February 5, 2026- Kettering Health and Ohio University recently announced a major expansion of their longstanding collaboration with a comprehensive academic, research and clinical affiliation aimed at improving health outcomes for communities across the state — particularly in rural and underserved areas.
The strengthened partnership unites Kettering Health’s extensive clinical network with the Ohio University Heritage College of Osteopathic Medicine’s nationally recognized medical education and research programs. Together, the organizations intend to enhance patient care, accelerate medical training and develop innovative health solutions tailored to community needs.
At the heart of the affiliation is the creation of a joint Health Innovations Hub, which will serve as a collaborative center for advancing education, clinical training and translational research. The hub will bring together experts from both institutions to develop new models of care and improve health outcomes across Ohio — with an emphasis on southwest Ohio.
Leaders from both organizations highlighted workforce development as a key focus. The affiliation will support expansion of residency and fellowship training programs and explore establishing a regional Ohio University Heritage College campus within the Kettering Health service area to strengthen the pipeline of locally trained physicians and health professionals.
“This affiliation is focused on improving health for the people of Ohio,” said Mike Gentry, president and CEO of Kettering Health, emphasizing expanded access to care, education, research and innovation statewide.
Ohio University officials noted that the collaboration will help address critical workforce shortages by keeping more medical graduates practicing within the state — a crucial step toward filling gaps in healthcare access across Ohio’s communities.
The expanded affiliation also aligns with statewide health priorities, including behavioral health, maternal and infant health, chronic disease management and broader wellness initiatives identified by the Ohio Department of Medicaid.
“This affiliation is a long‑term investment in the health and well‑being of Ohioans,” said Ohio University President Lori Stewart Gonzalez.