The SouthEast Alaska Regional Health Consortium (SEARHC) in Juneau, Alaska, finalized its merger with the Wrangell-based Alaska Island Community Services after more than a year of negotiations.
Under the partnership agreement, SEARHC will assume the property tax obligations at the AICS' clinic site and establish a local advisory board to report and provide feedback on AICS' programs and services. The consortium will also set aside a percentage of its surplus operations funds for community-designated initiatives to improve residents' health and well-being. The funds will be managed by the Walker Foundation, a foundation created under the agreement.
"It's gratifying to know the depth and breadth of services provided to the patients and residents of Wrangell and surrounding communities will be enhanced through this merger," said SEARHC President and CEO Charles Clement. "By aligning with AICS … our communities can rest assured they will have reliable and quality care for years to come with a delivery system that can meet the challenges of the healthcare environment and the changing health needs of our populations."