Posts Archive - Sanford Health News

Sanford Health reaches virtual care milestone

SIOUX FALLS, S.D. — Sanford Health has reached a virtual care milestone, expanding access and improving affordability for rural patients, while equipping the health care workforce for a technology-driven future. Accelerated by a transformative $350 million virtual care investment in 2021, the program has saved patients hundreds of millions of dollars in travel costs, reduced more than 60.5 million miles of travel to date and expanded virtual graduate medical education rotations across specialties – advancing a scalable model for rural care delivery.

Virtual care is one of Sanford Health’s most established care delivery capabilities, expanding access, strengthening workforce sustainability and improving health outcomes. Sanford Health’s virtual services span nearly 80 specialties – from behavioral health to oncology and pediatric pulmonology – and support patients across clinics, hospitals, long-term care settings and home environments. By delivering advanced clinical services through technology-enabled models, Sanford Health allows patients to receive timely care where they live, reducing travel burden and care delays that are more acute in rural communities.

“For many of our patients, it’s virtual care or no care at all,” said Dave Newman, M.D., chief medical officer of virtual care at Sanford Health. “That reality has pushed us to innovate out of necessity. By bringing care closer to patients and staying more connected between visits, we’re building new models that work better for both patients and providers – and helping lead the way in reimagining how care is delivered.”

Newman will discuss how virtual care is poised to make even further breakthroughs for patients at ViVE, Feb. 23 in Los Angeles. The four-day health care innovation event brings together leaders to accelerate strategy, evaluate technology and collaborate on solutions.

Each virtual care visit saves patients an average 176-mile round trip and $273 in travel-related costs. In 2025, patients saved an estimated $41 million by reducing the need to take time off work and pay for fuel, meals and other out-of-pocket expenses.

In September 2021, Denny Sanford gifted Sanford Health $350 million to advance a landmark Virtual Care Initiative designed to fundamentally change the way care is delivered. The opening of Sanford’s Virtual Care Center in late 2024 significantly expanded that effort, creating a centralized hub for telemedicine, hospital-at-home programs, remote monitoring, decentralized clinical trials and specialty consultation. From this hub, Sanford supports care teams across its footprint, enabling consistent clinical standards, streamlined workflows and efficient use of specialty expertise.

Sanford Health’s virtual care model integrates education and workforce development to prepare clinicians for the future of technology-enabled care. Through the Sanford Health Education Institute, the organization supports virtual graduate medical education rotations, immersive VR-based simulation training and interdisciplinary learning designed to equip care teams for high-acuity scenarios and just-in-time procedural support in rural settings.

Psychology interns have completed year-long virtual care rotations serving patients across North Dakota and Minnesota, expanding access to behavioral health while gaining hands-on telehealth experience. Neurology residents participate in virtual reality-based case simulations that strengthen clinical decision-making and readiness for complex, real-world scenarios. A virtual operating room further advances training, enabling surgical and procedural teams to practice with advanced technologies, collaborate across distances and develop the skills needed to lead the next generation of rural care delivery.

Sanford Health’s Innovation Center operates innovation labs within the Virtual Care Center focused on patient-centered solutions, particularly for rural care. Through its Accelerator Space, Sanford is exploring potential technology partners and startups to co-develop solutions aligned with clinical needs, care models and scalability. Makerspace and 3D printing capabilities enable clinicians and frontline staff to design and test medical devices – several of which have received FDA approval – while the Patient and Family Experience Lab ensures digital tools are tested and refined with real users before systemwide deployment. Together, these capabilities allow Sanford to refine innovations prior to scale, while reimagining how physical space, technology and workflows can improve patient experience, safety and efficiency.

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 55,000 employees and serves more than 2 million patients and nearly 415,000 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 58 hospitals, 289 clinic locations, 145 senior care communities, 4,500 physicians and advanced practice providers and 1,100 active clinical trials and studies. The organization’s transformational virtual care initiative brings patients closer to care with access to nearly 80 specialties. More than 400 residents and fellows are trained each year through graduate medical education with Sanford Health fully funding and supporting 29 of the 40 available programs. Sanford Health also includes Lewis Drug, a pharmacy and retail chain with 60 locations in three states and nearly 190 pharmacists. 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 Health leaders to discuss next generation of care

SIOUX FALLS, S.D. — Sanford Health leaders are joining top industry experts next week at one of the most prestigious health care events of the year to discuss how the business of health care is meeting the future of technology.

ViVE takes place Feb. 22-25 in Los Angeles. The four-day health care innovation event brings together leaders to accelerate strategy, evaluate technology and collaborate on solutions to transform the patient experience.

Dave Newman, M.D., chief medical officer of virtual care at Sanford Health, Brian Hoerneman, M.D., president and CEO of Sanford Health Marshfield and Brad Reimer, chief information officer at Sanford Health, will take part in a series of panels and presentations during the conference.

Newman has two appearances at ViVE, including a featured panel entitled, No Signal to No Limits, where he will discuss how virtual care is poised to make even further breakthroughs for patients. Additional panelists include Halima Ahmadi-Montecalvo, Ph.D., MPH, vice president of research and evaluation at Unite Us and Emily Chen, senior advisor, officer of the administrator at CMS. Michael Banyas, SBIR program manager at the NIH, will moderate the session.

