After seven years, AMITA Health partnership breaking up

One of Illinois’ largest health care systems — one that includes 14 acute care hospitals — says that it is splitting up.

AdventHealth and Ascension, which together formed AMITA Health seven years ago, will go their separate ways, Amita said in a news release Thursday.

“Leaders of both sponsoring organizations have determined that going forward separately is in their collective best interest in order to more nimbly meet the changing needs and expectations of consumers in the rapidly evolving healthcare environment,” the company said.

“Both organizations are committed to a smooth and expeditious transition. Following the transition, AdventHealth and Ascension will operate their individual hospitals and care sites in the Chicagoland area. There will be no disruption to patient care.”

The company had no specifics on when the break-up is expected to occur, saying only: “Ascension and AdventHealth will begin the process of unwinding the partnership in a way that best serves the needs of the community. AdventHealth and Ascension maintain a strong relationship and are united in ensuring the residents of Chicago have access to the best possible healthcare.”

AMITA’s facilities include St. Joseph Hospital on the North Side, St. Francis Hospital in Evanston and Resurrection Medical Center on the Northwest Side.