The merger of the Washington Health System and UPMC was confirmed earlier this month and on Wednesday, a celebration was held to commemorate the partnership. The Washington Health System will now be known as UPMC Washington and UPMC Greene. The announcement comes a year after the two entities announced an affiliation agreement in June of 2023. “We are elated that the affiliation is complete and look forward to starting a new chapter of collaboration with UPMC,” said Brook Ward, president of UPMC Washington and UPMC Greene. “This affiliation protects the vitality of an essential community asset and solidifies a healthy future for Washington and Greene counties for generations to come.” According to the statement, UPMC has committed to invest at least $300 million over 10 years to enhance clinical services and upgrade facilities at UPMC Washington and UPMC Greene. These investments by UPMC, combined with contributions the WHS Foundation has made and will continue to make, ensures UPMC Washington and UPMC Greene can provide state-of-the-art health care for local residents for years to come and maintain its position as one of the largest employers in Washington and Greene counties. UPMC Washington and UPMC Greene will maintain a local Board of Directors consisting of 11 legacy WHS board members and five newly appointed members from UPMC. The affiliation does not affect community members’ in-network access to WHS hospitals or doctors. UPMC Washington, UPMC Greene and their affiliated outpatient facilities will continue to honor the contracts that are in place with regional and national insurers.