Vatican Approves UPMC Mercy Merger

In the final step toward the completion of the merger between UPMC and Mercy, the Sisters of Mercy, the Diocese of Pittsburgh and Catholic Health East (CHE) have received notice that the Vatican has approved the transfer of ownership of The Mercy Hospital of Pittsburgh to the University of Pittsburgh Medical Center (UPMC).

“I must recognize the hard work and perseverance of the leadership of CHE, Pittsburgh Mercy Health System, UPMC, and the Diocese of Pittsburgh. I also appreciate the Mercy Hospital medical staff and our 3,000+ associates who maintained their focus on providing excellent patient care during this challenging time. I am also grateful to all those who offered prayers and support to the Sisters of Mercy and Mercy associates this past year. We have traveled a very long road and together we have successfully preserved Catholic health care in the region for generations to come,” stated Sister Margaret Hannan, president, Sisters of Mercy, Regional Community of Pittsburgh.

This decision is good not only for Mercy and the Diocese, but also for the region. One-hundred sixty years of Catholic health care will continue uninterrupted and thousands of jobs will be preserved. Mercy will continue to operate as a Catholic hospital under canonical oversight of the Diocese of Pittsburgh and in accordance with the Ethical and Religious Directives. This transaction also ensures the continuing financial support for the charitable mission of the Sisters of Mercy and will guarantee the availability and accessibility of vital clinical services, such as trauma and burn care and women’s health services. In addition, as part of UPMC, Mercy physicians will also have greater access to cutting-edge technology and facilities.

Vatican approval was the final step necessary for moving ahead with the UPMC Mercy transaction. Clearance for the transaction was granted in May by Pennsylvania Attorney General Tom Corbett and in October by the Federal Trade Commission. The closing of the transaction is anticipated on December 31, 2007.