SARANAC LAKE - Adirondack Medical Center, Community Providers Inc. (CVPH Medical Center) and Hudson Headwaters Health Network have joined forces to create the Adirondack Health Institute, a not-for-profit corporation to help address rapid changes and challenges to the health care system.

AHI was formed to manage regional grant-supported programs and coordinate health care planning, recruiting, clinical activities and outreach in Clinton, Essex, Franklin, Fulton, Hamilton, Saratoga, Warren and Washington counties.

AHI is also leading the Adirondack Medical Home Pilot, an initiative begun in 2010 to improve health care quality, increase access to primary care services and hold down costs.

The pilot includes more than 35 primary care practices (representing some 100 physicians and a like number of physician assistants and nurse practitioners), five hospitals, seven commercial health plans, Medicare and Medicaid, the New York State Department of Health, the Medical Society of the State of New York and the New York State Association of Counties.

Chandler Ralph, chief executive officer of Adirondack Medical Center; Stephens Mundy, CEO of CVPH Medical Center; and Dr. John Rugge, CEO of Hudson Headwaters Health Network, issued a written statement: “Health care providers in our region have enjoyed positive results from collaborating, rather than competing, to achieve a common goal.

“Thanks to years of joint planning, health care in our region is being improved and patient needs better met through the medical home model of primary care. The end result will be improved quality and reduced costs.

“Formalizing our relationship as the Adirondack Health Institute will further expand regional collaboration, and will help us jointly administer important programs. Over time, we expect to add new partners.”