POTTSVILLE -- Schuylkill Health announced plans Thursday to merge with the Lehigh Valley Health Network.
During a news conference in Pottsville, they said the deal allows Lehigh Valley Health Network to expand, while bringing more health services to people in Schuylkill County.
Leaders believe the deal will benefit people who rely on Schuylkill Medical Center in Pottsville and the other health facilities in the system.
"In the net, I think services here are going to grow. I don't see a way around that. I think more people from Schuylkill County should be cared for in Schuylkill County," said Brian Nester, Lehigh Valley Health Network CEO.
For months, employees of Schuylkill Heath speculated about a merger. Many worried it could mean consolidation of departments and job cuts, but hospital heads stress it will actually mean more jobs.
"We intend to invest here, in people, services, facilities, and in technologies," Nester said.
The merger was announced to employees the day before the news conference.
With some certainty and answers, many employees and patients are excited.
"I have talked to quite a few employees and they are quite pleased. It was the fear of the unknown," said Schuylkill County Commissioner George Halcovage.
"I'm sure of it. It's going to be real great. It's going to be good. I am so happy about it," said Shirley Recla, Schuylkill Health employee.
"I think it's good. I think it's good to have the backup," said George Slackus of Saint Clair.
The name outside the Schuylkill Health facilities will change, but that name hasn't been decided yet. Officials say it will include the Lehigh Valley Health Network.
While the Lehigh Valley Health Network and Schuylkill Health have made an agreement to merge, it won't be official until after a state and federal regulatory process.
The hope is to have everything set in stone by the end of the year.
