South Arkansas Regional Hospital in El Dorado will be acquired by Baptist Health, the Little Rock-based health system announced Wednesday.
The acquisition, subject to customary regulatory approvals and for which a price was not disclosed, is expected to become official on June 14. The 151-bed hospital will then be renamed Baptist Health Medical Center-El Dorado.
“Baptist Health was approached by South Arkansas Regional Hospital about our interest in merging their hospital into the Baptist Health system,” said Troy Wells, president and CEO of Baptist Health. “It’s an extremely challenging time for community hospitals and many are looking for a health care system to partner with them to remain sustainable. Baptist Health continues to have a proven track record for operating rural hospitals efficiently in much needed areas of the state.”
Designated as a Level III Trauma Center, the El Dorado hospital provides comprehensive inpatient and outpatient services including emergency care, obstetrics, cardiology and orthopedics.
“This step is being taken to strengthen our ability to provide high-quality care and ensure the long-term stability of our hospital in a rapidly changing healthcare environment,” said Danna Taylor, president of South Arkansas Regional Hospital. “By joining Baptist Health, we will gain access to additional clinical resources, technology, operational support, and expertise that will help us continue delivering the care our patients rely on every day.”
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