Embracing a new era: UCI celebrates historic healthcare transformation

Dear Anteater community:

I am thrilled to celebrate a historic moment for UC Irvine – the transformation of academic healthcare and the university’s relationship with our community.

UCI Health has completed the acquisition of four medical centers and associated outpatient centers in Lakewood, Los Alamitos, Fountain Valley and Placentia. Today, we welcome 4,300 new healthcare team members to UC Irvine. This achievement more than doubles the size of our clinical enterprise and places UCI Health among the largest University of California health systems.

At the heart of our mission lies a dedication to making a tangible difference in the world around us. By expanding our healthcare footprint across Southern California, we are extending our reach to serve even more individuals and communities.

As Orange County's sole academic health system, UCI Health has long been the region’s leading provider of advanced medicine, rooted in world-class care, clinical innovation and scientific discovery. Today, this tremendous leap forward sets a new standard for academic healthcare, advancing UC Irvine’s place among the nation’s top academic health systems. 

Our strengthened collaboration will have a profound impact on patient care and public health. Together, we will continue to lead the way in advancing academic healthcare, shaping the future of medicine, and building healthier and more resilient communities in our own backyard with world-class care.

I want to recognize the leadership of UCI Health CEO and President Chad Lefteris and Vice Chancellor of Health Affairs Dr. Steve Goldstein in seizing this opportunity to advance our mission.

In the days and weeks ahead, I look forward to witnessing the incredible contributions UCI Health will make on the future of health. Collectively, we will strive to uphold the highest standards of excellence and make a meaningful difference in our communities. 

Fiat Lux.

Chancellor Howard Gillman