The announcement of the merger of Independence Health System with West Virginia University Health System on Wednesday morning, just two years after a 2023 merger created Independence, could leave some questioning what’s to come.

Health system acquisitions nationwide have often led to reduced services at smaller, more rural facilities within a larger system. Mergers have also often led to staffing cuts due to system redundancies.

However, it’s far too soon to make assumptions the move will result in negative outcomes.

WVU Medicine announced part of the deal for the merger includes an investment of $800 million for modernization across Independence Health’s holdings. Those involved have also promised the merger will not result in layoffs or staffing redundancies.

Additionally, joining a

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