Healthcare groups across the Finger Lakes are joining forces in a move leaders say will reshape how care gets delivered and measured in the region.
Finger Lakes Performing Provider System and Common Ground Health–Rochester RHIO announced they will combine operations, creating a single nonprofit focused on improving health outcomes across 13 Finger Lakes counties and beyond.
The boards of both organizations selected current FLPPS CEO Carol Tegas to lead the combined entity. The final combination and Tegas’ appointment are planned for April 1.
Why this matters in the Finger Lakes
FLPPS already works with clinical and community partners across the Finger Lakes to close gaps in care and support high-risk populations. Rochester RHIO provides secure health information exchange in 14 counties across the Finger Lakes and Southern Tier, while Common Ground Health brings regional data analysis and community engagement experience.
Together, leaders say, the organizations can better align data, care delivery, and workforce efforts in a region that includes urban centers, small towns, and rural communities.
“FLPPS is a valuable partner to clinicians and communities, working collaboratively to enhance healthcare delivery in our region,” said Kathy Parrinello, FLPPS board co-chair and president and CEO of Strong Memorial and Highland hospitals. “By joining forces with Common Ground Health-Rochester RHIO, these nonprofit entities will be stronger together.”
A familiar leader at the helm
Tegas has led FLPPS since its launch more than a decade ago. Her work includes overseeing large-scale initiatives like the $565 million state DSRIP program, the Greater Rochester Health Home Network, and the $118 million New York State Career Pathways Training Program, which supports the regional healthcare workforce.
“I am honored and humbled that the boards of directors have chosen me to lead this combined organization,” Tegas said. “Each of these organizations is integral to improving healthcare across the Finger Lakes region.”
Building on recent changes
Common Ground Health and Rochester RHIO combined in 2024. Current CEO Marlene Bessette plans to retire in March, ahead of the April transition.
“Carol and I have worked closely for years,” Bessette said. “She can expertly lead a team to scale interventions that address costly and preventable health conditions across our region.”
Board leaders from both organizations said the combination positions the new entity to respond to changing healthcare needs while staying focused on regional collaboration and accountability.
“This allows us to be innovative, financially responsible and focused on our collective mission to improve health outcomes in our community,” said Ann Marie Cook, vice chair of Common Ground Health-Rochester RHIO and president and CEO of Lifespan.
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