Posts Archive - Sanford Health News

Minnesota to play San Francisco in MBB at Sanford Pentagon

July 9, 2025

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

SIOUX FALLS, S.D. – The Minnesota Golden Gophers will play the University of San Francisco Dons in men’s basketball at the Sanford Pentagon in a nonconference matchup on Nov. 22. The on-sale date for tickets will be announced later.

“This matchup provides both teams the opportunity for a quality non-conference win at a true neutral site, which will be a valuable addition to their resume,” said Jesse Smith, vice president of operations for Sanford Sports. “We are excited for fans in the region to not only watch Minnesota play on Heritage Court but to also see such a storied program in San Francisco.”

Minnesota basketball ushers in a new era this coming season as Nico Medved takes over as head coach of the Gophers. Medved, who earned both a bachelor’s and master’s degree from Minnesota, returns to his alma mater after a seven-year head coaching stint at Colorado State. It marks the second time Medved has been a coach at Minnesota, as he was an assistant coach during the 2006-07 season.

“We’re really excited to play in Sioux Falls and at the Sanford Pentagon this season,” Minnesota head coach Niko Medved said. “The venue and location give fans a great regional opportunity to watch the Gophers play, and we look forward to growing this partnership for future events there.”

San Francisco finished the 2024-25 season with a 25-10 record, including a 13-5 showing in the West Coast Conference. The Dons advanced to the second round of the NIT. San Francisco returns seven student-athletes from last year, including All-West Coast Conference (WCC) Freshman Team selection Tyrone Riley IV and the 2023-24 WCC Freshman of the Year Ryan Beasley. Entering his fourth year as head coach, Chris Gerlufsen guided the Dons to 20-plus wins in 2024-25, the eighth time in the last nine seasons the program has reached the 20-win mark.

“Our program is very excited for the chance to play Minnesota in the Sanford Pentagon this November,” said Gerlufsen. “We are always looking for quality games against Power 4 opponents, and this is a great opportunity at a historic neutral site.”

San Francisco leads the all-time series 1-0. Their last meeting was a 76-58 Dons victory at the Chase Center on Nov. 26, 2023.

This is the sixth NCAA Division I event at the Sanford Pentagon announced for the 2025-26 season. Iowa State plays Mississippi State in men’s basketball on Nov. 10. Nebraska will face Oklahoma in men’s basketball on Nov. 15. The Nebraska women’s basketball team will take on North Dakota State on Nov. 16. The South Dakota State women will face against Gonzaga on Nov. 20 and South Dakota State will match up against Wyoming in men’s basketball on Dec. 15.

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 to convene Summit on the Future of Rural Health Care

SIOUX FALLS, S.D. — For the fourth consecutive year, Sanford Health will convene some of the leading and most influential voices in health care, technology and business for a day of thought-provoking conversations focused on transformation in rural health care delivery. This year’s theme is “Advancing access, quality and sustainability.”

The 4th annual Summit on the Future of Rural Health Care will take place Oct. 14 at the Sanford Barn in Sioux Falls, South Dakota. It will also be livestreamed for journalists and the public to join.

Bill Gassen, president and CEO of Sanford Health, will moderate a fireside chat with Rick Pollack, President and CEO at the American Hospital Association. He will also sit down with other health system CEOs including Joanne M. Conroy, M.D., President and CEO, Dartmouth Health, Andrea Walsh, President and CEO, HealthPartners and Erik Wexler, President and CEO, Providence for a panel discussion moderated by Alexis Kayser, healthcare editor at Newsweek.

“There has never been a more important time to bring together a group of dynamic leaders across the health care ecosystem for meaningful conversations about how we can accelerate the future of health care for patients, senior care residents, health plan members and communities,” said Gassen. “We look forward to a day of bold ideas, collaboration and impact as we reimagine what’s possible in rural care delivery – together.”

