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Ascension Saint Thomas, one of the nation’s leading nonprofit, faith-based health systems, and Unity Medical Center (UMC), an independent rural hospital, managed by Java Medical Group, announced Monday they were partnering to expand access to quality health care for residents of Manchester and Coffee County.

The clinically integrated alliance partnership, built on a shared commitment to collaborative care, will expand specialty services, improve health outcomes and increase local access to care. Patients at UMC will see the benefits of new technology and easier access to care, thanks to support from Ascension Saint Thomas. That means more connected care, better communication between doctors, and a stronger focus on your whole health, not just treating symptoms, but helping you stay well.

The alliance strengthens the care UMC provides by incorporating Ascension Saint Thomas’s clinical expertise, advanced specialty programs and innovative technologies. As UMC prepares to celebrate its 10th anniversary in July 2025, the partnership marks a new chapter of growth for the community-based nonprofit hospital.

Patients will gain enhanced access to specialties such as cardiology, neurosciences and women’s health, along with expanded telemedicine services including telestroke and teleneuro capabilities. These additions build on recent milestones like the opening of UMC’s Cardiopulmonary Rehabilitation Center in 2024, reinforcing its role as a hub for rural health care excellence.

“This partnership is a turning point for Unity Medical Center and the community we serve,” said Martha Henley, CEO of Unity Medical Center. “It’s the best of both worlds, personalized, local care backed by the strength and resources of a leading health system. We’re proud to take this next step to ensure families in Coffee County don’t have to travel far to get the high-quality care they deserve.”

“Our mission is grounded in expanding access to healthcare in the communities we serve,” said Fahad Tahir, president and CEO of Ascension Saint Thomas. “We know that lasting impact comes through strong partnerships. Unity Medical Center has built deep trust in Manchester, and together, we’re fostering a culture of collaboration that brings care closer to home and strengthens access for the people of Coffee County.”

Together, Ascension Saint Thomas and Unity Medical Center will collaborate with local physicians and community leaders to identify evolving health needs and bring care closer to home. With this partnership, UMC continues its long-term vision to deliver improved, locally accessible care while remaining an independent, nonprofit hospital.

For more information, visit ascension.org and unitymedicalmanchester.com.