Posts Archive - Sanford Health News

Sanford Health welcomes new allergist to Bismarck

September 17, 2025

Contact:
Chelsey Kralicek
Sanford Health Media Relations
701-516-4903 / Chelsey.Kralicek@SanfordHealth.org

BISMARCK, N.D. – Kranthi Nomula, M.D., a fellowship-trained allergy and immunology specialist has joined Sanford Bismarck to expand services in allergy and immunology.

Dr. Nomula received her medical degree at SVS Medical College in Mahbubnagar, India. She completed her residency in pediatrics at Memorial Healthcare System in Hollywood, Florida, and a fellowship in allergy and immunology at University of South Florida in Tampa.

She evaluates and manages a wide range of conditions in children and adults, including:

• Asthma
• Chronic hives (urticaria)
• Drug and vaccine allergies
• Eczema (atopic dermatitis)
• Environmental allergies
• Eosinophilic disorders
• Food allergies
• Immune dysregulation syndromes
• Primary immunodeficiencies

Dr. Nomula has clinical expertise in the diagnosis and management of primary immunodeficiency disorders and food allergies.

She is involved in research that aims to improve the diagnosis and treatment of rare immune system conditions, including inherited immune deficiencies and complex allergic diseases. Dr. Nomula has contributed to studies exploring new therapies for lung disease in patients with weakened immune systems, as well as research on how certain immune cells behave in people with genetic immune disorders. Her goal is to help bring safer, more effective treatments to both children and adults with challenging immune-related conditions.

Dr. Nomula joins Housam Alasaly, M.D. and Samantha Mollman, PA-C, and is now seeing patients at the Sanford Northern Sky Clinic in Bismarck at 4535 Northern Sky Drive. To schedule an appointment, talk to your primary care provider or call 701-323-8989.

The Sanford Bismarck region provides health care to central and western North Dakota, eastern Montana and northern South Dakota. It includes 26 clinics in Bismarck, Mandan, Minot, Dickinson, Williston and Watford City, as well as a Level II trauma center located in Bismarck.

About Sanford Health
Sanford Health, the largest rural health system in the United States, is dedicated to transforming the health care experience and providing access to world-class health care in America’s heartland. Headquartered in Sioux Falls, South Dakota, the organization has 53,000 employees and serves over 2 million patients and nearly 425,000 health plan members across the upper Midwest including South Dakota, North Dakota, Minnesota, Wyoming, Iowa, Wisconsin and the Upper Peninsula of Michigan. The integrated nonprofit health system includes a network of 56 hospitals, 288 clinic locations, 147 senior care communities, 4,000 physicians and advanced practice providers and nearly 1,500 active clinical trials and studies. The organization’s transformational virtual care initiative brings patients closer to care with access to 78 specialties. Learn more about Sanford Health’s commitment to shaping the future of rural health care across the lifespan at sanfordhealth.org or Sanford Health News.

Sanford Health CMO of virtual care to speak at Dallas forum

September 16, 2025

Contact:
David Brown
Sanford Health Media Relations
605-366-2432 / david.brown@sanfordhealth.org

SIOUX FALLS, S.D. — Sanford Health chief medical officer of virtual care David Newman, M.D., will be a featured speaker at the MedCity INVEST Digital Health 2025 conference on Thursday, Sept. 18 in Dallas. The event, presented by MedCity News, will bring together healthcare futurists, novel employers, payers, providers, investors and entrepreneurs to discuss the changing landscape of digital health.

Dr. Newman will join a fireside chat titled: Rural Providers’ Role in the AI Revolution. Moderated by MedCity News associate editor Katie Adams, the conversation will focus on how rural health systems are solving for some of the most pressing care delivery challenges, such as workforce shortages, geographic isolation and limited access to specialists.

“At Sanford Health, we are innovating out of necessity,” Dr. Newman said. “I am excited to share more about how we are investing in virtual care, AI and digital health tools to bridge access gaps, strengthen our workforce and transform the health care experience across the rural Midwest. For many of our patients, it’s virtual care or no care at all.”

As part of Sanford Health’s $350 million Virtual Care Initiative, the Sanford Virtual Care Center opened in November 2024 in Sioux Falls, South Dakota. The center includes an education institute focused on training the next generation of clinicians for digital practice and an accelerator hub that will trial new and emerging tech for rural patients.

A practicing endocrinologist based in Fargo, North Dakota, Dr. Newman has presented at high-profile industry events across the country including the Reuters Digital Health Summit, HIMSS AI in Healthcare Forum and the American Hospital Association Leadership Summit among others.

For more information about Sanford Health, visit sanfordhealth.org.

About Sanford Health
Sanford Health, the largest rural health system in the United States, is dedicated to transforming the health care experience and providing access to world-class health care in America’s heartland. Headquartered in Sioux Falls, South Dakota, the organization has 53,000 employees and serves over 2 million patients and nearly 425,000 health plan members across the upper Midwest including South Dakota, North Dakota, Minnesota, Wyoming, Iowa, Wisconsin and the Upper Peninsula of Michigan. The integrated nonprofit health system includes a network of 56 hospitals, 288 clinic locations, 147 senior care communities, 4,000 physicians and advanced practice providers and nearly 1,500 active clinical trials and studies. The organization’s transformational virtual care initiative brings patients closer to care with access to 78 specialties. Learn more about Sanford Health’s commitment to shaping the future of rural health care across the lifespan at sanfordhealth.org or Sanford Health News.

