MOUNT VERNON — Deaconess is poised to purchase four hospitals in southern Illinois including one in Mt. Vernon.

According to a Wednesday press release, Deaconess Health System, Inc. and Deaconess Regional Healthcare Services Illinois, Inc. have signed an agreement to purchase Crossroads Community Hospital in Mt. Vernon, Heartland Regional Medical Center in Marion, Red Bud Regional Hospital, and Union County Hospital in Anna.

Crossroads Community Hospital in Mt. Vernon, Illinois is a 47-bed facility offering inpatient and outpatient care, diagnostic imaging, emergency services, and surgical care.

Deaconess Health System provides health care services to 48 Indiana, Kentucky and Illinois counties.

The system consists of 12 hospitals, a fully-integrated multispecialty group featuring primary care and specialty physicians; a freestanding cancer center, urgent care facilities, a network of preferred hospitals and doctors, more than 70 care sites, and multiple partnerships with other regional healthcare providers.

The purchase, subject to regulatory approvals and closing conditions, is expected to be completed before the end of the year.