Milwaukee-based EMSystems LLC announced today it will acquire Global Secure Corp., formerly known as virtual Alert, of Austin, Texas.

EMSystems is an industry leader in web-based interoperable communications and patient tracking solutions. The solutions created by the combined companies will be used by more than 4,000 health care providers in 40 states, covering more than 70 percent of the U.S. population.

The Global Secure Readiness and Response Suite is the leading multi-media alerting and documentation management solution for crisis preparedness and response.

The merged company will be headquartered in Milwaukee and will eventually be folded into the EMSystems name, according to Andy Nunemaker, who will remain as chief executive officer of the combined firm.

"Global Secure Systems and EMSystems have strong solutions that have been used to manage hundreds of incidents of all sizes," Nunemaker said. "Both companies share a commitment to providing reliable, robust solutions combined with excellent customer service. The combined company will be able to provide a unique integrated solution to an even wider audience."

"The synergies between these two companies make this deal very appealing for our customers," said Gary Fromm, CEO of Global Secure Systems. "The integration of the companies will allow for increased development of both current and new products. The resulting product suite will be superior to what either company could provide independently."

Fromm will not have a role in the merged company. The acquisition will result in the elimination of some duplicative jobs, but none of the eliminated jobs are in Milwaukee, Nunemaker told SBT.

"Customers are looking for integration of key preparedness and response activities including alerting and notification, collaboration, hospital evacuation, patient tracking, hospital resource management, inventory management, volunteer management, patient care reporting, and analysis," said Robert Hedgcock, EMSystems chief technical officer. "We expect the addition of Global Secure System's Health Alert Network and Volunteer Mobilizer functionality to EMSystems' current product suite will fill a critical need for customers that are looking for a comprehensive, interoperable, regional emergency preparedness and communication solution."