Mount Vernon, N.Y.-based Montefiore Health System and Bronx, N.Y.-based St. Barnabas Hospital Health System signed a letter of intent to explore a closer, more integrated relationship.
The two systems have partnered before, but Montefiore officials said a closer affiliation has the potential to help many more individuals in the community.
In addition to sharing clinical services, the two health systems have also collaborated on a number of community-based programs, including the Bronx Partners for Healthy Communities, the state recognized Delivery System Reform Incentive Payment Performing Provider System, CMS's ACO Pioneer program.
The systems also share a variety of clinical and academic affiliations.