Virtua Health and ChristianaCare on Wednesday announced the two signed a non-binding letter of intent (LOI) to co-found a regional not-for-profit health system.
The proposed combined system would provide care across more than 10 counties in New Jersey, Delaware, Pennsylvania and Maryland, with more than 600 sites of care, nearly 30,000 employees and academic programs supporting more than 500 residents and fellows.
The combination of the teams and strengths of two highly respected organizations has the potential to multiply excellence in health care across the region. Both health systems are known nationally for their expertise and leadership in unique care models, including their innovative use of hospital-care-at-home and other new models of care delivery.
“This is an exciting first step in a collaborative journey to amplify the strengths of two trusted health systems,” Dennis Pullin, president and chief executive officer of Virtua Health said. “We see this as a unique opportunity to shape the future of care in this region with innovation and intention. Together, we aim to create an integrated regional health system built on human connection, clinical excellence and a deep commitment to all people in the communities we serve.”
“The future of quality health care in America will be shaped by those who take action today to invest in, care for, and be a champion for the needs of patients,” Dr. Janice Nevin, president and chief executive officer of ChristianaCare said. “At a time of great uncertainty in health care, ChristianaCare and Virtua Health have the foresight and courage to explore what is possible. We are excited to take this bold step to double down on our mission, multiply our excellence and ensure our legacy of high-quality care in our local communities for generations to come.”
The future entity would be guided by a shared vision which includes a commitment to create more convenient access to urgent, primary, and behavioral health care and to improve the health of moms and babies through a proposed maternal risk program that would support more than 15,000 births per year.
Virtua Health and ChristianaCare are committed to being leaders in educating and developing a future-ready, engaged workforce for long-term sustainability.
Both parties will now engage in due diligence with the intention of negotiating and signing definitive agreements and seeking regulatory approvals. High-quality patient care and day-to-day operations will remain unchanged during this period. Both Virtua Health and ChristianaCare will continue to operate as separate, independent entities while they explore this potential arrangement.