Confirmed speakers

• Emily Barey, R.N., Chief Nurse Evangelist, Epic
• Joanne M. Conroy, M.D., CEO and President, Dartmouth Health
• Tony Hernandez, Interim President, Presbyterian Health Plan
• Alexis Kayser, Healthcare Editor, Newsweek
• Amy McDonough, Managing Director, Strategic Health Solutions, Google
• Ateev Mehrotra, M.D., MPH, Chair, Department of Health Services, Policy and Practice, Brown University, School of Public Health
• Bobby Mukkamala, M.D., President, American Medical Association
• Rick Pollack, MPA, President and CEO, American Hospital Association
• Mario Schlosser, Co-Founder and Chief Technology Officer, Oscar Health
• Molly Smith, Group Vice President, Public Policy, American Hospital Association
• Seema Verma, MPH, Executive Vice President and General Manager, Oracle Health and Life Sciences
• Andrea Walsh, JD, President and CEO, HealthPartners
• Erik Wexler, MBA, President and CEO, Providence

Additional details about this year’s program and newly confirmed speakers can be found at sanfordruralhealthsummit.org

Last year’s event brought together health system CEOs, industry experts and prominent tech leaders for candid, wide-ranging conversations focused on pioneering innovation in a shifting landscape. Nearly 200 guests attended the Summit in Sioux Falls and more than 5,000 streamed the event online.

Media and members of the public can register to view the livestream of the event at  sanfordruralhealthsummit.org/register-now.

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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John Daly returns to 2025 Sanford International

July 9, 2025

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

SIOUX FALLS, S.D. – Two-time major champion John Daly is returning to the Sanford International for the 2025 tournament. Daly joins fellow PGA TOUR Champions golfers Ángel Cabrera and Ken Duke in officially committing to this year’s tournament which takes place Sept. 8-14 at Minnehaha Country Club in Sioux Falls, South Dakota.

Daly, the winner of the 1991 PGA Championship and the 1995 Open Championship, continues to be one of the most popular players in golf. A 5-time winner on the PGA TOUR, Daly also has one PGA TOUR Champions title on his resume – the 2017 Insperity Invitational. A recording artist with multiple albums released, Daly can also be seen on the screen in the upcoming “Happy Gilmore 2.”

Cabrera, also a 2-time major champion, is having one of the best seasons on the PGA TOUR Champions. The winner of the 2007 U.S. Open and the 2009 Masters Tournament, Cabrera is currently ranked 4^th in the Charles Schwab Cup standings thanks to three victories in 2025, including the Senior PGA Championship.

Duke has consistently played well in Sioux Falls, posting three top-12 finishes at the Sanford International, including a T2 in 2019 and a T7 last year. The Arkansas native has four professional wins on his resume including the 2013 Travelers Championship on the PGA TOUR and the 2023 Shaw Charity Classic on the PGA TOUR Champions.

New this year at the Sanford International is the Greats of the Game event, a 9-hole competition that matches golf legends Sir Nick Faldo and Andy North with Pro Football Hall of Fame members Cris Carter and Rondé Barber. The event takes place on Saturday, Sept. 13 and begins shortly after the last group of Sanford International competitors tee off on No. 10.

Tickets to the Sanford International are now on sale. Patrons may purchase tickets at sanfordinternational.com. There are a number of ticket options available including PREMIER Club badges, daily grounds passes, weekend grounds passes and packages that include food and merchandise.

Previous Sanford International Winners

2024 – Steve Stricker (-8)

2023 – Steve Stricker (-16)

2022 – Steve Stricker (-14)

2021 – Darren Clarke (-12)

2020 – Miguel Angel Jimenez (-14)

2019 – Rocco Mediate (-9)

2018 – Steve Stricker (-13)

About the Sanford International
The Sanford International, a PGA TOUR Champions event contested in Sioux Falls, South Dakota, will be played at Minnehaha Country Club the week of September 8-14, featuring a $2.2 million purse. In its eighth year, the Sanford International will continue to focus on charitable giving and making a lasting impact in Sioux Falls. For more information about the tournament, please visit sanfordinternational.com. You can also follow the tournament on social media via Facebook, Twitter, and Instagram.

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Sanford Fargo honored for treatment of heart attack patients

July 9, 2025

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

FARGO, N.D. — Sanford Medical Center Fargo has received the American College of Cardiology’s NCDR Chest Pain – MI Registry Platinum Performance Achievement Award for 2025. Sanford Fargo is one of only 323 hospitals nationwide to receive the honor.

The award recognizes Sanford Health’s commitment and success in implementing a higher standard of care for heart attack patients and signifies that Sanford Fargo has reached an aggressive goal of treating these patients to standard levels of care as outlined by the American College of Cardiology/American Heart Association clinical guidelines and recommendations.

