Lee Health Board Approves Move to Become Private Nonprofit by 9-1 Vote

Lee Health, one of the country’s largest nonprofit hospital systems, has announced a major step towards converting to a privately funded nonprofit. In an effort to remain competitive in Southwest Florida’s evolving healthcare landscape, Lee Health’s board of directors voted 9-1 to make the change. The next phase involves finalizing a mission agreement with the County Commission in the upcoming months.

The new business model will include an oversight board comprising members from Lee Health’s primary service areas, an attorney, and an individual with a financial/business background. Transitioning to a community-focused nonprofit will help secure resources to uphold the safety-net mission and ensure continued delivery of exceptional healthcare for Lee County residents, according to the system’s website.

Since 1968, the county has owned and operated Lee Health through a publicly elected board of directors. However, with the recent changes to Florida’s Certificate of Need program, competitors have greater opportunities to expand in the region, including Collier County. This decision allows Lee Health to expand services beyond Lee County and form partnerships with other medical groups and teaching hospitals.

Over the past year, Lee Health has been evaluating the implications of this change. Consulting with experts and engaging with the public through town meetings, the leadership has concluded that transitioning to a privately funded nonprofit is necessary for long-term financial sustainability, independence, and maintaining a community-led structure. This move signifies a strategic decision towards securing a robust future for Lee Health.