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SDSU wrestling to face Arizona State at Sanford Pentagon

September 16, 2025

Contact:
David Brown
Sanford Health Media Relations
605-366-2432 / david.brown@sanfordhealth.org

SIOUX FALLS, S.D. – The South Dakota State Jackrabbits and Arizona State Sun Devils will square off in a wrestling dual at the Sanford Pentagon on Friday, January 2, 2026. Tickets will go on sale at a later date.

“This is a tremendous matchup to kick off the new year,” said Jesse Smith, vice president of Sanford Sports. “Both of these teams have experienced success on the mat at the Sanford Pentagon and we’re grateful to Coach Jones and Coach Hahn for coming back to Sioux Falls for what should be an excellent dual.”

The Sun Devils boast a storied history with 13 individual national champions and the 1988 NCAA team national championship. Head coach Zeke Jones was a member of that 1988 squad and is entering his 12^th season leading his alma mater.

“We’re excited to add South Dakota State to our schedule. They have a good team and are always well-prepared,” Jones said. “Sanford Health has always been a great wrestling partner and host. We look forward to competing in Sioux Falls.”

The Jackrabbits are entering their 8^th season under head coach Damion Hahn. At least four individual South Dakota State wrestlers have qualified for the NCAA Tournament in each of the last five years including a record nine individuals last season. SDSU has also earned at least 12 dual victories as a team each year since 2021.

”We always appreciate the opportunity to compete at the Sanford Pentagon. It’s a great facility and they do a fantastic job producing an exciting environment,” Hahn said. “We are looking forward to a good dual against a solid Big 12 team in Arizona State, which has a strong tradition of success.”

ASU and SDSU have met twice with the Sun Devils taking both duals: a 25-13 victory on Nov. 26, 2017 in Tempe, AZ and a 30-9 victory on Nov. 11, 2018 at the Sanford Pentagon.

About Sanford Sports
Sanford Sports is the modern athletics arm of Sanford Health, the premier rural health system in the United States. Rooted in science and health care, Sanford Sports offers a combination of programs, services, events, facilities and partnerships intended to make active lifestyles accessible and rewarding for people of all ages and abilities. Based on the 500-acre Sanford Sports Complex in Sioux Falls, South Dakota, Sanford Sports has been changing the way athletes play for 25 years. With operations in three states, more than one million athletes use Sanford Sports facilities each year. Visit sanfordsports.com for more information.

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Sanford Fargo to host Women’s Social event

Sept. 15, 2025

Contact:
Nathan Aamodt
Sanford Health Media Relations
(701) 200-6080/nathan.aamodt@sanfordhealth.org

FARGO, N.D. – Sanford Health Fargo is hosting Women’s Social: An Evening of Conversation About Perimenopause. The event takes place on Sunday, Sept 21, from 4:30 to 6 p.m. at the Jasper Hotel, 215 Broadway N., Fargo. The event is free to attend.

Mary Nybakken, MD, double board-certified OB/GYN and family medicine physician and certified by the Menopause Society, will share her knowledge about women’s health. A panel of experts will also discuss perimenopause and how to manage the changes that come with this new phase of life.

The event schedule include:
• 4:30 to 5 p.m. – Social
• 5 to 6 p.m. – Presentation and Q&A

While the Women’s Social is sold out, please click the Future Women’s Social Interest Form to help us plan our next event.

About Sanford Health
Sanford Health, the largest rural health system in the United States, is dedicated to transforming the health care experience and providing access to world-class health care in America’s heartland. Headquartered in Sioux Falls, South Dakota, the organization has 53,000 employees and serves over 2 million patients and nearly 425,000 health plan members across the upper Midwest including South Dakota, North Dakota, Minnesota, Wyoming, Iowa, Wisconsin and the Upper Peninsula of Michigan. The integrated nonprofit health system includes a network of 56 hospitals, 288 clinic locations, 147 senior care communities, 4,000 physicians and advanced practice providers and nearly 1,500 active clinical trials and studies. The organization’s transformational virtual care initiative brings patients closer to care with access to 78 specialties. Learn more about Sanford Health’s commitment to shaping the future of rural health care across the lifespan at sanfordhealth.org or Sanford Health News.

Sanford Wahpeton hosting flu vaccination events

Sept. 12, 2025

Contact:
Nathan Aamodt
Sanford Health Media Relations
(701) 200-6080/nathan.aamodt@sanfordhealth.org

WAHPETON, N.D. – Sanford Health Wahpeton, 333 2nd Ave. N., is now offering the flu vaccination to patients 6 months and older.

Sanford Wahpeton Clinic is hosting flu vaccine events on the following dates:

• Thursday, Sept. 18, from 7:30 to 9:30 a.m. for those 65-years-old and older and 3 to 5 p.m. for those 64-years-old and younger
• Thursday, Sept. 25, from 7:30 to 9:30 a.m. for those 65-years-old and older and 3 to 5 p.m. for those 64-years-old and younger
• Thursday, Oct. 2, from 7:30 to 9:30 a.m. for those 65-years-old and older and 3 to 5 p.m. for those 64-years-old and younger
• Thursday, Oct. 9, from 7:30 to 9:30 a.m. for those 65-years-old and older and 3 to 5 p.m. for those 64-years-old and younger
• Thursday, Oct. 16, from 7:30 a.m. to 5 p.m. All ages welcome.
• Friday, Oct. 17, from 7:30 a.m. to 5 p.m. All ages welcome.

