The document outlines rules and strategies for an effective hospital merger and acquisition (M&A) campaign. It recommends (1) understanding perspectives from various stakeholders, including finance, clinical, operations, politics, community, and competitors; (2) being transparent with information to the partnership team and public; and (3) anticipating and planning for potential opposition from internal staff, physicians seeking control, external competitors, and politicians. The goal is to have one unified team and strategy, shift tactics as needed while maintaining the core message, and be proactive in communications to stay in control of the narrative.