The largest independent orthopedic treatment center in the Roanoke Valley is merging with Carilion Clinic.

Roanoke Orthopaedic Center, which currently has 10 physicians at its location off Virginia 419 in Roanoke County, and Carilion announced the deal today.

Hugh Hagan, president of Roanoke Orthopaedic, said the center approached Carilion about three years ago and began discussions of a possible merger.

"This is just a way to improve the efficiency in caring for our patients," Hagan said.

Carilion’s conversion to a clinic model was a key factor in the merger. "The main reason is the notion of a clinic operated by physicians," Hagan said when asked what attracted the center to Carilion.

"We wanted to be a part of the growth of Carilion, and the medical school, and to be able to provide better integrated care."

Carilion officials said the merger does not violate a recent order from the Federal Trade Commission, which found the health system’s acquisition of two outpatient clients would stifle competition. Carilion has agreed to sell the two clinics as part of a settlement with the FTC.

The FTC’s order does not apply to practices that approach Carilion about mergers, Carilion spokesman Eric Earnhart said. In addition, the talks between Carilion and Roanoke Orthopaedic predate the consent order, he said.