Appointments are encouraged, but walk-ins are welcome. Please visit mysanfordchart.org to schedule your vaccine or call 701-251-6000 to make an appointment.

Adults should wear a shirt with sleeves that can easily be rolled up and bring an insurance card as most insurances are accepted.

A flu vaccine can protect the public from getting sick and protect the people around them. The CDC recommends annual flu vaccines for everyone 6 months and older, especially those at higher risk of complications including pregnant women, older adults and young children.

Visit Sanfordhealth.org to learn more about the safety and effectiveness of vaccines and get answers to commonly asked questions.

About Sanford Health
Sanford Health, the largest rural health system in the United States, is dedicated to transforming the health care experience and providing access to world-class health care in America’s heartland. Headquartered in Sioux Falls, South Dakota, the organization has 53,000 employees and serves over 2 million patients and nearly 425,000 health plan members across the upper Midwest including South Dakota, North Dakota, Minnesota, Wyoming, Iowa, Wisconsin and the Upper Peninsula of Michigan. The integrated nonprofit health system includes a network of 56 hospitals, 288 clinic locations, 147 senior care communities, 4,000 physicians and advanced practice providers and nearly 1,500 active clinical trials and studies. The organization’s transformational virtual care initiative brings patients closer to care with access to 78 specialties. Learn more about Sanford Health’s commitment to shaping the future of rural health care across the lifespan at sanfordhealth.org or Sanford Health News.

Forbes names Sanford one of best employers in SD, ND, WI

Sept. 11, 2025

Contact:
Paul Heinert
Sanford Health Media Relations
605-366-2432 / Paul.Heinert@sanfordhealth.org

SIOUX FALLS, S.D. – Sanford Health has been named one of America’s Best-In-State Employers 2025 by Forbes in South Dakota, North Dakota and Wisconsin.

“Our Sanford family has grown in the last year as we have expanded our mission to care, comfort and cure in more communities throughout the upper Midwest. Every day, I am filled with immense gratitude for our remarkable teams who provide world-class care and service to our patients, residents and health plan members,” said Bill Gassen, president and CEO of Sanford Health. “To be recognized once again as one of the best employers across the region speaks to the healthy work culture we have created that is shared and embraced throughout our organization.”

To create the seventh annual list, Forbes partnered with an independent research firm to survey more than 160,000 employees who work for a company of at least 500 people within the United States. Sanford Health has 53,000 team members.

Survey respondents were asked how likely they were to recommend their employer on a scale of zero to 10 and were asked to evaluate their workplace based on criteria including wage parity, work culture, paths to professional advancement and whether the employer takes action on serious issues. Participants were also asked to evaluate their previous employers (within the last two years) and organizations they knew within their industry or through friends or family who work there.

In 2024, Sanford Health was also honored on the Forbes’ list of Best Employers for Veterans.

About Sanford Health
Sanford Health, the largest rural health system in the United States, is dedicated to transforming the health care experience and providing access to world-class health care in America’s heartland. Headquartered in Sioux Falls, South Dakota, the organization has 53,000 employees and serves over 2 million patients and nearly 425,000 health plan members across the upper Midwest including South Dakota, North Dakota, Minnesota, Wyoming, Iowa, Wisconsin and the Upper Peninsula of Michigan. The integrated nonprofit health system includes a network of 56 hospitals, 288 clinic locations, 147 senior care communities, 4,000 physicians and advanced practice providers and nearly 1,500 active clinical trials and studies. The organization’s transformational virtual care initiative brings patients closer to care with access to 78 specialties. Learn more about Sanford Health’s commitment to shaping the future of rural health care across the lifespan at sanfordhealth.org or Sanford Health News.

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Sanford welcomes new internal medicine physician to Bismarck

September 10, 2025

Contact:
Chelsey Kralicek
Sanford Health Media Relations
701-516-4903 / Chelsey.Kralicek@SanfordHealth.org

BISMARCK, N.D. – Jonah Warwick, M.D., an internal medicine specialist has joined Sanford Bismarck and is accepting new patients.

Dr. Warwick received his medical degree at the University of North Dakota School of Medicine & Health Sciences in Grand Forks. He completed his residency in internal medicine at HCA HealthONE in Lone Tree, Colorado.

He provides diagnosis, preventative care and treatments for complex health issues, including:

• Preventative care
• Asthma
• Diabetes
• Heart disease
• High blood pressure
• Seasonal allergies
• Thyroid problems
• Upper respiratory infections
• Urinary tract infections

Dr. Warwick is now seeing patients at the Sanford Fifth & Broadway Clinic in Bismarck at 515 E. Broadway Ave.

The Sanford Bismarck region provides health care to central and western North Dakota, eastern Montana and northern South Dakota. It includes 26 clinics in Bismarck, Mandan, Minot, Dickinson, Williston and Watford City, as well as a Level II trauma center located in Bismarck.

