By Todd Wineburner

Kewanee Hospital has signed a formal letter of intent to affiliate with OSF Healthcare. The two entities have collaborated for several years, but, according to Kewanee Hospital officials, the changing healthcare environment prompted the action. During long-term planning, the guiding bodies for the hospital realized that affiliation with a larger partner was in the best interest of the hospital and its patients.

OSF Healthcare is one of the state's largest integrated healthcare systems with facilities in Pontiac, Bloomington-Normal, Peoria and other cities throughout the state. Kewanee hospital is a private, stand-alone, not-for-profit hospital that describes itself as financially strong. CEO Lynn Fulton says the hospital's positive outlook for 2013 makes this an optimal time for an affiliation between OSF and Kewanee Hospital.

After a period of due diligence, officials from both organizations anticipate a concrete plan of action late next year.