What You Should Know:
– A new report from the Center for Connected Medicine (CCM) at UPMC and KLAS Research outlines how health systems are reevaluating and expanding their ambulatory care strategies in response to shifting patient expectations, workforce constraints, and increased financial pressures. Centralized Leadership Guides Strategic Shift
The growing importance of ambulatory care is reflected in a structural shift toward centralized leadership within health systems. Most respondents stated that their ambulatory strategy is guided by leaders who have system-wide visibility and the authority to shape decisions across clinical programs. Regardless of the specific structure, the consistent goal of this centralization is to ensure internal alignment around care access, efficiency, and long-term sustainability. Investing in High-Growth and Underserved Markets
Health systems are adopting a more intentional approach to expansion, focusing on markets and service lines that offer the most strategic importance or strongest patient demand. Systems are prioritizing investments in care models that can scale, specifically targeting high-growth or underserved markets. Common areas of investment focus include:
Multispecialty clinics
Partnerships Fuel Ambulatory Expansion
A key theme of the research shows the critical importance of partnerships in expanding care options and accessibility. Health systems are relying on partnerships to extend their capabilities and respond to evolving care demands. These collaborations take many forms:
Independent physician groups and technology companies are the most commonly reported partnerships. Third-party providers are used for specialized services such as telehealth and behavioral health. For example, the report notes that UPMC, which established a Community and Ambulatory Services division, is expanding access through a strategic partnership with GoHealth Urgent Care, which began operating more than 80 urgent care centers in Pennsylvania and West Virginia this year. For more information about the report, click here .

Moving Outside the Hospital: New Report Details Ambulatory Care Strategies at Leading Health Systems

Ambulatory Care: Hospital Shift & Leading Strategies
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Breaking News: A significant shift is underway in healthcare delivery, as major health systems aggressively expand their ambulatory care networks. A new report reveals a strategic move away from traditional hospital-centric models, driven by evolving patient needs, workforce challenges, and increasing financial pressures. The findings signal a fundamental reshaping of how and where Americans receive medical care. The report, Moving Outside the Hospital: Ambulatory Care Strategies at Leading Health Systems, a collaboration between the Center for Connected Medicine (CCM) at UPMC and KLAS Research , details how healthcare organizations are prioritizing accessibility and patient convenience by bringing care directly into communities. This isn’t merely a trend; it’s a strategic realignment with profound implications for the future of healthcare. The Rise of Decentralized Care: A New Era for Health Systems
The evolution of ambulatory care represents a fundamental change in how health systems operate. Historically, hospitals served as the central hub for most medical services. Now, organizations are recognizing the benefits of a more distributed network, offering care closer to where patients live and work. This decentralization isn’t simply about convenience; it’s about addressing critical gaps in access, particularly in underserved areas. Centralized Leadership: Orchestrating the Shift
Successful expansion of ambulatory care requires a cohesive strategy, and the research highlights the importance of centralized leadership. Most health systems now employ leaders with system-wide oversight, empowered to make decisions that align clinical programs and optimize resource allocation. This centralized approach ensures that expansion efforts are strategically focused and contribute to long-term sustainability. The goal is to create a unified system where access, efficiency, and quality are consistently prioritized. Strategic Investments: Where Health Systems are Placing Their Bets
Health systems aren’t expanding randomly. They are making deliberate investments in areas poised for growth and those that address critical needs. The report identifies three key areas of focus:
Multispecialty Clinics: Offering a comprehensive range of services under one roof, these clinics provide convenient access to various specialists. Ambulatory Surgical Centers (ASCs): Providing a cost-effective alternative to hospital-based surgery for select procedures. Virtual Care Platforms: Leveraging technology to deliver remote consultations, monitoring, and support, expanding access to care beyond geographical limitations. These investments are driven by a desire to improve patient retention, attract new patients, and address the growing demand for accessible, affordable care. The American Hospital Association reports a continued surge in investment in ambulatory care facilities, further validating this trend. The Power of Partnerships: Extending Reach and Capabilities
No health system can do it all alone. The report underscores the critical role of partnerships in expanding care options and improving accessibility. Collaborations with independent physician groups and technology companies are becoming increasingly common, allowing systems to leverage external expertise and resources. For example, UPMC, through its Community and Ambulatory Services division, has partnered with GoHealth Urgent Care, operating over 80 urgent care centers across Pennsylvania and West Virginia. This strategic alliance demonstrates a commitment to expanding access to immediate care services. Furthermore, third-party providers are frequently utilized for specialized services like telehealth and behavioral health, enabling systems to offer a broader range of care without the need for extensive internal development. Do you think these partnerships will become the dominant model for healthcare delivery in the next decade? Pro Tip: When evaluating potential partnerships, health systems should prioritize those that align with their overall strategic goals and demonstrate a commitment to patient-centered care. The ability to adapt and collaborate will be crucial for health systems navigating the evolving healthcare landscape. What innovative partnership models do you foresee emerging in the future? Frequently Asked Questions About Ambulatory Care Expansion
What is driving the growth of ambulatory care services? Several factors are contributing to this growth, including shifting patient preferences for convenience, workforce shortages in hospitals, and the increasing cost of inpatient care. Health systems are responding by expanding access to care in more accessible and affordable settings. How are health systems addressing workforce constraints in ambulatory care? Health systems are exploring various strategies, including leveraging telehealth, utilizing advanced practice providers, and forming partnerships with independent physician groups to expand their workforce capacity. What role does technology play in the expansion of ambulatory care? Technology is central to this expansion, enabling virtual care, remote patient monitoring, and streamlined administrative processes. Digital health solutions are improving access, enhancing efficiency, and empowering patients to take a more active role in their care. Are ambulatory surgical centers (ASCs) a cost-effective alternative to hospital surgery? Generally, yes. ASCs typically offer lower costs for certain procedures due to their focused scope of services and streamlined operations. This can translate to lower out-of-pocket expenses for patients. How does this shift to ambulatory care impact patient outcomes? Studies suggest that providing care in ambulatory settings can lead to improved patient outcomes, particularly for chronic disease management and preventative care, due to increased access and continuity of care. What are the challenges associated with expanding ambulatory care networks? Challenges include coordinating care across multiple locations, maintaining consistent quality standards, and ensuring adequate staffing levels. Effective leadership and robust technology infrastructure are essential to overcome these hurdles. This strategic shift towards ambulatory care is not merely a response to current challenges; it’s a proactive investment in the future of healthcare, prioritizing patient needs and building a more sustainable and accessible system for all. Disclaimer: This article provides general information and should not be considered medical advice. Please consult with a qualified healthcare professional for any health concerns or before making any decisions related to your health or treatment. Share this article with your network to spark a conversation about the future of healthcare! What are your thoughts on the expanding role of ambulatory care? Leave a comment below and let us know. Share this:

