BJC HealthCare and St. Luke's to Merge in Missouri-based Health System

BJC HealthCare and St. Luke's Health System have announced plans to merge, with both systems keeping their own names and operating from dual headquarters. The combined health systems will have an even stronger financial foundation, according to BJC's CEO. The deal is expected to close by the end of the year, pending regulatory approval. The merger follows the trend of consolidation in the healthcare industry, as hospitals and insurers alike grow larger to gain advantage in negotiations.