About Sanford Health
Sanford Health, the largest rural health system in the United States, is dedicated to transforming the health care experience and providing access to world-class health care in America’s heartland. Headquartered in Sioux Falls, South Dakota, the organization has 53,000 employees and serves over 2 million patients and nearly 425,000 health plan members across the upper Midwest including South Dakota, North Dakota, Minnesota, Wyoming, Iowa, Wisconsin and the Upper Peninsula of Michigan. The integrated nonprofit health system includes a network of 56 hospitals, 288 clinic locations, 147 senior care communities, 4,000 physicians and advanced practice providers and nearly 1,500 active clinical trials and studies. The organization’s transformational virtual care initiative brings patients closer to care with access to 78 specialties. Learn more about Sanford Health’s commitment to shaping the future of rural health care across the lifespan at sanfordhealth.org or Sanford Health News.

Sanford welcomes new family medicine physician to Mandan

September 9, 2025

Contact:
Chelsey Kralicek
Sanford Health Media Relations
701-516-4903 / Chelsey.Kralicek@SanfordHealth.org

BISMARCK, N.D. – Jordan Barth, M.D., a family medicine specialist has joined the Sanford North Mandan Clinic and is accepting new patients.

Dr. Barth received his medical degree at the University of North Dakota School of Medicine & Health Sciences in Grand Forks. He completed his residency in family medicine at the University of North Dakota Center for Family Medicine in Bismarck.

He provides care for chronic conditions, common illnesses and minor injuries including:

• Preventative care
• Diabetes
• High blood pressure
• Abdominal pain, diarrhea and vomiting
• Fever
• Flu and cold symptoms
• Headaches and dizziness
• Pink eye
• Rashes
• Sinus and respiratory infections
• Urinary tract infections

Dr. Barth is now seeing patients at the Sanford North Mandan Clinic, located at 910 18^th St. NW.

The Sanford Bismarck region provides health care to central and western North Dakota, eastern Montana and northern South Dakota. It includes 26 clinics in Bismarck, Mandan, Minot, Dickinson, Williston and Watford City, as well as a Level II trauma center located in Bismarck.

About Sanford Health
Sanford Health, the largest rural health system in the United States, is dedicated to transforming the health care experience and providing access to world-class health care in America’s heartland. Headquartered in Sioux Falls, South Dakota, the organization has 53,000 employees and serves over 2 million patients and nearly 425,000 health plan members across the upper Midwest including South Dakota, North Dakota, Minnesota, Wyoming, Iowa, Wisconsin and the Upper Peninsula of Michigan. The integrated nonprofit health system includes a network of 56 hospitals, 288 clinic locations, 147 senior care communities, 4,000 physicians and advanced practice providers and nearly 1,500 active clinical trials and studies. The organization’s transformational virtual care initiative brings patients closer to care with access to 78 specialties. Learn more about Sanford Health’s commitment to shaping the future of rural health care across the lifespan at sanfordhealth.org or Sanford Health News.

Sanford’s Brad Reimer to speak at national health care forum

September 9, 2025

Contact:
David Brown
Sanford Health Media Relations
605-366-2432 / david.brown@sanfordhealth.org

SIOUX FALLS, S.D. — Sanford Health senior vice president and chief information officer Brad Reimer will be a featured speaker at the Newsweek Digital Health Care Forum on Tuesday, Sept. 16 in New York City. The event will gather executives from the nation’s top health systems and explore the impacts and challenges of recent technological innovations.

Reimer will be highlighted on a panel entitled The Business Case for Tech and Innovation, which will explore the financial calculus behind tech investments and reveal how digital information can drive efficiency and reduce costs. Moderated by Newsweek health care editor Alexis Kayser, featured speakers include Reimer along with David Callender, M.D., CEO of Memorial Hermann Health System, James Hereford, president and CEO of Fairview Health Services, and Vick Tipnes, founder and CEO of Blackstone Medical Services.

“I look forward to joining this panel discussion to share how we are investing in digital innovation to strengthen access, quality and financial sustainability in rural America,” said Reimer. “While some investments generate a clear, hard-dollar ROI, we’re focused first and foremost on the “mission case.” With virtual care and AI tools, we have the opportunity to change how care is delivered – making it more proactive, efficient and accessible.”

Reimer was recently named to Becker’s Hospital Review’s 2025 list of hospital and health system CIOs to know. Under Reimer’s leadership, Sanford Health has strengthened its information security program, optimized efficiencies and enhanced technical infrastructure to support a $350 million virtual care initiative. Reimer also pioneered a reverse rounding program, connecting IT teams with frontline caregivers to better understand technology’s role in patient care. This initiative, which has brought purpose and meaning to IT roles, has increased recruitment and retention.

Reimer has led several other important transformations, including the implementation of ambient listening documentation, digital registration and check-in, and in-room computer vision AI. Additionally, Reimer launched “ask me anything” virtual sessions to boost communication and engagement, ensuring transparency and team alignment, while also leading partnerships with the CMS, NIH, and Joint Commission.

For more information about Sanford Health, visit sanfordhealth.org.

