The Formation of Michigan’s Newest Health System
Aspire Rural Health
Three hospitals in the Thumb of Michigan have combined to form Aspire Rural Health. Hills & Dales Healthcare, Marlette Regional Hospital, and Deckerville Community Hospital affiliates of United Healthcare Partners, consolidated to create a new system of care in the region. The partnership is designed to preserve local control and autonomy while increasing scale and integration.
The transaction is structured to share ownership and control and will be governed by the institutions’ co-CEOs. “I know that we are stronger together, and I look forward to all that we can achieve for our patients and communities through this combination. Ultimately, this is about keeping local healthcare local and improving care for generations to come,” said Angie McConnachie, co-CEO.
Juniper’s Role
Juniper acted as exclusive financial advisor to the parties to facilitate a process to examine the merits and feasibility of a business combination. The assignment involved preparing proforma analyses of remaining independent versus forming a unified system and assisting the Boards in evaluating the available structural options. Aspire Rural Health aims to improve care offerings and increase local patient access by expanding specialists and volumes.
