Independence Health System has signed a definitive agreement to join WVU Health System

CHICAGO IL, July 1^st, 2026 - The West Virginia University Health System and Independence Health System have signed a definitive agreement for Independence Health System's five hospitals - Butler Memorial, Clarion, Frick, Latrobe, and Westmoreland Hospitals - along with its affiliated physician groups, and other subsidiaries to join the WVU Health System and operate under the WVU Medicine brand.

As part of the agreement, WVU Health System will commit $800 million over the next five years to modernize Independence Health System, including implementation of a new electronic medical record system, significant facility upgrades and expansions, and enhanced clinical capabilities designed to improve access to care and broaden the services available throughout the region. The transaction is expected to close in late September or early October, pending certain remaining regulatory approvals.

Kaufman Hall served as Independence Health System's exclusive strategic and financial advisor.