LITTLE ROCK - Arkansas' children have a healthier tomorrow before them, after the University of Arkansas for Medical Sciences (UAMS) and Arkansas Children's today signed updated research collaborative and affiliation agreements.

The agreements, which took effect Oct. 1, continue the strategic partnership of the state's only medical university and the state's only children's health system.

UAMS Chancellor Cam Patterson, MD, MBA, and Arkansas Children's President & CEO Marcy Doderer, FACHE, called the agreements "a vital step and the next milestone" in the more than 40-year relationship of the two institutions. The two describe the agreements as enhanced strategic partnerships between UAMS and Arkansas Children's.

The institutions agreed last year to explore a closer relationship. The agreements announced today have met the due diligence and regulatory approvals of both institutions.

The updated agreements aim to provide high level care to children and young adults, integrate pediatric research activities and continue to advance leading pediatric clinical care and academic programs with national recognition, attract and retain top staff, and improve operating performance.