University of Kansas Health System Assumes Full Ownership of St. Francis Campus in Topeka
The University of Kansas Health System is taking over complete ownership of the St. Francis Campus in Topeka, Kansas, following a definitive agreement with Ardent Health. This transition marks the end of a nearly 10-year joint venture partnership between the two entities, which began in 2017 when St. Francis Campus faced an uncertain future and potential closure. The partnership successfully stabilized the hospital, preserved healthcare access, and maintained jobs in the Topeka community. Under the new structure, all operational responsibilities and clinical functions previously managed by Ardent Health will transfer to the University of Kansas Health System. Officials from both organizations, including Tammy Peterman, president of KU Health, Kansas City division, and Dave Caspers, president and CEO of Ardent Health, have stated that patients will not experience disruptions and will continue to access the same services and providers. The closing agreement is expected by the end of the year, with a formal t...