And most reassuring in light of fears that surfaced shortly after Benefis' autonomy move became public, the hospital will "absolutely" remain a not-for-profit operation, faith-based and mission-driven.
Speaking last week at the Tribune, Benefis president and CEO Goodnow, along with board president Jim Cummings, explained, as much as possible, why they are seeking a dissolution of Benefis' marriage to the Spokane-based Catholic organization.
According to the Benefis officials, control wasn't an issue for the first six years after the merger. In 2002, however, the hospital obtained bond financing for the new surgery center through a group tied to Providence Services, and that is when their relationship with Providence began to change.
Subsequently, the officials said, Providence sought amendments to the hospital's bylaws that would have further eroded the local board's authority — contrary to the merger agreement and to promises made to the community at the time of the merger.
Providence Services and Benefis communicated over the past year, trying to resolve differences. Finally in August, Benefis' board asked in a letter to "end its affiliation with and sponsorship by Providence Services."
Benefis is by far the largest private employer and health-care provider in northcentral Montana, and therefore knows how significant its move is to everyone who lives here.
Its leaders insist the action should have little apparent effect on its constituents — except to the extent that maintaining local control makes it more responsive to local needs.
They said separation from Providence Services will not affect rates, employees, quality and availability of services, or the institution's religious orientation, which recognizes its Catholic and Methodist heritages.
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