Independence Health System and Sharon Regional Partner on Cardiac Care Services

BUTLER, Pa., Jan. 12, 2026 — Independence Health System today announced a new strategic partnership with Sharon Regional Health System designed to significantly expand access to advanced heart and cardiovascular care for patients across the Shenango Valley and surrounding communities. 

This collaboration brings together Sharon Regional’s longstanding commitment to high-quality, community based care with Independence Health System’s nationally recognized expertise in cardiovascular medicine. Through the affiliation, patients will benefit from enhanced clinical capabilities, expanded specialty services, and streamlined access to leading cardiologists and cardiovascular surgeons. 

“Strengthening heart and vascular care close to home is a top priority for our organization,” said Todd Tamalunus, Interim CEO, Sharon Regional Health System. “Partnering with Independence Health System allows us to accelerate that mission by bringing additional clinical depth, new technologies, and access to leading cardiac care providers to our facility – removing the barrier of having to travel out of the community for care.”  

Under the affiliation, Sharon Regional Health System and Independence Health System will work together to: 

• Expand cardiology and cardiovascular surgery services available to patients at Sharon Regional Health System  
• Increase access to advanced diagnostic testing and interventional procedures 
• Enhance care coordination for patients with complex heart and vascular conditions 
• Introduce new clinical programs and subspecialty expertise 
• Strengthen physician recruitment and training initiatives 

Independence Health System brings a strong track record of excellence in cardiovascular care, including nationally recognized programs in cardiac surgery, electrophysiology, and interventional cardiology. 

“We are proud to work with Sharon Regional Health System in expanding high-quality cardiovascular care for patients in western Pennsylvania,” said Dr. Richard Begg, medical director, cardiovascular service line, Independence Health System. “Together, we will ensure that more individuals can receive advanced heart care close to home, supported by the combined expertise of our clinical teams.” 

The partnership reflects both organizations’ shared commitment to improving community health, expanding access to specialty care, and investing in the longterm wellbeing of the region. 

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About Sharon Regional Health System 

At Sharon Regional Health System, our mission is to build on our century-long legacy of delivering the highest standard of quality healthcare to patients, families, and communities throughout Mercer County and surrounding areas. As a Joint Commission accredited facility, Sharon Regional is comprised of a 62 licensed-bed acute care hospital and conveniently located community centers, diagnostic and imaging centers, and primary care and specialty care providers throughout the region. As an integral part of the communities we serve, we are deeply committed to delivering comprehensive healthcare services close to home. Through our outreach programs and valued partnerships, our goal is to improve the overall health and wellness of our region. 

As a Tenor Health Foundation hospital, Sharon Regional Health System benefits from being part of an organization committed to enhancing the health of the communities we have the privilege of serving. This partnership allows us to bring world-class resources and expertise to our local community while maintaining our focus on personalized, community-centered care. 

About Independence Health System

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 a multi-county region. 

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.