Sherman Health given green light to join Advocate
The Illinois Health Facilities and Services Review Board voted unanimously Tuesday to allow Sherman Health Systems to join Advocate Health Care, the largest health care system in the state.
The arrangement was opposed by Centegra Health System, which is in the middle of construction of a new hospital in Huntley, set to be completed in 2016. Sherman and Advocate teamed up to oppose the Huntley hospital in 2011 and 2012 before announcing their intent to partner and becoming the target of new opposition.
Elgin-based Sherman Health Systems began a search for a partner in 2011 and chose Oak Brook-based Advocate Health Care in October 2012.
The deal is expected to close June 1, when Sherman Hospital will become Advocate Sherman Hospital. Sherman’s other care sites will also take on the Advocate name as the two systems fully integrate over the next two years.
“The coming together of one of the nation’s top community hospitals and one of the nation’s leading health systems is a big win for our community,” Rick Jakle, chairman of the Sherman Health board of directors, said in a prepared statement. “Sherman’s 125-year history of providing quality care and service to our community will only be enhanced by Advocate’s nationally recognized name and best practices.”
Centegra representatives could not be reached immediately for comment on the review board’s decision.