Atrium Health and WakeMed to partner
Atrium would invest $2 billion and WakeMed would add 3,300 jobs under the proposed combination, which critics say could raise health care costs.
- On Monday, the Wake County Board of Commissioners delayed a vote on Atrium Health's proposed $2 billion acquisition of WakeMed for at least 90 days, citing the need for greater public scrutiny and community input.
- Announced Friday, the 'strategic combination' involves Atrium investing $2 billion to expand WakeMed's flagship Raleigh campus and services across Wake County over the coming years.
- State Treasurer Brad Briner and Raleigh Mayor Janet Cowell criticized the deal's rushed timeline and lack of transparency, arguing hospital consolidations typically increase healthcare costs for residents.
- Commissioners voted unanimously to delay, with Chairman Don Mial stating, "Community engagement is important and we want to be fully open and transparent" about the process.
- WakeMed President and CEO Donald Gintzig defends the partnership as essential for long-term growth, though state and federal regulators could still seek to block the deal.
11 Articles
11 Articles
Proposed WakeMed-Atrium Deal Prompts Calls for Transparency
Wake County leaders are pumping the brakes on the proposed merger of WakeMed and Charlotte-based Atrium Health. Atrium, the state’s largest hospital system, made the announcement Friday. Wake County commissioners had quietly added an amendment to WakeMed’s articles of incorporation and property agreement to the consent agenda for its Monday meeting, but removed it after backlash over the lack of public engagement. While the county commission ha…
WakeMed touts benefits of Atrium deal after weekend backlash
By Michelle Crouch and Rose Hoban When WakeMed Health & Hospitals board members were first approached by Charlotte-based Atrium Health about combining forces two years ago, they weren’t sold on the idea. But after two years of review and study — including bringing in an outside consultant to evaluate the deal — they changed their minds, WakeMed Board Chair Thad McDonald told Wake County commissioners on Monday. “I am acutely aware of the angs…
WakeMed acquisition by Atrium delayed for public input. Decision could come in August
"While the joining of these hospitals may be positive for Wake County, we want to be fully open and transparent about the process, and that includes allowing ample time for public feedback," Wake County Commissioner Don Mial said.
Coverage Details
Bias Distribution
- 40% of the sources lean Left, 40% of the sources are Center
Factuality
To view factuality data please Upgrade to Premium







