Memorial Health System

Memorial Healthcare Provides System Update, Announces Leadership

Memorial Healthcare is proud to provide an update regarding the Memorial Health System, a governance structure first introduced in late 2023 designed to position the organization for long-term growth and enhanced service to the communities it serves. 

The system, in allowing consideration of new and unique ways to generate revenue outside of core hospital operations, also further strengthens and preserves Memorial’s continued status as an independent hospital. 

For our full press release, please continue below.

Memorial Healthcare is proud to provide an update regarding the Memorial Health System, a governance structure first introduced in late 2023 designed to position the organization for long-term growth and enhanced service to the communities it serves. 

The system, in allowing consideration of new and unique ways to generate revenue outside of core hospital operations, also further strengthens and preserves Memorial’s continued status as an independent hospital.  

Since its creation, the Memorial Health System Board has focused on the organization’s future growth and stewardship. 

Key achievements of the Memorial Health System in 2024 include:

  • Expansion of the 200 Health Park Building: Now home to eight employed providers serving the community.

  • Support for County Medical Care Expansion: Facilitated a property transfer to support the planned growth of the county medical care facility.

  • Revitalization of the Former Rite-Aid Building in Owosso: Transformed into a facility offering a pharmacy, expanded urgent care, lab, and x-ray services.

“As healthcare systems around us experience sudden and disruptive changes in leadership, we are more committed than ever to ensuring stability and consistency,” said Greg Bontrager, Chairman of the Memorial Healthcare Board of Trustees. “We will never compromise on the things that matter most—our mission, our culture, and our values. This new structure allows us to focus on what we do best, even better.”

In early 2025, Memorial Healthcare will implement a new system leadership structure to support its continued growth. Key leadership changes include: 

Brian Long, current President and CEO of Memorial Healthcare will transition to the permanent role of the first CEO of Memorial Health System, overseeing the organization’s strategic growth and operations.

  • Jorri Tremain, current Chief Financial Officer, will become System Chief Financial Officer.

  • Abbie Majzel, current Chief Talent Officer, will assume the role of System Chief Administrative Officer.

  • Tom Kurtz, current Chief Operating Officer, will become CEO of Memorial Hospital, overseeing all inpatient and outpatient hospital operations.

“These leaders have demonstrated an unwavering commitment to our organization, embodying the values and culture that define Memorial Healthcare,” said Brian Long. “Their leadership will ensure continued stability as we focus on growth, innovation, and operational excellence.”

The new system structure is designed with financial stewardship in mind and results in a budgetary savings.

“I’m confident that, as a whole, our governance and operational teams will continue to represent the “Memorial Way” as Memorial Health System proceeds with laser focus and attention on the exciting work yet to come,” Bontrager added. “We are prepared to excel and do what we do best – even better. A communitywide commitment to Memorial Healthcare has brought our vision to life, and for that, we are profoundly grateful. ”

Memorial Health System was announced in late 2023. This system was created to expand and improve healthcare services across mid-Michigan, allowing Memorial to reach more communities with high-quality, patient-centered care.

Memorial Health System encompasses all of Memorial Healthcare’s operations and services, allowing the organization to grow more efficiently across multiple regions. This structure enhances internal capabilities and supports new service offerings, real estate developments, and partners, all while preserving Memorial’s commitment to patient-focused care.

The officers of the Memorial Healthcare Board of Trustees presently serve as the Memorial Health System Board. This system board has been entirely focused on the organization’s future growth and stewardship, allowing the hospital board to focus more readily on core hospital governance and operations.

The system board has allowed the busy operations of the hospital to continue without losing focus on future growth. As we look ahead, we anticipate further opportunities in real estate and development, joint venture partnerships, new service offerings, and more. The system board will be increasingly tasked with dedicating thoughtful consideration to these and other exciting possibilities.

No.  Memorial Health System is solely an internal reorganization to enhance Memorial’s existing capabilities. It does not involve partnerships, affiliations, or mergers with other health systems. Memorial remains an independent healthcare provider committed to serving mid-Michigan communities. In fact, a system structure actually ensures greater security for Memorial’s independent status by allowing, through expanded service lines across a wider swath of the healthcare and community landscape, better control of our future in a sustainable fashion.  

Memorial Health System continues to consider collaborations and partnerships with any organization that assists us in delivering quality, compassionate healthcare. 

The leadership structure will allow each leader to focus on specific areas of Memorial Health System, ensuring efficient operations and improved patient services. The hospital operations will be managed by Tom Kurtz, while Jorri Tremain and Abbie Majzel provide system-wide support, creating a balanced approach to healthcare delivery and strategic growth under the direction of the Memorial Health System board and System CEO Brian Long.

Memorial aims to pursue additional community partnerships, new service offerings, real estate developments, and potential joint ventures. The ultimate goal is to improve healthcare access, offer more specialized services, and meet the evolving needs of the community while staying rooted in compassionate, patient-centered care.

With expanded leadership roles and a system-wide focus, Memorial Healthcare employees and physicians will have greater support and resources to provide high-quality care. The organization’s growth and commitment to excellence also create new opportunities for professional development and career advancement.

No, although opportunities for employee advancement and recruitment of additional team members with varied talents are expected as Memorial Health System integrates into further areas within the healthcare and community landscape.

Immediate changes will be concentrated on system and hospital senior executives and those reporting directly to them in their new roles.

The new system structure is designed with financial stewardship in mind and actually results in a budgetary savings.

Community members can support Memorial Health System by choosing Memorial for their healthcare needs, participating in community events, and spreading awareness of Memorial’s services. Community engagement and support are vital to the organization’s growth and its mission of delivering compassionate, patient-focused care.

For further details, please contact Memorial Health System’s community relations team or complete the form below. Please visit our website to stay updated on new services, events, and achievements within Memorial Health System.

If you have any additional questions, please complete the form below. 

Memorial Health System Question

Name(Required)
I am (please check all that apply)(Required)