From the January/February 2022 issue of HealthCare Business News magazine
“With a deep commitment to sustainable value creation, we look forward to leveraging our combined operational capabilities, expansive healthcare network and capital to support organic and inorganic growth initiatives for the Company,” said Steve Wise, Carlyle's global head of healthcare.
News of a possible sale made headlines back in April, with the company said to have hired Goldman Sachs Groups Inc. to explore the option, alongside an IPO or a minority investment. Blackstone and Carlyle were among those reported to be considering a bid.
Medline will continue to be led by the Mill Family, which will remain the largest single shareholder. The entire senior management team will also remain.
Medline was founded in 1910 by A.L. Mills, and distributes surgical gowns, examination gloves and various types of diagnostic equipment to more than 125 countries.
Ochsner and Rush to merge into single health system in 2022
In June, Rush Health Systems inked a deal to merge with Ochsner Health and become Ochsner Rush Health.
The two are expected to finalize their consolidation in mid-2022 and in doing so, make access to high-quality and affordable care, and more clinical specialties, closer to home for patients in east Mississippi and west Alabama.
“We have recently worked with Ochsner on several initiatives, including the implementation of Epic, a best-in-class electronic medical records system, at our hospitals and clinics. Today’s news means that we are taking the next step in our partnership,” said Larkin Kennedy, president and CEO of Rush Health Systems, in a statement.
The agreement is expected to make specialized care and subspecialty services available to local communities. This includes cardiology and cardiovascular surgery, neurology and highly specialized stroke care, women’s services, cancer treatment and surgical oncology. Ochsner’s technological and digital capabilities will help expand telehealth, digital monitoring and AI guidance for clinical improvements.
Rush will also be able to grow existing programs and offer new services to its patients, who will be able to participate in Ochsner’s robust clinical research network. One of the largest in the Gulf South, the network will grant them access to novel therapies, including the latest cancer treatment, closer to home.
In addition, minimum wage for Rush employees will rise to $12 per hour following the merger. Both healthcare systems will be able to share best practices and resources to create more affordable care, and Ochsner will be able to invest more in programs and resources locally.
