Jefferson and Lehigh Valley Health Network Recognize One-Year Anniversary of Landmark Combination

One year after joining forces to create one of the nation’s leading integrated academic health systems, Jefferson and Lehigh Valley Health Network (LVHN) are celebrating the progress on delivering “More for You.”

“One year ago, we promised to give our communities more, and today I’m proud to say we’re delivering on that commitment,” said Joseph G. Cacchione, MD, Chief Executive Officer, Jefferson. “Together, we have brought new treatments to patients and invested in the health of our neighborhoods. Most importantly, we remain unwavering in our mission to improve lives. There is much more to come as we continue building the future of care.”

Over the past year, Jefferson has expanded access to care through new and enhanced services across the region. Patients now benefit from the region’s first Women’s Health Center at Tower Place in Bethlehem; a new Health Center at Tower Place offering primary and specialty care; and additional ExpressCARE walk-in locations in downtown Allentown and Tower Place. Jefferson is also preparing to open Hanover Hill Behavioral Health Hospital, a joint-venture project with Universal Health Services, near LVH–Muhlenberg, while construction continues on an expanded emergency department at LVH–Muhlenberg and new neighborhood hospitals in Tannersville and Hellertown.

Jefferson has also introduced advanced treatment options to the region, including CAR-T cell therapy for certain cancers; liver transplant services in the Lehigh Valley; histotripsy to destroy liver tumors without surgery or radiation; and focused ultrasound for essential tremor and Parkinson’s disease. In addition, Jefferson became one of the first health systems to offer elbow joint implants, further expanding access to innovative care close to home.

Beyond expanding care, the combined organization is investing in healthier communities in the Lehigh Valley and beyond. Jefferson Health Plans now offers affordable, high-quality coverage to more residents. Our colleagues are advancing their education to better serve patients through unique opportunities at Thomas Jefferson University. Jefferson Health now boasts ten hospitals that have earned “A” grades from The Leapfrog Group for safety.

Jefferson continues to grow local economies through initiatives such as the Jefferson Lehigh Valley Classic—an official PGA TOUR Champions event coming to Lehigh Country Club in the fall of 2026—and community partnerships with ArtsQuest SteelStacks and the Turn & Grind redevelopment project. These

investments strengthen the region by supporting local businesses and fostering vibrant, healthy communities.

“We’re breaking down barriers and expanding access so patients can count on seamless, high-quality care close to home,” said Baligh Yehia, MD, MPP, MSc, FACP, President, Jefferson Health. “This integration is about aligning our strengths, coordinating care, and investing in the services and partnerships that build healthier communities—one collaboration and one patient at a time.”