“I’m incredibly excited about what we’re building with virtual care,” said Newman. “We’re meeting patients where they are — expanding access, improving affordability and helping them stay engaged in their health — while leveraging technology to deliver high-quality care no matter the zip code. This is a blueprint for the future of health care — and rural America is leading the way.”

Newman will also present on how Sanford Health physicians are empowered to enhance patient care using safe and effective AI and digital tools during a luncheon sponsored by the American Medical Association. He will be joined by Margaret Lozovatsky, M.D., vice president, Digital Health Innovations, Center for Digital Health and AI, at the AMA and Barbara Levy, M.D., vice chair, CPT editorial panel. Jared Augenstein, senior managing director at Manatt Health, will moderate the presentation.

Hoerneman’s panel focuses on the mission to ensure rural communities have reliable, high-quality care close to home. This panel dives into what is at stake, and the policies, care delivery and innovation strategies needed to stabilize rural health care. Hoerneman will be joined by Gulshan Mehta, chief digital and information officer at Blanchard Valley Health System and Joe Dunn, chief policy officer at the NACHC. Katie Adams, associate editor at MedCity News, will moderate the panel.

Hoerneman will share how coming together with Sanford Health has expanded rural access, accelerated financial turnaround and strengthened the workforce. Last year, Sanford Health Marshfield hired more than 1,500 people, including over 120 providers. Marshfield recruited 32 primary care physicians — the highest number of recruits in recent history — along with anesthesiologists, surgical subspecialists, pediatric specialists and other hard-to-fill specialties. Since combining with Sanford Health, Marshfield has cut physician turnover in half and made meaningful investments into programs and practices.

“Rural health is entering a new chapter — one defined by innovation, stronger partnerships and long-term sustainability — and we are actively helping to build that future,” said Hoerneman. “Strong, sustainable health care supports the health of a community — and that drives growth, opportunity for all and quality of life.”

Reimer’s panel examines the United States’ health care system’s soon-to-be digital renaissance. Entitled, Make Health Tech Great Again, the panel will discuss how the Administration and tech giants are rallying to build a smarter, safer, and truly patient-centric health ecosystem. Reimer will be joined by Pallavi Ranade, Ph.D., M.S., FAMIA, Director of Research Informatics and Genomics at Intermountain Healthcare, and J.D. Whitlock, MPH, MBA, CHCIO, chief information officer at Dayton Children’s Hospital. The session will be moderated by Dr. Aaron Miri, DHA, executive vice president and chief digital & information officer at Baptist Health.

At Sanford Health, large language models are already strengthening the patient experience by scaling preventive engagement and supporting earlier identification of health risks, particularly for health plan members.

“Sanford Health has made sustained investments in data infrastructure, analytics, interoperability and security to support responsible AI deployment,” said Reimer. “We often say what we do will never change – our mission to deliver world-class care no matter the zip code – but how we do the work must continue to evolve. AI allows us to meet patients where they are and rethink how work gets done – strengthening access, enhancing the patient experience and supporting our teams as patient demand and care needs continue to grow.”

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 55,000 employees and serves more than 2 million patients and nearly 415,000 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 58 hospitals, 289 clinic locations, 145 senior care communities, 4,500 physicians and advanced practice providers and 1,100 active clinical trials and studies. The organization’s transformational virtual care initiative brings patients closer to care with access to nearly 80 specialties. More than 400 residents and fellows are trained each year through graduate medical education with Sanford Health fully funding and supporting 29 of the 40 available programs. Sanford Health also includes Lewis Drug, a pharmacy and retail chain with 60 locations in three states and nearly 190 pharmacists. 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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Marshfield Clinic using new heart arrhythmia technology

Feb. 19, 2026

Contact:

Jeff Starck
Marshfield Clinic Media Relations
715-389-4978 / starck.jeffrey@marshfieldclinic.org

MARSHFIELD, WIS. – Marshfield Clinic is using the newest technology to help treat dangerous heart arrhythmias for patients. Marshfield Clinic performed the first implant in Wisconsin of the Medtronic OmniaSecure, the world’s smallest Implantable Cardioverter-Defibrillator (ICD) lead to achieve cardiac resynchronization therapy, in January for a patient at Marshfield Medical Center in Marshfield.

This new technology brings patients’ heart rhythms back to their natural patterns while being less invasive. This is the smallest and thinnest defibrillator lead. The procedure marks a significant milestone for cardiac care in the state and positions Marshfield Clinic among the earliest adopters of this new technology nationwide.

“Performing a first‑in‑state, launch‑day implant requires precision, coordination, and a team ready to rise to the moment,” said Electrophysiologist Dr. Weijia Wang, who performed the procedure. “I’m incredibly proud of the expertise and readiness our staff demonstrated — and most importantly, we delivered an excellent outcome for our patient.”

An ICD lead is a specialized, insulated wire that connects an ICD generator to the patient’s heart. This wire plays a critical and delicate role in monitoring heart rhythms, providing pacing, and delivering life‑saving therapy for dangerous arrhythmia.

