Pennyroyal Center has announced it’s merging with LifeSkills, Inc. of Bowling Green in just over two months.
LifeSkills and Pennyroyal Center are the two largest behavioral healthcare organizations in southern Kentucky, according to a news release, which says the merger will create one of the largest behavioral health organizations in Kentucky.
Officials say, “The combined entity will form a strong network to better advocate and care for its patients, continue to expand and grow its services and programs for clients and provide a sustainable network to attract and retain top clinicians and staff.”
It will have 875 employees and 26 service locations, all of which will remain in operation to serve over 26,000 people in 18 counties each year.
They will have a combined budget of $95 million and will continue to operate under their current names in their markets.
Pennyroyal Center CEO Eric Embry is quoted as saying, “We believe this partnership strategically solidifies our ability to continue delivering high quality services to the most vulnerable individuals in the communities we serve. I’m looking forward to fulfilling our mission as a safety net provider with LifeSkills as a partner.”
Joe Dan Beavers is the CEO of LifeSKills and says, “LifeSkills and Pennyroyal Center share similar missions and the same steadfast commitment to the communities we serve. Our agencies have a long history of working together and given the changes in the healthcare industry, we know that we are stronger together.”
The merger becomes effective July 1st of this year.