SAINT PAUL, Minn. (KFGO) – Minnesota Attorney General Keith Ellison will hold a public forum in Duluth on Nov. 23 to hear feedback on the proposed acquisition of Essentia Health by HealthPartners. The forum is scheduled from 6 p.m. to 8 p.m.
State regulators are reviewing the deal under Minnesota antitrust, charity, and health care transaction laws. The review will evaluate how the combined hospital system could affect patient care options, medical costs, and health care workers. While the attorney general does not formally approve or deny mergers, state law allows his office to sue to block deals that harm the public interest.
“Part of that review involves hearing directly from the people of Minnesota about how this proposed transaction will affect them and their loved ones,” Ellison said.
HealthPartners and Essentia announced their agreement in late September. If completed, Bloomington-based HealthPartners would take over Duluth-based Essentia Health, forming a network with more than 20 hospitals and 170 clinics across Minnesota, North Dakota, and western Wisconsin.
Those who want to attend the Duluth meeting must register online in advance to receive the meeting location. Attendees who wish to speak during the session must also complete an online registration form. Residents unable to attend can submit written comments through the attorney general’s website or call the office directly.
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