Northwell to acquire Nuvance Health

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Northwell Health, headquartered in New Hyde Park, has signed a strategic agreement to merge with Nuvance Health, whose hospitals and outpatient services cover the Hudson Valley and western Connecticut.

Upon receiving regulatory approval, the two nonprofit healthcare organizations plan to create an integrated regional health system that serves communities across two states.

“This partnership opens a new and exciting chapter for Northwell and Nuvance Health and provides an incredible opportunity to enhance both health systems and take patient care and services to an even higher level,” Michael Dowling, president and CEO of Northwell, said in a news release about the agreement.

“We have similar missions in providing high-quality care for patients in the communities we serve,” Dowling added. “We look forward to building on the care that Nuvance Health’s 14,000 staff members and providers deliver each and every day.”

Dr. John Murphy, president and CEO of Nuvance, shared that sentiment.

“By joining forces with Northwell Health, we are taking a giant leap forward in our shared mission to enhance the quality, accessibility and equity of the health care we provide to our communities,” said Murphy said in the news release.

“This agreement enables us to make significant improvements to health outcomes for community hospitals and to deliver unparalleled care and drive positive change in the health care landscape,” he added.

The two health organizations say that in forming an integrated health system, patients would have expanded access to advanced care. That includes access to a network of providers at more than 1,000 locations, including 28 hospitals. In addition, Northwell would make “significant investments” in the Nuvance sites, further fostering the health system.

“This agreement marks an important milestone for both Nuvance Health and Northwell, mission-driven organizations with similar values and an optimistic vision for the future of health care,” Margaret Crotty, chair of the Northwell board of trustees, said in a statement. “Together we can create something truly special – an integrated health system that is even better positioned to care for the communities we serve”

“Our collaboration with Northwell Health builds upon the strong foundation of our ongoing relationship,” Anne Roby, chair of the Nuvance Health board of directors, said in a statement. “Together, we will address the evolving needs of our communities more efficiently and effectively, ensuring the delivery of compassionate, high-quality care locally.”

Once Nuvance joins Northwell, patients would have access to coordinated care – including ambulatory, hospital and post-acute services – across western Connecticut, the Hudson Valley, New York City and Long Island.

Through the merger, the two organizations aim to further meet the health needs of the communities they serve by addressing health disparities and improving health outcomes. As nonprofit organizations, Northwell and Nuvance Health would continue to provide care to anyone, regardless of their ability to pay, according to the news release.

The merger would also expand clinical, operating and financial resources to the locations served by Nuvance. It would combine purchasing power, clinical capabilities, and expertise from both organizations. It would also foster research and innovation in patient care.

The combined health system would serve to attract and retain top talent, and provide opportunities for professional career growth.