The Southwest Virginia Health Authority approved the merger application set forth by Johnson City, Tenn.-based Mountain States Health Alliance and Kingsport, Tenn.-based Wellmont Health System, according to the Bristol Hearld-Courtier.
The merger application is now pending approval by Bill Hazel, secretary of health and human resources for the state of Virginia.
The proposed merger is up to public comment and discussion during a 20-business day period. State officials will also set a date for a public hearing regarding the merger, according to the article.