March 27, 2026
In a written statement released today, Vernon Health says they have signed a letter of intent to explore a closer partnership with Emplify Health by Gundersen. The move to open discussions on a potential affiliation could shape the future of medical care in Vernon County.
The organizations have collaborated for decades, and leaders believe a formal affiliation could strengthen patient care and ensure the long term sustainability of their services. Emplify Health President Heather Schimmers emphasized that the two groups share similar values and a care philosophy that makes exploring a partnership a natural next step.
“Relationships like these are vital to delivering the best care and ensuring long term sustainability,” said Heather Schimmers. “Emplify Health by Gundersen and Vernon Health are similar in many ways, we share a common culture and care philosophy, and this exploration represents an opportunity to build on our decades long partnership to better serve our communities.”
Discussions are still in the early stages, and no final decisions have been made. The letter of intent simply opens discussions between Emplify Health by Gundersen and Vernon Health. The collaborative evaluation process is expected to take several months, during which time neither organization will make changes to patient care or services.
Vernon Health CEO David Hartberg noted that the primary focus throughout these talks will remain on the well being of patients, staff and the local community.
“Vernon Health and Emplify Health by Gundersen are opening the door to discussing whether a closer partnership could enhance healthcare delivery in the region,” said David Hartberg. “Our number one priority is people, patients, their families, neighbors in the communities the organizations serve, and staff at both organizations.”
As a sign of their ongoing collaboration, the two health systems have also extended their shared electronic health record partnership through August 2027. Vernon Health will continue to operate as an independent organization serving Viroqua and the surrounding region while the talks progress. Emplify Health, formed from a merger between Gundersen Health System and Bellin Health, operates across multiple states and will continue its broad regional operations during the evaluation.
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