Prime Healthcare Services Inc. of Ontario, Calif., whose purchase of Lehigh Regional became effective at 12:01 a.m. on Feb. 1, has pledged to improve the financial outlook of the hospital and invest millions to purchase new medical equipment.
Lehigh Regional, an 88-bed acute care community hospital in Lehigh Acres with a 12-bed emergency services department, had been part of a significant transaction two years ago — when Community Health Systems and Health Management Associates merged.
“Prime Healthcare looks forward to working with the physicians, nurses and employees at Lehigh Regional Medical Center to ensure the best care for the patients they serve,” said Prem Reddy, chairman, president, and CEO of Prime Healthcare Services.
“We believe that every community deserves exceptional healthcare close to home. Prime hospitals are consistently ranked among the best hospitals in the nation, and we have no doubt that Lehigh Regional Medical Center will continue that legacy.”
Prime Healthcare appointed Gary Bell as the new CEO of Lehigh Regional Medical Center, effective immediately.
“Every hospital is unique, but all successful hospitals have something in common — patient care is their primary focus,” Bell said. “I look forward to working with the talented staff and physicians at Lehigh Regional.”