UCSF Medical Center and John Muir Health to Collaborate

UCSF Medical Center and John Muir Health have signed a letter of intent to create a company that will serve as the cornerstone of a Bay Area health care network.

According to a media release, a final agreement is expected by the end of 2014.

Under the proposed agreement both organizations would remain independent, but a new company would be created that is equally owned and operated by both organizations.

The new company would serve as a funding vehicle for future joint initiatives and a shared services organization to support programs and initiatives focused on better health care, at lower costs, for Bay Area patients.

"By combining John Muir Health and UCSF's strengths, we aim to offer patients the highest value system of care available," said Mark R. Laret, CEO of UCSF Medical Center and UCSF Benioff Children's Hospitals. "We look forward to working not just with each other, but with other health organizations throughout Northern California, in order to provide an exceptional health care experience for patients."

"The jointly owned and operated company brings together two organizations that share a commitment to providing patients with high-quality care at an affordable price," said Cal Knight, President and CEO of John Muir Health. "We looked at a number of affiliation options that would allow us to grow without compromising our mission, vision and independence. We found the right fit with UCSF and look forward to the development, along with other partners, of a regional ACO that will benefit patients and the communities we serve."

"UCSF Medical Center and John Muir Health recognize that health care delivery changes brought about by health care reform are here to stay," said Laret. "Both organizations have a demonstrated track record of delivering high-quality care at an affordable cost through ACOs. This experience will be used to provide the value that Bay Area and Northern California residents, patients, employers and payors are looking for from trusted health care providers."

UCSF Medical Center operates as a self-supporting enterprise within UCSF.

John Muir HealthSan Francisco serving patients in Contra Costa, eastern Alameda and southern Solano Counties

More information:

www.johnmuirhealth.com

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