Crider Health Center and Pathways Community Behavioral Healthcare announced Friday that the two Missouri nonprofit organizations will be merging.
According to a press release, company officials said the merger will allow for the expansion of behavioral, dental and physical health services.
The agencies plan to initially serve an estimated 52,000 people annually and 54,000 students in prevention and early intervention programs.
Tim Swinfard, chief executive officer of Pathways, said the merger forms a stronger community health network, "that will address the unique health needs of those who struggle to get access to health care."
"Health care is changing, and it is our intention to create new practices from the best of both organizations that will result in the highest-quality, most welcoming and cost-effective services possible," said Laura Heebner, Crider Health president and chief executive officer.
The merger means there will be a combined staff of more than 2,000 employees.
Each organization will be part of Compass Health Network, which includes Royal Oaks Hospital in Windsor, a 41-bed behavioral health facility serving patients of all ages.