Progress continues with development of the Jefferson-Mercy Alliance, which, when completed will represent a unique, multi-institutional network, capable of meeting all the healthcare needs of people in the region. Currently, representatives from Jefferson Health System and Mercy Health System have formed work groups to define the following aspects of the Alliance:
* The Sponsorship, Identity and Human Resources work group has the responsibility of defining the mission, values and philosophy of the alliance. In addition, this work group is examining issues related to human resources, communications and identity.
* Academic Affiliation. This work group is addressing Mercy's formal academic affiliation with Jefferson Medical College, which includes the development of an integrated medical education program between Jefferson and Mercy.
* The Ambulatory Care work group is identifying ambulatory care sites which can be developed in partnership between Jefferson Health System and Mercy Health System.
* The Extended Care work group is focusing on joint initiatives related to home health, nursing home care, subacute care, assisted living, and community-based programs.
* The Managed Care work group is defining how Mercy Health System can participate with the Jefferson Health System network for managed care risk-bearing arrangements and coordination of managed care contracting.
* A work group dedicated to Multi-Hospital System strategy is exploring joint program opportunities in clinical services including pediatrics, obstetrics/gynecology, cardiovascular cancer, behavioral health services, and clinical laboratory.
* The Physician Network work group is studying opportunities to integrate the owned physician networks of Jefferson Health System and Mercy Health System and is also studying how to jointly develop practice management services.
Mercy Health System and Jefferson Health System are committed to keeping you informed of news related to the Alliance through monthly updates in JeffNEWS.