The Mayo Clinic is announcing an affiliation with the Chicago-area's NorthShore University HealthSystem.
 
The multi-year agreement will give NorthShore patients quick access to Mayo specialists and research in cardiovascular, cancer and neurological cases.  The Chicago Tribune reported Wednesday that NorthShore will pay the Rochester-based Mayo an undisclosed annual fee under the deal, which begins Oct. 1.
 
The non-profit NorthShore operates four hospitals in Chicago's northern suburbs.  Mayo Clinic President and Chief Executive Dr. John Noseworthy says it's important for Mayo to have a strong presence in Chicago.  The affiliation is the ninth for the Mayo Clinic.