A “partnership” may be in the works

Oconee Medical Center and Greenville Health Systems approved a memorandum of understanding last night that the two organizations will explore ways to work together more closely. Jeanne Ward, president/CEO of Oconee Medical Center, addressing the OMC board of directors called it a potential for partnership. The developments were revealed to Oconee County news media after a closed session last night of the hospital board, and they come as rumors swirl as to what’s ahead for Oconee’s not-for-profit health care facility and how it’ll fit into the changing health care picture. A statement released by OMC reads: “For the past five years, Oconee Medical Center has met with interested regional not-for-profit health care organizations and several for-profit companies to learn about potential opportunities to affiliate….We are most comfortable with a South Carolina-based partner that shares our commitment to serving the people of the Upstate,” Ward said. The approved memorandum does not specify the alliance structure nor commit either organization to any further action. It states that the two will study opportunities to enhance healthcare in Oconee County and develop a more specific agreement for consideration by both boards.