Glendale Adventist Medical Center made its intent to acquire or merge with Verdugo Hills Hospital public today in a series of newspaper advertisements and a letter to employees and the Glendale community. In the letter, Glendale Adventist CEO Kevin Roberts said his 457-bed hospital “desires to join forces with Verdugo Hills Hospital to create a shared health care system to meet the needs of our local communities.” The letter came in response to talk in the physician community about a possible deal. Both Glendale Adventist, with 457 beds, and Verdugo Hills, with 158 beds, confirmed ongoing talks this morning. Roberts said there is “power to the synergy that can be created if GAMC and VHH truly partner.” He said such a partnership would keep Verdugo Hills Hospital strong and viable well into the future. In a statement released March 22, Verdugo Hills Hospital said “it has been approached by other hospitals and large medical groups in the community to discuss possible affiliations or merger.” It said the hospital is exploring strategic opportunities that would improve its ability to meet the challenges of healthcare reform and “preserve our future relevancy to the residents of the foothill communities we serve.” Robert said Glendale was “prepared to invest significant capital dollars to enhance the buildings and programs of VHH.” Roberts noted that many of Glendale’s 700 physicians also use the Verdugo campus. Judy Temes
