A significant shift is occurring in Central Illinois as the long-standing collaboration between OSF HealthCare, the University of Illinois College of Medicine Peoria (UICOMP), and St. Jude Children’s Research Hospital’s Midwest Affiliate Clinic comes to an end on June 30. Despite the affiliation’s conclusion, a St. Jude leadership board member has assured that patient care will not be compromised and fundraising efforts will continue unabated.
Key Takeaways
- Existing St. Jude patients will continue to receive care under the St. Jude affiliate model for at least the next three years.
- St. Jude remains committed to providing no-cost treatment, travel, and housing for its patients.
- Fundraising activities across Central Illinois for St. Jude will proceed as usual, supporting research and treatment protocols.
Continued Patient Care
James Ingold, a member of the St. Jude Midwest Leadership Board, emphasized that the end of the affiliation does not mean an end to care for current patients. "St. Jude hasn’t changed. St. Jude is still going to provide no cost, treatment, travel, housing, food for these patients who are St. Jude patients," Ingold stated. He confirmed that any existing St. Jude patient will continue to be financially supported by the hospital for at least the next three years. While the immediate change may be an inconvenience for some families who might need to travel to Memphis for treatment, Ingold was unequivocal: "We are very, very, very clear that no patient is going to be turned away because of this issue."
Unchanged Fundraising Efforts
Fundraising for St. Jude in Central Illinois will also continue without interruption. Ingold explained that all events, from small community initiatives to larger telethons and galas, will proceed. The funds raised are crucial for supporting the research and treatment protocols developed in Memphis. "Our fundraising has to be exactly the same because we’re still funding the same overall budget," he said. While some funds may no longer be allocated to Peoria directly, they will still contribute to the overall mission that benefits individuals in Central Illinois.
Navigating the Transition
The decision to end the affiliation was a complex one, with St. Jude being informed of OSF/UICOMP’s intentions last fall. Ingold acknowledged the potential for anxiety among families but reiterated the commitment to ensuring continuity of care. St. Jude is exploring possibilities for new affiliations within Central Illinois, though Ingold noted the challenges posed by stringent regulatory requirements for such partnerships. Families seeking more information can reach out via email.
