Posts Archive - Sanford Health News

Sanford Fargo named top orthopedic program

Dec. 11, 2025

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

FARGO, N.D. – For the second consecutive year, Sanford Fargo Orthopedics and Sports Medicine has been recognized as one of the top orthopedic programs in the United States by Becker’s Hospital Review.

Sanford Health Fargo was named to the Becker’s Hospital Review’s “Top 100 Hospitals and Health Systems with Great Orthopedic Programs.” All nominated orthopedic institutes are devoted to providing comprehensive, compassionate care for patients experiencing musculoskeletal conditions and injuries. The honored programs not only deliver exceptional clinical outcomes, but also drive progress through innovative research and cutting-edge orthopedic technologies.

“We are grateful to be named a top orthopedic program in the country. This nomination is a direct reflection of the orthopedic and sports medicine staff’s dedication to providing world class health care close to home,” said Michael Erickson, Sanford Fargo vice president of orthopedic and sports medicine services. “Sanford Fargo is the region’s leader for orthopedic care because of our commitment to innovation, such as robotic-assisted surgeries and through research with the ‘Sanford ACL Initiative’, which is designed to better understand the cause of ACL injuries. We take great pride in providing the communities we serve with the newest and best technologies to improve patient outcomes.”

Sanford Orthopedics and Sports Medicine Fargo is the regional leader in advanced, comprehensive care. It is the only program in North Dakota recognized as one of The American Orthopaedic Association’s “Own the Bone” star performers. The program also received The Joint Commission’ Gold Seal of Approval in four areas: hip fracture and total hip, knee and shoulder replacement.

Sanford Orthopedics and Sports Medicine Fargo offers numerous innovative services, including robotic-assisted surgeries, same-day total joint replacements and orthobiologics, a treatment that uses cells to help patients potentially avoid surgery for musculoskeletal injuries. Sanford Health Orthopedics and Sports Medicine serves as the official orthopedics and sports medicine provider for 42 universities, including the NCAA Division I University of North Dakota and North Dakota State University programs.

A list of all orthopedic programs honored by Becker’s Hospital Review 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 55,000 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 57 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.

Emma, Liam soar to most popular in 2025 top baby names

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

SIOUX FALLS, S.D. — Emma topped the list as the most popular name for girls born at Sanford Health in 2025. Liam jumped two spots from 2024 to take the top name for boys in 2025.

Lainey and Charlotte tied for the second most popular girls’ name while Oliver came in second for boys. In 2024, Lainey and Oliver were the most popular names. Coming in third place for boys was Theodore, up one spot from 2024.

Ella claimed the No. 4 spot for girls and Ellie finished off the top five. For boys, Leo came in No. 4 and there was a four-way tie for the No. 5 spot. William, Noah, Jack and James all tied for the fifth most popular name.

The top five 2025 baby names born at Sanford Health can be found below.

Boys:

1. Liam
2. Oliver
3. Theodore
4. Leo
5. William, Noah, Jack and James

Girls:

1. Emma
2. Lainey and Charlotte
3. Ella
4. Ellie

Sanford Health has delivered nearly 9,000 babies so far in 2025, with July being the month with the highest number of births. The average weight for babies born in 2025 is 7 pounds 3 ounces.

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 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 57 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.

Diabetes support group launches in Williston on Jan. 1

December 10, 2025

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

WILLISTON, N.D. — A new diabetes support group will begin meeting on Thursday, Jan. 1, offering education, resources and community for individuals living with diabetes. The group aims to provide practical tips and emotional support to help participants manage their condition effectively.

Topics will include:

• Troubleshooting Continuous Glucose Monitors (CGMs)
• Healthy snacks and meal ideas
• Coping strategies for living with diabetes
• Local resources available for diabetics

The support group will meet from 5:30-6:30 p.m. on the first Thursday of each month in the conference room at Sanford 11^th & Gate Clinic, located at 1700 11^th St. W., Williston. No registration is necessary, and the support group is free and open to any diabetic patient in the community.

For more information, visit sanfordhealth.org or call 701-713-8220.

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 awarded grant to advance heart diagnosis and care

December 9, 2025

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

In collaboration with Pfizer, funds allow Sanford to improve the capabilities of identifying and early diagnosis of rare, progressive heart disease

BISMARCK, N.D. — Sanford Health has been selected as one of only three recipients of a highly competitive grant offered through a collaboration between Pfizer and the American College of Cardiology (ACC). This grant supports innovative quality improvement initiatives aimed at increasing identification and accurate diagnosis of heart failure patients with cardiac amyloidosis.

Through this funding, Sanford will design and implement a comprehensive initiative focused on:

• Improving capabilities for cardiac amyloidosis identification and diagnosis, particularly among hospitalized heart failure patients.
• Reducing time to correct diagnosis by enhancing coordination of care across specialties.
• Implementing interventions for holistic patient management, including early identification and post-discharge care strategies.
• Leveraging AI and digital health tools to identify patients at risk for cardiac amyloidosis.
• Defining and augmenting quality and performance measures for screening and diagnosis.

