MLHS Secures Future of Long Term Care Through New Partnership

Mille Lacs Health System (MLHS) has signed a Letter of Intent (LOI) with Cura, a respected non-profit skilled nursing provider, to begin a strategic partnership that will ensure the long-term health and sustainability of local long-term care services in Onamia.

The transition is anticipated to take place in mid-summer 2025, and there are no plans to close the facility. The partnership ensures that the high-quality care provided to residents will continue uninterrupted, as it has for generations in this community.

As part of the agreement, all current Long Term Care employees will have the opportunity to join the Cura team, allowing for continuity of staffing and relationships that residents and families already know and trust.

“This partnership was entered into with the best interests of our residents and the Onamia community in mind,” said Andy Knutson, CEO of Mille Lacs Health System. “Cura shares our values, our commitment to compassionate, local care and will bring additional resources to support our staff and residents.”

The partnership reflects a shared goal to maintain access to essential long-term care services close to home, while also securing the long term stability of both MLHS and the facility for years to come. “We are committed to caring for our seniors in the rural communities they call home,” said Tom Opatz, CEO of Cura. “If a transfer of operations is agreed upon, we intend for this transition to be smooth and beneficial for residents, families, employees, and the community.”

MLHS and Cura leadership will continue to work closely with staff, residents, and families throughout the transition and will contact them separately with updates as they become available.