TAMPA BAY, Fla. (May 13, 2021)—Empath Health and Stratum Health System announced that their merged organizations will be known as Empath Health. The two not-for-profit care organizations have joined together in a merger of equals to create one of the country’s largest not-for-profit health systems delivering non-acute care and services through its skilled, medical and holistic programs to individuals with chronic, advanced and terminal illnesses and those experiencing grief.
The naming announcement follows several months of research, including more than 5,000 hours of interviews with colleagues and stakeholders from both organizations. The brand identity and naming for the corporate entities of the new organization is still under review. However, the two legacy hospices—Tidewell Hospice and Suncoast Hospice—will continue to operate under their existing brands.
“The naming project was very enlightening—and very rewarding,” said Rafael Sciullo, CEO of the new organization. “Although the people interviewed were separated by organizations and sometimes by service lines, the sentiments and strengths mirrored one another. The similarities between the Empath and Stratum organizations were almost uncanny. Many shared that they themselves identify as empaths: those who can deeply sense the feelings and experiences of others.”
President Jonathan Fleece agreed, “Our colleagues have a gift for connecting with those we serve, for entering into another person’s experience and bringing ease, care and of course, empathy. The name ‘Empath Health’ feels like a natural progression for the Stratum colleagues because it is a name they have always embodied, and it now is a name they are proud to wear.”
The combined Empath Health organization will serve over 6,000 individuals a day—50,000 annually—creating a bridge between chronic, advanced and terminal care and providing seamless integration based on individual needs. In addition, it will provide a variety of community-based programs that reflect their commitment to the preservation of their charitable missions.
Visit empathhealth.org for more information.
