ANNISTON — The Anniston City Council has unanimously approved the sale of city-owned Regional Medical Center to Orlando Health, a Florida-based hospital system, in a deal officials are calling "a transformative opportunity for the future of regional healthcare in Calhoun County."
The transaction, which is expected to close in the fall pending regulatory approvals, will see RMC's approximately 2,000 employees and 200 physicians become part of what Orlando Health representatives have begun referring to as their "Alabama Region." The Region's other members were not identified.
Mayor Lyle Henley described the sale as "a tremendous win for Anniston" during a press availability Tuesday. When asked what specifically had been won, Henley referred this reporter to the prepared statement.
"This partnership ensures that Calhoun County will continue to have access to world-class healthcare for generations to come," the prepared statement read.
Orlando Health representatives confirmed that the hospital's name and physical location would not change as part of the transition. They also confirmed that the company is committed to a "five-year investment" in the facility's equipment, technology, and electronic health record system. When asked what would happen at year six, the representative thanked this reporter for his interest in the transition.
Existing RMC employees will be transitioned to Orlando Health "on day one, with their existing titles, pay, and years of service honored," according to terms of the agreement. The specific date of day one was not provided. Several longtime RMC staff members reached for comment requested anonymity, citing what one described as "ongoing transition uncertainty."
Regional Medical Center has been operating in Anniston since approximately 1900. The facility played a prominent role in the events of May 14, 1961, when staff treated thirteen Freedom Riders for smoke inhalation following the firebombing of a Greyhound bus outside the city. Hospital administrators ordered the riders to leave the premises after a mob gathered outside.
The hospital is also where many longtime Calhoun County residents were born.
Mayor Henley closed Tuesday's press availability by reaffirming the city's commitment to its remaining priorities, which he listed as roads, water, and economic development.
The Green Tomato will continue to monitor this developing story. Anyone with concerns about the transition is encouraged to contact Orlando Health's customer service line during regular business hours, Eastern Time.