To receive the Chest Pain ̶ MI Registry Platinum Performance Achievement Award, Sanford Fargo has demonstrated sustained achievement in the Chest Pain ̶ MI Registry for two consecutive years (2023 and 2024) and performed at the highest level for specific performance measures. Full participation in the registry engages hospitals in a robust quality improvement process using data to drive improvements in adherence to guideline recommendations and overall quality of care provided to heart attack patients.

“We are honored to once again be recognized for our high standard of care for heart attack patients,” said Paul Burud, Sanford Fargo vice president of operations for heart & vascular services. “When it comes to treatment of heart attacks, every second counts. This honor is a true testament to our heart team, who go above and beyond to provide the communities we serve with high quality health care to close to home. Our multidisciplinary clinic helps diagnose, treat and educate our patients throughout and after their cardiovascular event.”

The Centers for Disease Control estimates that over 800,000 Americans suffer a heart attack each year. A heart attack occurs when a blood clot in a coronary artery partially or completely blocks blood flow to the heart muscle. Treatment guidelines include administering aspirin upon arrival and discharge, timely restoration of blood flow to the blocked artery, smoking cessation counseling and cardiac rehabilitation, among others.

Chest Pain ̶ MI Registry empowers health care provider teams to consistently treat heart attack patients according to the most current, science-based guidelines and establishes a national standard for understanding and improving the quality, safety and outcomes of care provided for patients with coronary artery disease, specifically high-risk heart attack patients.

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 Bismarck honored for heart attack treatment

July 9, 2025

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

Sanford Bismarck Medical Center among nation’s top performing hospitals for treatment of heart attack patients 

American College of Cardiology NCDR Chest Pain – MI Registry Platinum Performance Achievement Award recognizes sustained, high-level performance in quality of care

BISMARCK, N.D. – Sanford Medical Center Bismarck has received the American College of Cardiology’s NCDR Chest Pain – MI Registry Platinum Performance Achievement Award for 2025. Sanford Bismarck is one of only 323 hospitals nationwide to receive the honor.

The award recognizes Sanford Health’s commitment and success in implementing a higher standard of care for heart attack patients and signifies that Sanford Bismarck has reached an aggressive goal of treating these patients to standard levels of care as outlined by the American College of Cardiology/American Heart Association clinical guidelines and recommendations.

“Our team is committed to delivering the exceptional heart care our patients deserve, said Bill Kopp, vice president of operations at Sanford Bismarck. “This recognition reflects the unwavering dedication of our clinicians and staff who work tirelessly every day to deliver life-saving care and advance cardiovascular health. It reaffirms our commitment to providing the highest standard of care to every patient, every time.”

To receive the Chest Pain  ̶  MI Registry Platinum Performance Achievement Award, Sanford Bismarck has demonstrated sustained achievement in the Chest Pain  ̶   MI Registry for two consecutive years (2023 and 2024) and performed at the highest level for specific performance measures. Full participation in the registry engages hospitals in a robust quality improvement process using data to drive improvements in adherence to guideline recommendations and overall quality of care provided to heart attack patients.

“I am honored to be part of the dedicated team that delivers timely, life-saving care to heart attack patients,” said Dr. Nayan Desai, MD, FACC, interventional cardiologist and Chair of Cardiology, Sanford Bismarck. “This recognition speaks to the strength of our coordinated, evidence-based approach to treating heart attacks. Behind every successful outcome is a multidisciplinary team that acts swiftly, precisely, and with unwavering commitment to every patient we serve. I’m proud that we’re able to bring world-class, advanced cardiac care to our patients and community—right here in rural North Dakota.”

The Centers for Disease Control estimates that over 800,000 Americans suffer a heart attack each year. A heart attack occurs when a blood clot in a coronary artery partially or completely blocks blood flow to the heart muscle. Treatment guidelines include administering aspirin upon arrival and discharge, timely restoration of blood flow to the blocked artery, smoking cessation counseling and cardiac rehabilitation, among others.

Chest Pain  ̶  MI Registry empowers health care provider teams to consistently treat heart attack patients according to the most current, science-based guidelines and establishes a national standard for understanding and improving the quality, safety and outcomes of care provided for patients with coronary artery disease, specifically high-risk heart attack patients.

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

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 earns full reaccreditation for nurse residency

July 8, 2025

Contact:
Megan Jensen
Sanford Health Media Relations
605-366-2432 / Megan.Jensen2@sanfordhealth.org

SIOUX FALLS, S.D. — Sanford Health’s Nurse Residency Program was recently awarded a Full Accreditation with Distinction from the American Nurses Credentialing Center Practice Transition Accreditation Program. Sanford Health was first awarded this honor in 2021 and received a re-accreditation in 2025.

