One year has passed since the University of Kentucky merged with St. Claire Regional Medical Center in Morehead with the goal of bringing greater access to healthcare for many in rural eastern Kentucky. Since the partnership, UK St. Claire has brought on many employees including physicians, nurses, and administrative staff bringing in $20 million to the region. President and CEO Donald Lloyd said this is only the beginning.
“In the first ten months of this relationship we have increased the number of employees at UK St. Claire by 120 employees,” Lloyd said.
The hospital has hired 22 physicians specializing in fields that are new to the region like oncology, anesthesiology, pediatrics, and an increased focus on dentistry. Lloyd added that the hospital is working to bring world-class medical education to Eastern Kentucky.
“You’re going to see the continuous growth and expansion of our clinical services as we try to open up greater access and convenience to the patient population that we and the university collectively serve,” said Lloyd.
Most recently, UK HealthCare has prioritized something they call Project Blue Connect. This initiative aims to connect the University of Kentucky, UK HealthCare, UK King’s Daughters, and UK St. Claire with nearly $100 million in software upgrades. Officials added this will ensure people in the Commonwealth get access to the best healthcare at any UK affiliated hospital or clinic.