Trinity Health Merges with St. Francis Care

Hartford CT – State Senator Tony Guglielmo (R-Stafford) released the following statement today re: The announcement that Trinity Health, a Michigan based national non-profit catholic health system has bought St. Francis Care which includes St. Francis Hospital and Mount Sinai Rehabilitation Hospital both in Hartford and Johnson Memorial Hospital in Stafford.

“This merger couldn’t come at a better time. Johnson Memorial contributes an estimated $119 million to the local and state economy and employs 460 people within its walls, and an additional 470 people in the community.

“Families in our area have faced losing their local hospital over the past several years because of proposed state budget cuts and a reduction in federal reimbursements. A merger of this magnitude will hopefully stop that roller coaster of emotions from occurring for a long, long time.

“Healthcare and how it is delivered is changing rapidly. Having a strong national firm in the marketplace to provide financial support will help diversify the state health care system while also solidifying a commitment to the community. It is being reported that Trinity Health will make a significant investment in St. Francis Hospital. Their commitment should also include Johnson and Memorial.

“My mother is a 32-year volunteer at Johnson Memorial Hospital. Her dedication is a testament to the good work being done at the hospital, which is why I am also pleased to learn the non –profit faith- based tradition will continue.”

Background on Trinity Health from published reports:

The $13.6 billion hospital chain owns 86 hospitals in 21 states, including the Sisters of Providence Health System in Springfield, Mass. Trinity said it is trying to create a regional health system in New England that will be anchored by St. Francis and Sisters of Providence.
Christopher Dadlez, St. Francis Care’s president and CEO, will lead the new regional ministry.

The agreement has been approved by the Archdiocese of Hartford, which sponsors St. Francis Care, and is subject to further approvals required by Canon Law, and regulatory approvals from state and federal agencies. The deal is expected to be completed by late 2015, the hospitals said.