McCullough-Hyde and Mercy will now enter into exclusive discussions concerning the affiliation, according to a news release. McCullough-Hyde officials will consider a variety of relationship models, although they intend to retain local ownership and control. The process will take an estimated six to eight months.
The McCullough-Hyde board began investigating potential affiliations in October 2012. The hospital decided to explore affiliation options to maintain a position of financial strength and prepare for future changes and challenges.
"We are fortunate to be making this decision from a position of strength," Bryan Hehemann, CEO of McCullough-Hyde, said in the release. "We are financially strong, but being proactive allows us to take our future into our own hands. Maintaining a strong local health system has always been and will remain our mission. A relationship with Mercy Health will only reinforce that charge."
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