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Sanford Health and Marshfield Clinic Health System Complete Merger, Advancing Rural Healthcare in the Midwest

Sanford & Marshfield: Advancing Rural Healthcare

The rural Midwest is entering a transformative era in healthcare with the merger of Sanford Health and Marshfield Clinic Health System. The two organizations, renowned for their commitment to accessible and innovative care, have united to form a single nonprofit integrated health system operating as Sanford Health. This historic development promises to reshape the delivery of healthcare across South Dakota, North Dakota, Minnesota, Wyoming, Iowa, Wisconsin, and Michigan’s Upper Peninsula.

A Bold Step for Rural Healthcare

As the largest rural health system in the United States, Sanford Health is taking a major step forward with this partnership. “Today’s historic milestone paves the way for us to advance world-class care across the rural Midwest and accelerate vital investments in the communities we have the privilege of serving,” said Bill Gassen, president and CEO of Sanford Health. The combined system aims to expand services, enhance access to care, and harness innovative technologies, ensuring that even the most rural communities can access high-quality, patient-centered healthcare.

Key Features of the Merger

The integration brings together nearly 56,000 employees, 56 hospitals, 4,500 providers, and two health plans serving more than 425,000 members. The newly established Marshfield Clinic region, now part of Sanford Health, will continue to serve Wisconsin and Michigan’s Upper Peninsula, preserving its local identity while benefiting from the broader resources and expertise of Sanford Health. Notable aspects of the merger include:

• Leadership and Governance: Dr. Brian Hoerneman, a practicing emergency medicine physician and native of Marshfield, Wisconsin, will serve as the regional president and CEO of the Marshfield Clinic region. A regional board of community leaders will oversee operations and strategy for the area.

• Integrated Health Plans: Sanford Health Plan and Security Health Plan will continue to operate under a unified management and governance structure, ensuring seamless services for members.

• Physician Involvement: Physicians will play a vital role in shaping the direction of the unified organization through a robust governance structure that includes the Marshfield Clinic region’s Physician Executive Council and representation on Sanford Health’s Council of Governors.

Commitment to Continuity and Innovation

Patients will experience no immediate changes to their care. They will continue to see the same trusted providers at the same locations, with additional resources and innovations gradually enhancing their experience. “Our partnership brings together two organizations deeply committed to advancing healthcare for the people and communities we serve in rural America,” said Dr. Hoerneman.

A Bright Future for Rural Healthcare

With this merger, Sanford Health is positioned to address the unique challenges of rural healthcare, leveraging combined expertise to ensure that individuals, regardless of location, have access to exceptional care. This partnership reflects a shared legacy of community-focused care and a mutual vision of a healthier future for all.

For more information about this significant development, visit Sanford Health or Sanford Health News.

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Supporting Housing Development in Michigan: Key Tools from MSHDA

As Michigan communities grow, accessible and affordable housing remains essential for sustained economic development. The Michigan State Housing Development Authority (MSHDA) offers innovative programs that can make a significant difference for developers, local authorities, and community planners. Two standout initiatives—MI Neighborhood 2.0 and Housing Tax Increment Financing (TIF)—are currently available to support housing projects across the state.

 

MI Neighborhood 2.0 Grant Program
This program, blending state and federal funding, is designed to respond to regional action plans aligned with Michigan’s Statewide Housing Plan. The grant supports various components of housing activity, such as strengthening neighborhood infrastructure and enhancing quality of life.

Why It Matters:
Strategic alignment with local needs
Flexible funding to address unique housing challenges
Opportunities for community-driven growth

Applications are open. Visit michigan.gov/mshda/neighborhoods for more information and to apply.

 

Tax Increment Financing (TIF) for Housing
MSHDA’s TIF program empowers local brownfield redevelopment authorities to capture tax revenues and fund affordable housing initiatives. By leveraging this tool, communities can create and preserve essential housing infrastructure, meeting diverse regional needs.

Key Benefits:
Supports affordable housing projects in underutilized areas
Enhances local redevelopment efforts
Aligns with statewide housing priorities for a broader impact

Learn more: michigan.gov/mshda/tif

 

A Collaborative Future for Housing in Michigan
At the Dickinson Area Economic Development Alliance, these tools provide invaluable opportunities for our region’s growth. MSHDA’s programs are not just about housing—they’re about building more robust, vibrant communities.

Stay informed and take action. Explore how these initiatives can benefit your projects and strengthen our region’s future.

