As part of the deal, which still needs to be approved by regulators, Hackensack will invest about $230 million to improve Hunterdon’s facilities and roll out Epic’s electronic health record.

HMH is already New Jersey’s largest health system, with 18 hospitals, more than 500 outpatient sites and 41,000 employees in the state. Hunterdon will bring its flagship 184-bed hospital, Hunterdon Medical Center, to HMH’s network along with its more than 3,000 employees, and network of primary and specialty care practices.

The two organizations first announced their intent to explore a merger in June. At the time, they said the aim of the partnership was to expand access to care and bolster research and innovation efforts.

Now that both organizations’ boards have approved the agreement, the health systems will need to secure approval from state regulators and pass federal antitrust review. HMH and Hunterdon did not say when they expect the deal to close.

A Hunterdon representative will join HMH’s board of trustees, and Hunterdon leaders will serve on HMH boards and committees, according to the press release.

“Joining Hackensack Meridian Health will strengthen our ability to invest in our people, expand services, and bring new technology and specialty expertise to our region,” Kristy Alfano, president and CEO of Hunterdon, said in the press release.

7 million in 2024 after the system eased some labor pressures. The merger would offer Hunterdon the opportunity to scale, Alfano told local news outlet NJBIZ in June. It faces minimal competition in its geographical area, with the nearest hospital being a 30 - minute drive away, according to credit ratings agency Fitch.

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