3 Michigan systems complete merger; White House asks for $30M to fight Ebola;

News From Around the Web

> Three healthcare organizations in southeast Michigan made their merger official Tuesday, creating a single, $3.8 billion nonprofit health system, according to Hometown Life. Article

> A study by Henry Ford Health System found mandatory employee vaccinations can significantly improve flu vaccination rates in hospitals, according to an announcement from the hospital. Statement

> The White House requested Congress authorize $30 million to pay for efforts to contain the Ebola virus in West Africa, according to the Washington Times. Article

Health Finance News

> The much contested St. Luke's Health System-Saltzer Medical Group acquisition--often considered to be a local matter confined to mostly rural Idaho--actually has national implications, according to amicus briefs filed by 16 state attorneys general. Article

> Healthcare spending will likely make up 19.3 percent--nearly a fifth--of the U.S. economy by 2023, despite a temporary recent lull in steep growth, according to the latest government report. This is up from 17.2 percent in 2012. Article

And Finally… Bus-ted. Article