Sanford Health, WCH Merger Complete

Wheaton Community Hospital in west central Minnesota has joined Sanford Health, the two health systems said Tuesday.

Financial terms of the acquisition were not disclosed, but the 15-bed, critical access hospital will now be called Sanford Wheaton Medical Center.

Sanford Health Network Vice President Jesse Tischer said the acquisition – which had been under discussion for "several years" -- furthers the not-for-profit health system's goal that patients are no further than 45 minutes away from access to care.

"Our belief is that healthcare is a local asset and we look forward to continuing the strong hospital-community relationship in Wheaton," Tischer said in a joint media release.

All Wheaton Community Hospital employees will become Sanford employees and no changes are expected in services, although additional services might be offered.

"Sanford Health's affiliation with Wheaton will provide the stability, financial backing and resources to assure the long-term viability of quality healthcare in Wheaton," JoAnn Foltz, CEO of the new Sanford Wheaton Medical Center, said in the release. "Sanford shares our dedication to the work of healing and we are excited about the opportunity to continue quality care."