Citing the goal to sustain strong access to high-quality care and enhanced operational efficiency, the Milford Hospital and Yale New Haven Health Boards of Trustees have voted to explore a broad integration of Milford Hospital with Bridgeport Hospital, a member of Yale New Haven Health.
“Our goal is to not only ensure the long-term viability of Milford Hospital but to develop an approach that would sustain high-quality care in our community. This provides us with an exceptional opportunity to explore joining a growing organization like Bridgeport Hospital and to become part of one of the nation’s leading health systems. We firmly believe this is in the best interests of the patients, employees and the community that we serve,” said Milford Hospital Board Chair Samuel Bergami, Jr.
In 2014, facing significant financial headwinds, Milford Hospital developed a collaborative relationship with both Yale New Haven Hospital and Bridgeport Hospital to house their respective Inpatient Rehabilitation Units (IRU). This approach generated strong demand for those specific services and exceptionally high quality and patient satisfaction rates. However, the need for a broader relationship has become apparent as financial performance continued to be challenged by low reimbursement rates from government payers.
“We deeply respect the board, leadership and employees of Milford Hospital and look forward to the opportunity to develop an extraordinary partnership,” said Bridgeport Hospital President and CEO William M. Jennings. “We have clearly demonstrated that we can ensure access to high quality acute care for patients in Milford and surrounding communities through our IRU, and by working together, we are confident that we can deliver a bright future for Milford Hospital in the years ahead, even as the current healthcare environment challenges all providers.”
Under the agreement, which will require state and federal regulatory, as well as full board approvals, Milford Hospital would be acquired by Bridgeport Hospital. Current Milford Hospital employees, including those represented by organized labor, would become employees of Bridgeport Hospital. Bridgeport Hospital has agreed to recognize all existing labor relationships.
“I am grateful to the Milford Hospital Board of Directors and management for their leadership and their commitment to the patients and community they serve. We will be proud to welcome Milford Hospital to our Health System and we look forward to a long and successful future together,” added Richard D’Aquila, president of Yale New Haven Health.