Our History

ThedaCare’s roots in Northeast Wisconsin are more than a century deep. We’ve had different names and different partnerships over the years, but one thing has remained unchanged: our commitment to our patients and our communities.

Our healthcare organization began with the merger of Appleton Medical Center and Theda Clark Medical Center. In 1987 the two community hospitals came together to form Novus Health Group.

In 1994, Novus partnered with United Health of Wisconsin Insurance Company, which was owned by independent physicians practicing at both hospitals. Novus became United Health Group.

In August 1999, United Health Group changed its name to ThedaCare™ and United Health of Wisconsin Insurance Company changed its name to Touchpoint™ Health Plan.

Over the years, ThedaCare has evolved into a community-owned health system consisting of: Appleton Medical Center, New London Family Medical Center, Riverside Medical Center in Waupaca, Theda Clark Medical Center in Neenah, Shawano Medical Center, ThedaCare Physicians offices, along with multiple other health care services.

ThedaCare has grown from its modest beginning as a merger of two community hospitals with 2,000 employees to the largest employer in Northeast Wisconsin with more than 6,100 employees.

Theda Clark Peters was a community activist responsible for numerous projects including the Neenah Public Library and the hospital that bears her name.  In 1999, our organization adopted her name as a tribute to her generosity and vision.