Jennie Stuart Health in Hopkinsville officially became part of the Deaconess Health System on Wednesday, one year after the acquisition was first announced.

The directors of Jennie Stuart Health signed a letter of intent last September to join Evansville-based Deaconess. The transaction was expected to be completed before the end of 2024, but concerned local residents challenged the merger. The "Save Jennie Stuart" movement drew large crowds at public meetings.

A definitive agreement was reached earlier this year, following a lawsuit by the citizens group that was later dropped.

CEO Eric Lee said in a media release Wednesday that Jennie Stuart Health will keep its name and culture, and will retain all active employees while maintaining salaries, wages, and benefits.

Deaconess committed

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