Henry Ford Health System and Allegiance Health have completed regulatory approvals and finalized a definitive agreement that officially brings the Jackson-based health system into Henry Ford. The announcement was made April 5, 2016 when the two organizations introduced the 475-bed health system’s new name – Henry Ford Allegiance Health.
“We are so pleased to welcome Allegiance Health into the Henry Ford family,” said Nancy Schlichting, CEO of Henry Ford Health System. “Our health systems share the same values and commitment to the diverse communities we serve. We look forward to combining nearly 200 years of care and service to benefit the residents of Jackson and the surrounding communities.”
Allegiance President Georgia Fojtasek said, “We are proud to be known by our new name – Henry Ford Allegiance Health – because it represents a bright future for our health system and our community. We are eager to work alongside our new partner to expand and enhance the health care services across our region, including offering new insurance products to the region through Henry Ford’s health insurance subsidiary Health Alliance Plan.”
According to Bob Riney, Henry Ford Health System Chief Operating Officer, the partnership will invest $300 million in the Jackson community and surrounding areas over the next five years, a portion of which will be raised through Henry Ford Allegiance Health’s foundation. The investment will be used for new facilities, information technology and other new programs and services.
“For Henry Ford, this new relationship will help us extend our reach beyond southeast Michigan and broaden our expertise,” said Henry Ford Health System President, Wright Lassiter, III. Going forward, the two groups will work together to share best practices and create innovative approaches to patient care. “Allegiance has been – and will continue to be – a beacon for the Jackson community, both as a health care leader and economic engine.”
Allegiance Health physicians, executives, and community members will continue to represent local interests on the board of trustees and governance committees, as well as other leadership roles. This will allow for their continued input and influence regarding the future of Henry Ford Allegiance Health, together with leaders from Henry Ford Health System.
“While we anticipate many positive changes as a result of becoming Henry Ford Allegiance Health, some things – like our vision for healthcare in this community – remain the same,” said Ray King, MD, Allegiance Health Senior Vice President, Medical Affairs and Chief Medical Officer. “We are grateful for the way Henry Ford Health System genuinely appreciates how important we are to the Jackson community and how dedicated our physicians and staff are to the health and well-being of their neighbors.”
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