About Sanford Health
Sanford Health, the largest rural health system in the United States, is dedicated to transforming the health care experience and providing access to world-class health care in America’s heartland. Headquartered in Sioux Falls, South Dakota, the organization has 53,000 employees and serves over 2 million patients and nearly 425,000 health plan members across the upper Midwest including South Dakota, North Dakota, Minnesota, Wyoming, Iowa, Wisconsin and the Upper Peninsula of Michigan. The integrated nonprofit health system includes a network of 56 hospitals, 288 clinic locations, 147 senior care communities, 4,000 physicians and advanced practice providers and nearly 1,500 active clinical trials and studies. The organization’s transformational virtual care initiative brings patients closer to care with access to 78 specialties. Learn more about Sanford Health’s commitment to shaping the future of rural health care across the lifespan at sanfordhealth.org or Sanford Health News.

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Sanford Medical Centers ranked top hospitals in Dakotas

Contact:
Jon Berg
Sanford Health Media Relations
605-366-2432 / Jon.Berg@sanfordhealth.org

SIOUX FALLS, S.D. — For the fifth consecutive year, U.S. News & World Report’s Best Hospitals for 2025-2026 ranked Sanford Medical Center Fargo the No. 1 hospital in North Dakota and Sanford USD Medical Center the No. 1 hospital in South Dakota. In addition, Sanford Bismarck Medical Center is ranked No. 2 on the top hospitals list in North Dakota and is nationally ranked in cardiology, heart & vascular surgery.

The annual U.S. News & World Report rankings are published to help patients decide where to receive care. U.S. News evaluates data on nearly 5,000 hospitals in 15 adult specialties and 21 adult procedures and conditions.

Sanford USD Medical Center received high-performing rankings in two adult specialty areas, including gastroenterology and gastroenterology surgery as well as urology. Sanford USD Medical Center ranks as one of the top in the nation when comparing those specialty services with health care systems across the country.

“Our team of caregivers is what set ourselves apart from the rest by going above and beyond in providing quality health care to our patients,” said Andy Munce, president and CEO of Sanford USD Medical Center. “From our Level 1 trauma team to our valet team who brave the elements to ensure our patients are greeted with a friendly welcome the moment they arrive at our campus, every individual on our team is vital to the care we provide to patients. I am beyond proud and grateful for our team who have an incredible opportunity to provide quality health care to patients in our region.”

Sanford USD Medical Center is also rated high-performing in 11 procedures and conditions, including leukemia, lymphoma and myeloma, colon cancer surgery, prostate cancer surgery, abdominal aortic aneurysm repair, heart arrhythmia, pacemaker implantation, back surgery, hip fracture, hip replacement, knee replacement and pneumonia.

Sanford Medical Center Fargo is rated high-performing in geriatrics and 15 procedures and specialties, including leukemia, lymphoma and myeloma, colon cancer surgery, prostate cancer surgery, abdominal aortic aneurysm repair, heart attack, heart arrhythmia, aortic valve surgery, heart bypass surgery, pacemaker implantation, kidney failure, stroke, hip fracture, hip replacement, knee replacement and pneumonia.

“This honor is a direct reflection of each and every employee at Sanford Fargo who go above and beyond to provide our patients with world class health care close to home,” said Tiffany Lawrence, Sanford Fargo president and CEO. “We take great pride in being the region’s only Level I Trauma Center, the region’s only blood and bone marrow transplant program and home to an advanced comprehensive stroke center. Sanford Fargo also recently achieved Magnet® designation, the most prestigious credential a health care organization can achieve for nursing excellence and quality patient care. We know that trust is not given, it’s earned, and we will never take for granted being the community’s choice in time of need.”

Sanford Bismarck Medical Center is nationally ranked for cardiology, heart & vascular surgery, rated high-performing in geriatrics and orthopedics in addition to 10 procedures and conditions, including colon cancer surgery, abdominal aortic aneurysm repair, heart attack, heart arrhythmia, heart bypass surgery, heart failure, pacemaker implantation, back surgery, stroke and pneumonia.

“This recognition is a direct reflection of the extraordinary dedication, compassion and expertise of our entire team at Sanford,” said Todd Schaffer, M.D., president and CEO of Sanford Bismarck. “Every day, caregivers bring their whole hearts to the bedside, ensuring our patients receive the highest quality care, close to home. I am incredibly proud of our team and grateful for the trust our patients and their families continue to place in us. It is an honor to serve this community, and this recognition belongs to every team member who makes that possible.”

For more information about Sanford Health, visit SanfordHealth.org.

About Sanford Health
Sanford Health, the largest rural health system in the United States, is dedicated to transforming the health care experience and providing access to world-class health care in America’s heartland. Headquartered in Sioux Falls, South Dakota, the organization has 53,000 employees and serves over 2 million patients and nearly 425,000 health plan members across the upper Midwest including South Dakota, North Dakota, Minnesota, Wyoming, Iowa, Wisconsin and the Upper Peninsula of Michigan. The integrated nonprofit health system includes a network of 56 hospitals, 288 clinic locations, 147 senior care communities, 4,000 physicians and advanced practice providers and nearly 1,500 active clinical trials and studies. The organization’s transformational virtual care initiative brings patients closer to care with access to 78 specialties. Learn more about Sanford Health’s commitment to shaping the future of rural health care across the lifespan at sanfordhealth.org or Sanford Health News.

