Marion Regional Healthcare System and McLeod Health Discuss Proposed Alliance
September 30, 2009
MARION, SC – September 30, 2009 – Marion Regional Healthcare System and McLeod Health have agreed to explore a strategic alliance that would strengthen health care in the region.
The leadership and governance of both organizations have agreed to pursue discussions about an affiliation that would ensure long-term access to high quality care for the communities mutually served by Marion Regional Healthcare System and McLeod Health, and to continue delivery of care through a not-for-profit system.
Marion Regional Healthcare System has opened these discussions with McLeod after following a thorough strategic planning process and a review of potential partnerships. Compatibility and values, along with a commitment to not-for-profit health care for the region, was a determining factor for the next phase of considerations.
In 1995, McLeod assisted Marion with the construction of their hospital by funding the debt reserve on the bond issue that financed the construction. In addition to this cooperation, both hospitals have worked together to strengthen clinical services in the region.
“The patient’s welfare and the care we provide to the community must be at the heart of our decisions,” said Don Lloyd, Marion Regional Healthcare System CEO. “Our board voted unanimously to open discussions with McLeod because it has a national reputation for quality care, a solid financial foundation, and our market research also shows that – as a potential partner – McLeod has high top-of-mind awareness in the areas we serve. An affiliation of this nature would benefit our region and the well-being of the families we serve.”
“McLeod Health has a similar mission with Marion Regional Healthcare System,” said McLeod CEO, Rob Colones. We will be focusing on the strength and synergy of both organizations in light of today’s environment of health care reform. McLeod Health and Marion Regional Healthcare System are both not-for-profit health systems with philanthropic approaches and a commitment to access to appropriate and quality health care services for our communities.”
Many hospitals across the country, especially independent hospitals, are weighing the decision of whether to remain stand-alone or seek a partner. Access to capital, impending health care reform, patient referral patterns, payment changes and the recruitment of primary and specialty physicians continue to be challenges.
Marion Regional Healthcare System
Marion Regional Healthcare System is a private, nonprofit organization that operates Marion County Medical Center, Mullins Nursing Center and the new Aynor Medical Center. In addition, it operates a number of physician practices throughout the area. For more information call 843-431-2000 or visit them on the web at http://www.marioncountymedical.com.
McLeod Health
McLeod Health, a regional presence dedicated to patients and their families, was founded in 1906, McLeod is a locally owned, not-for-profit institution which features the strength of nearly 400 physicians on the medical staff and more than 1,400 nurses, in addition to modern facilities; premier technology; and a dedication to improving the health of the communities it serves. McLeod is composed of nearly 4,500 employees and nearly 30 medical practices. McLeod Regional Medical Center Florence has 453 licensed beds, McLeod Medical Center Darlington houses 49 licensed beds and McLeod Medical Center Dillon, 79 licensed beds.
