COLUMBIA, Mo. (AP) — Five regional health systems across Missouri have formed a new network its leaders hope will improve business practices and patient care.

The Health Network of Missouri is made up of University of Missouri Health Care in Columbia; Bothwell Regional Health Center in Sedalia; Capital Region Medical Center in Jefferson City; Hannibal Regional Healthcare System; and Lake Regional Health System in Osage Beach.

The network’s governing board held its first meeting Wednesday. Dr. Hal Williamson of the MU health system told the Columbia Daily Tribune  that each organization will provide $40,000 to hire an executive director and pay for consultants under a new limited liability company.

MU Health Care spokeswoman Mary Jenkins said the network will allow collaboration on clinical services, recruiting physicians, contracted services and enhanced information technology infrastructure.