Essentia Health and Marshfield Clinic System end talks to merge organizations after two years of discussions

(Fargo, ND) -- Two healthcare systems are ending talks to merge their organizations.

Over the last two years, Essentia Health and Marshfield Clinic System were speaking about integration between the two companies. As of today, talks between the health care providers are no longer occurring. In a statement, Essentia cited financial struggles within Marshfield Clinic System as a key reason for the end of talks.

"Yes, it was the primary factor in our decision to end discussions. Financial stability is a critical component of Essentia being able to fulfill our mission for our patients and communities," said Caitlin Pallai, a Media Relations Specialist with Essentia Health, "We appreciate the incredible contributions of our colleagues, whose hard work ensures we are a growing organization that provides excellent, accessible care to our communities. To be clear, Essentia’s finances are strong, and it is imperative we maintain that stability so we can continue investing in and enhancing care for our patients."

Both companies released the following statement after the end of talks.

“Moving ahead, Essentia continues to focus on building innovative partnerships and transforming care for our communities. As a strong, growing organization, we are guided by our mission to make a healthy difference for those we are privileged to serve," said Essentia Health CEO Dr. David Herman.

"As we now move our separate ways, Marshfield Clinic looks forward to advancing our 100-year legacy of providing compassionate and accessible care to the communities we serve. Our commitment to continually enhance the level of care we provide remains firmly in place as we look to the future,” said MCHS Interim CEO Dr. Brian Hoerneman.