HUNTINGTON, W.Va. — The Vatican has approved Cabell Huntington Hospital’s purchase of St. Mary’s Medical Center, the Pallottine Missionary Sisters announced Monday.
Cabell Huntington Hospital signed an agreement in November 2014 to acquire St. Mary’s Medical Center.
“The Vatican approved the transaction with the understanding that the values and mission established by the Pallottine Sisters will continue at St. Mary’s Medical Center after the transaction is complete,” said Sister Mary Grace Barile, the provincial of the Pallottine Missionary Sisters.
“The Sisters are pleased to transfer sponsorship to Cabell Huntington Hospital through an agreement that will allow St. Mary’s to remain a Catholic-affiliated healthcare facility and maintain its name,” Barile said.
West Virginia Attorney General Patrick Morrisey said the agreement will mean enforcing an antitrust agreement with the hospitals.
“The combined effort of Cabell Huntington Hospital and St. Mary’s Medical Center promises great things for health care, treatment and wellness in Huntington and the surrounding region,” he said in a press release.
Enforcement of the antitrust agreement will include developing measures to be reported within the first six months of the deal. It is part of an effort to keep costs down and spur community health and wellness programs.