The University of Kansas Health System and Ardent Health Announce Plans to Transition Ownership of St. Francis Campus
Business Wire•29/09/2026•16:15 ET
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Key Highlights
- ➤University of Kansas Health System to acquire full St. Francis Campus ownership from Ardent Health (ARDT)
- ➤Ardent Health to continue operational support during the ownership transition
- ➤Deal closing expected later this year, subject to approvals and customary conditions
- ➤Transition expected complete by end of 2026
- ➤Ardent Health remains involved in daily operations for a period defined at closing
Expert Statements
Bob Page, CEO of The University of Kansas Health System
“As St. Francis enters this exciting new era, we will continue to focus on what matters most: expanding access to exceptional care, supporting our local workforce and improving the health of the communities we serve.”
Dave Caspers, President and CEO of Ardent Health
“We’re proud of what this partnership has made possible for St. Francis and the Topeka community.”
Dave Caspers, President and CEO of Ardent Health
“We regularly evaluate our portfolio to ensure we’re focusing our resources where our operating model, scale and capabilities can have the greatest impact and create long-term value.”
Dave Caspers, President and CEO of Ardent Health
“This transition reflects that approach, while positioning St. Francis to become more fully integrated with Kansas’s largest academic health system.”
Tammy Peterman, President and Chief Operating Officer of The University of Kansas Health System
“As we move through the next phase of our transition, we look forward to gaining a deeper understanding of existing opportunities to strengthen services, expand specialties and enhance connections between St. Francis and The University of Kansas Health System while still keeping care local.”
Bob Page, CEO of The University of Kansas Health System
“This transition is about making sure more people across Kansas have access to the care they need, regardless of where they live.”
Bob Page, CEO of The University of Kansas Health System
“We’re committed to expanding access while maintaining the safe, compassionate, high-quality care the Topeka community has come to expect.”
The University of Kansas Health System and Ardent Health Announce Plans to Transition Ownership of St. Francis Campus
The University of Kansas Health System to fully own St. Francis Campus; Ardent Health to continue operational support throughout transition process
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