Evanston-based NorthShore University HealthSystem announced today that it’s acquiring Arlington Heights-based Northwest Community Healthcare.
In a statement NorthShore said NCH will become a regional, community-focused healthcare hub for North Shore in the northwest suburbs.
NorthShore CEO J.P. Gallagher said the move provides “a tremendous opportunity to transform the practice and delivery of medicine for the future.”
Chicago Business reports the merger comes at a particularly challenging time for hospitals, as COVID-19 drives up costs and drains revenues.
The deal is expected to give Northwest better access to capital and economies of scale, while NorthShore, whose closest hospital to NCH is in Glenview, gains more control over the northwest suburban market.
The agreement comes after the NCH board conducted an 18-month strategic assessment. It’s expected to close later this year, pending regulatory approval.
NorthShore in January completed acquisition of 312-bed Swedish Hospital on Chicago’s north side.