A mega merger is in the works to create Texas' largest healthcare system.
Officials with Memorial Hermann signed a letter of intent with Dallas-based Baylor Scott & White Health. They hope to have a definitive agreement in place by next spring.
If the agreement is finalized, the group would have facilities in 30 Texas counties and employ more than 73-thousand people.
There has been a nationwide trend toward consolidation of health facilities nationwide, as the marketplace steers more people toward less-costly outpatient treatment. There is a greater strain on services in Texas, where nearly one fifth of the population has no health insurance.