WAKEFIELD, R.I. (WJAR) — South County Health has become the first health care organization in Rhode Island to join the Mayo Clinic Care Network, giving local providers access to Mayo Clinic specialists, research and clinical resources.
The membership allows patients to benefit from Mayo Clinic’s expertise through their South County Health providers at no additional cost, according to the organizations.
Officials said the arrangement could reduce the need to travel outside Rhode Island for second opinions and specialty consultations.
South County Health will remain an independent health system.
South County Health Cancer Center. (WJAR)
“Today marks a defining moment for South County Health and the communities we serve,” said Aaron Robinson, the health system’s president and CEO.
Robinson said the membership expands access to clinical expertise while preserving the organization’s community-based care.
Through the network, South County Health clinicians can consult directly with Mayo Clinic specialists about complex cases and participate in multidisciplinary case reviews.
Providers will also have access to a clinical information resource developed by Mayo Clinic physicians and digital tools that use artificial intelligence.
“We are pleased to welcome South County Health into the Mayo Clinic Care Network,” said Dr. Ryan Uitti, medical director of Mayo Clinic Platform. “Their commitment to quality, safety and patient-centered care aligns well with the values of the Mayo Clinic Care Network.”
The network, founded in 2011, includes more than 50 member organizations representing 80 hospitals and nearly 20,000 physicians, according to the release.
South County Health is an independent, nonprofit system that includes the 100-bed South County Hospital and six outpatient locations.