Providence Southern California has moved closer to assuming sponsorship to take on the day-to-day management of Saint John’s Health Center in Santa Monica.
Denver-based SCL Health System, the owner of St. John’s, on Monday signed a non-binding letter of intent with Providence to assume sponsorship.
Providence, which is also a Catholic not-for-profit organization, operates five acute care hospitals and an array of ancillary healthcare facilities across the Los Angeles area.
SCL Health System President/CEO Michael Slubowski said Providence had shown tremendous dedication to providing high-quality, compassionate care in the Catholic tradition for Southern California.
“This change in sponsorship will provide support to expand and enhance the healing ministry of Saint John’s for individuals and families in Santa Monica and surrounding communities,” Slubowski said.
Michael Hunn, senior vice president and chief executive of Providence Southern California, said its organization looked forward to working in collaboration with the caregivers, physicians, volunteers, board, and foundation to serve the communities of the Westside.
The Saint John’s Board of Directors, SCLHS, and Leaven Ministries (the canonical sponsor of SCLHS) reviewed proposals for a new strategic partner to advance Saint John’s position among health networks in Southern California.
The three groups managed an objective, thoughtful, and prayerful process that identified Providence as uniquely qualified to advance the ministry at Saint John’s.
“Saint John’s is a vital institution with deep similarities to the history, culture, and Mission of Providence,” Hunn said. “We recognize Saint John’s historic importance to those who depend on it for care and we look forward to working together to help ensure that this medical center will continue its leadership in patient care and community service.”
Monday’s letter of intent is a non-binding agreement that provides a roadmap for SCLHS and Providence to move forward with the necessary steps to pursue the proposed sponsorship transfer.
SCLHS and Providence will enter an exclusive due diligence and negotiation process in order to arrive at a definitive agreement.
The proposed change in sponsorship is subject to review and approval by the attorney general of California.
The transfer of canonical sponsorship to Providence Ministries is subject to approval by the Archbishop of Los Angeles and the Vatican.
