In a time when hospitals across America are facing unprecedented change, the Boards of Baptist Health South Florida, headquartered in Coral Gables, and Bethesda Health, headquartered in Boynton Beach, have signed a preliminary agreement to begin exploratory discussions about a possible affiliation. The two not-for-profit healthcare organizations have announced that they will engage in discussions to evaluate opportunities for working together in the future.
"While significant challenges are ahead in healthcare, it is essential to explore partnerships that can ensure our organizations remain on the leading edge as providers of quality medical care," said Roger L. Kirk, FACHE, president and chief executive officer of Bethesda Health. "As not-for-profit hospitals, we share similar missions and a common vision for improving the health of our respective communities that can be significantly strengthened by this potential affiliation."
"We see a very positive cultural fit between our two organizations, which is the foundation for any partnership," said Brian E. Keeley, president and chief executive officer of Baptist Health South Florida. "This possible affiliation would give us the opportunity to jointly develop and share best practices in order to continue improving quality and access to care for our patients. It will also allow us to better prepare for healthcare reform and the Affordable Care Act."