Ambulatory Care: Hospital Shift & Leading Strategies

The partnership aims to expand access to on-demand care and UPMC's broader physician and specialist network by offering urgent care in digitally integrated and conveniently located centers.  Donald Yealy, MD, chief medical officer and chair of emergency medicine at UPMC, said the collaboration supports the system's mission to deliver high-quality outpatient care.  “Today's healthcare consumers expect frictionless, high-quality health care that fits their lives — care that is convenient, personal and connected,” GoHealth CEO Todd Latz said in an Aug. 7 news release. “By combining our on-demand care, operational expertise and experience … with the long tradition of UPMC clinical excellence and deep understanding of the local healthcare landscape, we will make easy access to high-quality care a reality for many more people.”  The new network incorporates former MedExpress, UPMC Urgent Care and UPMC Express Care locations in Pennsylvania. In West Virginia, all former MedExpress sites have transitioned to UPMC-GoHealth centers.  Last month, GoHealth also entered into a joint venture with Indianapolis-based Community Health Network h to operate and expand urgent care services across Indiana.  Next Up in Financial Management  Fred Rothstein, MD, who served as president of University Hospitals Cleveland Medical Center from 2003 to 2015, died Aug. 6…  A number of hospitals and health systems are reducing their workforces or jobs amid financial and operational challenges. Below are…  Editor's note: This story was updated on at 8:35 a.m. Central time Aug. 8. Chicago-based Weiss Memorial Hospital closed the…  Stay Informed with Becker's Hospital Review Newsletter

UPMC, GoHealth form urgent care JV

care companies, recently announced the formation of a joint venture to operate and expand urgent care services in Indiana.  As part of this collaboration, six existing Community MedCheck urgent care centers will transition later this year to Community-GoHealth Urgent Care centers, with plans for further expansion to meet the growing needs of the community. The partnership will bring customers greater access to Community Health Network's trusted providers and services through GoHealth's innovative and connected customer experience, which serves as a front door to the broader continuum of care.  The joint venture is expected to launch later this year, and all existing MedCheck locations will continue to provide the same high-quality care customers rely on, with no disruption in care through the transition to Community-GoHealth.  The GoHealth Connected Care Model empowers customers to access high-quality, on-demand care, through partnerships with leading and progressive health systems and their networks of hospitals, primary care physicians and specialists. This seamless connection ensures greater continuity of care and information between urgent care centers and the broader healthcare ecosystem, removing friction and delivering effortless experiences for customers and their families.

