MOUNT VERNON – October 30, 2026 -- Knox Community Hospital has signed a definitive agreement to join Kettering Health, a nonprofit health system in western Ohio, with the transaction expected to close by January 1, 2027. The two organizations signed a letter of intent in July.
Closing still depends on legal and regulatory reviews
The definitive agreement is the formal contract setting out the terms of the combination. The deal is not final and remains subject to customary closing conditions and legal and regulatory reviews. In the coming months, the organizations will continue permitted transition planning while completing the remaining steps required to close.
Kettering Health commits capital for facilities, equipment and Epic rollout
Kettering Health has committed a "significant capital investment" to upgrade Knox's facilities, equipment and technology. The package includes implementation of Epic, an electronic health records system. The source does not disclose a dollar amount or financial terms.
Kettering Health also committed to workplace stability during the transition and to maintaining Knox's current services. Knox will keep charity care and financial assistance policies consistent with those in place today.
Advisory board of current trustees will keep a local voice
A Knox Community Hospital Advisory Board, made up of current board members, would provide input on community priorities. The hospital's Board of Trustees, together with hospital and physician leadership, led the process. Knox CEO Bruce D. White said the agreement gives the hospital "greater resources" to meet changing community needs.
Deal combines a 99-bed hospital with a 14-medical-center system
Knox Community Hospital is a 99-bed, Joint Commission-accredited facility in Mount Vernon, about 40 miles northeast of Columbus. It is currently independent and not-for-profit. Kettering Health operates 14 medical centers and more than 100 outpatient locations across western Ohio. Its Kettering Health Medical Group has more than 700 board-certified providers.
Kettering Health CEO Michael Gentry said the system sees opportunity to build on Knox's strengths through continued investment and expanded resources for Knox County.