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Reconnect, Reimagine, Return: The 8th Annual Return North Career Fair Welcomes Job Seekers Back to the Upper Peninsula

In the heart of Michigan’s Upper Peninsula, a unique annual event is bringing together job seekers, alums, and U.P. natives from near and far for a day of virtual networking and career exploration. The 8th Annual Return North Career Fair, proudly presented by MTEC SmartZone in partnership with Upper Peninsula Michigan Works! and Michigan Technological University, is scheduled for November 14, 2024, from 3:00 PM to 6:00 PM EST.

Designed to spotlight the U.P.’s thriving job market and connect talented professionals with top employers, the Return North Career Fair welcomes participants from all backgrounds. This event invites alums, former residents, and U.P. enthusiasts to rediscover the vibrant career possibilities across diverse industries. For those considering a return to the U.P., this virtual platform provides an ideal opportunity to explore current job openings, speak with hiring companies, and gain insights into the region’s evolving professional landscape.

A Unique, Virtual Platform for Career Growth and Connection

With an entirely virtual format, the Return North Career Fair allows attendees to connect with potential employers from the comfort of their own homes, no matter where they currently reside. This year, job seekers can participate entirely for free, while companies can engage with a skilled talent pool for a $225 registration fee, which includes prominent logo placement on the Return North website and access to the virtual networking platform.

Registration is now open at return-north.com, and companies and job seekers alike are encouraged to secure their spots. The career fair provides businesses an unparalleled opportunity to connect with professionals eager to bring their talents to the U.P. while showcasing their organizations in a premier hiring event that spans the entire region.

Opportunities for All: From Local Talent to Long-Distance Alumni

Whether you’re a local professional looking to advance your career, a recent graduate exploring options close to home, or someone considering a move back to the U.P., the Return North event offers valuable opportunities. In addition to connecting with recruiters, attendees will benefit from a range of resources designed to highlight the U.P.’s professional landscape. “Year after year, Return North brings together a diverse array of industries—from engineering and technology to health services and higher education,” says Jason Mack, VP of Business Development at MTEC SmartZone. “We’re excited to continue fostering connections between talented job seekers and innovative companies, helping to build a brighter future for the U.P.”

U.P. Michigan Works! – A Partner in Economic Growth

A longstanding partner of the Return North initiative, Upper Peninsula Michigan Works! is dedicated to fostering economic growth and professional development in the region. Their support for the event ensures a seamless experience for job seekers and companies alike. “Return North is a tremendous opportunity for professionals to reconnect with their roots in a unique, virtual setting,” says Tom Autio, Communications and Communications Manager at U.P. Michigan Works! “With U.P. Michigan Works! support, those considering a return to the Upper Peninsula can seamlessly transition to a community that values professional growth and the lifestyle our region has to offer.”

Event Details and Registration

The Return North Career Fair will be an impactful day for the Upper Peninsula. MTEC SmartZone U.P. Michigan Works! and Michigan Technological University are excited to invite job seekers to register and participate.

Event Details
•  Date: Thursday, November 14, 2024
•  Time: 3:00 PM – 6:00 PM EST
•  Location: Virtual
•  Cost: Free for Job Seekers | $225 for Companies
•  Register at: Return-North.com

Whether you’re looking to grow your career, make new connections, or explore what the Upper Peninsula has to offer, the Return North Career Fair is a powerful resource for anyone interested in making the U.P. their professional home. Take advantage of this chance to join a supportive community of professionals and take the next step in your career journey.

 

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Area students to gain insight from manufacturers about professional trades careers on October 6 during Manufacturing Day at Bay College West

Manufacturing Day brings together ninth-grade students from area schools to interact with local manufacturers and learn about professional trade careers.

“Our goal in bringing together students and area employers is to shift perceptions about what it means to work in the professional trades upon graduating high school,” shared Lois Ellis, director of the Dickinson Area Economic Development Alliance (The Alliance). “We expect 300 students from Kingsford, Iron Mountain, North Dickinson, Niagara and Norway to be in attendance.”

Manufacturing Day is a national program by The Manufacturing Institute to engage students, parents, educators, and community partners to raise awareness of manufacturers’ vital role in many communities and states across the United States.

Locally, The Alliance, Bay College West, Dickinson-Iron ISD Tech Center, Michigan Works, and local manufacturers are leading the charge to raise awareness of all the possibilities for high-quality manufacturing careers with students and parents in the Dickinson area.

“Those working in the professional trades play a crucial role in the health of our local economy. We need to shift perspectives about what successful careers look like,” remarked Ellis.

Manufacturing Day is one opportunity for students to explore working in the professional trades. Students will also learn about the dual enrollment educational paths through the Dickinson-Iron ISD Tech Center and Bay College.

For more information and facts about professional trades careers, visit www.daeda.org/shift.