Baptist Memorial Health Care has signed a non-binding letter of intent to complete a shared mission agreement to merge with Arkansas Methodist Medical Center (AMMC) in Paragould, Arkansas. Baptist Memorial and AMMC are in the early phases of discussions but expect to finalize an agreement by early 2026.
“I am excited by the incredible opportunity to merge our two organizations,” said Jason Little, president and CEO of Baptist Memorial Health Care. “Arkansas Methodist Medical Center has similar values to Baptist Memorial Health Care and an excellent reputation in the community. By combining our organizations, we can expand the reach of sustainable and quality health care in the region while creating a strong organization with the size, scale, technology and intellectual capital to expand access to care while weathering future challenges.”
Arkansas Methodist Medical Center has a 75-year history of providing medical excellence to Northeast Arkansas and Southeast Missouri. With more than 500 employees, inpatient rehabilitation services, multiple medical specialties and a retirement community, Chateau on the Ridge Assisted Living, AMMC has established a reputation for delivering quality health care.
“Merging with Baptist Memorial Health Care is an exciting opportunity for both Baptist and Arkansas Methodist Medical Center and, most importantly, for the community we serve,” said Brad Bloemer, CEO of Arkansas Methodist Medical Center. “With Baptist’s strong market presence and long track record of delivering premier health care in both small, rural communities and large, metropolitan areas, they’re the perfect partner to help us grow and improve. Together, we can expand access to more health care services, bring in more specialists and specialty services, modernize our facility, and ensure these health care services stay close to home. For 75 years, Arkansas Methodist Medical Center has been committed to providing exceptional health care to our community. This partnership will allow us to honor that promise while continuing to expand and enhance the care we provide, thus serving as a beacon of health, hope and healing for our patients, staff and community.”
A recognized leader, Arkansas Methodist Medical Center in Paragould provides progressive, compassionate health care to residents throughout Northeast Arkansas and the surrounding region. Additional information about AMMC is available at myammc.org.