Sanford Health’s program is among an elite group of only 297 accredited programs throughout the world to attain this significant achievement. It is the first and only program in North Dakota to receive accreditation with distinction, one of two in South Dakota and is also included in a small number of organizations in Minnesota with this level of recognition.

Sanford’s Nurse Residency Program is an evidence-based program designed to provide personal and professional support to new to practice nurses. Through this partnership, nurse residents will develop professional relationships and resources needed to thrive in their new positions and successfully transition from student nurse to professional registered nurse.

“We’re proud of this recognition, but even more proud of what it means for our nurses,” said Erica DeBoer, Sanford Health chief nursing officer. “Achieving reaccreditation shows we’re serious about supporting nurses from the start—and committed to doing it well over time. It’s part of what makes Sanford Health a place where nurses want to grow their careers.”

Qualifying nurses with less than 12 months of experience who accept a position as a registered nurse in a participating facility are automatically enrolled in the program.

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 Fargo recognized for great endocrinology programs

July 8, 2025

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

FARGO, N.D. – Sanford Health Fargo has been recognized by Becker’s Hospital Review as one of 51 hospitals and health systems with great diabetes and endocrinology programs.

The hospitals and health systems on this list are recognized for their strong commitment to advancing endocrine health. Through specialized programs, innovative initiatives and dedicated service lines, they work to improve the quality of life for patients managing conditions such as diabetes, thyroid disorders, metabolic issues and more.

“We are honored and grateful to be named a top diabetes and endocrinology program. This recognition is the result of the collaboration of our dedicated clinicians, diabetes educators and staff, who go above and beyond to provide world class health care close to home,” said Raul Ruiz, M.D., Sanford Health endocrinologist and department chair. “We are proud of our innovative efforts, such as the Sanford PLEDGE Study, which is a pediatric screening initiative for Type 1 diabetes, as well as offering virtual care to our rural communities, which allows us to provide expert care for the management of hormonal disorders, thyroid cancer and innovative technologies for diabetes such as insulin pumps and sensors to even the most remote areas.”

These organizations deliver comprehensive care to support patients with endocrine system disorders, offering advanced diagnostics, personalized education, innovative treatments and access to the latest technologies and clinical research. From diabetes and thyroid conditions to metabolic disorders and beyond, these programs are making a meaningful difference in patients’ lives.

Sanford Fargo delivers comprehensive endocrinology and diabetes care through a multidisciplinary team of endocrinologists, nurse practitioners, diabetes educators and specialists. The Sanford Fargo American Diabetes Association-accredited diabetes education center offers personalized education and nutrition support, while children with diabetes benefit from peer-driven engagement through Sanford’s diabetes camps.

A list of all hospitals and health systems recognized with great diabetes and endocrinology programs can be found here.

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 named a top non-profit for veterans

July 7, 2025

Contact:
Megan Jensen
Sanford Health Media Relations
605-366-2432 / Megan.Jensen2@sanfordhealth.org

SIOUX FALLS, S.D. — Sanford Health has once again been recognized nationally for its commitment to veterans and their families. Military Friendly® Brands has ranked Sanford Health No. 3 in the category of Government & Non-Profit brands on its annual list of organizations that set the standard for providing the best opportunities for veterans and military spouses. Sanford Health has placed in the Top 10 category of this recognition since the inception of the Military Friendly ® Brands award in 2024.

Organizations earning the Military Friendly® Brands designation were evaluated using both public and government data sources with responses from a comprehensive survey completed by the organization. Sanford Health was the top-ranked health care system on the list and is joined by other health care organizations such as Northwell Health (No. 4) and Highmark Health (No.8).

“At Sanford Health, we believe in investing in our nation’s heroes to provide them with opportunities where they feel valued and supported,” said Capt. Paul Weckman, head of military and veteran affairs at Sanford Health. “Sanford Health is honored to support brave men and women who are currently serving or have served in the United States Armed Forces, and we want to thank them for choosing us to continue their careers or receive their care. The sacrifices they have made while serving make it possible for us to deliver world-class care to our patients and residents in communities across the Midwest.”

Sanford offers several programs for military and veteran employees, including continuation of benefits and differential pay for service members during their deployment. In 2023, Sanford Health expanded its support to active-duty members and their spouses by partnering with the Department of Defense (DoD) SkillBridge Program and the Military Spouses Employment Program.

