NorthShore University HealthSystem (NorthShore) and Northwest Community Healthcare (NCH) have reached an agreement to establish NCH as a regional, community-focused healthcare hub for NorthShore in Chicago’s northwest suburbs. The affiliation will enhance delivery of top-quality primary, immediate and specialty care services, and extend geographic access connecting patients to care close to home.
“By bringing together two very prominent and community-minded healthcare institutions, we have a tremendous opportunity to transform the practice and delivery of medicine for the future,” said J.P. Gallagher, President and Chief Executive Officer of NorthShore. “This partnership extends our commitment to our communities to provide the most accessible healthcare, services and resources available.”
The partnership will maintain NCH’s acute-care hospital in Arlington Heights and suburban ambulatory care and physician offices. “Patients throughout the region will benefit from two exemplary physician networks of employed and independent doctors providing localized care decisions, and exceptional care and services through expanded access points,” said NorthShore and NCH in a prepared statement.
“NorthShore is one of the country’s preeminent systems for clinical care, research and innovation,” said Steve Scogna, Chief Executive Officer of NCH. “Our shared emphasis on community-focused care coupled with a commitment to strengthening physician relationships were two of the discerning factors in deciding to pursue this opportunity.”
NorthShore and NCH expect to close the transaction later this year pending regulatory review and approval. Further terms of the agreement are not being disclosed.