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Beacon Health System to acquire Ascension Healthcare System in southwest Michigan

In exciting news for communities across northern Indiana and southwest Michigan, Beacon has signed a definitive agreement to acquire Ascension Michigan’s southwest region. The acquisition will ensure communities now served by Ascension have access to quality, sustainable healthcare for generations.

Once the transaction closes, which is anticipated by this summer, Beacon will take ownership of four hospitals, 35 outpatient clinics and an ambulatory surgery center currently operated by Ascension. By expanding its service area, Beacon will create a great opportunity to support efficient quality care throughout the region. This acquisition enhances Beacon’s strength as a locally owned and governed health system in the constantly evolving healthcare environment.

A message from Kreg Gruber, Beacon Health System CEO

Beacon is a locally owned and governed health system committed to delivering care in communities similar in many ways to the area Ascension serves today. In this video, Kreg shares how you and your family can continue to see the providers you trust along with having access to a larger network of services through Beacon.

About Beacon

Locally owned, not-for-profit health system

Over 8,100 associates

More than 1,175 medical staff providers

146 care sites over seven counties, including seven hospitals

Expanding our reach deeper into southwest Michigan broadens access to high-quality, affordable care for communities served by Ascension, extends our service area and provides scale to strengthen efficiency.

– Kreg Gruber, Beacon CEO

News Release FAQs

Beacon Executive Team

Kreg Gruber

Chief Executive Officer

Mark Brett

Chief Operating Officer

Jeff Costello

Chief Financial Officer

Sam El-Dalati, MD, MBA

Chief Clinical Officer

Mario Ellis

Chief Human Resources Officer

Stacey Johnston, MD, MHA, CHCIO

Chief Information & Digital Execution Officer

Susan King

President, Beacon Health Foundation

Diane Maas

Chief Strategy & Digital Growth Officer

Dale Patterson, MD

President, Beacon Medical Group

Beacon Hospital Leadership

David Bailey

President, Community Hospital of Bremen

Maria Behr

President, Three Rivers Health

Carl Risk, II

President, Elkhart General Hospital

Larry Tracy

President, Memorial Hospital of South Bend

FAQ

Why is Beacon Health System buying the Ascension SW Michigan region hospitals?

There are many benefits for both Ascension SW Michigan and Beacon Health System, including:

Bringing together two organizations that share a commitment to improving health and well-being in our communities through accessible, affordable and high-quality care
Improving efficiency over a larger operation
Growing service lines with the expertise and resources to enhance critically needed specialty care services and making infrastructure improvements
Providing personal and professional growth opportunities for our combined set of associates

What will Beacon’s size be when the acquisition is complete?

Beacon today serves a primary service area of seven counties across northern Indiana and southwest Michigan, with more than 8,100 associates and more than 1,000 physicians. The acquisition will add Ascension’s current four hospitals, 35 outpatient clinics and an ambulatory care facility along with 2,700 associates, including 261 providers.

When will the two systems begin operating as one?

We anticipate receiving all required approvals and completing the transaction in the summer of 2025.

Will the Ascension hospitals and medical office names be changed to the Beacon brand?

Yes, all will operate under the Beacon brand.

Will patients be able to keep their current medical providers?

Yes, both Ascension and Beacon are committed to making this a smooth transition with little, if any, disruption for employees, patients and physicians.

Is Beacon planning to buy more hospitals in Michigan?

This is a significant expansion for Beacon Health! The short-term priority is integrating our operations with the Ascension medical offices. Longer-term, Beacon is always evaluating how it can grow and offer accessible, affordable and high-quality care.

Will Beacon keep the commitments to the SW Michigan communities served by Ascension?

Absolutely! Our two systems share values that demonstrate our commitment to our communities. Beacon is a locally owned and governed nonprofit system that serves as the majority provider for underinsured and uninsured patients. Ascension’s mission is to deliver compassionate, personalized care to all with special attention to persons living in poverty and those most vulnerable.

Is Beacon Health System going to remain as a nonprofit, locally governed organization?

Yes! As a not-for-profit, community-focused organization, Beacon reinvests back into its hospitals, enhancing patient care and services. Beacon does not have shareholders or outside owners, so any profits go right back into serving our patients and communities.

Will there be job losses associated with the acquisition?

Providing jobs is a key priority. All southwest Michigan clinicians and associates will be offered the opportunity to continue employment with Beacon Health System, provided they follow Beacon’s hiring process and meet the legal requirements to work.