Strengthening an affiliation without a merger

Area of Science:

• Healthcare administration
• Health systems management
• Academic medical affiliations

Background:

• Froedtert Health and the Medical College of Wisconsin sought to strengthen their existing affiliation.
• The need for improved collaboration in value-based care and population health was identified.

Purpose of the Study:

• To describe the creation of a shared governance structure between Froedtert Health and the Medical College of Wisconsin.
• To outline the implementation of a new funds-flow model to support mutual strategic goals.

Main Methods:

• Establishment of joint committees across key operational and strategic areas (e.g., value, IT, marketing).
• Implementation of a financial model redistributing a portion of the health system's net income to the medical college.

Main Results:

• A new shared governance framework is operational, fostering collaboration.
• The funds-flow model is in place, directing resources to physician recruitment, joint initiatives, academic programs, and reserves.
• Enhanced organizational capacity for accountable care and population health.

Conclusions:

• The strengthened affiliation and financial model facilitate joint strategic objectives.
• This collaborative approach improves the organizations' ability to address population health and value-based care challenges.
• The partnership model offers a framework for academic and health system integration.