Altru Health System to buy three Bismarck hospitals

Altru Health System, based in Grand Forks, announced on Nov. 4 that it has signed a definitive agreement to acquire the CommonSpirit Health St. Alexius hospitals in Bismarck, Garrison, and Turtle Lake. The price of the transaction has not been made public. The deal is expected to close in early 2027 after it passes regulatory review and meets customary closing conditions.

A central feature of the agreement is Altru’s decision to maintain the hospitals’ affiliation with the Catholic Church. This relationship, specifically with the Benedictine sisters, is unique to these facilities. Other Altru properties, including hospitals in Grand Forks and Devils Lake, do not have church connections. Brenda Nagel, president and CEO of the Bismarck Mandan Chamber Economic Development Corp., described the retention of the affiliation as an incredibly big deal for the community.

Nagel noted that the sisters have a rich history in the area, having crossed the prairie many years ago to establish the hospital. She stated that the decision feels like a return to the roots and tradition of the institution. Nagel added that keeping the affiliation is very much appreciated by local residents and stakeholders.

Sister Nicole Kunze, prioress of the Benedictine Sisters of Annunciation Monastery, commended the decision in a statement issued on Nov. 4. She said St. Alexius is rooted in the Benedictine tradition of compassionate care and welcoming all. Kunze expressed encouragement over the shared commitment with Altru to honor that legacy and preserve the Catholic identity that has guided the ministry for generations.

Altru first publicly expressed interest in acquiring the three hospitals in January, when leaders said they intended to explore a potential agreement. U.S. Sen. John Hoeven, R-N.D., who was heavily involved in the previous acquisition of the Devils Lake hospital by Altru, commended the work of Altru CEO Todd Forkel and CommonSpirit CEO Tim Bricker. Hoeven said the agreement builds on past collaboration and strengthens healthcare access for families across North Dakota, particularly in rural areas.

The move marks Altru’s first entry into a two-hospital community. Sanford Medical Center also operates a full acute-care facility in Bismarck. Bismarck has a population of 78,000, while Mandan has 25,000. Nagel said the combined population means the two hospitals need each other. She described the area as a large community where both systems want to partner to deliver a high level of care.

Nagel said she is hearing positive comments about Altru’s entrance into the market. She stated that people want their St. Alexius back and want another option for healthcare. Nagel said residents and employees are optimistic and looking forward to what the transition means for them, noting that the staff simply wants to take care of patients.