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SUNY Upstate expresses regret over failure to reach collaboration plan with Crouse Hospital

The following statement was issued today (Aug. 26) by SUNY Upstate Medical University:

“Over the past year, in the wake of the Crouse Hospital bankruptcy, representatives from Crouse Hospital, SUNY Upstate Medical University, and the Metropolitan Development Association have developed a Collaboration Plan that would functionally integrate Crouse Hospital and University Hospital. The Crouse bankruptcy was acknowledged as a unique opportunity to accomplish a collaboration that makes great practical sense, but has not yet been realized.

“Under the Plan, no merger was contemplated and each hospital would remain legally separate. The Plan was designed expressly to assure that all unions at both Crouse and at Upstate would continue to represent their respective members and all collective bargaining agreements would continue to be honored. In addition, the Plan demonstrated the ability to realize real economic benefits for both Crouse and Upstate by achieving operational savings and avoiding significant new capital expenditures.

“Recently, Local 1199, which represents many Crouse employees, has declared publicly its opposition to the proposed Collaboration Plan. Also, Crouse Hospital has indicated that it would submit its own “stand-alone” plan. Given these circumstances, we express great regret and disappointment that the Collaboration Plan will not be implemented. Clearly, SUNY Upstate cannot participate in the proposed Collaboration Plan without the partnership of Crouse Hospital. As a consequence, Upstate needs to proceed with its strategic business plan to ensure the viability of its programs and missions. Upstate remains hopeful and available for further discussions regarding any workable suggestions for increased collaboration with Crouse Hospital.”