Yale New Haven Health System has officially acquired Nelson Ambulance Services and its affiliates, expanding its medical transport capabilities in Connecticut. The acquisition, confirmed during a recent celebration at Nelson’s facility in North Haven, includes affiliates such as Access Ambulance Service, Connecticut Handivan, and The Limo Group. This strategic move aims to enhance patient care and streamline emergency medical services across the region.
Christopher O’Connor, CEO of Yale New Haven Health System (YNHHS), emphasized the organization’s commitment to growth and service improvement. “YNHHS is always looking for opportunities to grow and strengthen services to better meet the needs of the patients and communities we serve,” he stated. The acquisition is expected to create a more integrated experience for patients navigating the health system.
The leaders of YNHHS and Nelson have collaborated closely to ensure a smooth transition, focusing on maintaining the standard of care for existing patients. The integration will not only bolster access for current users but also enhance the overall medical transport framework within the region. According to a statement from the health system, YNHHS will continue to provide emergency transport services from Nelson’s North Haven and Milford hubs.
In a reflection of the positive outlook regarding the acquisition, Saleem Khan, president of Nelson Ambulance Service, shared, “Many people have a business but can never take it to the next level – we were able to exceed our expectations.” He highlighted that the additional resources and support from YNHHS will elevate the capabilities of the ambulance and medical transport division.
The acquisition follows a recent settlement agreement where YNHHS agreed to pay $45 million to Prospect Medical Holdings to resolve ongoing disputes over the sale of three hospitals: Waterbury, Rockville General, and Manchester. This deal concluded a prolonged legal battle that had significant implications for healthcare delivery in Connecticut.
Both organizations are committed to ensuring uninterrupted care as they integrate their services. As stated by the Connecticut Department of Public Health, the acquisition aligns with the state’s latest Statewide EMS Protocols, released in October 2023, which aim to enhance emergency services throughout Connecticut.
YNHHS encompasses five hospitals: Bridgeport, Greenwich, Lawrence + Memorial, Westerly, and Yale New Haven hospitals, along with several specialty networks and the Northeast Medical Group, a non-profit medical foundation with a large network of community-based physicians. The acquisition of Nelson Ambulance Services marks a significant step in YNHHS’s mission to provide comprehensive healthcare solutions to the communities it serves.
