CENTRAL OMAHA, Neb — Nebraska Medicine is suing to stop an $800 million deal that would give the University of Nebraska full control of the state's largest health system.
In the lawsuit, Nebraska Medicine claims the deal violates their joint operating agreement and Nebraska state law. Nebraska Medicine called the legal action "a necessary but unfortunate step to take."
Here is Nebraska Medicine's full statement on the lawsuit:
"As a result of the vote by the University of Nebraska Board of Regents to continue pursuing sole membership of Nebraska Medicine, the Board of Directors of Nebraska Medicine is asking the District Court in Douglas County Nebraska to stop the proposed $800 million deal from proceeding.
This is a necessary but unfortunate step to take, but it is aligned with our commitment to protect the mission of Nebraska Medicine. Out of respect for the judicial process, we will let our complaint explain our serious concerns and requests, and we will not provide further comment."
The University of Nebraska Board of Regents issued a statement after Nebraska Medicine's announcement to sue.
The Board said "We are saddened and puzzled by this unnecessary action. The Board of Regents has stated multiple times, including several times in the recent public board meeting, that we have a sincere desire to work in a collaborative fashion with Nebraska Medicine to grow and strengthen health care. The Board of Regents unanimously approved this transaction, and following that vote we moved immediately to once again extend a warm and personal offer to meet and forge ahead together to build a collegial working relationship consistent with Nebraska values.”
Clarkson Regional Health Services also released a statement on the lawsuit. It said "The Clarkson Regional Health Services Board of Directors (“Clarkson”) is surprised and disappointed to learn that the Nebraska Medicine Board has chosen to file suit against Clarkson and the University of Nebraska.
Clarkson and the University have repeatedly made it clear that the preference and hope was to collaborate with Nebraska Medicine toward a solution that would grow and strengthen health care in Nebraska.
Despite this unnecessary action by the Nebraska Medicine Board to file suit, Clarkson remains ready to engage in discussions to resolve this matter, in a way that is consistent with the way things get done in Nebraska."
The Board of Regents voted to approve the $800 million proposal Thursday.
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