San Francisco-based Catholic Healthcare West has changed its name to Dignity Health. The move is part of a governance restructure that aims to position the organization for success in a changing healthcare environment, according to a news release.

"This name and structure reflect who we are and what we stand for," Sr. Judy Carle, vice chair of the Dignity Health Board of Directors and a Sister of Mercy, said in the release. "The value of dignity is embedded in our culture. Our mission, vision and values were all formed out of the recognition of the inherent dignity of each person. We are confident that our vision for the organization will be achieved."

Under the new structure, Dignity Health is a not-for-profit organization rooted in the Catholic tradition but is not an official ministry of the Catholic Church. The new structure and name enable the organization to grow nationally, while preserving the identity and integrity of both its Catholic and non-Catholic hospitals.

The organization's Catholic hospitals will continue to be Catholic, directly sponsored by their founding congregations, and adhering to the Ethical and Religious Directives for Catholic Health Care Services. Dignity Health's non-Catholic hospitals will continue to be non-Catholic, adhering to the Statement of Common Values.

The system currently owns or operates 25 Catholic hospitals and 15 non-Catholic hospitals.

Lloyd H. Dean, the organization's president and CEO, said the changes would enhance the organization's ability to work across the spectrum of healthcare and to expand partnerships to deliver high-quality care more efficiently.

Learn more: www.DignityHealth.org