Indiana health systems to combine

INDIANAPOLIS (WISH) - Two Indiana-based health systems are combining, making for the largest health system in the state.

The integration of St. Mary’s Health System, based out of Evansville, and St. Vincent Health, based out of Indianapolis, will make the new organization one of the top five employers in the state.

"The integration of St. Mary's Health System into St. Vincent Health creates a statewide network that will be mutually beneficial, sustainable and economically viable," Vincent C. Caponi, CEO of St. Vincent, said in a statement. "Both health providers are committed to serving more patients and families by offering greater access and specialization of services and programs through the increased reach and scope of our locally-sponsored health ministries."

St. Vincent Health is a 20-hospital system that serves 47 counties in central and southern Indiana. In January 2012, the faith-based provider was identified by Thomson Reuters as one of the 15 best health systems in the nation, the only one in Indiana and the Midwest to be honored in the large health system group.

St. Mary's Health System has a proven track record of major clinical initiatives such as Level II Trauma Designation for adult and pediatric patients, Magnet Status and the development of the Physician Network.

The two health ministries are a part of Ascension Health, the nation's largest Catholic and nonprofit health system.