“This grant represents an incredible opportunity to improve outcomes for patients with cardiac amyloidosis and heart failure,” said Nayan Desai, M.D., interventional cardiologist, Sanford Bismarck. “By advancing diagnostic accuracy and coordination of care, we hope to make a meaningful impact on patient lives.”

Pfizer will provide funding for the initiative, while ACC will convene an Expert Review Panel, foster a community of practice among grantees and offer guidance to ensure program success. Importantly, the initiative will be independently designed and conducted by Sanford, with no involvement from Pfizer in project development or monitoring.

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.

Gassen named one of Modern Healthcare’s 100 Most Influential

SIOUX FALLS, S.D. — Sanford Health President and CEO Bill Gassen has been recognized by Modern Healthcare as one of the 100 Most Influential People in Healthcare of 2025. This marks four consecutive years Gassen has been named to this significant list. Prominent leaders joining Gassen include: Wright Lassiter III, CEO of CommonSpirit Health, Mark Cuban, co-founder, Mark Cuban Cost Plus Drug Co., Rick Pollack, president and CEO, American Hospital Association, Judy Faulkner, founder and CEO, Epic, Sam Altman, co-founder and CEO, OpenAI, Eugene Woods, CEO, Advocate Health and Dr. Gianrico Farrugia, president and CEO, Mayo Clinic.

The selection and ranking of the 100 Most Influential People was determined by the senior editors of Modern Healthcare. This year’s honorees have worked to enact transformation within their organizations while driving change on a local, state and national level. And at a time when health care organizations face unprecedented tumult, they have worked to invest responsibly and set up their companies and those they serve for long-term success.

“Influence in health care can take many forms — as exemplified by our 2025 list of the 100 Most Influential People in Healthcare,” said Mary Ellen Podmolik, editor-in-chief of Modern Healthcare. “This year’s honorees preside over sprawling systems serving patients through dozens of hospitals, lead insurance company connecting millions of members with benefits, pull strings on Capitol Hill through advocacy efforts and develop tools shaping the future of care.”

Gassen, ranked No. 28 on the list, has led Sanford Health since 2020. The organization serves more than two million patients across the upper Midwest, operating 57 hospitals and 147 senior care communities. In 2025, Gassen led Sanford Health through mergers with Wisconsin-based Marshfield Clinic Health System and Watertown, South Dakota-based Prairie Lakes Healthcare System. This year Sanford Health also announced its expanded partnership with Lewis Drug, a family-owned pharmacy and retail store chain with 60 locations throughout South Dakota, Iowa and Minnesota. In December, Sanford Health announced another landmark $300 million gift from Denny Sanford to help build a medical campus in Rapid City. Late last year, Sanford opened its $40 million virtual care center; the health system now offers virtual care options across 78 specialties, vital for a provider that serves a large number of rural patients.

 “Being recognized alongside so many visionary leaders in health care is truly humbling,” said Gassen. “This honor reflects the extraordinary work of our entire Sanford Health team and their unwavering dedication to reimagining what is possible for patients and communities. I am especially proud of how we are advancing access to exceptional care in rural America and shaping a future where every person – no matter where they live – can count on world-class health care close to home.”

In 2025, 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. He also serves on the Board of Directors for Oscar Health, Inc., the Board of Directors for Medical Alley and the Board of Directors for the Greater Sioux Falls Chamber of Commerce. Gassen also serves as chair of the Coalition to Strengthen America’s Healthcare.

Prior to being appointed president and CEO in 2020, Gassen previously held several leadership positions at Sanford Health, including chief administrative officer, corporate counsel and chief human resources officer.

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 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 57 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.

About Modern Healthcare
Modern Healthcare is the industry’s leading source of healthcare business and policy news, research and information. We report on important healthcare events and trends, as they happen, through our print magazine, websites, e-newsletters, mobile products and events. Our readers use this information to make informed business decisions and lead their organizations to success. It’s for this reason that Modern Healthcare magazine is ranked No. 1 in readership among healthcare executives.

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Sanford to share insights on care’s digital transformation

SIOUX FALLS, S.D. — Sanford Health senior vice president and chief information officer Brad Reimer is joining senior health care leaders this week in Washington, D.C. for a two-day conference focused on how AI-driven solutions can supercharge improvements across finance, care delivery and strategic growth.​

HealthLeaders Chief Digital Executive Exchange is an exclusive, peer-focused forum designed for senior digital and information executives to engage in deep, candid conversations with counterparts from finance, clinical operations and executive leadership.

Reimer’s panel will focus on the evolving role of the CIO. He will be joined by Bill Sheahan, chief innovation officer at MedStar Health and Praveen Chopra, chief digital and information officer at Emplify Health. Eric Wickland, technology editor at HealthLeaders, will moderate the panel.

