SSM Health and Noble Health announced Friday the signing of a definitive agreement to transfer ownership of SSM Health St. Mary’s Hospital - Audrain and associated community medical group practices to Noble Health.

The two health systems in July signed a Letter of Intent and began a period of exclusive negotiation regarding the 100-year-old hospital that SSM Health purchased in 2013. The organizations will now partner to work through all the necessary details to ensure a smooth transition for our patients and team members. If all goes as planned, transfer to Noble Health is anticipated in the first quarter of the year.

“Throughout this process, Noble Health has been an excellent partner and repeatedly demonstrated their commitment to not only preserving, but enhancing, the high-quality compassionate care already provided by our team members in Audrain,” SSM Health President and CEO Laura Kaiser said. “We believe this is the best way to ensure the long-term sustainability of quality care in this community.”

Kansas City-based Noble Health is focused on expanding care in rural communities and recently began management of Callaway Community Hospital in Fulton, Mo.

“Noble Health’s goal is to serve the residents of Audrain County with comprehensive, high-quality care and we look forward to continuously working to offer the right resources to the community,” said Don Peterson, Executive Chairman of the Board at Noble Health. “We are champions of hometown healthcare and understand how important it is to deliver great care close to home. We’re excited to officially become part of the community, providing the best service to help the people of Audrain County better their health and continue to thrive.”