MARQUETTE -- A definite agreement has been reached between Marquette General Health System and Duke LifePoint Healthcare for Duke to acquire MGH. The agreement is subject to review by the Attorney General of Michigan.
Funds from the acquisition transaction will be used to eliminate Marquette General’s debt and fund its pension program. All remaining proceeds will be used to fund a community foundation that will support healthcare organizations and initiatives in the U.P.
Duke LifePoint has committed to investing in physician recruitment and capital improvement projects, including a state-of-the-art outpatient surgery center, comprehensive cancer center, private patient rooms, new technology and new IT infrastructure according to the agreement.
All current Marquette General employees will be offered employment by Duke LifePoint, subject to standard pre-employment screenings. They will also assume the hospital’s obligations under its contract with the Michigan Nurses Association. Other specific terms of the agreement are not disclosed.
The City of Marquette and surrounding area will receive economic benefits from the construction of new facilities, spending at local businesses, and municipal tax payments. Duke LifePoint also will continue relationships the hospital has established with organizations including the Northern Michigan University, Superior Health Partners and Michigan State University.
Marquette General will be Duke LifePoint’s first hospital in Michigan.