Statement from Bishop John B. McCormack on the Proposed Affiliation Between CMCHS and DHH
July 22, 2009
(MANCHESTER, NH) I have begun to review documents submitted to me concerning the proposed affiliation between CMC Healthcare System and Dartmouth-Hitchcock Health. I am aware that both the boards of CMCHS and Dartmouth-Hitchcock Health have given conditional approval to move forward with the affiliation.
In preparation for making my own assessment and decision, I have asked two independent ethicists to review this proposed affiliation and look forward to hearing their opinions. I also continue to consult broadly with interested persons. In addition I have given a conditional approval that allows CMCHS to take the next step in conjunction with Dartmouth-Hitchcock Health of filing necessary documentation with the New Hampshire Attorney General’s Office and other regulators, whose approval also is required during the process.
From the beginning, I have been clear that what is most important in a possible affiliation between CMCHS and Dartmouth-Hitchcock Health is that it preserve and enhance the mission and ministry of Catholic Medical Center now and in the future. Knowing the nature of the discussions that have occurred, I can say that nothing has changed in their and my determination to preserve high-quality Catholic health care for the people of New Hampshire.
As bishop, I am committed to preserve Catholic Medical Center to be a true Catholic healthcare institution, one that fulfills all the Ethical and Religious Directives for Catholic hospitals.