CHICAGO - 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 ( http://trib.in/OEuaq5) Wednesday that NorthShore will pay the Rochester, Minn.-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, a renowned medical facility that has treated foreign heads of state and royalty.

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Information from: Chicago Tribune, http://www.chicagotribune.com