The $55 million Associated Healthcare CU of St. Paul, Minn., said Tuesday it has now completed a merger with the $21 million Bluestone FCU of Eagan, Minn., characterized by AHCU as “the perfect merge” since both CUs are in the health care field.

Bluestone, serving Blue Cross clientele in the Twin Cities, had begun discussing merging back in June, said Denise Meinert, marketing and business development director at AHCU. The consolidation creating a five-branch CU became effective Dec. 1.

“This strategic credit union alliance provides a stronger foundation to financially assist employees and families in organizations in the chiropractic, pharmaceutical, nursing home and hospital fields,” said Meinert. 

The merger permits the two CUs to reach “a larger audience” providing financial aid to deserving borrowers “during these difficult economic times.”

Associated has 8,300 members serving Ramsey County while Bluestone has 3,900 members in Dakota County.