Scripps Health takes over former San Diego Hospice campus

Scripps Health officially took ownership of the former
San Diego Hospice campus after closing escrow on the eight-acre property that
overlooks Mission Valley, the health care provider announced on Wednesday.

Scripps Health purchased the facility at auction in federal bankruptcy
court for $16.55 million on April 30 and will continue its use for in-patient
care for the terminally ill.

The sale was approved by the federal bankruptcy court and San Diego
Hospice's creditors' committee, according to Scripps Health. The transaction
was finalized when notice was given to the state Attorney General's Office.

“We're pleased to take another step forward in preserving an important
community resource for San Diego County families for generations to come,”
said Chris Van Gorder, president and CEO of Scripps Health. “We are committed
to honoring those who received care at this facility and those who have given
so generously to support this location over the years.”

San Diego Hospice had been beset by a federal Medicare investigation and
had to reduce its staff and patient load because of financial troubles.

Scripps launched a hospice program in February to provide options for
patients who in the past would have been referred to San Diego Hospice from
Scripps hospitals and physicians.