COLUMBIA, MD-Locally-based MedStar Health announced on Wednesday it has engaged CBRE Group, Inc. to be its contracted service provider for facilities and project management, real estate transaction services and related activities.

The company stated that the transition from MedStar to CBRE in those functions would occur in January 2014. MedStar Health is a $4.2-billion not-for-profit, regional healthcare system that operates 10 hospitals in the Maryland-Washington, DC region.

As a result, MedStar associates currently working in these areas will have the opportunity to become CBRE employees, contracted to provide the same services. The impacted MedStar associates will receive comparable job offers from CBRE at their current salaries, subject to completing a basic pre-employment screening process. MedStar employees who join CBRE will have expanded opportunities for professional training and development. A report in the Washington Business Journal stated that approximately 200 MedStar employees will be affected by the outsourcing deal.

“We are confident this new arrangement will be positive for everyone,” stated Ed Robinson, vice president for performance improvement and operational support. “MedStar remains focused on our core mission of serving our patients, those who care for them, and our communities. We are engaging an organization that is known for its expertise in facilities and real estate services. CBRE's knowledge, experience and resources will ensure that our facilities remain top-notch environments for patient care-- for our associates and visitors.”

“Healthcare delivery is being transformed in the US, and we are honored that MedStar has entrusted CBRE to be its real estate manager and advisor at this time of significant change,” said Bill Concannon, CEO of CBRE Global Corporate Services. “Our extensive experience in achieving efficiencies in real estate management will enable MedStar to focus on its core mission of serving its local communities with high quality, advanced health care.” See story in the Washington Business Journal.