Medtronic launched the OmniaSecure™ ICD lead commercially in the United States on Jan. 8. On the same day, Marshfield Clinic was the first in Wisconsin — and among the first nationally — to use the device for left bundle branch area pacing. Using this advanced pacing approach, Marshfield Clinic electrophysiologists successfully corrected a patient’s left bundle branch block (LBBB) and delivered “Single‑Lead cardiac resynchronization” to treat heart failure.

Traditional cardiac resynchronization therapy typically requires two or three leads. This new approach with fewer components means less trauma to vessels during implantation, a quicker post-procedure recovery and reduced long‑term maintenance issues.

“Patients who have their conduction problem fixed may experience more energy, perform daily tasks better, have fewer heart failure-related hospitalizations,” Wang said.

Dr. Wang said the first patient is “doing excellent,” and her energy level has improved since the procedure. Marshfield Clinic has now performed the procedure on a total of six patients.

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 55,000 employees and serves more than 2 million patients and nearly 415,000 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 58 hospitals, 289 clinic locations, 145 senior care communities, 4,500 physicians and advanced practice providers and 1,100 active clinical trials and studies. The organization’s transformational virtual care initiative brings patients closer to care with access to nearly 80 specialties. More than 400 residents and fellows are trained each year through graduate medical education with Sanford Health fully funding and supporting 29 of the 40 available programs. Sanford Health also includes Lewis Drug, a pharmacy and retail chain with 60 locations in three states and nearly 190 pharmacists. 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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Marshfield Clinic’s Wisconsin Rapids hospital opens March 1

Feb. 16, 2026

Contact:

Jeff Starck
Marshfield Clinic Media Relations
715-389-4978 / starck.jeffrey@marshfieldclinic.org

WISCONSIN RAPIDS, Wis. – Marshfield Medical Center-Wisconsin Rapids Campus will open to patients at 7 a.m. March 1.

Marshfield Medical Center-Wisconsin Rapids Campus includes the soon-to-open hospital, 440 24th Street South, and Marshfield Clinic Wisconsin Rapids Center, 220 24th Street South.

The hospital will include inpatient beds, emergency department, exam and procedure rooms, radiological services that include general x-ray, computed tomography and ultrasound, as well as on-site lab testing.

“We are bringing hospital and emergency services to Wisconsin Rapids to combine with our ambulatory medical group practice,” said Chris Soska, president of Marshfield Medical Center Wisconsin Rapids Campus. “Marshfield Clinic has provided care in Wisconsin Rapids for decades, and now we can offer access to comprehensive care closer to home for the community.”

Wisconsin Rapids Center currently offers urgent/walk-in care, cardiology, family medicine, optometry, cancer care, pediatrics, physical therapy, podiatry and nephrology, as well as outreach services in other specialty areas, lab, X-ray and optical services. Urgent Care will be combined in the Emergency Department and is extending hours to 8 a.m. to 8 p.m., seven days a week.

“This investment in the community is part of our commitment to help solve the issue of access and support patients when they need care,” said Brian Hoerneman, M.D., president and CEO of Marshfield Clinic. “With this hospital, patients gain a front door into a broader, integrated network across Marshfield Clinic. If someone needs advanced cardiac care, complex surgery, or specialized treatment, this campus becomes the bridge that connects them to nearby facilities, including those in Marshfield, Stevens Point and Weston. This is the true power of our system – local access supported by regional strength.”

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 55,000 employees and serves more than 2 million patients and nearly 415,000 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 58 hospitals, 289 clinic locations, 145 senior care communities, 4,500 physicians and advanced practice providers and 1,100 active clinical trials and studies. The organization’s transformational virtual care initiative brings patients closer to care with access to nearly 80 specialties. More than 400 residents and fellows are trained each year through graduate medical education with Sanford Health fully funding and supporting 29 of the 40 available programs. Sanford Health also includes Lewis Drug, a pharmacy and retail chain with 60 locations in three states and nearly 190 pharmacists. 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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Marshfield Clinic opens no-cost lodging for trauma patients

Feb. 12, 2026

Contact:
Jeff Starck
Marshfield Clinic region of Sanford Health
715-389-4978 / starck.jeffrey@marshfieldclinic.org

MARSHFIELD, WIS – Family and patients who are receiving care for trauma injuries at Marshfield Medical Center have a new place to call their temporary home.

Cattails Cottage, which is part of the Marshfield Medical Center campus, is an 11‑room lodging facility that provides safe, temporary housing for families of trauma patients and seriously injured patients receiving acute care at Marshfield Clinic.

Cattails Cottage opened this week. Rooms are offered at no cost on a first‑come, first‑served basis for eligible patients and families who live more than 40 miles from Marshfield. Staffed hours are 8 a.m. to 5 p.m. Monday-Friday with 24/7 key‑card access for guests. Linens, kitchen supplies and laundry facilities are provided.

“Cattails Cottage is an invaluable support for patients and their families as they receive care in Marshfield,” said Marshfield Medical Center President Bob Chaloner. “Having easy access to treatment with a no-cost lodging option removes one burden during this challenging time.”

