The Merger Of Two Area Healthcare Facilities Is A Step Closer To Reality. The Tennessee Department Of Health Has Granted The Certificate Of Public Advantage For Mountain States Health Alliance And Wellmont Health Systems To Become One. Both Hospitals’ Boards Voted To Approve The Terms Of The Final Merger Agreement. All That’s Left Now Is Approval By The Virginia Department Of Health. That Deadline Is September 30th. The Historic Transaction Will Create A New Company Known As Ballad Health.