Rush, Endeavor plan 12-hospital Chicago merger

Rush University System for Health and Endeavor Health plan to merge into a nonprofit system operating under the Rush name, potentially creating one of the Chicago area’s largest health systems. The combined organization would include 12 hospitals and more than 400 care sites, employ more than 46,000 people and clinicians, and serve over 2 million patients annually across Northern Illinois and Northwest Indiana. Endeavor CEO J.P. Gallagher is expected to lead the unified system, while Rush CEO Omar Lateef will remain in his role until the deal closes and then become CEO emeritus and strategic adviser; a 20-member board would have equal representation from both systems. Endeavor has pledged an additional $1 billion for community impact, research, academics, and care innovation, including partnerships and support for underserved communities. The merger remains subject to regulatory review, with completion targeted for early 2027.