The two organizations share a common heritage as ministries of The Diocese of West Missouri and have worked closely together since Bishop Spencer Place opened its doors in 1995. Under the terms of the affiliation agreement, effective December 19, 2016, Bishop Spencer Place, its employees, management and board of directors are part of Saint Luke’s Health System.

“This agreement formalizes and enhances a long-standing relationship between two organizations deeply committed to providing high-quality care for Kansas City’s senior community,” said Saint Luke’s Health System President and CEO, Melinda L. Estes, M.D. “In addition to being a very natural alignment between our two brands, this also will provide residents with increased access to services, greater efficiencies and better coordination of care between physicians and Bishop Spencer Place caregivers.”

Bishop Spencer Place has offered distinguished retirement living to the Kansas City community for more than 20 years, providing residents with vibrant independent living and a full spectrum of on-site health care including assisted living, skilled nursing, rehabilitation and private caregiving services. The formal affiliation will allow Saint Luke’s to provide a seamless continuum of care to Bishop Spencer Place residents as well as offer the potential for expanded services in the future.

“We are excited about the opportunity to officially become part of Saint Luke’s Health System,” said Steve Seggerman, Bishop Spencer Place CEO. “We have worked together so closely for so many years, I think many people assumed we were already affiliated. This formal agreement will allow Bishop Spencer Place to continue providing care to our residents with the full support of one of the region’s most trusted healthcare providers.”

Kristin Dittmar is Communication Coordinator with Bishop Spencer Place.