Tacoma, Wash.-based MultiCare Health and Seattle-based Navos, a mental health services provider, declared plans to affiliate to create a stronger system of behavioral health services for patients in the Puget Sound area.
Officials expect current patients at both organizations to see few changes to the quality and availability of care. Both institutions will retain their own brands, leadership and employees.
The affiliation, subject to regulatory approval, is effective spring 2017.
"Behavioral health is deeply intertwined with physical health. We can achieve lasting improvement in our individual and in our population's health and quality of life by addressing behavioral health needs," said Bill Robertson, president and CEO of MultiCare Health. "Our affiliation with Navos is an important step in MultiCare's work to make behavioral health services more accessible to all members of our community and to help individuals achieve their full potential, providing the compassionate care and social support they deserve."
"This affiliation is a natural fit," said David Johnson, CEO of Navos. "We are proud to be joining with MultiCare, a community partner that shares our dedication to serving vulnerable people who show valiant resiliency to overcome the challenges of serious psychiatric symptoms and substance abuse disorders. This partnership will allow us to strengthen and expand our services that help children, youth and adults of all ages to achieve their potential for wellness and recovery."