PITTSBURGH, March 1, 2013 /PRNewswire/ — Highmark Inc. and Jefferson Regional Medical Center announced today that the organizations have finalized their affiliation plan. With the closing of the transaction, which is effective March 1, Jefferson Regional becomes the first health system to officially join Highmark’s new integrated delivery system. Highmark is also seeking to develop affiliations with the West Penn Allegheny Health System and the Saint Vincent Health System in Erie, Pa.

“This is great news for patients and families who continue to rely on the high-quality health care services that Jefferson Regional provides to the community,” said William Winkenwerder, Jr., M.D., president and chief executive officer of Highmark Inc. “Our partnership with Jefferson Regional is a critical step in our efforts to build a new, integrated health care delivery system. Last June, we announced plans to pursue a strategic partnership. Thanks to the outstanding support and leadership of Charles Modispacher, the chairman of the board of Jefferson Regional, as well as the entire board of directors and management team led by John Dempster, we’re proud to say this partnership is now a reality.”

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