Ascension St. Vincent's, UABHS Form 'Strategic Alliance'

The two health systems say the stronger ties will help each health system address the care needs of vulnerable populations in Alabama.

Ascension St. Vincent's and the University of Alabama at Birmingham Health System have formed a "strategic alliance" that they say "will increase access to high-quality, innovative medical care through multiple outlets and health programs."

In a media release, UABHS and Ascension St. Vincent's said the alliance, which will required regulatory approval, enhances their "longstanding relationship and affirms each organization's ability to help patients receive the right care in the right setting at the right time, including those who need highly specialized care."

Currently, Ascension St. Vincent's hospitals receive patients from UAB's Gardendale Emergency Department and UAB physcians perform surgery at Ascension St. Vincent's One Nineteen.

"As healthcare continues to evolve, it is important for health systems to work with each other to provide innovative, person-centered care," UAB Health System CEO Will Ferniany said. "Through closer alignment of each organization's many locations, specialties and expertise, the health systems will strive to better accommodate patients."

The alliance hopes to address and improve health disparities, including improving access to mental and behavioral health, and diabetes care, particularly for poor and underserved populations.   

"These positive changes will strengthen our ability to better serve our community," said Jason Alexander, CEO, Ascension St. Vincent's and Ascension Providence. "Our expectation is that, through this alliance, both the UAB Health System and Ascension St. Vincent's will be better positioned to carry out our missions."

UABHS facilities will retain the UABHS or UAB Medicine brands. Ascension St. Vincent's facilities will be Ascension St. Vincent's.