Charlotte-based Atrium Health, one of the largest nonprofit hospital systems in the U.S., is preparing for a major expansion that could reshape healthcare across North Carolina. The system is pursuing a deal to take over WakeMed, bringing at least $2 billion in new investment to the Triangle.
The proposed transaction would place WakeMed under Advocate Health, one of the nation’s largest healthcare networks, of which Atrium is a part.
WakeMed’s board has already unanimously approved the deal. Wake County commissioners are expected to vote Monday on measures needed to move it forward.
If approved, Atrium would become the sole corporate member of the nonprofit that owns WakeMed, while WakeMed would remain its own legal entity.
Atrium has pledged at least $2 billion to expand services, improve care, and accelerate research. Leaders say the deal will also help attract medical talent and create thousands of jobs.
For WakeMed, the partnership could provide greater access to clinical trials and specialized care, strengthening its ability to compete with larger systems like UNC Health and Duke Health.
The agreement would also reshape governance. Wake County would appoint eight of 14 board members, with Atrium appointing the remaining six.
WakeMed’s current leadership team is expected to stay in place after the deal closes.
For Atrium, the move expands its reach into the fast-growing Raleigh market, linking North Carolina’s two largest metro regions under one system.
State law requires final approval from both Wake County commissioners and WakeMed’s board, with more details expected at a news conference Tuesday.
