Trustmark Mutual Holding Co. is buying a Minneapolis, Minn.-based provider of integrated health and fitness management services for about $97 million.

The deal involves a subsidiary of the Lake Forest, Ill.-based health insurance and benefits administration firm buying all of Health Fitness Corporation’s stock. The independent members of the Health Fitness board unanimously approved the merger agreement and are recommending HealthFitness’ shareholders adopt the agreement.

Dave McDonough

The transaction is expected to close by April, subject to customary closing conditions, including expiration of the waiting period under the Hart-Scott-Rodino Antitrust Improvements Act.

“In HealthFitness, Trustmark has found a company that fits exceptionally well with Trustmark’s strategy to build on and leverage our existing healthcare management, data analytics, and healthcare advocacy services,” said Dave McDonough, Trustmark’s CEO, in a statement. He added that Trustmark’s health care system and experience handling complex case management meshes well with HealthFitness’ wellness and fitness emphasis.

“Together, we have the foundation for a broad spectrum of innovative and proven services that help people improve their health, navigate a complex healthcare system, and reduce medical costs,” McDonough said.

HealthFitness and several Trustmark divisions share similar target markets, which will “strengthen our sales pipeline and enable us to be more effective in helping our customers reach their goals,” he said.

The corporate headquarters of HealthFitness will remain in Bloomington, Minn., and the company’s current leadership team will retain ongoing responsibility for HealthFitness’ daily operations.

HealthFitness provides integrated employee health improvement services to Fortune 500 companies, the healthcare industry and individual consumers. With 30-plus years of experience, HealthFitness partners with employers to manage healthcare and productivity costs by improving individual health and well-being.