Nebraska Board of Regents approve plan to buyout Clarkson Health from Nebraska Medicine
LINCOLN, Neb. (KLKN) — After hours of discussion, the Nebraska Board of Regents is moving toward single-member governance of Nebraska Medicine.
During a special meeting in Lincoln on Thursday, the Regents unanimously approved an $800 million transaction that includes Clarkson Regional Health System’s withdrawal from Nebraska Medicine and the university’s purchase of Clarkson’s land and buildings.
The Regents said the relationship between the University of Nebraska Medical Center, which trains medical students, and Nebraska Medicine will continue and be unified under one umbrella.
But before that decision was made, voices from both entities spoke up.
“I personally support the Board of Regents in purchasing Clarkson Regional Health System’s interest in Nebraska Medicine,” said associate professor of emergency medicine, Dr. Jordan Warhol. “As a dual-employed clinical faculty member, I can’t think of any partner who will better enable us.”
Even the System President, Dr. Jeffery Gold, testified in support of the merger.
“I swore to do no harm, and it is for that reason that I strongly recommend the board of regents approve this resolution,” he said.
Supporters said the change will bring stability and simplify decision-making, allowing the university to fully steer patient care, education, and research.
Some opponents said that’s exactly what they’re worried about.
SEE ALSO: Former Nebraska Medicine CEOs oppose Board of Regents’ $800M acquisition
The university will influence how they practice medicine and care for their patients, limiting their own decision-making.
“This is concerning; it underscores the risk of putting ultimate control and authority in the hands of those who are farthest away from the actual provision of care,” said orthopedic surgeon at Nebraska Medicine, Beau Konigsberg.
Despite the concerns, the board passed the measure.
Many Regents assured the public that they would not overreach in decision-making at Nebraska Medicine and that patient care would not be disrupted.
Over the next six months, university leaders will finalize the legal details to finalize the deal by the end of June.
