On Oct. 30, 2013, The Barbara Ann Karmanos Cancer Institute and McLaren Health Care signed an agreement today that will create the largest cancer research and provider network in Michigan and expand access to advanced cancer care in Detroit and communities throughout the state.

The agreement is expected to be effective within several weeks after the boards of both organizations have reviewed and amended their governing documents. Under the terms of the agreement, McLaren will provide a substantial capital investment over a multi-year period to assist with capital upgrades at Karmanos facilities and to fund clinical trials, basic and translational research programs.

The Karmanos Cancer Institute will become a member of the nonprofit McLaren Health Care system. Both Karmanos Cancer Institute and Karmanos Cancer Center, which provides clinical care to patients, will retain their names and remain as separate legal entities, maintaining their assets and reporting to their existing respective boards of directors.