Mid-Columbia Medical Center and Oregon Health Sciences University have entered into a new agreement that includes recruiting additional physicians to The Dalles.  The 10-year deal will also see MCMC and OHSU enhance the hospital’s electronic records system to provide a seamless treatment experience for patients receiving care at both facilities.  OHSU President Joe Robertson says the collaboration brings out the best of a community health system and an academic health system.  MCMC President and CEO Duane Francis emphasized the Medical Center board will remain independent and locally controlled.  Mark Inger of OHSU’s executive management team has been placed on the MCMC board, and the seat will be filled at the OHSU’s discretion.  Francis noted new medical services through the new partnership will be developed over time.  He said current MCMC physicians will be transitioned over two years to become employed by OHSU, but would still live and work in The Dalles as they are leased back to MCMC.