LANSING, Mich. — A mid-Michigan healthcare system marked a "new chapter" on Monday and officially merged with another healthcare system, one of the nation's largest.
In December 2022, Sparrow Health announced the merger with U-M Health, a move that was promoted by as an opportunity to build upon existing parternships between the two systems, as well as an opportunity to expand Sparrow's access to research and technology.
U-M Health committed to an $800 million investment into Sparrow.
When first announced, U-M Health said the agreement would "expand services to Mid-Michigan residents, provide access to the highest level of care, improve facilities and technology, and begin a new chapter in Sparrow's storied history."
On Monday, Sparrow made the merger official, announcing the systems is now legally part of U-M Health, while also promising to "keep care local."
"Moving forward, our focus will be on integrating care to best serve our patients, with an emphasis on keeping care local. Over time, we look forward to continuing to increase access to specialty care locally in the communities we serve," said a statement posted to Sparrow's website.
FULL STORY: Sparrow and U-M Health merger will expand care and tech for local patients
With over 115 sites, Sparrow Health currently serves areas in mid-Michigan, with healthcare organizations and hospitals in Lansing, Carson City, Charlotte, St Johns, and Ionia.
According to the original announcement, U-M Health will invest $800 million in Sparrow Health, the funding sourced from facility projects, operations, and strategic investments over the span of eight years. Adding Sparrow Health will boost U-M Health into a $7 billion organization with over 200 care sites across the state.
“We are doing something special here by combining the community care and know-how that Sparrow has long been known for with the clinical expertise and commitment of U-M Health," said LaKeeya Tucker, D.O., medical chief of staff for E.W. Sparrow Hospital.
According to Sparrow's website, U-M Health physicians are already in place at Sparrow facilities. Several C.S. Mott Children's hospital specialists already work in Lansing, and some U-M Health surgeons have joined with Sparrow Health on plastic surgery collaborations.
"A key priority moving forward will be supporting Sparrow’s existing clinical expertise and adding new doctors, including University of Michigan Health doctors, to Sparrow locations where appropriate to help meet the needs of our communities," said Sparrow Health.
READ MORE: Sparrow Hospital gets federal funds, expands rural reach
As far as branding changes go, Sparrow expressed commitment to a "thoughtful" transition. "While we do expect to transition Sparrow to a brand aligned with University of Michigan Health, we will ensure its legacy is appropriately honored."
For more information on what happens next for Sparrow, head to the website for FAQs.
