ANNISTON– Baptist Health Calhoun Hospital officially joined Orlando Health on October 1, completing the acquisition of Anniston’s RMC Health System. The transaction brings the 375-bed hospital, outpatient facilities, and specialty practices into the Baptist Health network.

Orlando Health confirmed the closing in an October 1 announcement. Meanwhile, the hospital’s website now carries the Baptist Health Calhoun Hospital name.

The completed acquisition follows the agreement announced in April and the new name announced in July. Hospital leaders say the partnership will support investment, physician recruitment, and broader access to specialty care throughout Northeast Alabama.

April Agreement Leads to October Closing

WEIS reported the acquisition agreement in April after approval from the hospital’s board and the Anniston City Council. However, that announcement began the transition process rather than completing the sale.

The hospital’s April 7 release said the agreement required regulatory approvals and projected a fall closing. Orlando Health’s April 8 announcement also described the acquisition as a future transaction.

The October 1 announcement confirms that the acquisition has now closed. It also establishes the hospital’s official entry into Baptist Health under its new name.

Under the April agreement, current employees would transition to Orlando Health with their existing titles, pay, and years of service honored.

Investment and Expanded Access to Care

Orlando Health plans to invest significant resources over the next five years in the hospital’s facilities, equipment, and technology. Those plans also include an electronic health record system for managing medical records.

The hospital’s earlier announcement said the investments would support physician recruitment, expanded specialty services, and improved access to care. However, the October 1 release does not give a purchase price or a specific investment amount.

Keith Parrott, president of Baptist Health Calhoun Hospital, said the partnership creates opportunities to improve healthcare access and strengthen the region’s economy.

Meanwhile, Chief Medical Officer Dr. Almena Free said the hospital has expanded services, added technology, upgraded facilities, and recruited physicians over the past year. She also highlighted the benefits of working with other Baptist Health hospitals and an expanding network of specialists.

Thibaut van Marcke, Orlando Health senior vice president and Baptist Health president, said the organizations will work together to enhance services and access.

New Name Recognizes Calhoun County Roots

The hospital announced the Baptist Health Calhoun Hospital name in July, setting October 1 as its effective date. Before choosing the name, officials conducted a market study and sought input from residents across the region.

Hospital leaders said the name recognizes the institution’s Calhoun County roots while aligning it with Baptist Health. The July announcement also called for new signage when the name took effect.

Anniston Mayor Ciara Smith-Roston said the transition preserves the hospital’s legacy while positioning it to serve future generations. Local leaders also expect the partnership to strengthen its role as a regional referral center.

A Major Northeast Alabama Healthcare Provider

The October announcement identifies nearly 2,000 team members and 200 physicians across a range of specialties.

The hospital’s published information also describes a five-county service area. Its annual care totals include 11,500 inpatients, 64,000 outpatients, nearly 1,700 newborn deliveries, and 44,000 emergency room visits.

In addition, services at the Anniston campus include emergency and trauma care, cancer treatment, maternity care, heart and vascular care, orthopedics, and surgery.

Orlando Health also purchased a majority interest in Birmingham-based Baptist Health in 2024. That network included five central Alabama hospitals, more than 1,700 licensed beds, and 58 primary and specialty care clinics.

The nonprofit Orlando Health system serves Florida, Alabama, and Puerto Rico through hospitals, physician practices, and other healthcare facilities.