DETROIT (WWJ) — Henry Ford Health and Ascension Michigan have announced a major change in Metro Detroit’s healthcare landscape.
Officials with the two healthcare systems on Tuesday announced a new joint venture that will combine the two organizations, a move they say will “solidify their shared commitment to Detroiters, Michiganders and everyone seeking the very best in compassionate, results-focused healthcare.”
The move makes Henry Ford the state's second largest health system behind Corewell Health, which saw a merger between Beaumont and Spectrum in 2022.
Several Ascension hospitals, including those in Detroit, Southfield, Novi, Madison Heights and Warren will be renamed to Henry Ford.
Under the new leadership, Henry Ford Health now employs an estimated 50,000 workers at over 550 hospitals, clinics and other facilities and offices across Michigan.
Executives say there will be outreach to patients this week to let them know they can continue to see their existing doctors, make appointments and visit facilities as they always have.
While many things will remain the same, officials say the merger will give patients more options for care.
“We know what an incredible privilege our healthcare mission is – and today I join our 50,000 amazing team members in taking a monumental leap forward for those we serve,” Henry Ford Health CEO Riney said, per a press release. “From Detroit to Grand Blanc, from Jackson to Southfield, from Macomb to our Downriver communities, and everything in between, we’re committed to making the impossible, possible – everyday – for those we serve.”
Executives say the company “plans to invest in and fully integrate its now-expanded healthcare delivery network, creating greater opportunities to coordinate, grow, and adapt services and care settings to meet consumer needs – expanding access to care, lowering costs, and improving health outcomes, as well as delivering exceptional performance in quality, safety, and customer service.”
Among the biggest investments Henry Ford plans to make is upgrading the electronic medical record platform at the newly acquired Ascension facilities.