In a move aimed at improving patient care and biomedical research in Rhode Island, the Lifespan hospital group has announced its renaming as Brown University Health. The renaming comes as part of an expanded partnership between Lifespan and Brown University.

The CEO of Lifespan, John Fernandez, expressed his excitement about the change, stating that it is an important step towards establishing a thriving healthcare system in the state. The collaboration between Lifespan and Brown University aims to attract and retain top talent in the healthcare field.

Under the agreement, Brown University will invest $150 million over the next seven years into Lifespan starting from July. The President of Brown University, Christina Paxson, emphasized that this investment demonstrates their commitment to strengthening healthcare and research in the region. She referred to the investment as an important step towards ensuring the future strength of the healthcare system.

Paxson further stated that this new agreement brings a modern approach to their work, fostering a stronger relationship between the university and Lifespan. When asked about potential layoffs or job reductions resulting from the partnership, Fernandez assured that the collaboration is focused on growing the economy and creating more jobs in the state.

Brown University already has partnerships with other hospital chains, such as Care New England. Previously, there were plans for Lifespan, Care New England, and Brown University to merge and form a new academic health system. However, these plans were rejected by the Rhode Island Attorney General Peter Neronha in 2022.

While Fernandez did not provide specific details, he acknowledged that options are being considered regarding the bankrupt Steward Health Care and its properties. The focus, however, remains on the current partnership and the positive impact it can have on patient care and biomedical research in Rhode Island.

The renamed Brown University Health marks a significant step towards enhancing healthcare services in the state. With the substantial investment from Brown University, the collaboration aims to attract top talent and strengthen the healthcare system. This partnership represents a promising future for patient care and biomedical research in Rhode Island.