NORTH DAKOTA (KXNET) — Sanford Health has signed an agreement to combine with the Wisconsin-based Marshfield Clinic Health System to help advance world-class care in the rural Midwest. In July of 2024, both organizations signed a letter of their intention to band together. According to a press release, the two intend to merge their shared experience of delivering high-quality care to patients and communities. “This significant milestone means we are one step closer to bringing together our nonprofit, community-focused healthcare organizations," said Bill Gassen, president and CEO of Sanford Health. "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." 13-year-old sustains serious injury after attempting donuts in ATV “In Sanford Health we found a partner that closely aligns with our culture, mission, and values, and we look forward to continuing on this journey as the premier rural health system in the United States,” said Brian Hoerneman, M.D., interim CEO of Marshfield Clinic Health System. “Our shared commitment to excellence, quality, and safety, and delivering an exceptional patient experience for the rural communities we serve makes this partnership a win for our patients and our dedicated teams that carry out our mission daily." As stated in the release, the combined nonprofit systems will help improve patient care through new delivery models using both organizations' care plans. This includes providing virtual care, expanding research capabilities, and increasing the ability to train, educate, and support future clinicians. The closing is expected to take place by the end of 2024, subject to all regulatory processes and closing conditions. Sanford Health and the Marshfield Clinic Health System will remain separate organizations until the partnership, and the group's names will not be changed. Close Thanks for signing up! Watch for us in your inbox. Subscribe Now Today's Top Stories SIGN UP NOW