Philadelphia-based Jefferson, which includes Thomas Jefferson University and Jefferson Health, closed on a joint venture with Aria Health in Philadelphia that took effect Wednesday, according to officials at both systems.
Discussions regarding the merger began in October 2015 following Aria's two-year strategic planning and partnership exploration process. A definitive agreement was signed in January 2016.
Both systems celebrated the venture with a ceremony at Aria Health Wednesday afternoon. Guests included Jefferson Health President and CEO Stephen Klasko, MD, MBA; Jefferson COO Laurence Merlis; Aria Health CEO, Executive Vice President and CIO Kathleen Kinslow and Robert Truitt, board chair for Aria Health.