“(During the next 12 to 24 months) we’re going to have to figure out how to work out Jewish Hospital and keep the other hospital’s going,’’ said Robert Weigel, Fort Hamilton board chairman. “During that period there are going to be a lot of changes. What those changes are and what’s going to happen, no one can say.’’
The Jewish Foundation of Cincinnati trustees on Tuesday, July 7, selected Mercy Health Partners to purchase the hospital for an estimated $180 million.
The purchase will be completed in four to six months, ending its 14-year partnership with the Health Alliance, which includes Fort Hamilton and the new West Chester Medical Center.
Jewish Hospital’s exit comes two years after St. Luke and Christ hospitals won a costly legal battle to withdraw from the alliance, which has been embroiled in turmoil.
Two Health Alliance board members abruptly resigned last month.
Member hospital officials also reportedly demanded the ouster of Health Alliance President Ken Hanover and a restructuring of the network.
That same month, Fort Hamilton announced plans to possibly split with the Health Alliance, saying a stronger, financially stable partner is needed to secure its future.
Jewish Hospital was the Health Alliances most profitable hospital. Officials declined to estimate the financial impact its departure will have on the remaining hospitals.
But Fort Hamilton Senior Vice President Lynn Oswald said Jewish Hospital’s decision only clarifies Fort Hamilton’s resolve.
“All hospitals in the Health Alliance depend on one another for financial stability,’’ Oswald said. “The question now is how can the Health Alliance continue to be financially stable.’’
West Chester Medical Center officials declined to comment; Health Alliance officials have not returned calls.
Contact this reporter at (513) 820-2180 or tlatta@coxohio.com.
About the Author