BREAKING NEWS: Vanderbilt University Medical Center (VUMC) has just announced plans to acquire full ownership of Tennova Healthcare-Clarksville from Community Health Systems Inc. (CHS). This significant move is set to enhance healthcare access for the rapidly growing population of Clarksville, Tennessee, which has surged by 24% over the last decade.
The acquisition builds on VUMC’s existing 20% minority stake in the hospital and associated facilities since 2021. This transition means that residents of Clarksville and Montgomery County can expect improved medical services tailored to their needs. “Expanding our services in Clarksville allows us to better serve the health care needs of this rapidly growing area,” stated Jeff Balser, MD, PhD, President and CEO of VUMC.
Tennova Healthcare-Clarksville, a 270-bed facility, will join VUMC’s expanding network of regional medical centers, which includes facilities in Lebanon, Tullahoma, and Shelbyville. This integration is part of VUMC’s strategic plan to provide high-quality care in community settings that are both accessible and cost-effective.
In a commitment to local employment, VUMC plans to retain substantially all employees of Tennova Healthcare-Clarksville during the transition. “We are making a serious commitment to the citizens of Montgomery County to deliver high-quality care close to home,” Balser added.
The hospital already offers a variety of essential services, including an OB-GYN hospitalist program and radiation oncology services from the Vanderbilt-Ingram Cancer Center. As part of the integration, VUMC aims to expand its adult and pediatric healthcare offerings significantly.
Jane Freedman, MD, Deputy CEO and Chief Health System Officer at VUMC, emphasized the importance of collaboration with the dedicated staff at Tennova. “Integrating the Clarksville hospital into our regional network is an exciting step forward,” she noted, highlighting the anticipated expansion of healthcare access.
Patients currently receiving care at Tennova Healthcare-Clarksville will experience no interruptions during the ownership transition. The acquisition is subject to regulatory review, but VUMC assures the community that it is committed to a seamless transition.
With a population exceeding 200,000, Clarksville is Tennessee’s fifth-largest city and has been recognized for its consistent growth. The Clarksville Economic Development Council supports this acquisition as a necessary step to meet the healthcare needs of its expanding population.
As VUMC continues to strengthen its presence across Middle Tennessee, residents can look forward to enhanced medical services and a commitment to community health that addresses both current needs and future growth. Expect further updates as VUMC and CHS work through the regulatory process to finalize this acquisition.
