Essentia Health and Marshfield Clinic Health System announced Wednesday they are moving forward with plans to merge.
The two healthcare groups have signed a Memorandum of Understanding to evaluate how the two organizations might combine to form an integrated regional health system.
In a joint news release, both organizations said they have complementary geographies and capabilities.
They believe a merger will provide an opportunity to enhance the level of care in Wisconsin, Minnesota, Michigan and North Dakota.
“I have known and admired the work of Marshfield Clinic for more than 30 years,” says Essentia CEO Dr. David Herman. “I have always appreciated their ability to advance the well-being of the communities they serve. I am truly excited to work together for the benefit of our patients and our colleagues.”
Dr. Herman emphasizes that the two health systems are fortunate to share common values and embrace a mission-driven approach to health care that extends beyond our facilities. “Through a new partnership, we can support the care models, services, research and technologies to ensure sustainable and thriving rural health care,” he says.
“This is an exciting opportunity for both our organizations and those we serve,” said Marshfield Clinic Health System CEO Dr. Susan Turney. “These are two of the premier health systems in the country, looking to come together to serve rural communities and beyond. When I look at Essentia, I see an organization with world-class expertise that complements our own. And I see their long, rich history of serving communities with a mission very similar to ours at Marshfield Clinic Health System.”
A combined organization would feature a network of 3,500 providers serving more than two million people in rural and mid-urban communities.
The Memorandum of Understanding is the first step toward a potential merger.
More information will be shared as discussions progress.