Sanford Health honored by AMA for well-being of physicians

September 4, 2025

Contact:
David Brown
Sanford Health Media Relations
605-366-2432 / david.brown@sanfordhealth.org

SIOUX FALLS, S.D. — Sanford Health has earned gold recognition in 2025 from the American Medical Association (AMA) as a Joy in Medicine^® organization.

This is the third time Sanford has received the Joy in Medicine recognition from the AMA and the second time at the prestigious gold level.  The Joy in Medicine program is the country’s leading physician’s association honor of health systems, hospitals, and medical groups that prioritize proven methods to reduce burnout and enhance the professional fulfillment of doctors that comes from patient care. Organizations that meet the rigorous criteria of the Joy in Medicine Health System Recognition Program are leaders in the national effort to transform health care work systems and address the root causes of burnout among care teams.

“We are committed as an organization to continually work to find ways to improve our physicians’ day-to-day practices—so that it is fulfilling to them, they can be at their best, and they can provide the absolute best care to their patients,” said Heather Spies, M.D., physician director of clinician experience and well-being at Sanford. “In a challenging health care landscape, we want to bring the real things to the table that are getting in the way for our physicians to be able to do their job with joy and work to find ways to improve those things.  Some of these things are at the operational or organization level, and we need to commit to investing in solutions.  Some of these things are at the individual level, and we need to be sure we have the available resources in place to support our physicians through those. Being a part of the AMA Joy in Medicine Program helps to further this work, as we are able to utilize AMA resources, tools, and their best practices roadmap, and to collaborate with other top health systems who have also made this a top priority.”

Burnout among U.S. physicians peaked at 62.8% in 2021 during the Covid pandemic, according to research. But thanks to strides made to address burnout at the system level, the national physician burnout rate ebbed to 45.2% in 2023.  With their commitment and focus on clinician experience and well-being, Sanford has a lower physician burnout rate than the national benchmark and has seen significant improvement over the last few years with a drop from 50.3% of physicians reporting burnout in 2022 to 36.5% in 2024.

Despite improvements, physician burnout levels remain much higher than other U.S. workers. Continued efforts are essential to ensure doctors receive the support they need to thrive, achieve national health goals, and be well to care for patients.

“Joy in Medicine recognized organizations are leading the gains made against the physician burnout crisis and help clinicians rediscover the deep rewards and joy that comes from helping patients,” said AMA President Bobby Mukkamala, M.D. “The AMA distinction honors each organization’s commitment to not only the health and well-being of the care team, but also to patients. Quality care ultimately originates from a positive and purposeful work culture where health care professionals can flourish both mentally and physically.”

Sanford Health has built a culture of support and well-being through:

• A robust clinician experience team, with liaisons in each market
• An enterprise clinician well-being council
• Onboarding support after clinicians begin their practice, including a mentorship program
• A clinician assistance program that includes free and confidential counseling
• A professional practice support program with free and confidential peer coaching
• Clinician-led focus groups
• Recognition of Clinician Well-being Champions
• The RISES clinician leadership development program rooted in encouraging self-care, wellness-centered leadership, building relationships, and promoting healthy work-family-life integration
• Regular assessment of engagement, job satisfaction and burnout, to continually adjust top priorities for organizational clinician support

Since its inception in 2019, the AMA Joy in Medicine Health System Recognition Program has recognized more than 200 organizations across the country. Recognition levels are valid for two years. Sanford started in the program with bronze recognition in 2021 and received gold recognition in 2023.  This year, a total of 109 health organizations nationwide earned recognition with documented efforts to reduce system-level drivers of work-related burnout and demonstrated competencies in commitment, assessment, leadership, efficiency of practice environment, teamwork, and support. Organizations that earned 2025-2026 recognition join a strong group of currently recognized organizations from the 2024-2025 program, bringing the currently recognized cohort to 164 recognized organizations, illustrating the growing momentum and essential nature of this important priority.

Learn more about the AMA Joy in Medicine Health System Recognition Program at ama-assn.org/joyinmedicine.

For more information about Sanford Health, visit sanfordhealth.org.

About Sanford Health
Sanford Health, the largest rural health system in the United States, is dedicated to transforming the health care experience and providing access to world-class health care in America’s heartland. Headquartered in Sioux Falls, South Dakota, the organization has 53,000 employees and serves over 2 million patients and nearly 425,000 health plan members across the upper Midwest including South Dakota, North Dakota, Minnesota, Wyoming, Iowa, Wisconsin and the Upper Peninsula of Michigan. The integrated nonprofit health system includes a network of 56 hospitals, 288 clinic locations, 147 senior care communities, 4,000 physicians and advanced practice providers and nearly 1,500 active clinical trials and studies. The organization’s transformational virtual care initiative brings patients closer to care with access to 78 specialties. Learn more about Sanford Health’s commitment to shaping the future of rural health care across the lifespan at sanfordhealth.org or Sanford Health News.

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Sanford completes combination with Creekside Medical Clinic

RAPID CITY, S.D. —Sanford Health, the largest rural health system in the U.S., headquartered in Sioux Falls, South Dakota, and Creekside Medical Clinic, an independent, physician-owned group based in Rapid City, South Dakota, and specializing in primary care, have completed their combination. The closing was finalized Aug. 29.