People who disclose they are veterans of the United States uniformed services when applying for a job at Sanford Health are automatically given a screening interview. Military and veteran employees have the option to continue their education and apply for a $5,000 scholarship. Sanford Health is now accepting applications until Sept. 30 for four $5,000 awards.

For more information about veteran resources for patients and employees at Sanford Health, visit SanfordHealth.org keyword: Military.

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 Gastroenterology Clinic moves into new location

July 2, 2025

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

Sanford Gastroenterology Clinic moves into new, upgraded location

Stewart Cink commits to 2025 Sanford International

July 2, 2025

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

SIOUX FALLS, S.D. – Former Open Championship winner Stewart Cink, along with fellow PGA TOUR Champions golfers Freddie Jacobson and Søren Kjeldsen have officially committed to the 2025 Sanford International. This year’s tournament takes place Sept. 8-14 at Minnehaha Country Club in Sioux Falls, South Dakota.

Cink, the winner of the 2009 Open Championship, makes his debut appearance at the Sanford International. The Atlanta native has eight career PGA TOUR victories and two PGA TOUR Champions titles, including earlier this season at the Insperity Invitational. Currently ranked second in the Charles Schwab Cup standings, Cink is coming off a runner-up finish at the U.S. Senior Open. Cink also played on five consecutive United States Ryder Cup teams from 2002-2010.

Jacobson is a rookie on the PGA TOUR Champions who will also tee off at the Sanford International for the first time. The Sweden native has three top 5 finishes during his inaugural season on the PGA TOUR Champions. He is currently ranked 17^th in the Charles Schwab Cup standings. In 2011, Jacobson won his lone PGA TOUR title, a victory at the Travelers Championship.

Kjeldsen, a native of Denmark, is also a rookie on the PGA TOUR Champions making his first appearance in Sioux Falls. With seven professional victories on his resume, Kjeldsen also has top 10 finishes at the Masters, PGA Championship and Open Championship. He has started his PGA TOUR Champions career off with 4 top 12 finishes in five starts.

New this year at the Sanford International is the Greats of the Game event, a 9-hole competition that matches golf legends Sir Nick Faldo and Andy North with Pro Football Hall of Fame members Cris Carter and Rondé Barber. The event takes place on Saturday, Sept. 13 and begins shortly after the last group of Sanford International competitors tee off on No. 10.

Tickets to the Sanford International are now on sale. Patrons may purchase tickets at sanfordinternational.com. There are a number of ticket options available including PREMIER Club badges, daily grounds passes, weekend grounds passes and packages that include food and merchandise.

Previous Sanford International Winners

2024 – Steve Stricker (-8)

2023 – Steve Stricker (-16)

2022 – Steve Stricker (-14)

2021 – Darren Clarke (-12)

2020 – Miguel Angel Jimenez (-14)

2019 – Rocco Mediate (-9)

2018 – Steve Stricker (-13)

About the Sanford International
The Sanford International, a PGA TOUR Champions event contested in Sioux Falls, South Dakota, will be played at Minnehaha Country Club the week of September 8-14, featuring a $2.2 million purse. In its eighth year, the Sanford International will continue to focus on charitable giving and making a lasting impact in Sioux Falls. For more information about the tournament, please visit sanfordinternational.com. You can also follow the tournament on social media via Facebook, Twitter, and Instagram.

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USD Medical Center honored for heart attack patient care

June 26, 2025

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

SIOUX FALLS, S.D. — Sanford USD Medical Center in Sioux Falls has received the American College of Cardiology’s NCDR Chest Pain – MI Registry Platinum Performance Achievement Award for 2025. Sanford USD Medical Center is one of only 323 hospitals nationwide to receive the honor.

The award recognizes Sanford Health’s commitment and success in implementing a higher standard of care for heart attack patients and signifies that Sanford USD Medical Center has reached an aggressive goal of treating these patients to standard levels of care as outlined by the American College of Cardiology/American Heart Association clinical guidelines and recommendations.

To receive the Chest Pain  ̶  MI Registry Platinum Performance Achievement Award, Sanford USD Medical Center has demonstrated sustained achievement in the Chest Pain  ̶   MI Registry for two consecutive years (2023 and 2024) and performed at the highest level for specific performance measures. Full participation in the registry engages hospitals in a robust quality improvement process using data to drive improvements in adherence to guideline recommendations and overall quality of care provided to heart attack patients.

