BY JENNIFER WEINGART
On July first Mecosta County Medical Center will become Spectrum Health Big Rapids Hospital.
The name change comes with an integration into Spectrum health system which already operates medical services throughout Western Michigan.
According to Tom Hogenson with Mecosta County Medical Center community relations the merger and name change are the next step in recognizing a relationship between Spectrum and the hospital that has been active for years.
"In a way this integration is a recognition of an already strong existing relationship, we're just sort of taking the next step which is to become a part of a vast and always improving referral network. So we're very proud to be able to bring this kind of integration to the community." Hogenson said.
The full extent of the changes brought by the integration will be noticed over the next few years.
Hogenson said hopefully it will bring new services, availability of specialty care and the possibility of facility improvements.