Healthcare-Clarksville boasts several accolades, including designation as an Accredited Chest Pain Center and a Wound Care Center of Distinction, ensuring high standards of medical care.
This acquisition marks VUMC’s fourth regional hospital expansion, reinforcing its commitment to enhancing healthcare across Middle Tennessee. As VUMC continues to invest in local communities, residents of Montgomery County can expect improved access to healthcare services, aligning with the Medical Center’s mission to provide high-quality care in convenient settings.
Stay tuned for further updates as this major acquisition unfolds, promising to positively impact the health of those in the Clarksville region.