“It is an honor to award Sanford USD Medical Center with the Platinum Performance Award for their valuable national leadership and dedication to meeting comprehensive performance measures in patient care,” said Michael C. Kontos, MD, FACC, chair of the NCDR Chest Pain – MI Registry Steering Subcommittee, and cardiologist at Virginia Commonwealth University Medical Center. “The receipt of this award indicates that Sanford Health remains committed to providing top quality, guideline-driven care for heart attack patients. Their success ensures patients are receiving the highest quality cardiovascular care.”

The Centers for Disease Control estimates that over 800,000 Americans suffer a heart attack each year. A heart attack occurs when a blood clot in a coronary artery partially or completely blocks blood flow to the heart muscle. Treatment guidelines include administering aspirin upon arrival and discharge, timely restoration of blood flow to the blocked artery, smoking cessation counseling and cardiac rehabilitation, among others.

“Sanford Health’s number one priority is patient care and this award exemplifies our team’s diligence and attention to detail toward our cardiovascular patients,” said Bridget O’Brien-Johnson, vice president, operations, heart & vascular. “The quality and consistency of our team at Sanford USD Medical Center is second to none and that’s a testament to our providers and our leadership. We are grateful to the American College of Cardiology once again for this prestigious honor.”

Chest Pain  ̶  MI Registry empowers health care provider teams to consistently treat heart attack patients according to the most current, science-based guidelines and establishes a national standard for understanding and improving the quality, safety and outcomes of care provided for patients with coronary artery disease, specifically high-risk heart attack patients.

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.

The American College of Cardiology (ACC) is the global leader in transforming cardiovascular care and improving heart health for all. As the preeminent source of professional medical education for the entire cardiovascular care team since 1949, ACC credentials cardiovascular professionals in over 140 countries who meet stringent qualifications and leads in the formation of health policy, standards and guidelines. Through its world-renowned family of JACC Journals, NCDR registries, ACC Accreditation Services, global network of Member Sections, CardioSmart patient resources and more, the College is committed to ensuring a world where science, knowledge and innovation optimize patient care and outcomes. Learn more at www.ACC.org or follow @ACCinTouch.

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Emergency medicine residency program launches in Sioux Falls

Contact:

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

SIOUX FALLS, S.D. — Sanford Medical Education, together with the USD Sanford School of Medicine, recently received accreditation from the Accreditation Council for Graduate Medical Education (ACGME) to launch a new emergency medicine (EM) residency program.

The accreditation, a combined effort between Sanford USD Medical Center, Sanford Medical Education and USD Sanford School of Medicine, creates the first emergency medicine residency program in South Dakota as well as a broader region encompassing North Dakota, Montana, Wyoming and Idaho.

“As the only Level 1 trauma center in the region, Sanford is uniquely positioned to train the next generation of emergency medicine physicians,” said Abigail Polzin, M.D., emergency medicine physician and director of the residency program. “By training these physicians right here in South Dakota, we hope it inspires them to deliver emergency medicine care to some of our rural communities and stay in the region after residency. However, the expertise they learn will also be extremely valuable in high-volume hospitals in metro areas as well.”

Joining Dr. Polzin in leading the residency are Kenji Hamanaka, M.D, associate program director and Juliet Koppenhaver, program administrator. Dr. Hamanaka brings a passion for simulation, VR learning, and critical care, while Ms. Koppenhaver is a detail-oriented and highly dedicated coordinator eager to support residents throughout their training journey.

Residents will complete 25 months of core EM training, including time at Sanford’s new 12-bed pediatric Emergency Department, opening in 2026, as well as rotations in ICU, obstetrics, surgery, and other specialties. Rural training experiences in Aberdeen and opportunities for electives, including international rotations, will further enrich their education. The program also includes unique hands-on opportunities through Sanford’s high-fidelity simulation, telemedicine training and AirMed transport.

The inaugural class of residents in this three-year program will begin training in July 2026. Six residents will be accepted annually, reaching a full cohort of 18 residents.

For more information about the EM program, visit usdgme.org/emergency-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 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 TRF integration with Roger Maris Cancer Center

June 25, 2025

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

THIEF RIVER FALLS, Minn. – Sanford Thief River Falls is expanding its partnership with the Sanford Roger Maris Cancer Center.

