Clark Memorial Hospital officials have decided to pursue an acquisition by Norton Healthcare Inc.

Clark Memorial said in a news release Tuesday that in light of challenges facing independent community hospitals, it has been evaluating a potential partnership with Norton for two years.

The proposal must be approved by the Clark County Commissioners. Before that vote takes place, hospital and county officials will hold a public meeting to discuss the matter at 6 p.m. on Wednesday, Oct. 1, at Clark Memorial Hospital.