Community, GoHealth Urgent Care Announce New Joint Venture

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PITTSBURGH, Aug. 7, 2025 /PRNewswire/ -- GoHealth Urgent Care , one of the fastest growing, customer-centric health care companies, and UPMC , a world-renowned healthcare provider and insurer, announce the unveiling of 81 UPMC-GoHealth Urgent Care  centers across Pennsylvania and West Virginia. This new joint venture expands access to life-changing medicine and on-demand care. UPMC-GoHealth locations provide the same premiere health care that people know and trust from UPMC, with key advances in technology and operations. "Today's healthcare consumers expect frictionless, high-quality health care that fits their lives – care that is convenient, personal and connected," said Todd Latz, chief executive officer of GoHealth. "By combining our on-demand care, operational expertise and experience, both in-center and virtually, with the long tradition of UPMC clinical excellence and deep understanding of the local health care landscape, we will make easy access to high-quality care a reality for many more people." The new UPMC-GoHealth partnership creates a digital and physical front door to connect patients to care within the robust network of trusted UPMC physicians and specialists. It also brings more ambulatory services, such as primary care, women's health, orthopedics and radiology, closer to communities that need them. UPMC-GoHealth Urgent Care centers provide care for non-life-threatening acute conditions, including flu, fever, earaches, insect bites, sprains, simple fractures, cuts requiring stitches. The centers are in-network with most major insurance, including UPMC Health Plan , Highmark, Geisinger, Medicare and Medicaid, and provide self-pay options, easing the ability for people to continue receiving care across the network. "The UPMC mission is to serve our communities with outstanding patient care, which is why we are pleased to partner with GoHealth," said Donald M. Yealy, M.D. , chief medical officer and chair of emergency medicine at UPMC. "UPMC-GoHealth Urgent Care will allow us to serve you even better with convenient, flexible access to high-quality health care when and where you need it, all while maintaining a seamless connection to UPMC." Together with its partners, GoHealth transforms on-demand care in the communities it serves through an innovative model, using data-driven operations and cutting-edge technology to deliver unparalleled experiences. With credentialed UPMC clinicians, integrated electronic medical records to connect patients to higher-level care and proprietary mobile-first check-in and registration tools, UPMC-GoHealth ensures the right services are available in the right places so people can get the care they need quickly and easily. In Pennsylvania, the UPMC-GoHealth Urgent Care network incorporates former MedExpress, UPMC Urgent Care and UPMC Express Care locations. In West Virginia, all former MedExpress locations are now UPMC-GoHealth Urgent Care centers. For locations, hours and more information, visit www.gohealthuc.com/upmc . About GoHealth Urgent Care
GoHealth  partners with innovative and award-winning health systems to simplify and improve the way patients across the U.S. access high-quality healthcare for non-life-threatening conditions. Its on-demand care platform serves as the physical- and digital front door to its 13 prominent health system partners and the communities they serve across 16 states, providing seamless access to care for nearly 50% of Americans. GoHealth's unique partnership model, consumer-centric approach and technology focus enable effortless, personalized and connected on-demand care at approximately 400 co-branded neighborhood centers across the nation. Whenever follow-up treatment is needed, GoHealth's connected care model provides customers with seamless same- and next-day access to robust networks of expert primary, specialty and emergency care providers. GoHealth Urgent Care is a portfolio company of TPG Growth, the middle market and growth equity investment platform of TPG, which has more than $212 billion of assets under management. About UPMC
UPMC is a world-renowned, nonprofit health care provider and insurer committed to delivering exceptional, people-centered care and community services. Headquartered in Pittsburgh and affiliated with the University of Pittsburgh Schools of the Health Sciences, UPMC is shaping the future of health through clinical and technological innovation, research, and education. Dedicated to advancing the well-being of our diverse communities, we provide nearly $2 billion annually in community benefits, more than any other health system in Pennsylvania. Our 100,000 employees — including more than 5,000 physicians — care for patients across more than 40 hospitals and 800 outpatient sites in Pennsylvania, New York, and Maryland, as well as overseas. UPMC Insurance Services covers more than 4 million members, providing the highest-quality care at the most affordable price. To learn more, visit UPMC.com . SOURCE GoHealth Urgent Care

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				UPMC-GoHealth Urgent Care Launches, Expanding Access to On-Demand Care

UPMC operates as a health care provider and insurer operating in the health care sector. The company offers services including hospital care, outpatient services, and health insurance plans, and is involved in medical research and clinical activities. UPMC serves patients and health care professionals, and is affiliated with the University of Pittsburgh Schools of the Health Sciences. It was founded in 1893 and is based in Pittsburgh, Pennsylvania.

