URGENT UPDATE: Vanderbilt University Medical Center (VUMC) has officially announced plans to acquire full ownership of Tennova Healthcare-Clarksville from Community Health Systems Inc. This significant move, confirmed earlier today, will enhance VUMC’s capacity to provide essential healthcare services to the rapidly growing Clarksville region in Tennessee.
Since 2021, VUMC has held a 20% minority stake in the 270-bed hospital, which includes a freestanding emergency department and associated physician practices. The acquisition aims to improve patient access to high-quality care in more convenient and cost-effective community settings. “Expanding our services in Clarksville allows us to better serve the healthcare needs of this rapidly growing area,” stated Jeff Balser, MD, PhD, President and CEO of VUMC.
This acquisition marks VUMC’s fourth regional hospital expansion, further solidifying its presence in Middle Tennessee. The facility will join an expanding network that includes Vanderbilt Wilson County Hospital, Vanderbilt Tullahoma-Harton Hospital, and Vanderbilt Bedford Hospital. By integrating Tennova Healthcare-Clarksville into its network, VUMC is poised to offer a comprehensive range of adult and pediatric services, significantly benefiting residents in Montgomery County and beyond.
According to the Clarksville Economic Development Council, Clarksville is Tennessee’s fifth largest city, boasting a population of over 200,000 and a growth rate of 24% over the past decade. The growing demand for healthcare services in this area underscores the urgency of this acquisition. “We are making a serious commitment to the citizens of Montgomery County to deliver high-quality care close to home,” Balser added.
VUMC plans to retain nearly all current employees of Tennova Healthcare-Clarksville who are in good standing at the time of the transition. This commitment ensures continuity of care for patients during the ownership transfer, which is currently undergoing regulatory review. “Integrating the Clarksville hospital into our regional network is an exciting step forward,” remarked Jane Freedman, MD, Deputy CEO of VUMC.
Patients can expect no disruption in services as VUMC and Community Health Systems work to ensure a seamless transition. Tennova Healthcare-Clarksville is recognized for its high standards, holding designations as an Accredited Chest Pain Center and a Wound Care Center of Distinction. The facility also features eight physician clinics and offers a range of inpatient and outpatient services.
As VUMC prepares for this transition, they have already introduced specialized programs to support the Montgomery County region, including an OB-GYN hospitalist program and radiation oncology services through the Vanderbilt-Ingram Cancer Center. The integration of these services will further enhance the healthcare landscape in Clarksville, meeting the needs of a community characterized by rapid growth and increasing healthcare demands.
Stay tuned for further updates as this story develops. The acquisition of Tennova Healthcare-Clarksville marks a pivotal moment in healthcare provision for the region, promising to deliver innovative and accessible care to all residents.
