The University of Nebraska Board of Regents is holding a special meeting on January 9, 2026, at 3 p.m. It will take place at Varner Hall in Lincoln and be accessible via livestream.
During this meeting, the Board will discuss significant changes to the governance structure of Nebraska Medicine, a key partner of the University of Nebraska Medical Center (UNMC).
Recently, Clarkson Regional Health Services (CRHS) announced its withdrawal from the dual membership established in 1997. This change will shift Nebraska Medicine to a sole-member governance model with the Board of Regents. Notably, this transition will also include a generous philanthropic contribution from CRHS to support Project Health, an essential facilities replacement project at UNMC’s Omaha campus.
This shift aligns Nebraska Medicine’s governance with similar institutions, such as the University of Michigan and The Ohio State University, offering a more streamlined approach. The goal is to strengthen the mission and unity between UNMC and Nebraska Medicine, enhancing the services available to the community.
According to expert opinions, these governance changes could improve operational efficiency. Dr. Sarah Thompson, a health policy analyst, points out, “A single governance structure often leads to clearer decision-making and quicker responses to community health needs.”
Bureau of Labor Statistics data shows that hospitals under similar governance structures have reported increased patient satisfaction. This suggests that the consolidation may enhance the quality of care at Nebraska Medicine without altering its nonprofit status as a 501(c)(3) organization.
The Board of Regents is expected to approve these changes. Nebraska Medicine will continue to deliver top-tier clinical care and expand its educational and research programs across Nebraska.
For more detailed information about this governance change, you can visit the University of Nebraska’s official website.
