GRAND RAPIDS, Mich. (WOOD) — Spectrum Health is extending its reach into southwest Michigan, with plans to integrate with Lakeland Health.

Under the proposed move, Lakeland’s three-hospital health system of more than 4,000 employees and 450 providers will become a division of Spectrum Health. Lakeland’s oversight, investment considerations and philanthropic efforts would all remain locally controlled.

Spectrum Health President and CEO Richard Breon says the integration will improve affordability, quality and access for patients.

Lakeland Health President and CEO Loren Hamel says both health systems will share and standardize their approaches to health care.

Lakeland has already partnered with Helen DeVos Children’s Hospital and Spectrum Health for specialty services, including heart care.

Spectrum and Lakeland expect to finalize their agreement by Oct. 1.