Marshfield Medical Center is a Level II Adult and Pediatric Trauma Center.

Cattails Cottage formerly housed oncology patients until 2024 when Cattails Place opened across the street. Marshfield Clinic Foundation used donor funds and community support to renovate and make necessary facility improvements, including many furnishings donated by Lang Furniture of Marshfield.

“All operations and costs for Cattails Cottage and Cattails Place are funded through philanthropy,” said Teri Wilczek, Marshfield Clinic Foundation Chief Development Officer. “Donors are the reason we can have this space open to patients and their families to stay at no cost. We are incredibly thankful for the support to create this beautiful home away from home.”

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 55,000 employees and serves more than 2 million patients and nearly 415,000 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 58 hospitals, 289 clinic locations, 145 senior care communities, 4,500 physicians and advanced practice providers and 1,100 active clinical trials and studies. The organization’s transformational virtual care initiative brings patients closer to care with access to nearly 80 specialties. More than 400 residents and fellows are trained each year through graduate medical education with Sanford Health fully funding and supporting 29 of the 40 available programs. Sanford Health also includes Lewis Drug, a pharmacy and retail chain with 60 locations in three states and nearly 190 pharmacists. 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 Bismarck to host Doc Talk on protecting your heart

Feb. 12, 2026

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

Event is free, but registration is required

BISMARCK, N.D. – An expert from the Sanford Bismarck region will host a Doc Talk next week on heart health.

Tuesday, Feb. 17 – Bismarck State College National Energy Center of Excellence

• 4 p.m.  Social and light appetizers
• 5 p.m.  Presentation

Nayan Desai, M.D. will discuss strategies for preventing heart disease including effective habits for preventing heart disease, like heart-healthy diets, how lifestyle, genetics and daily choices impact long-term heart health, new tools and evidence-based strategies that support a stronger heart and simple changes to make the biggest difference at any age.

The event is free to attend, but registration is required. Join in person at 1200 Schaffer St. in Bismarck or virtually via Webex.

Sanford Health is dedicated to providing the communities it serves with relevant and up-to-date health information. Doc Talk is a free education series where Sanford physicians present and answer your questions on a wide variety of topics.

To register visit sanfordhealth.org/classes-and-events/doc-talk-bismarck. For more information or questions, call 844-362-6330.

The Sanford Health 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 55,000 employees and serves more than 2 million patients and nearly 415,000 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 58 hospitals, 289 clinic locations, 145 senior care communities, 4,500 physicians and advanced practice providers and 1,100 active clinical trials and studies. The organization’s transformational virtual care initiative brings patients closer to care with access to nearly 80 specialties. More than 400 residents and fellows are trained each year through graduate medical education with Sanford Health fully funding and supporting 29 of the 40 available programs. Sanford Health also includes Lewis Drug, a pharmacy and retail chain with 60 locations in three states and nearly 190 pharmacists. 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 Health expands podiatry outreach in Baudette

February 12, 2026

Contact:

Jillian Johnson

Media Relations Specialist –Bemidji Region

(218) 333-6090 / jillian.johnson@sanfordhealth.org

BAUDETTE, Minn. – Sanford Health is expanding podiatry outreach services in Baudette with the addition of Brianna Marsh, APRN, CNP, who will join Kyle Templin, DPM, in providing monthly foot and ankle care at CHI Lakewood Health Center, 600 Main Ave., in Baudette.

Podiatry outreach clinics are held on the last Monday of each month with the exception of May due to the holiday. Dr. Templin will see patients in Baudette in February, August and November. Marsh will provide care in March, April, June, July, September, October and December.

Marsh, a nurse practitioner who focuses on foot, ankle and lower extremity care, helps patients manage lower limb health, especially those with chronic conditions. She educates patients about foot hygiene, proper footwear and injury prevention. She also offers guidance for diabetic foot care and can coordinate referrals or follow-up care if surgical intervention is needed.

Dr. Templin treats bunions, hammer toes, flat feet, diabetic foot ulcers and plantar fasciitis while offering the following procedures:

• Complex rearfoot repair and reconstruction
• Neurolysis and nerve decompression procedures
• Lapidus bunionectomies

To schedule an appointment for podiatry care in Baudette, call (218) 751-9746. 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 55,000 employees and serves more than 2 million patients and nearly 415,000 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 58 hospitals, 289 clinic locations, 145 senior care communities, 4,500 physicians and advanced practice providers and 1,100 active clinical trials and studies. The organization’s transformational virtual care initiative brings patients closer to care with access to nearly 80 specialties. More than 400 residents and fellows are trained each year through graduate medical education with Sanford Health fully funding and supporting 29 of the 40 available programs. Sanford Health also includes Lewis Drug, a pharmacy and retail chain with 60 locations in three states and nearly 190 pharmacists. 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 Bemidji to host cardiology Doc Talk on Feb. 24

February 12, 2026

Contact:

Jillian Johnson

Media Relations Specialist –Bemidji Region

(218) 333-6090 / jillian.johnson@sanfordhealth.org

BEMIDJI, Minn. – Sanford Health will host a Doc Talk, “Subtle Warning Signs from the Heart,” from 3:30 to 5 p.m. on Tuesday, Feb. 24, at the Sanford Center, 1111 Event Center Dr. NE, in Bemidji. Attendees should use the convention center entrance near the hotel.

