The world renowned Cromwell Hospital in London has been sold to health care and insurance company Bupa, it was announced today.
The deal between Bupa and Ballyrogan Holdings - a Belfast based private family company owned by the multi-millionaire Jennings brothers - valued the hospital at over £90 million.
Bupa said it would be investing a further £30 million over the next two years in creating a centre of excellence for private patients.
Highly regarded for its significant investments and pioneering of state-of-the-art medical equipment and cancer services, the Kensington based private hospital also has particular expertise in neuroscience and paediatrics.
It was the focus of much media attention when caring for Northern Ireland football legend George Best in his last days.
The 128-bed hospital has a large and loyal international clientele, many of whom travel across the globe to receive treatment. Around 600 consultants practice there, mainly drawn from London teaching hospitals, covering over 70 different specialities.
Outpatient services include private GPs, health screening and a walk-in family medicine and diagnostic centre.
Fergus Kee, managing director of Bupa Health Insurance, said: "Private patients tell us they want more high quality private health services in London.
"We believe there is tremendous opportunity to introduce modern, innovative ways of delivering healthcare in the capital offering high quality levels of customer service, clinical excellence and more cost effective care.
"We will be continuing the progressive management of the Jennings family by investing a further £30 million in the Cromwell Hospital over the next two years to create a centre of excellence for private patients."
Agencies