Franklin, Tenn.-based Community Health Systems has called off a planned acquisition of Bert Fish Medical Center in New Smyrna Beach, Fla., according to a report from The Daytona Beach News-Journal.
This past August, Naples, Fla.-based Health Management Associates signed a letter of intent to enter into a long-term lease with Bert Fish. However, CHS has since acquired HMA and told Bert Fish last week it isn't interested in another hospital deal, according to the report.
The hospital spent almost $1 million on the failed deal, which marks its second failed merger attempt during the past four years. An agreement with the Orlando-based system Florida Hospital was voided in 2010 after a judge determined the negotiations violated open meetings laws, according to the report.
The hospital's board has authorized its attorney to reach out to other potential partners. Florida Hospital and Daytona Beach, Fla.-based Halifax Health have publicly expressed interest, according to the report.
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