Sanford and Fairview Announce Intent to Merge

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. 

Latest News

$84 Million Malpractice Verdict Awarded

October 8, 2026

On September 29, a Hennepin County jury issued an $84 million malpractice verdict against Fairview Health Services, in a case involving a patient who died of complications following an exercise-induced heart attack.  

St. Cloud Fifth Graders Experience Mini Medical School

October 8, 2026

A group of fifth-grade students from Lincoln Elementary School in St. Cloud got a firsthand look at the world of medicine on October 5, during a special Mini Medical School Day hosted by the University of Minnesota Medical School CentraCare Regional Campus St. Cloud.

MMA Updates its “One Big Beautiful Bill Act” Guide

October 8, 2026

On October 7, the MMA released an updated version of its “The One Big Beautiful Bill Act (OBBBA) Resource Guide for Physicians.”