The merger between Janesville, Wis.-based Mercy Health System and Rockford (Ill.) Health System has been approved, creating a regional health system that will provide healthcare services to patients in northern Illinois and southern Wisconsin.
The merger was approved by the boards of directors of both organizations in October, and the transaction was approved by the Illinois Health Facilities and Services Review Board Dec. 16.
The new unnamed health system created through the merger will operate five hospitals and employ more than 550 physicians.
"By thoughtfully aligning our organizations, we will create a regional system that honors our existing legacies while strengthening both systems for the future," said Javon R. Bea, president and CEO of Mercy Health System.
The health system will establish its headquarters in Illinois and begin operations Jan. 1.
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