Image Restore script for all browsers. In all cases, the reason for and outcome of these changes should better serve the sick and improve the health of the community through a more efficient and effective health system For communities to understand these changes, it is important that hospitals and health systems making changes in ownership or control balance the health needs of the community with the needs of the organization for adaptation. The American Hospital Association has drafted these principles to help hospital executives, trustees, communities, and government officials more clearly define roles and expectations. The core values of a hospital or health system are defined by its mission, including emphasis on its role of caring for the sick and improving community health. Board decisions with regard to changes of ownership or control should be made within the mission of caring for the sick and improving community health.
Boards of trustees have the fiduciary responsibility for our nation's hospitals and health systems.
In making decisions about hospital ownership or control, boards should emphasize the future health care needs of the community and determine the best organizational arrangements for meeting those needs. Boards also are responsible for assuring the community that conflicts of interest are disclosed and private inurement is avoided. Where the organization changing ownership or control holds charitable assets, the board should protect the value of those assets and ensure that the assets continue to improve the health of the community. Where necessary, the board should seek judicial approval of decisions to amend the assets' original charitable purpose or redefine the community for which they may be used. Public accountability for ownership and control decisions is a board responsibility.