St. Louis-based SSM Health and Cape Girardeau, Mo.-based Saint Francis Healthcare System are expanding their affiliation to share best practices and clinical expertise in southeast Missouri.
Previously, the two health systems had an existing relationship focused on maternal medicine and stroke care. SSM Health officials said that both systems share a Catholic legacy that strengthens the relationship, according to a Nov. 10 Saint Francis news release.
"We believe healthcare is best delivered locally. Saint Francis and SSM Health will remain strong fully independent Catholic health systems," Saint Francis President and CEO Justin Davison said in the release. "This expanded relationship widens our strategy as we collaborate to find innovative new ways to ensure patients have convenient access to the healthcare services they need — when and where they need it most."