Our History

In 2002, Saint Thomas Hospital/Health Services acquired the assets of Baptist Health Care including Baptist Hospital in Nashville, DeKalb Hospital in Smithville, Hickman Community Hospital in Centerville and the remaining 50% ownership of Middle Tennessee Medical Center, Murfreesboro, to preserve the Catholic healthcare ministry in Middle Tennessee.  The geographic environment is rich in for-profit healthcare, but the need exists to serve those challenged by poverty.  All the hospitals acquired were faith-based and compatible with the mission and values of Ascension Health.

Saint Thomas Health Services is a billion dollar health care system in Middle Tennessee.  After the divestiture of DeKalb Hospital in FY 2005, Saint Thomas Health Services now consists of Saint Thomas Hospital, Baptist Hospital, Middle Tennessee Medical Center, Hickman Community Hospital and about 18 other subsidiaries.  Saint Thomas Health Service is a member of Ascension Health, the nation’s largest not-for-profit Catholic health system.