Providing care to the Black Hills region for over 25 years, Creekside Medical Clinic’s team includes four family medicine physicians and two advanced practice providers. All staff members have joined Sanford Health. The practice is located at 2822 Jackson Blvd, Suite 101.

“Our new partnership reiterates Sanford Health’s mission-driven approach and commitment to expanding comprehensive, world-class health care services to meet the local needs of patients in the Black Hills area,” said Kyle Wiese, Sanford Black Hills president and CEO. “Sanford Health has a long history of bringing together local, independent physician groups that share our physician-led vision for the future of health care, and we are excited to welcome this team of talented primary care providers to Sanford Health.”

General services at Creekside Medical Clinic include:

• Outpatient medical care for children and adults
• Complete preventive health evaluation and screening
• Referrals for all screening tests including mammograms, colonoscopies, Dexa scans and other tests
• On-site laboratory with many results available during your appointment
• Vaccinations
• Pre-employment physicals
• DOT physicals

Creekside Medical Clinic is the latest independent physician group in western South Dakota to join Sanford Health. In November 2024, Black Hills Orthopedic and Spine Center (BHOSC), Black Hills Surgical Hospital (BHSH), Black Hills Urgent Care and Black Hills Surgery Center of Wyoming became a part of Sanford Health – with a goal of helping patients easily connect to Sanford Health’s full range of integrated health care, including specialty and subspecialty care, clinical trials, veterans precision medicine and more.

This partnership builds upon the decades Sanford Health has been providing care in the region, including specialty outreach, AirMed transport and other vital services for Rapid City and western South Dakota. Sanford Health also operates a specialty reference laboratory in Rapid City and has provided specialty outreach for families in the area for more than 20 years. Outreach services include specialty pediatrics, reproductive endocrinology, fertility and genetic counseling and maternal fetal medicine.

Sanford Health also provides senior services in the area at Good Samaritan’s St. Martin Village, Echo Ridge and New Underwood senior care communities, as well as through Home Health of the Black Hills.

About Sanford Health
Sanford Health, the largest rural health system in the United States, is dedicated to transforming the health care experience and providing access to world-class health care in America’s heartland. Headquartered in Sioux Falls, South Dakota, the organization has 53,000 employees and serves over 2 million patients and nearly 425,000 health plan members across the upper Midwest including South Dakota, North Dakota, Minnesota, Wyoming, Iowa, Wisconsin and the Upper Peninsula of Michigan. The integrated nonprofit health system includes a network of 56 hospitals, 288 clinic locations, 147 senior care communities, 4,000 physicians and advanced practice providers and nearly 1,500 active clinical trials and studies. The organization’s transformational virtual care initiative brings patients closer to care with access to 78 specialties. Learn more about Sanford Health’s commitment to shaping the future of rural health care across the lifespan at sanfordhealth.org or Sanford Health News.

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Sanford Sports Academy inks partnership with Under Armour

September 2, 2025

Contact:
David Brown
Sanford Health Media Relations
605-366-2432 / david.brown@sanfordhealth.org

SIOUX FALLS, S.D. – The Sanford Sports Academy has inked a partnership with Under Armour, Inc. The world-renowned sportswear company is now the exclusive uniform, apparel, footwear and accessories provider for all Sanford Sports Academy teams in Sioux Falls and Fargo.

“As one of the fastest growing youth sports programs in the upper Midwest, we are taking things to the next level,” said Todd Kolb, Sanford Sports Academy director. “We’re proud to announce Sanford Sports Academy will now be outfitted by Under Armour! This exciting partnership allows us to reflect Under Armour’s commitment to empowering athletes, driving innovation, building community, and inspiring the next generation of athletes throughout the region.”

Sanford Sports Academy programs in Sioux Falls that will be outfitted by Under Armour include baseball, basketball, football, golf, softball, and volleyball. In Fargo, the basketball, golf, and volleyball programs will wear Under Armour apparel.

About Under Armour, Inc.
Under Armour, Inc., headquartered in Baltimore, Maryland, is a leading inventor, marketer, and distributor of branded athletic performance apparel, footwear, and accessories. Designed to empower human performance, Under Armour’s innovative products and experiences are engineered to make athletes better. For further information, please visit http://about.underarmour.com.

About Sanford Sports
Sanford Sports is the modern athletics arm of Sanford Health, the premier rural health system in the United States. Rooted in science and health care, Sanford Sports offers a combination of programs, services, events, facilities and partnerships intended to make active lifestyles accessible and rewarding for people of all ages and abilities. Based on the 500-acre Sanford Sports Complex in Sioux Falls, South Dakota, Sanford Sports has been changing the way athletes play for 25 years. With operations in three states, more than one million athletes use Sanford Sports facilities each year. Visit sanfordsports.com for more information.

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Sanford Health announces expanded Lewis Drug partnership

SIOUX FALLS, S.D. – Sanford Health announced today that Lewis Drug, a family-owned pharmacy and retail store chain with 60 locations throughout South Dakota, Iowa and Minnesota, is joining Sanford Health, ensuring continued access and convenience to pharmacy services and retail items for communities across the region. The partnership is expected to be finalized this fall.

“This partnership is a natural next step in our long-term, trusted relationship and reflects our shared commitment to improving quality of life for our patients and communities and providing the highest quality pharmacy care for those we serve,” said Bill Gassen, president and CEO of Sanford Health. “Lewis Drug is a cornerstone in the communities it serves and has built a remarkably strong retail and pharmacy workforce and culture. We look forward to furthering that legacy as part of Sanford Health.”

