Columbia/HCA Puts Growth of Chain on Back Burner in New England.(Originated from Providence Journal-Bulletin, R.I.)

Oct. 24--Columbia/HCA Healthcare Corp. pulled out of its agreement to buy the parent of Norwood Hospital because the national hospital chain wants to de-emphasize expansion, a spokeswoman said.

"This is reflective of our strategy to focus more on our internal operations and less on our growth," Rebecca Flynn said.

Neponset Valley Health System, which operates Norwood Hospital and Southwood Community Hospital in Norfolk, announced Monday that it had agreed to abandon the $58-million purchase deal at the request of Columbia.

The local hospital, which has said it needs a partner to survive, said it will resume its search for a buyer. …