Heart events can occur at a moment’s notice, and the heart may be trying to warn you before it happens. Join Dr. James Dewar, DO, interventional cardiologist at the Sanford Bemidji Heart & Vascular Center, for a discussion about the latest technology that’s used to prevent, detect and treat heart attacks and other cardiac emergencies.

Refreshments will be available at 3:30 p.m. and the one-hour presentation will begin at 4 p.m. and include time for questions. The event is free to attend, but registration is required.

To register or learn more, visit https://www.sanfordhealth.org/classes-and-events/doc-talk-bemidji or call (218) 333-5862.

Sanford Health is dedicated to providing the communities it serves with relevant and up-to-date health information. Doc Talk is a free education series where Sanford physicians present and answer your questions on a wide variety of topics.

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 55,000 employees and serves more than 2 million patients and nearly 415,000 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 58 hospitals, 289 clinic locations, 145 senior care communities, 4,500 physicians and advanced practice providers and 1,100 active clinical trials and studies. The organization’s transformational virtual care initiative brings patients closer to care with access to nearly 80 specialties. More than 400 residents and fellows are trained each year through graduate medical education with Sanford Health fully funding and supporting 29 of the 40 available programs. Sanford Health also includes Lewis Drug, a pharmacy and retail chain with 60 locations in three states and nearly 190 pharmacists. 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 to share how innovation is reshaping access to care

SIOUX FALLS, S.D. — Sanford Health joins global industry leaders in Minnesota this week for meaningful discussions on how innovation is reshaping access to health care in underserved communities.

The Medical Alley 2026 Summit takes place Thursday in Minneapolis. The fifth annual event fosters collaboration and features insights and expertise to develop solutions that drive health innovation.

Jeremy Cauwels, M.D., chief medical officer at Sanford Health, is a featured panelist in a discussion that explores how providers, startups and industry leaders are building sustainable solutions that bring care closer to those who need it most. The session, entitled Innovating for Access: Breaking Barriers to Care in Rural America, also features Kolby Kolbet, chief innovation officer at Life Link III and Sheri Dodd, chief executive officer at Tactile Medical. Lisa Shannon, the chief executive officer at Allina Health, is moderating the discussion.

“With two-thirds of our patients living in rural areas, innovation is how we bring care closer to home,” said Cauwels. “By expanding access through virtual care, leveraging AI tools to support our providers and giving residents hands-on exposure to rural medicine, Sanford Health is reimagining care delivery to strengthen access, quality and sustainability.”

Virtual care is one of Sanford Health’s most established and scalable care delivery capabilities, expanding access, strengthening workforce sustainability and improving health outcomes. Built over more than a decade, Sanford Health’s virtual services span nearly 80 specialties – from behavioral health to oncology and pediatric pulmonology – and support patients across clinics, hospitals, long-term care settings and home environments. By delivering advanced clinical services through technology-enabled models, Sanford Health allows patients to receive timely care where they live, reducing travel burden and care delays that are more acute in rural communities.

Sanford’s commitment to innovation is translating into measurable improvements in access and outcomes. Since launching direct-to-consumer virtual behavioral health visits in 2023, nearly 12,000 patients who had not previously accessed behavioral health services have engaged in virtual care. Together, these results reflect the progress Sanford Health has made – and its role in helping pioneer the future of care delivery for patients and communities.

An innovative partnership between Sanford Health and Hennepin Healthcare is helping address the rural physician workforce shortage by giving emergency medicine and psychiatry residents hands-on training in rural northern Minnesota. Through one-month rotations at Sanford Bemidji Medical Center and nearby clinics, the program enhances physician training while strengthening the pipeline of clinicians more likely to choose careers in rural communities.

Born in South Dakota and raised in northwest Iowa, Cauwels has bachelor’s degrees in chemistry and biology from the University of Northern Iowa and a medical degree from the University of Iowa Carver College of Medicine. He completed his residency and a chief resident year at the University of Kansas in Kansas City, Kansas. He is a fellow of the American College of Physicians and the Society of Hospital Medicine.

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 55,000 employees and serves more than 2 million patients and nearly 415,000 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 58 hospitals, 289 clinic locations, 145 senior care communities, 4,500 physicians and advanced practice providers and 1,100 active clinical trials and studies. The organization’s transformational virtual care initiative brings patients closer to care with access to nearly 80 specialties. More than 400 residents and fellows are trained each year through graduate medical education with Sanford Health fully funding and supporting 29 of the 40 available programs. Sanford Health also includes Lewis Drug, a pharmacy and retail chain with 60 locations in three states and nearly 190 pharmacists. 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 leaders share optimism for future of rural care

SIOUX FALLS, S.D. — Sanford Health leaders joined more than 1,000 rural health leaders this week in Texas to commit to advancing rural health and providing quality care for patients and communities.

