Virtua and ChristianaCare to Explore Co-Founding of New Health System  

Virtua Health and ChristianaCare—a Delaware-based health system—have signed a non-binding letter of intent to explore the co-founding of a new regional not-for-profit health system. The combined system would provide care across more than 10 contiguous counties in New Jersey, Delaware, Pennsylvania, and Maryland. 

"This is an exciting first step in a collaborative journey to amplify the strengths of two trusted health systems," said Virtua President and CEO Dennis W. Pullin, FACHE. "We see this as a unique opportunity to shape the future of care in this region with innovation and intention. Together, we aim to create an integrated regional health system built on human connection, clinical excellence, and a deep commitment to all people in the communities we serve." 

The proposed partnership has the potential to multiply excellence in health care across the region by combining the teams and strengths of two highly respected organizations, their leaders noted. Thus, the announcement appeared under the heading "Excellence Multiplied."

For now, both Virtua and ChristianaCare will continue to operate as separate, independent entities while they explore this possible arrangement.
Read the media release, and see more at 6ABC, The Courier-Post, and New Jersey Business Magazine. 

In the Headlines

Children of Immigrants Increasingly Face Trauma and Fear
Dr. Schenike Massie-Lambert, an assistant professor at Rowan-Virtua School of Osteopathic Medicine, discussed the mental-health impacts on children as ICE activity rises. 

"It's an ongoing stressor," said the psychologist. "That chronic fear of deportation or witnessing arrests can create some generalized anxiety [and] could create symptoms of post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD) or depression not just in children, but also in the adults around them." Read in NJ Spotlight News.
 
Cardiovascular Expert Featured on Podcast
Dr. Kintur Sanghvi, Virtua's chief of cardiovascular intervention, recently appeared on the Inspired Stories podcast. The episode highlights the physician's remarkable career, which includes breakthrough innovations that have transformed patient care. For example, Dr. Sanghvi is a pioneering researcher and provider of an effective new treatment for people with uncontrolled high blood pressure. Watch here.

Virtua Transforming Hospital Rooms with 'Smart' Technology
Virtua is on track to convert nearly all its inpatient rooms to "smart rooms" with virtual care capabilities. The system, which includes advanced sensors and video-conferencing technology, has already been installed in multiple units at Virtua's hospitals. It provides enhanced patient monitoring and enables patients and family members to connect remotely with more than 400 care providers. Read in Health Facilities Management.

Health Care CEO's Role is Evolving
Chief executives have become important sources of information about their organizations, according to industry experts. Virtua President and CEO Dennis W. Pullin, FACHE, discussed the need to communicate on both societal and organizational issues. Younger people, especially, seek employers that share their values, he explained. Read in Becker's Hospital Review.

Trump Diagnosed with Vein Condition
The White House said that President Donald Trump has been diagnosed with a vein disease called chronic venous insufficiency. Dr. Ibrahim Moussa, a Virtua interventional cardiologist, discussed the condition, which can be dangerous if left untreated. Watch on CBS 3.

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