Wake County Commissioners to hear from WakeMed on potential merger with Atrium Health

WAKE COUNTY, N.C. (WTVD) -- Dozens of doctors, nurses, and healthcare professionals packed into a Wake County Commissioners meeting to hear about a possible merger between WakeMed and Atrium Healthcare systems.

WakeMed patient Nancy Shugart is bracing for possible changes.

"It's hard for people like us," she said. "We have come to WakeMed ever since we moved here, about 15 or so years ago, and we've been for the most part really happy. The people are great."

WakeMed Board Chair says the concept of the partnership was presented to the WakeMed Board in January of 2024, and that the two entities plan to start the integration process later this year and the beginning of 2027.

Atrium and WakeMed told commissioners they're each facing a series of challenges including intensifying financial strain with Medicaid reductions and inflation, workforce shortages, behavorial health demands surging past capacity.

"We've always been fiercely proud of our independence. However, looking at the future of healthcare and especially the challenges face safety net hospitals like ours we felt it would be irresponsible not to give it vigorous due diligence," said WakeMed Board Chair Thad McDonald.

The deal has caused several concerns about transparency with the public and possible increased health care costs.

Commissioners did not vote on the proposal Monday.

How we got here

The Wake County Board of Commissioners voted last month to delay a decision on the merger by three months amid questions surrounding the proposal.

The merger would place WakeMed under Charlotte-based Atrium Health. State leaders have said the deal could increase insurance premiums by more than $100 per year if approved.

WakeMed has defended the merger, saying it would help reduce costs for supplies, medicines and equipment. Atrium Health has also pledged a $2 billion investment in the area and the creation of more than 3,000 jobs.

Despite those promises, some local physicians have voiced concerns about the potential impact of further health care consolidation.

"So I have a unique perspective and I like to think that I have the best interests of our patients and other health care workers in mind," said Dr. Joshua Ward, a physician who opposes the merger. "And I have strong concerns that a merger like this creates more consolidation, less competition, and ends up being worse for patients and health care workers overall."

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