Sanford and Fairview seeking merger to create "New Health System" in region

Courtesy: Sanford Health
Courtesy: Sanford Health

(Fargo, ND) -- Two major Midwestern healthcare systems are sharing their intention to merge in a statement released to WDAY Radio.

Sanford Health and Fairview Health Services have both signed a non-binding agreement, which announced their intent to combine and "create a new healthcare system," according to the release. The release elaborates the reasoning behind the merger, stating Sanford's rural experience and Fairview's urban ones would make the pairing effective at serving both populations well. 

“Our organizations are united by a shared commitment to advance the health and well-being of our communities,” said Sanford Health President and CEO Bill Gassen. “As a combined system, we can do more to expand access to complex and highly specialized care, utilize innovative technology and provide a broader range of virtual services, unlock greater research capabilities and transform the care delivery experience to ensure every patient receives the best care no matter where they live.”

The companies say the combined systems will bring many benefits to patients in the upper Midwest; including improved care quality and outcomes, increased patient experience, supporting affordable care access, and more.