Sparrow is Joining forces with Michigan Medicine

A big change is coming for Lansing's Sparrow Hospital and its Healthcare System. Sparrow is entering into a formal partnership with Michigan Medicine, formerly the University of Michigan Health System.

Together, they will become one of the largest healthcare organizations in the state, valued at more than $7 billion with more than 200 sites. The agreement is expected to be completed during the first half of 2023.

Sparrow is Mid-Michigan’s largest health system. It operates six hospitals in Ionia, Ingham, Clinton, Eaton, and Montcalm counties.

In addition to the University of Michigan Hospital in Ann Arbor, Michigan Medicine operates dozens of health centers across Metro Detroit and Mid-Michigan.

Sparrow president James Dover says patients won’t notice many changes.

“I think the only change that they’ll notice is better access to more specialty care," Dover told reporters yesterday during a zoom interview.

This isn't the first partnership between the health systems, Sparrow has been collaborating with Michigan Medicine at its C.S. Mott Children’s Hospital in Ann Arbor.

Sparrow said they will be able to have their own board’s control of the health system and each of its affiliate hospitals.

Sparrow officials say they don't expect any personnel layoffs as part of their integration with Michigan Medicine.

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