(WWNY) – North Star Health Alliance plans to partner with a group that already operates hospitals in St. Lawrence County.
Rochester Regional Health, which runs hospitals in Gouverneur, Potsdam and Massena, was named as the new partner.
However, RRH says it has no agreement or binding relationship with North Star.
North Star, which operates Ogdensburg’s Claxton-Hepburn Medical Center, Carthage Area Hospital and Meadowbrook Terrace in West Carthage, has been navigating Chapter 11 bankruptcy.
The announcement
North Star called the partnership a “significant milestone.” In April, the alliance told a bankruptcy judge it was in talks with four potential partners.
“The challenges facing North Star Health Alliance required us to identify a partner capable of helping build a sustainable future for our organization,” said Andy Manzer, interim chief executive officer of North Star. “Rochester Regional Health demonstrated a clear understanding of the challenges facing rural healthcare and possesses the experience and track record to help us move forward. We look forward to working together to build a stronger, more sustainable future for the patients, employees, providers, and communities who depend on North Star.”
Next steps
The two organizations will jointly apply to the New York State Department of Health for a multi-year Safety Net Transformation Program grant to support North Star’s continued recovery and the long-term delivery of care across the region, North Star said.
They will also continue discussions regarding a more formal affiliation, the alliance said.
Patient care
North Star said the announcement does not change how patients receive care. Patients should continue following their current care plans and attending appointments as scheduled.
The proposed affiliation also does not change the status of previously announced service closures or the public hearings scheduled as part of the state’s review process.
Rochester Regional Health statement
The following is a statement from RRH:
“Rochester Regional Health is committed to the long-term health and well-being of patients and communities in the north country. Rochester Regional Health is aware of a recent external statement referencing RRH and North Star Health Alliance. RRH did not approve this statement and has not entered into a definitive agreement or binding relationship with North Star. RRH continues to participate in discussions with the New York State Department of Health and North Star’s interim leadership as part of an ongoing process, and any future relationship would be subject to appropriate due diligence and RRH governance approvals.”
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