Cancer patients can now receive outpatient clinic cancer care at Sanford Thief River Falls Monday-Friday thanks to the addition of a full-time nurse practitioner, Chasidi Plaine. Plaine spent six months training at the Sanford Roger Maris Cancer Center in Fargo, offering expertise daily to patients battling cancer.

The Sanford Roger Maris Cancer Center integration also includes a Roger Maris mural wall, a bell that patients ring marking the end of treatments and cancer center plaques that describes the history of Roger Maris.

“This is a game-changer for Thief River Falls and surrounding communities,” said Tyler Ust, Sanford Thief River Falls clinic director. “Cancer does not discriminate. It does not care where you live or what you look like. Adding Chasidi to the infusion center will prevent our patients from having to make those extra two-to-three-hour trips. This is not possible without the teamwork and focus on patient care from our highly trained and emphatic nurses, pharmacists that hold safety to the highest priority and outreach physicians, Dr. Amit Panwalkar and Dr. Radhakishna Vegunta, who lead diagnoses and treatment plans to help save lives.”

The Sanford Thief River Falls infusion center is now open five days a week with six infusion bays. The infusion center sees over 3000 encounters each year. Over the past decade, infusion and chemotherapy services have grown over 54% in Thief River Falls, going from eight patients per day to 13 patients per day. Chemotherapy cancer treatments have been a large part of that increase, going from 500 chemotherapy encounters per year to 1000.

Over the past five years, roughly 100 people per year have been diagnosed with a new cancer in Northwest Minnesota. The most prevalent cancers are colorectal, breast and skin cancer.

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 Bismarck welcomes back ear, nose and throat provider

June 24, 2025

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

Sanford Bismarck welcomes back ear, nose and throat provider

Jeffrey Nelson, M.D. will provide outreach services to Jamestown starting in August

BISMARCK, N.D. – Sanford Bismarck is pleased to announce the return of Jeffrey Nelson, M.D., a specialist in ear, nose and throat. Dr. Nelson has rejoined the Sanford ENT Clinic after one year away and is now accepting patients.

Dr. Nelson received his medical degree at Medical College of Ohio in Toledo, Ohio. He completed his residency in otolaryngology-head & neck surgery at State University New York Upstate Medical University in Syracuse, New York.

He specializes in diagnosing and treating conditions affecting the head and neck including sinus problems, sleep issues, ear conditions, voice issues and head and neck cancers. Dr. Nelson provides both surgical and non-surgical options.

Dr. Nelson is now seeing patients at the Sanford Downtown Rosser Clinic in Bismarck, 701 E. Rosser, third floor. He will also be providing outreach services to Jamestown starting in August and operating within Sanford Jamestown Clinic, 904 5^th Ave. NE, the first Wednesday of every month, beginning in August.

To schedule an appointment with Dr. Nelson, please call 701-323-8922.

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 details commitment to community in new report

SIOUX FALLS, S.D. — Strengthening the health and well-being of local communities is at the core of Sanford Health’s mission. As the largest nonprofit provider of rural health care in the United States, Sanford Health is proud to provide services, support and initiatives to respond to the current and future health needs of its communities. These investments improve access to affordable, high-quality care, enhance community health, reduce barriers and address health disparities, all while making communities more resilient.

These commitments are detailed in Sanford Health’s 2023-24 Community Commitment Report, a comprehensive view of how Sanford Health gives back to the communities it serves throughout its footprint.

Two-thirds of the patients Sanford Health serves live in rural areas where many face unique challenges. These patients are more likely to have fewer resources to access care and experience higher rates of poverty, food and housing insecurity, and chronic disease, which often lead to poorer health outcomes.

“Our mission at Sanford Health is to care, comfort and cure. That mission does not stop when an appointment is finished. We are committed to supporting our patients, residents, members and communities in ways that extend beyond the walls of our clinics, hospitals and facilities,” said Bill Gassen, president and CEO of Sanford Health. “I am proud of the investments and commitments we have made in our communities to keep our hometowns healthy and thriving. Our extraordinary caregivers, as well as our incredible community partners, have dedicated their time and talents to meet the needs of all we serve.”

Each year, Sanford Health provides hundreds of millions of dollars in community services and programs. From providing free or reduced-cost care to thousands of patients to addressing workforce needs across the region, below are examples of community benefit programs in which Sanford Health is focused on strengthening the health and well-being of the communities it serves.