The two organizations have successfully partnered to serve patients and meet local community needs for more than 25 years.

• This includes the co-location of 11 Sanford Health clinics with Lewis Drug pharmacies to make it easier for patients to access prescription and non-prescription medications.
• Sanford Health has also partnered with Lewis Drug for ambulatory pharmacists located in Sanford clinics in Sioux Falls.
• Lewis Drug has long been the pharmacy provider for a number of Good Samaritan locations.
• Sanford Health has co-owned 44 Lewis Family Drug locations in rural communities outside of Sioux Falls for many years.

“At a time when the health care field is facing a variety of challenges, our partnership provides stability and helps safeguard access to essential health care services for the patients and communities we serve,” said Gassen. “By bringing Lewis Drug into Sanford Health’s integrated health care system, we are helping ensure communities across the upper Midwest continue to have access to medications, vaccinations, screenings and expert support from Lewis Drug’s team of skilled pharmacists and pharmacy technicians.”

Lewis Drug has served as a trusted neighborhood pharmacy and retail destination for more than 80 years, known for its personalized customer service, hospitality and convenience.

“This partnership is built on trust, and our long-term relationship with Sanford Health laid the groundwork for the joint decision to bring Lewis Drug fully into the integrated Sanford Health system,” said Mark Griffin, Lewis Drug CEO. “Customers and patients will continue to have the same great experience when they walk into a Lewis store as they have for the last 80 years – from our name and branding to our outstanding and dedicated customer service.”

Lewis Drug will continue to operate under its current brand, and its team of 188 pharmacists and 1,300 team members will become employees of Sanford Health. There will be no changes to the leadership team at Lewis Drug, and Griffin will continue in a multi-year advisory role once the partnership is finalized to ensure a smooth transition.

About Sanford Health
Sanford Health, the largest rural health system in the United States, is dedicated to transforming the health care experience and providing access to world-class health care in America’s heartland. Headquartered in Sioux Falls, South Dakota, the organization has 53,000 employees and serves over 2 million patients and nearly 425,000 health plan members across the upper Midwest including South Dakota, North Dakota, Minnesota, Wyoming, Iowa, Wisconsin and the Upper Peninsula of Michigan. The integrated nonprofit health system includes a network of 56 hospitals, 288 clinic locations, 147 senior care communities, 4,000 physicians and advanced practice providers and nearly 1,500 active clinical trials and studies. The organization’s transformational virtual care initiative brings patients closer to care with access to 78 specialties. Learn more about Sanford Health’s commitment to shaping the future of rural health care across the lifespan at sanfordhealth.org or Sanford Health News.

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Three Sanford researchers awarded major grants from NIH

Contact:
Jon Berg
Sanford Health Media Relations
605-366-2432 / Jon.Berg@SanfordHealth.org

SIOUX FALLS, S.D. — Sanford Research has been awarded more than $8 million from the National Institutes of Health (NIH) to study ovarian cancer, binge eating disorders and G protein-coupled receptor (GCPR) signaling.

Dr. Leah Irish, associate professor of psychology at North Dakota State University and adjunct faculty with Sanford Research, received a $3.2 million grant to research the link between sleep disturbance and binge eating. Sanford Research will contribute to the grant from the National Institute of Mental Health with a team including Drs. Lauren Schaefer, Leslie Laam, Stephen Wonderlich, Scott Engel and Kristine Steffen.

Dr. Pilar de la Puente and her lab were awarded a $2.75 million grant to study ovarian cancer. The lab will investigate how chemotherapy triggers changes in the tumor’s surrounding environment, which in turn can worsen treatment resistance. The lab’s goal is to identify new ways to improve chemotherapy effectiveness for women with this devastating disease.

Dr. Ikuo Masuho and his lab have been awarded a $2.1 million grant to study G protein–coupled receptors (GPCRs), one of the most important targets for drug development. The team aims to elucidate the molecular mechanisms and structural basis by which GPCR signaling molecules regulate diverse cellular functions, identify the underlying causes of disease, and translate these insights into medical applications. Their ultimate goal is to develop pharmacotherapies with minimal side effects and to pioneer personalized treatments that improve patient outcomes and quality of life.

For more information about Sanford Research, visit Research.SanfordHealth.org.

About Sanford Health
Sanford Health, the largest rural health system in the United States, is dedicated to transforming the health care experience and providing access to world-class health care in America’s heartland. Headquartered in Sioux Falls, South Dakota, the organization has 53,000 employees and serves over 2 million patients and nearly 425,000 health plan members across the upper Midwest including South Dakota, North Dakota, Minnesota, Wyoming, Iowa, Wisconsin and the Upper Peninsula of Michigan. The integrated nonprofit health system includes a network of 56 hospitals, 288 clinic locations, 147 senior care communities, 4,000 physicians and advanced practice providers and nearly 1,500 active clinical trials and studies. The organization’s transformational virtual care initiative brings patients closer to care with access to 78 specialties. Learn more about Sanford Health’s commitment to shaping the future of rural health care across the lifespan at sanfordhealth.org or Sanford Health News.