Independence Health System Named 2025 Business of the Year

Greensburg, Pa, Sept. 17, 2025 — Independence Health System, Westmoreland area, has been named the Westmoreland County Chamber of Commerce’s 2025 Business of the Year. The annual award honors chamber members who demonstrate exceptional commitment to community engagement, workforce development and the economic growth of Westmoreland County. 

Formed in 2023 through the integration of Excela Health and Butler Health System, Independence Health System has grown into one of the region’s largest health care systems, with nearly 7,000 employees. The system continues to expand career opportunities in both clinical and nonclinical roles while partnering with local schools, universities and technical programs to build a strong talent pipeline. Programs such as the Latrobe Hospital Family Medicine Residency and the School of Anesthesia at Saint Vincent College help train and retain health care professionals, strengthening the region for generations to come. 

“This award reflects Independence Health System’s deep commitment to advancing health care, supporting our workforce and strengthening the communities we serve,” said Brian Fritz, president of Westmoreland, Frick and Latrobe hospitals. “It affirms that our mission is making a meaningful difference in Westmoreland County and beyond. We’re proud to be recognized not only for our medical excellence but also for the positive impact we make as one of the region’s largest employers and community partners.”

The system reinvests in the local economy by working with area vendors for services such as catering, maintenance, landscaping, printing, construction and more. Independence Health System also promotes community well-being through initiatives such as free health screenings and wellness education, food drives, charity walks, health fairs and youth sports sponsorships — reflecting a commitment to public health and regional vitality.

“Independence Health System is honored to be recognized as the 2025 Business of the Year,” said Ken DeFurio, president and CEO of Independence Health System. “We live here, we work here and we care here — making us deeply invested in the communities we call home. From treating patients with the highest levels of clinical care and innovation to creating jobs, supporting local businesses and investing in the long-term vitality of our region, we are committed to helping strengthen the local economy and enhancing community well-being. We extend our gratitude to our providers, staff, patients and community partners for their trust, dedication, collaboration and shared commitment to building healthier, stronger hometowns — and keeping expert care, here.”

Independence Health System provides a breadth and depth of accessible, high-quality, and comprehensive health care services to residents across Westmoreland, Butler, Clarion, and surrounding counties. Its tertiary programs continue to be ranked among America’s best for cardiac care and surgery, earning accolades from the Society of Thoracic Surgeons, U.S. News & World Report, Healthgrades, the American College of Radiology, the American College of Cardiology, the American College of Surgeons, The Joint Commission, the American Heart/Stroke Association and the National Association for Business Resources for workplace wellness leadership.

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Nationally recognized for quality care, Independence Health System comprises Butler Memorial, Clarion, Frick, Latrobe and Westmoreland Hospitals with a combined bed count of 925. With more than 1,000 physicians and advanced practice providers and nearly 7,000 employees, the System is the third largest in western Pennsylvania serving a population base of 750,000 in a footprint spanning more than 10 counties. 

The System includes tertiary programs rated among America’s best for cardiac care and surgery, earning accolades from a number of prestigious outlets and organizations. Locally owned and locally controlled, Independence Health System offers its patients low-cost, high-quality care across the care spectrum in such specialties as cardiology, cardiovascular and thoracic surgery, orthopedics and sports medicine, minimally invasive and robotic surgery, women’s health and obstetrics, emergency medicine, behavioral health and primary care. Its network of outpatient centers sees more than 1.2 million visits annually. The homecare division further supports patients at all stages of life with home health and hospice services. Learn more at www.independence.health.