The three hospital board voted at a public meeting Thursday afternoon. The Skagit Valley board voted 6-1 for the PeaceHealth/UW alliance, with one vote for Virginia Mason. Cascade Valley's board voted unanimously for PeaceHealth/UW Medicine.
Island Hospital's commissioners emphasized that they will continue to work with Skagit Regional Health (SRH) and Cascade Valley Hospital (CVH), as well as the potential affiliation partners on current and new programs that are beneficial for delivering healthcare.
The three hospital districts had formed an alliance to work together and were searching for a larger partner. The potential partners were PeaceHealth/UW Medicine, Swedish Hospital/Povidence Health, and Virgina Mason.
"The board has appreciated and listened intently to the comments and concerns raised during this public process. We all understand the issues raised and will continue to support Skagit Regional Health and Cascade Valley Hospital's mission of coordinating care in the region," Island Hospital CEO Vince Oliver said.
"We expect to maintain strong relationships with SRH, CVH, the three large health systems -- PeaceHealth, Virginia Mason and Providence-Swedish -- that submitted proposals, as well as the University of Washington. We recognize and appreciate that all organizations involved in these discussions, visits and presentations invested significant resources and time," Oliver added.
Island's board noted at the meeting that it will establish a community advisory committee to help them continue to seek partnerships and affiliations if they serve in the best interest of the community, enhance service quality and improve financial strength.
There has been strong public sentiment against an affiliation with a religious institution which could limit access to some services.
Eric Hall photo