New name announced for Resurrection Health Care and Provena Health merged entity

Saint Mary facilities, 2233 W. Division St.

While the merger that created the largest Catholic health care system in Illinois was on Nov. 1, 2011, the naming of the new entity was just announced. It is Presence Health.

Though the original merger agreement was in July 2011, it was not until October 2011 that it went before the Illinois regulatory panel for health.  At that time the Illinois Health Facilities and Services Review Board approved the merger and Sandra Bruce, now President and CEO of Presence Health, said that she was grateful to the state boards unanimous approval.

Five sponsoring organizations of the merged groups: the Franciscan Sisters of the Sacred Heart, the Servants of the Holy Heart of Mary, the Sisters of the Holy Family of Nazareth, Sisters of Mercy of the Americas and the Sisters of the Resurrection selected the name.

"The Sisters chose a name that respects the legacies of the founding health systems, while also advancing the new organization in a way that balances innovation with the mission and values of Catholic healthcare," said Bruce in a news release.

"Presence Health embodies the act of being present in every moment we share with those we serve and is the cornerstone of an effective patient, resident and family-centered care environment. It also signifies a spiritual connection, as we believe we are called to serve with a spirit of hope and healing."

Saints Mary and Elizabeth Medical Center is part of the new Presence Health system.