GRAND RAPIDS, Mich.—Blue Sky Vision, a unit of investment group Sterling Partners, announced this week a new partnership with Sussex Vision Center, a multi-site optometry practice in southwest Michigan. Michael Sussex, OD, founded the Sussex Vision practice in Coldwater, and over the last three decades has added locations in Three Rivers and Sturgis, Mich. No details on the transaction were disclosed. Blue Sky Vision, formerly Great Lakes MSO, was created in early 2017 through a partnership between Grand Rapids Ophthalmology and Sterling Partners, a diversified investment management platform founded in 1983 and based in Chicago, as VMAIL reported.

“I wanted to find the right partners as I begin my gradual transition to retirement,” Dr. Sussex said in the announcement. "With the resources of Blue Sky Vision and expertise of consulting surgeons in West Michigan for referrals, our patients in southwest Michigan will continue to receive great care locally and behind-the-scenes practice benefits that will enhance their overall experience." Dr. Sussex practices with Matt Austin, OD, and they offer comprehensive eye health services.

Bill Hughson, Blue Sky Vision's chief executive officer, said the firm is “delighted to welcome Sussex Vision Center and Drs. Mike Sussex and Matt Austin to the Blue Sky Vision family,” which includes more than 50 eyecare providers across the West Michigan region. “Mike comes to us with more than 30 years of commitment to serving the communities of Three Rivers, Sturgis, and Coldwater and the surrounding areas,” Hughson added.

To date, Blue Sky Vision partners include: Vitreo-Retinal Associates, Michigan Optical, Shoreline Vision, Walker Surgical Center, Lakeshore Eye, Surgical Care Center of Michigan, and Grand Rapids Ophthalmology.