Saint Vincent Health Center Officials Announce Partnership with Highmark

October 16, 2012 - The first hospital to open its doors in Erie back in 1875 announced a partnership with Highmark this morning.

    The Saint Vincent Health Center Board of Trustees voted unanimously last night signing a non-binding letter of intent with Highmark.

    At a news conference today, Scott Whalen, Saint Vincent CEO, announced the affiliation both sides hope to finalize by the end of the year.

    Officials say the discussion to form this partnership has been ongoing for at least a year.

    William Winkenwerder, Highmark CEO, says the partnership is a way to create a more modern and efficient health care system.

    The Saint Vincent community will benefit from the affiliation through several monetary investments.

    A $20 million cash investment will maintain Saint Vincent's financial soundess.

    A $5 million dollars for capital projects to support the healthcare ministry of the Sisters of Saint Joseph.

    And over the next three years, Saint Vincent will be able to invest $40 million to improve existing facilities.

"With Highmark, Saint Vincent has found a partner that shares the same commitment to high quality and low cost care," Whalen said. "Healthcare that's provided here in the community where it belongs, where the patients and families want to be."

    Officials say Saint Vincent Health Center will keep its name during the three year affiliation.

    The agreement must be approved by the Pennsylvania Attorney General and the Orphan Board of Erie County before it's final.

    Officials say no employees will be affected by this affiliation.