November 17, 2022
Sanford Health and Fairview Health Services announced on November 15 that they have signed a non-binding letter of intent to combine and create a new health system that would operate under the Sanford name.
It is the second time within the last decade that the two systems have tried to merge. An earlier attempt, in 2013, waned among public scrutiny.
“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 in a release. “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 governing boards of both health systems have approved moving ahead with the merger. The closing of the transaction is anticipated in 2023, pending antitrust and other necessary reviews and closing conditions.
April 9, 2026
An amended piece of legislation that would exempt buprenorphine from prior authorization (PA) was heard in the Senate Health and Human Services Committee on April 9.
April 9, 2026
On April 9, the Senate Health and Human Services Committee heard a bill that would require coverage for psychiatric Collaborative Care Model (CoCM) services under Medical Assistance.
April 9, 2026
On April 9, the House Taxes Committee heard legislation focused on supporting the financial stability and ongoing operations of Hennepin Healthcare.