Fairfield Medical Center in Lancaster, Ohio, signed a nonbinding letter of intent June 1 to explore a formal partnership with Chillicothe, Ohio-based Adena Health after Fairfield’s planned acquisition by Columbus-based OhioHealth fell through.
“Although regulatory hurdles created obstacles to our partnership with Fairfield Medical Center, we believe that local access to healthcare is important to every community,” a spokesperson for OhioHealth said in a June 1 statement shared with Becker’s. “We fully support Fairfield’s decision to move forward with another partner and remain appreciative of their collaboration.”
OhioHealth shared plans to acquire Fairfield in November 2025 after the two organizations signed a nonbinding agreement in fall 2024. The hospital also shared plans to conduct “limited staff reductions” across multiple departments, and close an ambulatory surgery center and sleep medicine unit in late February ahead of the deal.
Under Fairfield’s LOI with Adena Health, the two parties will conduct due diligence to evaluate compatibility and growth opportunities, according to a June 1 news release shared with Becker’s. Both systems will continue to operate independently while the agreement undergoes internal review and awaits government approval.
“Fairfield Medical Center has proudly served this community for more than 110 years with excellence and compassion, and selecting a strong strategic partner is vital to our next 100 years,” John “Jack” Janoso Jr., president and CEO of Fairfield Medical Center, said in the release. “We believe this relationship creates an exciting opportunity to build on an already strong foundation while investing in the future of healthcare throughout Fairfield County and beyond.”
Kathi Edrington, DNP, president and CEO of Adena Health, also said in the release that the system is “pleased to be engaging in conversations” with Fairfield to help meet rural community needs.
“The work of the incredible providers and clinicians at Fairfield Medical Center aligns with our mission and vision to provide expanded specialty healthcare, innovation and support to more patients who depend on us for care,” she said.
At the Becker's 11th Annual IT + Revenue Cycle Conference: The Future of AI & Digital Health, taking place September 14–17 in Chicago, healthcare executives and digital leaders from across the country will come together to explore how AI, interoperability, cybersecurity, and revenue cycle innovation are transforming care delivery, strengthening financial performance, and driving the next era of digital health. Apply for complimentary registration now.