UPMC

The partnership with UPMC Health Plan becomes the newest of 12 such alliances with `` market leading health care systems '' around the country for GoHealth Urgent Care , all of whose nearly 400 centers are operated under one of those partnerships , according to Griesi .

UPMC, GoHealth introduce partnership for urgent care

Community Health Network is a non-profit health system that operates in the healthcare industry, providing various types of care. The organization offers services including specialty and acute care hospitals, surgery centers, home care services, MedChecks, behavioral health, and employer health services. Community Health Network serves individuals and families in Central Indiana. It was founded in 1956 and is based in Indianapolis, Indiana.

Community Health Network

The partnership will bring customers greater access to Community Health Network 's trusted providers and services through GoHealth Urgent Care 's innovative and connected customer experience , which serves as a front door to the broader continuum of care .

Community Health Network and GoHealth Urgent Care Announce New Joint Venture to Expand Access to High-Quality Care Across Central Indiana

Mercy is a large, integrated health care system operating in the health services sector. The company provides a range of health care services including acute care, specialty hospitals, urgent and convenient care, imaging services, and pharmacies. Mercy primarily serves patients through its extensive network of hospitals, clinics, and outpatient facilities. It was founded in 1886 and is based in Saint Louis, Missouri.

Mercy

Mercy-GoHealth Urgent Care , a partnership between Mercy and GoHealth Urgent Care , also has locations in Bentonville , Rogers , Fayetteville , Springdale and Bella Vista , and in Missouri and Oklahoma .

Mercy, GoHealth to open three urgent care centers in Fort Smith

Henry Ford Health System is an academic medical center that provides a range of healthcare services. The organization offers primary and preventative care, complex and specialty care, health insurance, home health and virtual care, along with retail services such as pharmacy and eye care. Henry Ford Health serves patients in Michigan with a focus on clinical excellence in various medical fields. It was founded in 1915 and is based in West Bloomfield, Michigan.

Henry Ford Health System

Memorial Hermann operates as a nonprofit health system providing a network of care. The organization offers services including emergency and urgent care, specialty programs, and patient-centered services. Memorial Hermann engages in community health initiatives, clinical trials, and provides resources for wellness. It was founded in 1925 and is based in Houston, Texas.

Memorial Hermann

GoHealth Urgent Care

McKinsey & Company

Private Equity

Private Equity - II

GoHealth Urgent Care provides healthcare services within the urgent care sector. The company offers medical services including treatment for allergies, cold and flu, COVID-19 testing, injuries, and virtual health visits to diagnose and treat various conditions. GoHealth serves individuals seeking immediate care for non-life-threatening conditions. It was founded in 2013 and is based in Atlanta, Georgia.

Date	Round	Amount	Investors	Valuation Valuations are submitted by companies, mined from state filings or news, provided by VentureSource, or based on a comparables valuation model.	Revenue	Sources
10/6/2015	Private Equity - II	$25.38M	TPG	$XXM	0 FY undefined	1
2/2/2014	Private Equity		Subscribe to see more	$XXM	0 FY undefined	10

Date	10/6/2015	2/2/2014
Round	Private Equity - II	Private Equity
Amount	$25.38M
Investors	TPG	Subscribe to see more
Valuation	$XXM	$XXM
Revenue	0 FY undefined	0 FY undefined
Sources	1	10

First funding	2/2/2014
Last Funding	10/6/2015
Investor	TPG
Rounds	2 Private Equity, Private Equity - II (2015)
Board Seats
Type	Asset/Investment Management
Location	New York

Date	12/17/2018
Investment Stage
Companies	Golden Gate Urgent Care
Valuation	$XXM
Total Funding
Note	Acquired
Sources	2

How VCs Use CB Insights

Professional Services

Platform Overview

GoHealth Urgent Care

Total Raised

Investors Count

Funding, Valuation & Revenue

GoHealth Urgent Care Investors

GoHealth Urgent Care Acquisitions

1 Acquisition