October 27, 2026- Hackensack Meridian Health and Hunterdon Health have signed a definitive agreement for Hunterdon to join New Jersey’s largest health system, advancing a proposed merger that would bring significant investments in care delivery, technology and community access.
Announced Oct. 20, the agreement follows a letter of intent signed by the two nonprofit health systems in June. The proposed transaction still requires state and federal regulatory approvals, including review under New Jersey’s Community Health Care Assets Protection Act and federal antitrust review.
Under the agreement, Hackensack Meridian Health (HMH) plans to invest $200 million in capital projects designed to improve access to care, including investments in Hunterdon’s facilities, clinical programs and the communities it serves. An additional $30 million will fund the implementation of the Epic electronic health record system across Hunterdon Medical Center, ambulatory locations, Hunterdon Medical Group and participating independent physician practices.
“By investing in facilities, technology, and clinical programs, we’ll help ensure patients in this region can receive leading-edge care close to home, backed by the resources of our entire network,” said Robert C. Garrett, CEO of Hackensack Meridian Health.
Preserving local leadership and community input
The agreement includes provisions intended to preserve Hunterdon’s local governance and community connections following the merger.
For six years after the transaction closes, Hunterdon will retain local board oversight and have representation on HMH’s Board of Trustees and other boards and committees. A Hunterdon Community Advisory Committee will provide input on local health needs, while a joint committee with equal representation from both organizations will monitor HMH’s compliance with its commitments.
Hunterdon’s current leadership team will continue to manage day-to-day operations. Hunterdon Medical Center will retain its own medical staff leadership and peer-review processes. Hunterdon Medical Group will remain an employment option for physicians for at least five years, and Hunterdon’s clinically integrated network will continue for at least five years.
The Hunterdon Healthcare Foundation will also remain a separate organization, with locally raised funds continuing to support Hunterdon Medical Center and its services in accordance with donor intent.
“This agreement reflects months of careful work and a shared commitment to what matters most: our patients, our employees, our physicians, and our communities,” said Kristy Alfano, president and CEO of Hunterdon Health.