The 2026 AHA Rural Health Care Leadership Conference, concludes today in San Antonio. The conference has featured top rural practitioners sharing actionable strategies and resources aimed at improving access to care, leveraging unique workforce approaches and implementing digital technologies.

Bill Gassen, Sanford Health president and CEO, Brad Reimer, Sanford Health chief information officer, and Daniel Hoody, M.D., chief physician and medical officer at Sanford Bemidji were among the featured speakers and panelists selected to share how Sanford Health is shaping the future of rural health care.

During a featured fireside chat, Gassen reflected on the realities of leading a rural health system through disruption and driving meaningful transformation. The candid discussion was moderated by M. Michelle Hood, FACHE, executive vice president and chief operating officer of the American Hospital Association.

“As the largest rural health system in the country, we are well positioned to lead smart, strategic transformation, whether that’s scaling virtual care, building a stronger pipeline of rural clinicians by growing our own or harnessing AI tools to deliver more proactive and personalized care,” said Gassen. “We’re focused on cultivating a culture of innovation — being clear about where we’re going, investing with intention and encouraging our teams to challenge the status quo.”

Last year, Gassen was elected as chair-elect designate of the American Hospital Association (AHA) Board of Trustees. In 2027, he will serve as chair of the AHA Board, the top-elected official of the national organization that represents America’s hospitals and health systems and works to advance health care across the country. Gassen has served on the AHA Board of Trustees since 2024.

Reimer’s panel explored how rural systems are leveraging AI — especially ambient AI — to support early recognition, documentation integrity, patient outcomes and workforce extension while navigating consent, trust and equity concerns. The session, entitled AI to Enhance Clinical Workflows in the Rural Hospital Setting, was moderated by Chris DeRienzo, M.D., senior vice president and chief physician executive of the American Hospital Association.

“Sanford Health has taken a deliberate and disciplined approach to AI, focused on practical applications that deliver measurable value, supported by strong governance, security and organizational trust,” said Reimer. “AI allows us to meet patients where they are and rethink how work gets done – strengthening access, enhancing the patient experience and supporting our teams as patient demand and care needs continue to grow.”

Hoody’s panel highlighted innovative strategies for addressing workforce challenges at rural hospitals. A prime example taking place at Sanford Bemidji is the rural rotation program in partnership with Hennepin Healthcare. Hennepin sends emergency medicine and psychiatry residents on a month-long rotation to Sanford Bemidji, designed to give residents exposure to rural medicine.

“Traditional recruitment alone isn’t going to be enough to meet the workforce challenges rural health care is facing. With more than one-third of rural physicians in Minnesota expected to retire in the next five years, simply competing for the same shrinking pool of clinicians isn’t a sustainable strategy,” said Hoody. “Our focus has shifted from recruiting harder to building earlier, more intentional pathways into rural care – and doing that at scale.”

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 55,000 employees and serves more than 2 million patients and nearly 415,000 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 58 hospitals, 289 clinic locations, 145 senior care communities, 4,500 physicians and advanced practice providers and 1,100 active clinical trials and studies. The organization’s transformational virtual care initiative brings patients closer to care with access to nearly 80 specialties. More than 400 residents and fellows are trained each year through graduate medical education with Sanford Health fully funding and supporting 29 of the 40 available programs. Sanford Health also includes Lewis Drug, a pharmacy and retail chain with 60 locations in three states and nearly 190 pharmacists. 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 Fargo to host Doc Talk on heart-healthy diets

Feb. 11, 2026

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

FARGO, N.D. – Sanford Health Fargo is hosting a Doc Talk discussion to educate the public about heart-healthy diets.

The event is on Thursday, Feb. 19, from 4:30 to 6 p.m. inside the Fargo Parks Sports Center at the Sanford Sports Complex, 6100 38th St. S., Fargo. There is no cost to attend, but registration is required.

What you eat not only impacts your daily energy levels, but it also shapes your heart. Sanford Fargo dietitians and diabetes educators will discuss how different diets impact your heart health and also give you the tools to develop eating habits that support heart health. Social hour begins at 4:30 p.m. and the discussion starts at 5 p.m. Panel members will include:

• Brittany Twiss, diabetes educator
• Phil Shermoen, dietitian
• Halli Heimbuch, dietitian

Sanford Health is dedicated to providing the communities it serves with relevant and up-to-date health information. Doc Talk is a free educational series where Sanford physicians present and answer your questions on a wide variety of topics.

To register for the event, visit https://www.sanfordhealth.org/classes-and-events/doc-talk-fargo

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 55,000 employees and serves more than 2 million patients and nearly 415,000 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 58 hospitals, 289 clinic locations, 145 senior care communities, 4,500 physicians and advanced practice providers and 1,100 active clinical trials and studies. The organization’s transformational virtual care initiative brings patients closer to care with access to nearly 80 specialties. More than 400 residents and fellows are trained each year through graduate medical education with Sanford Health fully funding and supporting 29 of the 40 available programs. Sanford Health also includes Lewis Drug, a pharmacy and retail chain with 60 locations in three states and nearly 190 pharmacists. 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.

