Sanford Health and Marshfield Clinic Health System Sign Agreement to Create an Integrated Health System
MARSHFIELD, WI (OnFocus) — Sanford Health, the largest rural health system in the U.S., and Marshfield Clinic Health System have signed an affiliation agreement to combine resources, creating an integrated health system aimed at advancing care in the rural Midwest. Sanford Health, headquartered in Sioux Falls, South Dakota, has long been a leader in rural health care, and this partnership will allow it to extend its reach further into Wisconsin and Michigan’s Upper Peninsula.
The two organizations, which announced their intent to combine in July, are moving closer to finalizing the deal. Bill Gassen, president and CEO of Sanford Health, emphasized the significance of the agreement: “We are excited to strengthen access to cutting-edge care and invest in new initiatives to serve the needs of patients throughout the rural Midwest, now and in the years ahead.”
Focus on Patient Outcomes and Access
With this combination, Sanford Health aims to bring its expertise in innovative care delivery, advanced technology, and research to the patients and communities in the Midwest. The newly integrated system will:
- Develop Innovative Care Models: Sanford Health plans to introduce new approaches to health care delivery tailored to the needs of rural areas.
- Expand Health Plan Reach: Sanford’s health plan will now serve more than 425,000 members, increasing access to comprehensive care in the region.
- Utilize Technology: The integration will leverage virtual care to reach more patients, making advanced care more accessible in remote locations.
- Strengthen Research and Training: Sanford Health will bolster research capabilities and provide more opportunities to train future clinicians, ensuring a steady pipeline of professionals to serve rural communities.
Next Steps
The agreement is expected to close by the end of 2024, pending regulatory approval and final conditions. Until then, Sanford Health and Marshfield Clinic Health System will continue to operate independently. Sanford Health remains focused on enhancing its patient services and providing high-quality, accessible care throughout the rural Midwest.
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Author: News Desk
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