HUNTINGDON — The Huntingdon-based J.C. Blair Health System has officially joined Penn Highlands Healthcare, effective June 1, following recent regulatory reviews and approvals.

J.C. Blair Memorial Hospital, a 71-bed, non-profit community hospital, is now known as Penn Highlands Huntingdon, making it the fifth hospital in the Penn Highlands Healthcare system.

“This affiliation represents an exciting new chapter in our growth,” said Steven M. Fontaine, CEO of Penn Highlands Healthcare. “Just like our other hospitals, J.C. Blair is deeply rooted in its community and is known for providing high-quality care to patients close to home.

“Now, through our partnership, we will not only continue to provide the services residents of Huntingdon County and surrounding communities have come to depend on, but we also will bring access to the advanced care and treatments available through Penn Highlands Healthcare.”

The boards of directors of both Penn Highlands Healthcare and J.C. Blair signed a letter of intent in October that paved the way for this affiliation. After rigorous due diligence, research and discussion, a definitive agreement was signed and received official regulatory review and approval.

Penn Highlands has a hospital in St. Marys and one in DuBois.