Minnesota Attorney General Keith Ellison announced in a press release Wednesday that the University of Minnesota, Fairview and Essentia Health will engage in renewed conversations about the future of academic medicine led by a yet-to-be-chosen strategic facilitator.

The three organizations have struggled to agree on how to continue developing the University’s new, statewide health care system. The proposed system was initially announced Jan. 24, 2025.

The new health care system would be a collaboration between the parties to solve challenges Minnesotans face, like structural inequities in the healthcare system, according to a press release from Jan. 24. 

“Given the current status of the talks, the time pressure, and the importance of the public interest in getting this right, my office is taking a more active role,” Ellison said in the press release. 

All parties will be involved in choosing the strategic facilitator who will guide conversations to develop the new system, according to the press release. The University and the health care organizations are financially responsible for the strategic facilitator. 

Brian Evans, the press secretary for the attorney general’s office, said the state is not paying for the facilitator because it is not directly involved in the negotiations. It is typical for the involved parties to pay for expenses related to the negotiation process. 

A press release from the University communications department on Wednesday said it supports Ellison’s involvement in the decision. 

“If we don’t achieve a solution, the future of Minnesota’s healthcare workforce, the University of Minnesota Medical School, and the innovation pipeline that is fueled by our medical research are all at risk,” the press release read. 

Essentia and Fairview both expressed support for Ellison’s engagement in the discussion in statements to the Minnesota Daily on Wednesday. 

“For nearly two years, Fairview has sought resolution with the University of Minnesota that prioritizes patients, providers, and the long-term strength of our healthcare system,” Fairview said in a statement to the Minnesota Daily. “We welcome the opportunity for a fresh start and to engage in a structured facilitation process in an effort to find a resolution that is fair, transparent, and in the best interests of those we serve.”

Evans said there is no timeline to find the facilitator, nor is there a specific place the parties are looking for them.