US-based healthcare systems Henry Ford Health and Ascension Michigan have confirmed that their joint venture partnership will close on 30 September.

The deal will create a combined entity that will be effective from 1 October.

Initially announced in October last year, the partnership will merge Ascension’s southeast Michigan and Genesys healthcare facilities with those of Henry Ford.

The collaboration aims to enhance healthcare outcomes, accessibility and patient experience, focusing on population health, equitable care and value-based services.

It also aims to foster innovation and academic medicine while delivering complex care.

Ascension senior vice-president and Ascension Michigan CEO Carol Schmidt will support the initial phase of the transition and integration of operations alongside Henry Ford Health president and CEO Bob Riney.

The combined entity will employ around 50,000 staff members and operate nearly 550 facilities across Michigan.

Riney said: “Since we announced our proposed joint venture last autumn, we’ve been engaged in thoughtful planning across our organisations – all focused on how we plan to come together to build the future of health on behalf of those we serve.

“It’s given us a wonderful opportunity to make deeper commitments to the sacred mission and privilege of healthcare – and we can’t wait to make this a reality for the people of Michigan and beyond.”

Riney has announced executive team changes to align with the strategic goals of the expanded entity.

Dr Adnan Munkarah will assume the role of president, clinical enterprise and chief physician executive, while Denise Brooks-Williams will become executive vice president and chief operating officer.

Robin Damschroder will serve as president of value-based enterprise and chief financial officer, while Steven Bender will join as executive vice-president and chief legal officer on 21 October.

Dennis Butts has also been appointed as the company's executive vice-president, chief strategy and network development officer.