Dear Wellmont Board of Directors:
We, the citizens of East Tennessee and Southwest Virginia, petition Wellmont Health Systems to be transparent and forthcoming with any merger or acquisition plans with another healthcare system. We want open discussion and a healthy dialogue between Wellmont leadership and our community.
A merger or acquisition will have a significant impact on our region. These changes could have several negative consequences including:
Potential layoffs of Wellmont employees
Possible negative economic impact of many small businesses in our region as they may not be able to provide insurance for their employees
Lost synergy with Quillen College of Medicine and Gatton School of Pharmacy which could diminish future research and additional jobs
Effect on efficiencies in areas of specialized medical services such as cancer treatment, pediatrics, trauma, and cardiac care
Lack of control and accountability to our community if another healthcare system outside our region were to merge with or acquire Wellmont
We request the Wellmont Board of Directors to fully understand and consider what is in the best interest of the local community and to be transparent and forthcoming with any merger or acquisition plans.
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