Missouri Highlands Health Care acquires Saint Francis Poplar Bluff campus

FOX23 News at 9 p.m.

CAPE GIRARDEAU, Mo., (KBSI) — Saint Francis Healthcare System has divested its Poplar Bluff campus and associated services to Missouri Highlands Health Care, effective Dec. 18, 2025, following a review of long-term health care needs in the region.

Missouri Highlands Health Care, a nonprofit, community-owned provider, will assume operations of the Butler County facility. Officials said the organization is positioned to provide stable and sustainable care in the area due to its roots in southeast Missouri and access to federal resources for medically underserved communities.

Saint Francis Healthcare said the transition is part of its commitment to responsible stewardship and continuity of care across the region. Some Saint Francis specialists may continue seeing patients at the Poplar Bluff campus after the acquisition, and the two organizations will maintain a collaborative relationship during a transition period through Jan. 30, 2026.

The transaction does not affect Saint Francis clinics or locations in Cape Girardeau, Jackson, Dexter, Piedmont, Farmington, Scott City, Sikeston, East Prairie or Charleston.

“While this change marks a new chapter, our commitment to compassionate care in southeast Missouri remains as strong as ever,” said Justin Davison, president and CEO of Saint Francis Healthcare System. “We are confident this transition will bring long-term benefits to the community and strengthen health care access for years to come.”