University Health’s Bold Expansion: What the Acquisition of the Former CHRISTUS Medical Center Means for You

SAN ANTONIO – In a significant move, CHRISTUS Health and University Health announced that they will transfer ownership of the former CHRISTUS Santa Rosa Hospital – Medical Center campus to University Health. This decision follows a unanimous vote from the Bexar County Hospital District Board of Managers.

This agreement between two major nonprofit health systems highlights a rare moment of cooperation. As demand for healthcare services continues to rise, both organizations are responding with urgent action.

“This transition ensures that the facility will still serve our community with the compassion we’re known for,” said Ernie Sadau, CEO of CHRISTUS Health. With over 150 years of service in San Antonio, finding a buyer that aligns with its vision was critical.

The hospital, situated in the South Texas Medical Center, was closed by CHRISTUS in April. This closure was part of a broader plan to consolidate services. The 45-acre site has a four-story hospital built in 1986 and two additional medical office buildings. The sale is expected to finalize by late September or early October.

The timing of this acquisition is crucial for University Health. They are currently undergoing a $1.5 billion expansion aimed at addressing the increasing patient volume in the area. Edward Banos, the CEO of University Health, noted, “Acquiring this campus will help relieve the pressure on University Hospital and provide better access for our patients needing specialized care.”

Later this year, University Health will share more details about their plans for the campus. Banos is set to present an overview of the acquisition during the annual tax rate presentation to the Bexar County Commissioners Court on August 5. Importantly, the purchase will not require a tax rate increase, as it will be covered by existing funds.

For Bexar County officials, this deal symbolizes more than just a change of ownership. It’s a chance to strengthen healthcare infrastructure in a rapidly growing region. Bexar County Judge Peter Sakai remarked, “This acquisition is a game-changer for our hospital district, focusing on improving health access for everyone.”

CHRISTUS Health recently prioritized a realignment of services, investing $300 million over five years into expanding facilities and adding ambulatory care centers across Bexar, Comal, and Hays counties.

University Health’s growth includes two new hospitals on the South and Northeast sides of San Antonio, planned to open in early 2027, along with two public health clinics set to launch this fall.

Both health systems, though operating under different models—faith-based nonprofit and public hospital district—share a commitment to serve the community. They stated, “As the only remaining nonprofit healthcare systems in Bexar County, we are uniquely positioned to ensure this campus serves our community’s needs.”

As San Antonio’s population continues to grow, this partnership could lead to enhanced healthcare access, more equitable services, and a focus on community health that remains at the forefront.



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