It will allow the health care system to offer a "variety of services to its patients at a convenient location," but exact plans haven't been finalized, according to a news release.

"Malls across America are redefining themselves as retailers close their stores. Essentia Health sees an opportunity to contribute to the redevelopment and vibrancy of the Duluth mall," the release read.

It’s the second Miller Hill space Essentia has purchased. The Miller Hill Health Plaza opened in the fall, and more services will be added to its second floor, according to the release.

The plaza houses relocated personal fitness and therapy centers. They were moved to make way for Essentia’s Vision Northland development, which broke ground in the fall.

The Vision Northland development is an $800-million private investment meant to reduce the hospital’s physical footprint and update facilities, including a 14-story hospital tower being constructed on the site of the former therapy center.

Membership at the plaza’s Center for Personal Fitness has increased since its opening, the news release read.

Essentia spent around $15 million on the new plaza, of which $3.2 million was used to buy the former Younkers store, according to News Tribune reporting.

The former Sears building and land were assessed at over $3.6 million, according to St. Louis County property records.

Essentia Health’s board of directors and a regional board of directors will have to approve final plans for the former Sears space.

This story was updated at 5:10 p.m. with additional information about Essentia’s other developments and assessment value. It was originally posted at 4:23 p.m.