(THREE RIVERS) – A St. Joseph County hospital is joining with another organization.

Three Rivers Health has signed a letter of intent to join Beacon Health Systems, based in northern Indiana. Pending final approvals, the partnership would begin in the Spring of 2021.

Three Rivers Health is a 60 bed facility that offers a full complement of outpatient services along with specializations in orthopedics, emergency medicine, women's health and rehabilitation services.

Three Rivers Health President and CEO Dave Shannon says their thinking was to grow through careful alignment with partners of high integrity, and who share Three Rivers Health's commitment to quality, exceptional experience and values. Shannon says the partnership with Beacon Health System was a natural fit and the absolute best option for patients.

As part of Beacon Health System, Shannon says the public will have even greater access to convenient, high-quality health care close to home.

Beacon has a full array of clinical expertise in trauma, orthopedics, heart, vascular and cancer care. Beacon is also a member of the Mayo Clinic Care Network.

Kreg Gruber, CEO of Beacon Health System, says this partnership with Three Rivers Health has the potential to positively impact the health of even more individuals, and they look forward to working with their new colleagues.