Southridge Clinic offering walk-in physical therapy services

Feb. 2, 2026

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

BISMARCK, N.D. — Sanford Health in Bismarck is now offering walk-in physical therapy services at the Southridge Clinic, located at 565 S. Seventh St.

Walk-in hours are available Monday-Thursday from 1 to 5 p.m. The physical therapy walk-in services offer evaluation for acute injury, sudden pain or condition, including sprains, strains and vertigo. Physical therapists work closely with patients to improve mobility, reduce pain and restore function.

Injuries typically seen for physical therapy walk-in services include injuries to the following:

• Elbow
• Hip
• Knee
• Lower leg, foot, ankle
• Shoulder
• Spine

The Sanford Health 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 55,000 employees and serves more than 2 million patients and nearly 415,000 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 58 hospitals, 289 clinic locations, 145 senior care communities, 4,500 physicians and advanced practice providers and 1,100 active clinical trials and studies. The organization’s transformational virtual care initiative brings patients closer to care with access to nearly 80 specialties. More than 400 residents and fellows are trained each year through graduate medical education with Sanford Health fully funding and supporting 29 of the 40 available programs. Sanford Health also includes Lewis Drug, a pharmacy and retail chain with 60 locations in three states and nearly 190 pharmacists. 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 Center for Screening moves to east Sioux Falls

February 9, 2026

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

SIOUX FALLS, S.D. — The Sanford Center for Screening is moving from its previous location inside the Sanford Heart Hospital to the Sanford Madison & Veterans Parkway Clinic, located at 5920 E. Madison St. in east Sioux Falls. The Center offers preventive screenings for heart and vascular health.

“This move provides more space for these important screenings, along with easier access and convenience for our patients” said Bridget O’Brien-Johnson, vice president, operations, heart & vascular. “Heart disease remains the number one cause of death among all Americans. With February being American Heart Month, this is the perfect time for us to expand and ensure these potentially life-saving screenings are available to our community.”

A heart screening is recommended once every ten years for everyone ages 40-75 and women who are postmenopausal. A screening at Sanford includes a blood pressure check, body mass index calculation, cholesterol test, CT calcium score, EKG and Framingham risk score.

Vascular screenings are recommended once every three to five years starting at age 40. Patients with type 1 diabetes should start vascular screenings at age 30. These screenings check for vascular disease, a sometimes life-threatening condition affecting the blood vessels. It can lead to high blood pressure, limb loss, heart attack, stroke and kidney failure.

The Sanford Madison & Veterans Parkway Clinic is a 26,500 square-foot clinic that opened February 2024.

To schedule a heart or vascular screening, call (605) 312-2150.

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 55,000 employees and serves more than 2 million patients and nearly 415,000 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 58 hospitals, 289 clinic locations, 145 senior care communities, 4,500 physicians and advanced practice providers and 1,100 active clinical trials and studies. The organization’s transformational virtual care initiative brings patients closer to care with access to nearly 80 specialties. More than 400 residents and fellows are trained each year through graduate medical education with Sanford Health fully funding and supporting 29 of the 40 available programs. Sanford Health also includes Lewis Drug, a pharmacy and retail chain with 60 locations in three states and nearly 190 pharmacists. 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 Health & Good Samaritan leaders named CNOs to know

SIOUX FALLS, S.D. — Becker’s Hospital Review has named six leaders from Sanford Health and Good Samaritan to its most recent list of hospital and health system chief nursing officers to know.

Erica DeBoer (Sanford Health), Kelly Hefti (Sioux Falls), Wendy Kopp (Bismarck), Theresa Larson (Fargo), DeeAndra Sandgren (Good Samaritan) and Amy Thiesse (Sioux Falls) are among the 274 CNOs included on the 2025 list.

As the leaders of nursing strategy, CNOs take on critical challenges such as addressing staffing shortages, managing nursing budgets and creating meaningful professional development pathways for the next generation of nurses. Beyond overseeing nursing departments, these executives lead innovative initiatives that elevate care quality and strengthen clinical excellence across their organizations. Blending hands-on clinical expertise and executive leadership, CNOs play an essential role in advancing health care and supporting the nurses who deliver care every day.

DeBoer is CNO for Sanford Health, which serves more than one million patients and is the largest rural health system in the country. In her role, she has oversight of more than 11,000 nurses across the post-acute, ambulatory and inpatient settings. She has been instrumental in leading systemwide initiatives aimed at leveraging technology, AI and automation to solve for unprecedented nursing workforce shortages. She has also helped to lead an expansion of workforce development programs to build a stronger pipeline of the next generation of caregivers. DeBoer brings approximately 30 years of experience as a front-line registered nurse, including positions in critical care, clinical leadership and education. Most recently, she was Sanford Health’s senior executive director of nursing and clinical services and clinical informatics.

