Central Maine Hospitals Acquired by California Group Pledging $150M Investment

Prime Healthcare Foundation takes over Central Maine Healthcare network, including Central Maine Medical Center, Bridgton Hospital, and Rumford Hospital.

Published on Feb. 17, 2026

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Central Maine Healthcare, a network of hospitals and health services providers in central Maine, has been acquired by California-based Prime Healthcare Foundation. The deal includes Central Maine Medical Center in Lewiston, Bridgton Hospital, Rumford Hospital, and over 40 physician practices. Prime Healthcare Foundation has pledged to invest $150 million over the next five years to strengthen facilities, services, and infrastructure across the network.

Why it matters

The acquisition comes as Central Maine Healthcare has struggled with funding deficits, and the deal is seen as a way to inject new capital and resources into the regional healthcare system. The move represents Prime Healthcare Foundation's first hospitals in Maine, as the group already operates in seven other states.

The details

Under the deal, all Central Maine Healthcare facilities will retain their current names and local leadership, and 'substantially all' employees will be kept on staff. Prime Healthcare Foundation says it will expand services based on community needs and continue LifeFlight of Maine's central Maine base operations.

  • The acquisition was announced on February 16, 2026.
  • Central Maine Healthcare CEO Steve Littleson discussed the deal in January 2025, stating it was not a 'sale' but rather a partnership with a new group.

The players

Prime Healthcare Foundation

A California-based group that has acquired the Central Maine Healthcare network, including Central Maine Medical Center, Bridgton Hospital, and Rumford Hospital. The group has pledged to invest $150 million over the next five years to strengthen the healthcare system.

Central Maine Healthcare

A network of hospitals and health services providers in central Maine, including Central Maine Medical Center in Lewiston, Bridgton Hospital, and Rumford Hospital. The network has struggled with funding deficits and was looking for a new partner to inject capital and resources.

Steve Littleson

The CEO of Central Maine Healthcare, who characterized the deal with Prime Healthcare Foundation as a partnership rather than a sale of the healthcare network.

Devore Culver

The chairman of the Central Maine Healthcare Board of Directors, who stated the partnership with Prime Healthcare Foundation secures a stable and vibrant future for healthcare in central Maine.

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What they’re saying

“We are honored to extend our mission to the communities of Maine and are committed to preserving Central Maine Healthcare's legacy, expanding educational opportunities, and ensuring compassionate, equitable care for generations to come.”

— Kavitha Bhatia, President and Chair of Prime Healthcare Foundation (Press Release)

“We didn't sell our health system. We signed an agreement with a partner who has made commitments over a period of years.”

— Steve Littleson, CEO of Central Maine Healthcare (Lewiston Sun Journal)

“Prime Healthcare Foundation was selected to steward these hospitals into the future after a comprehensive evaluation of mission alignment, values, and demonstrated success investing in hospitals that serve vulnerable communities.”

— Devore Culver, Chairman of the Central Maine Healthcare Board of Directors (Press Release)

What’s next

The acquisition is still subject to regulatory review, but once approved, Prime Healthcare Foundation has pledged to invest $150 million over the next five years to strengthen facilities, services, and infrastructure across the Central Maine Healthcare network.

The takeaway

This acquisition represents a significant investment and partnership that aims to secure the long-term future of healthcare services in central Maine. The influx of capital and resources from Prime Healthcare Foundation could help address the funding challenges faced by Central Maine Healthcare and expand access to care for the region's residents.