Attached at the bottom of this story is a Q and A for frequently asked questions regarding the collaboration.

Blanchard Valley Health System has announced that it is the first Ohio-based health care facility to join a clinic collaboration with the Mayo Clinic Care Network, of Rochester, Minnesota.

The Mayo relationship extends to medical professionals at the  Bluffton Hospital.

In making the announcement on Oct. 10, Scott Malaney, BVHS president and CEO, said, “This is a big day for us.”

The collaboration will allow BVHS physicians to access Mayo’s latest research, diagnostic and treatment resources whenever they feel it will benefit their patients.

“The collaboration will help Blanchard Valley Health System achieve its goal to improve the delivery of health care to the communities we serve,” he said.

Further explaining that the collaboration reflects BVHS and Mayo’s shared values, “It means we will offer better health care and better piece of mind for our patients,” said Malaney.

“It’s another tool in our tool box,” said Malaney. “With this our physicians can try for a second opinion (on a patient’s care) through the Mayo Clinic.

“We consider this an investment, and we believe we are making a great investment (in this collaboration)."

He said this provides the opportunity to collaborate with Mayo Clinic, and 40-plus other independent organizations around the world.

“The knowledge, resources and commitment that stand behind the care network is truly impressive. We are honored to join the quest for an unparalleled level of clinical quality for our patients,” he said.

In the collaboration, physicians from Blanchard Valley Health System will be able to combine their understanding of their patients' medical needs with Mayo Clinic expertise, so patients get exactly the care they need, close to home.

There is no additional cost to patients. The program is served through a subscription fee between Mayo and BVHS.

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