Hefti is responsible for the nursing practice for the ambulatory and inpatient care units at Sanford USD Medical Center and Clinics, the largest hospital in South Dakota. For more than 30 years, she has served Sanford Health in a variety of roles, including as a practicing registered nurse, clinical leader, senior director, certified nurse practitioner and CNO, and has helped foster a culture of quality nursing care and elevated standards for nursing practice. She is also a champion for nurse wellbeing and safety in the workplace. Working closely with local institutions of higher education, Hefti has been instrumental in fostering and maintaining educational partnerships, internships and experiential learning opportunities for future nurses. Under Ms. Hefti’s leadership, the medical center and clinics earned a fifth Magnet designation for nursing excellence in 2022.

As CNO at Sanford Bismarck, Kopp leads nurses across Western and Central North Dakota. She was instrumental in guiding the organization through the Covid-19 pandemic, implementing innovative care strategies and ensuring the safety and wellbeing of both staff and patients. Under her leadership, Sanford Bismarck achieved its fourth Magnet designation. Kopp also spearheaded the creation of the “Zen Den,” a wellness room designed to support the mental health of frontline workers. Beyond her organization, she contributes to the nursing profession by participating in professional boards, publishing research, and advocating for policies that prioritize patient care and nurse wellness.

In her CNO role at Sanford Fargo, Larson is focused on setting the standard for clinical and nursing excellence, impacting more than 3,200 registered nurses and licensed practical nurses in eastern North Dakota and northwestern Minnesota. Her efforts helped lead Sanford Fargo to its first-ever Magnet designation, a milestone achieved after 20 years working to align with the American Nurses Credentialing Center standards. Under Larson’s leadership, the organization earned the Vizient “Rising Star Award” in 2023 and a 5-star rating from CMS in 2024. Alongside high-quality care, Larson is passionate about building a supportive culture that empowers nurses and promotes professional development opportunities. To further strengthen the nursing workforce, Larson has established strategic partnerships with colleges and universities, including tuition-support programs tied to work commitments at Sanford Health.

Sandgren oversees nursing and clinical services at Good Samaritan, one of the nation’s largest senior care and services providers. She is responsible for care management, clinical reimbursement, nursing shared governance, admissions, social services, life enrichment and dietary. Under her leadership, Good Samaritan improved clinical outcomes, workforce stability and innovation, transforming care delivery for 10,000 seniors in rural America. In 2024, she drove a 20% increase in applications for national quality awards with strong results. Also in 2024, the long-term care provider achieved resident vaccination rates exceeding industry benchmarks by 15% for Covid-19 and 7% for influenza. As a result of retention and recruitment strategies, the director of nursing vacancy rate dropped from over 20% to under 10% in two years.

With more than 30 years of nursing experience in tertiary and frontier hospitals, ambulatory and nursing home settings, Thiesse oversees nursing practice and the provision of nursing services in more than 25 rural medical centers and dozens of clinics. An advocate for equitably meeting the needs of rural communities, she is committed to upholding high standards for safe nursing practices, as well as skill and professional development opportunities tailored to rural frontline nurses. Understanding the unique needs and challenges associated with recruiting qualified nurses to smaller communities, Thiesse works closely with higher education institutions in the area to create opportunities for investigative learning and internships for nursing students.

Becker’s Healthcare developed this list based on nominations and editorial research.

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 55,000 employees and serves more than 2 million patients and nearly 415,000 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 58 hospitals, 289 clinic locations, 145 senior care communities, 4,500 physicians and advanced practice providers and 1,100 active clinical trials and studies. The organization’s transformational virtual care initiative brings patients closer to care with access to nearly 80 specialties. More than 400 residents and fellows are trained each year through graduate medical education with Sanford Health fully funding and supporting 29 of the 40 available programs. Sanford Health also includes Lewis Drug, a pharmacy and retail chain with 60 locations in three states and nearly 190 pharmacists. 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 expands partnership with Sioux Falls Golf

February 4, 2026

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

SIOUX FALLS, S.D. – Sanford Sports and Landscapes Golf Management have enhanced their partnership to provide more resources to Sioux Falls Golf members. Starting this spring, Sanford Sports Academy will provide instruction to golfers of all ages at Elmwood, Prairie Green, and Kuehn Park golf courses.

The Academy will continue to focus on junior programming while expanding coaching services to adults and Sioux Falls Golf pass holders.

“This is an exciting opportunity for our entire team,” said Sam Vosler, Sanford Sports Academy golf manager. “We look forward to developing new programs and services that will benefit the Sioux Falls Golf pass holder’s experience. Our PGA-certified led professionals, along with our support staff, have a great vision for how to grow the game of golf here in the Sioux Falls region. We’re grateful to Landscapes Golf Management for the opportunity and eager for the upcoming golf season.”

In addition to more instructional opportunities, Sioux Falls Golf pass holders will also see expanded benefits at Great Shots including discounts during non-peak hours, leagues created specifically for members during the offseason, and annual events such as demo days, fitting days, and other social events.

Landscapes Golf Management has run Sioux Falls Golf’s operations since January 2018.

“We’re thrilled to continue elevating the game in Sioux Falls,” said Justin Arlt, Sioux Falls Golf market manager. “We’ve always prided ourselves on providing the best public golf experience in the area. Adding multiple opportunities with Sanford Sports will enhance that experience even more.”

For more information and to book lessons, please visit siouxfallsgolf.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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