Illinois Board approves OSF HealthCare plan

The Illinois Health Facilities and Services Review Board (HFSRB) has approved OSF HealthCare’s Certificate of Need (CON) application to consolidate inpatient obstetrics and intensive care unit (ICU) services from OSF Saint Elizabeth Medical Center in Ottawa to OSF Saint Elizabeth – Peru.

This decision enables OSF HealthCare to Shape Tomorrow’s Health by strengthening its regional model of care, ensuring patients in north central Illinois continue to have access to safe, high-quality, and sustainable health services both locally and regionally.

“We are grateful to the Review Board for its thoughtful consideration and support of our plan, and to the many clinicians, community members, and partners who have voiced encouragement for this important step forward,” said Bob Sehring, CEO, OSF HealthCare. “This decision allows us to build on our commitment to providing exceptional care with the right expertise and resources in the best setting for our patients.”

Centralizing inpatient OB and ICU services at OSF Saint Elizabeth in Peru adds comprehensive, enhanced critical care which will allow more patients to receive services closer to home.

The plan also includes expanded mobile, virtual, and telehealth services, which will help maintain continuity of care across communities and ensure that patients—especially those who are vulnerable or underserved—can easily connect to the expertise they need. The OB program allows for care throughout a women’s pregnancy journey including support with caring for their newborn.

“This regional approach is about long-term sustainability, quality, and access,” said Sehring. “It allows our teams to work collaboratively across locations, supporting better outcomes, stronger recruitment and retention of specialists, and the stability our communities deserve.”

The changes align with OSF HealthCare’s Mission to serve with the greatest care and love. Implementation of the approved plan will take place over the coming months with ongoing communication to patients, providers, and the community. Additionally, both OSF HealthCare and the Illinois Health Facilities and Services Review Board discussed opportunities to continue to engage with residents of Eastern LaSalle County.

For more information about OSF HealthCare and its regional care model, visit www.osfhealthcare.org.