CHRISTUS Health has announced an agreement to acquire Gerald Champion Regional Medical Center in Alamogordo, New Mexico, in the US.

The partnership between the two organisations aims to ensure the continuation of high-quality healthcare in the region.

CHRISTUS Health president and CEO Ernie Sadau said: “By joining forces with CHRISTUS, communities gain a compassionate and committed leader, partner and advocate in the creation of innovative health and wellness solutions that improve the lives of individuals.”

Effective from 1 July, the agreement focuses on a smooth transition for patients, physicians, providers, and staff without any disruption in services.

Gerald Champion Regional Medical selected CHRISTUS Health as a partner due to its shared mission of healing and vision for excellence in healthcare.

Gerald Champion Board of Trustees chair Norm Arnold said: “Eighteen months ago, we started on that journey of self-reflection.

“We reached out to 27 organisations, and after considerable research and validation, we found a partner of like-values that would ensure the legacy of outstanding health care to our community – CHRISTUS Health.”

CHRISTUS Health is a not-for-profit system with more than 600 health centres across multiple states and countries.

Founded in 1949, Gerald Champion Regional Medical Center is an independent non-profit hospital serving South Central New Mexico with various medical services and specialities.

CHRISTUS Health executive vice-president and chief strategy officer Paul Generale said: “Gerald Champion will now be able to leverage the strength of the CHRISTUS network with additional investments in capital improvements, expanded recruitment and retention efforts and growth in innovation and clinical capabilities.”