Care for All

• Sanford Health provides medically necessary care to anyone in need, regardless of their ability to pay.
• Sanford Health provides financial assistance to 90% of patients who apply for it, which can range from a reduction in the balance to complete forgiveness.
• Sanford Health offers a database to assist patients with finding and accessing community resources. The website findhelp.com compiles information to help address basic needs such as housing, food, transportation and childcare. In 2024, referrals to sanford.findhelp.com increased nearly 80-percent from 2023.

Expanded Access

• Two-thirds of Sanford Health patients who used virtual care in the last year live more than 30 miles from a major medical center. The Sanford Virtual Care Center, which opened in Nov. 2024, enhances Sanford Health’s virtual care offerings. Since 2011, Sanford Health has served more than 1.7 million people virtually, saving 56.2 million miles.
• To enhance colorectal cancer preventative care, Sanford Health mailed more than 45,000 stool-based testing kits to average-risk patients who were overdue for a screening or never had been screened. These at-home kits provided a convenient option for early detection, and patients with abnormal results were promptly contacted to schedule follow-up colonoscopies.
• Sanford Health is among 13 community health systems sharing data through the Veteran Interoperability Pledge to improve the care experience for veterans regardless of where they receive care. Through this pledge, Sanford Health seamlessly exchanges information about care requested and provided, saves money for veterans and connects veterans with VA benefits.

Behavioral Health

• The BeHEARD program has equipped 159 educators representing 34 schools in South Dakota and North Dakota with the knowledge, skills and confidence to support youth ages 10-17 with behavioral health concerns.
• In partnership with the North Dakota Department of Health and Human Services, The Treatment Collaborative for Traumatized Youth (TCTY) was established to advance trauma-focused cognitive behavioral therapy, the gold standard for treating children who have experienced trauma.
• The virtual behavioral health emergent assessment program offers rural partners throughout Minnesota, South Dakota and North Dakota virtual access to board-certified psychiatrists. The service is available in emergency rooms in rural communities and inpatient settings. Since the program was launched in December 2023, more than 620 patients have accessed emergency behavioral health care virtually.

Community Outreach

• The CAPABLE program in Sioux Falls, South Dakota, and surrounding communities supports adults 60+ years old or those with a physical disability. The goal of the program is to increase mobility, functionality and the capacity to age at home.
• To help reduce the financial burden on teachers who often spend their own money on classroom supplies, Sanford Health established the Sanford PROMISE Equipment Lending Library. This provides educators with free access to professional-grade science equipment and experiment materials.
• Sanford Fit creates free resources designed to captivate children’s attention, educate them about important health topics and inspire healthy behaviors. Since 2019, the program has reached 17 million children in over 200 countries, including more than 1 million users of online resources.
• In the summer of 2024, Sanford Sports, in partnership with Sanford Orthopedics & Sports Medicine and Sanford Research, provided free ACL injury risk screenings for nearly 500 middle and high school athletes at Fargo-Moorhead regional schools.

Medical Research

• Sanford Research, a multistate research institute, participates in nearly 1,500 active clinical trials and studies that aim to improve the prevention, detection, treatment and survivorship of a wide range of diseases. While clinical trial recruitment has historically been centered in larger urban areas, Sanford Health is committed to pursuing cures and improving treatments for diseases that affect communities in rural America.
• Sanford Children’s Hospital in Sioux Falls, South Dakota, has recently been designated as a new Undiagnosed Disease Network (UDN) clinical site. UDN is a research study supported by the National Institutes of Health (NIH) that works towards solving the most challenging medical mysteries.
• ImagineYou is a no-cost genetic screening study designed to help participants better understand the impact of their DNA on their health. A secure, privacy protected database will allow researchers to study genetic links to health, uncover causes of diseases and identify new treatment approaches.

Workforce Development

• Sanford Health facilities serve as clinical and non-clinical training sites for thousands of students every year. Through Aspire by Sanford, students in grades K-12 have opportunities to start exploring careers in health care.
• The Genesis Program provides community members interested in the health care industry a pathway to a new career. Participants engage in an innovative, 4-week experience, exposing them to both clinical and non-clinical positions. After completing the program, a participant could receive an offer for full-time employment.
• Sanford Health continues to expand its graduate medical education programs to bring clinical expertise, resources, and sub-specialties to the upper Midwest. A GI fellowship is the newest 3-year program in Sioux Falls, South Dakota.

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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