KANSAS CITY, Mo. — Olathe Health announced Wednesday that it has signed a letter of intent to join The University of Kansas Health System.
"We know both organizations share a commitment to providing the very best care to patients in our region," said Tammy Peterman, president of the Kansas City division of KU Health System. "Because of this, we're signing an LOI, and that was a natural progression of our existing relationship."
Peterman said discussions regarding an agreement started in 2019. In recent years, KU Health System's involvement with Olathe Health has increased, working together to bring specialty physicians in vascular surgery, plastic surgery and neurology to patients.
The merger will bring "significant investments" to infrastructure and technology at preexisting Olathe Health facilities.
Kansas Speaker of the House Ron Ryckman, a Republican from Olathe, cheered the news: “Olathans have always strived to stay at the forefront on healthcare so that our families and neighbors could find quality healthcare services right here at home. Today’s announcement is the next step in making sure our community has access to the latest healthcare advancements.
"Through this partnership with The University of Kansas Health Systems, Olathe can retain its access to local quality care while also accessing KU Health System’s integrated network of services for the best possible care.”
The letter of intent, signed by both organizations, said that Olathe Health services and physician recruitment will be expanded. Patients of both organizations will also be able to continue to see their current providers.
Stan Holm, president and CEO of Olathe Health, also announced that Olathe Health's 2,300 associates will become KU Health System employees.
"We're excited to extend our highly specialized provider network to the Olathe Health service area, including southern Johnson County and beyond," KU Health System President and CEO Bob Page said.
