Richmond-based Virginia Commonwealth University Health System and Bon Secours Richmond Health System have called off plans to build an independent, free-standing children's hospital in Richmond, calling the plan "no longer viable," according to a CBS News report.
VCU and Bon Secours Richmond named budget cuts, increased costs and the "already outdated" independent hospital model as reasons for killing the plan.
"Continuing instability in the health care industry and changes in best practice healthcare models were key forces driving the decision to focus on collaborative care rather than a freestanding independent children's hospital facility," VCU Health System President Michael Rao said in a statement.
After announcing the deal had been called off, Mr. Rao and Toni Ardabell, CEO of Bon Secours Richmond Health System, said they promised to work together to provide better healthcare to Richmond children.
"Collaboration among all providers is the key to advancing children's health in Richmond," said Ms. Ardabell. "We pledge to the parents and children of greater Richmond and Central Virginia that we will always strive for excellence and to grow pediatric specialty care in collaborative ways that will benefit all children and their families."