Trinity Health explores partnership with larger health systems

Trinity Health in Minot, N.D., said July 9 that it is exploring a strategic integration or partnership with a larger national or regional health system. The announcement was made in a news release and marks the first step in a process the system says is still in its early stages.

According to Trinity Health, the review is being driven by rising costs to deliver care and by reimbursement from Medicare, Medicaid and commercial payers that does not cover those costs. The health system said it has hired a national consulting firm and created a committee to help guide the process.

Trinity Health said it is considering options that would preserve local access to care, support investment in its facilities, help with staff recruitment and retention, and maintain local input into how the system is run. The system said proposals from potential partners will be reviewed and evaluated to determine whether integration would serve the long-term interests of Trinity Health and its mission to serve the Minot community and surrounding region.

Board Chairman Pat Holien said in the release that the exploration is about Trinity Health being proactive and visionary. He said healthcare is constantly changing, and that the board wants to ensure the system can strengthen services, enhance resources and continue providing high-quality care for years to come.

Trinity Health said no final decisions have been made. The system’s website says it includes a tertiary care hospital in Minot, more than 40 specialties, several rural health clinics and a long-term care facility.