“I appreciate this opportunity to share how Sanford Health is leading the way when it comes to advancing technology across our large rural geographic footprint in the upper Midwest,” said Reimer. “Today, technology isn’t viewed as a cost center — leaders increasingly look at it to expand access, support the workforce, transform care delivery and ensure sustainability.”

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

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

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 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 Jackson Clinic welcomes new provider

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

SIOUX FALLS, S.D. — Tracy Ross, APRN, CNP, recently joined the Sanford Jackson Clinic as a family medicine provider.

A native of Estherville, Iowa, Ross has a special interest in women’s health and has experience in hormone therapy, menopause care and weight loss management. She also provides acute care services, chronic disease management, well child and well-baby visits and preventive care for patients.

“Growing up near Jackson, I know how critical Sanford Health is in the community and the necessary care the hospital and clinic provide for patients in the community,” said Ross. “I’m excited to care for patients in my own backyard and be a trusted health care provider for Jackson and surrounding communities.”

Ross received her master’s degree from Frontier Nursing University in Hyden, Ky. and is board certified in family medicine by the American Academy of Nurse Practitioners.

For more information about Sanford Jackson, visit Sanfordhealth.org keyword: Jackson.

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 USD Medical Center earns knee/hip replacement honor

December 2, 2025

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

SIOUX FALLS, SD — The Sanford USD Medical Center has received a Blue Distinction^® Center+ (BDC+) designation for Knee and Hip Replacement by Wellmark^® Blue Cross^® and Blue Shield^® as part of the Blue Distinction Specialty Care program.

This program identifies hospitals and ambulatory care centers that demonstrate expertise in patient safety, deliver better health outcomes, and are more cost-effective. Quality assessments are based on objective measures developed from the Blue Cross Blue Shield Association’s (BCBSA) partnership with the American Academy of Orthopaedic Surgeons (AAOS).

This designation is a testament to the rigorous standards met by Sanford USD Medical Center. Designated knee and hip replacement facilities deliver high-quality care, with an average of 21% fewer readmissions and 21% fewer complications within 90 days after knee and hip replacement surgery. Designated facilities also achieve cost savings of 30% for knee and hip replacements compared to all other facilities for that specialty care area.

Patients treated at designated facilities benefit from the expertise and advanced practices that lead to improved recovery times and reduced complications making a positive difference in their overall health journey.

“Providing excellent patient care is our number one priority at Sanford Health,” said Dean Kusler, vice president of orthopedics and neurology at Sanford Health. “Knee and hip replacements have a tremendous impact on our patients’ lives and this honor demonstrates our team’s continued efforts to meet their needs and improve outcomes.”

Among other criteria, to receive a designation, facilities must:

• Have full accreditation from at least one national accrediting organization as either a hospital or ambulatory surgery center
• Have low complication, mortality and unplanned readmission rates within 90 days after elective primary total knee and hip replacements
• Have enhanced recovery after surgery processes and procedures in place for quality perioperative care
• Participate in Wellmark’s BlueCard Preferred Provider Organization (PPO) Network

By meeting these criteria, Sanford USD Medical Center not only highlights its commitment to high quality health care but also commits to remaining at the forefront of advancements in knee and hip replacements.

To further improve patient outcomes and inform treatment strategies, BCBSA utilized the AAOS and American Joint Replacement Registry for evidence-based performance measures and patient reported outcome measures.

Since 2005, the Blue Distinction Specialty Care program has helped patients find quality specialty care—and, for those that meet the program’s cost criteria, at lower costs—in the areas of bariatric surgery, cancer care, cardiac care, cellular immunotherapy, fertility care, knee and hip replacement, maternity care, spine surgery, substance use treatment and recovery, and transplants, while encouraging health care professionals to improve the quality of care they deliver.

For more information about the program and for a complete listing of the designated providers, visit our website.

All companies and trademarks listed above are the property of their respective owners and used for identification purposes only, and are in no way associated or affiliated with the Blue Cross Blue Shield Association. Use of these trademarks does not imply endorsement. The Blue Cross^® and Blue Shield^® names and symbols and Blue Distinction^® are registered trademarks of the Blue Cross Blue Shield Association.

About Wellmark Blue Cross and Blue Shield

Wellmark, Inc., is an independent licensee of the Blue Cross Blue Shield Association. As a mutual insurance company, we’re owned by our policy holders across Iowa and South Dakota. More than two million people in Iowa and South Dakota are covered by a Wellmark health plan.  We work hard every day to make health care better as a trusted, innovative and inclusive leader committed to improving the health of the people and communities we serve. Learn more at Wellmark.com.

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.

About the Blue Cross Blue Shield Association
The Blue Cross Blue Shield Association is a national federation of independent, community-based and locally operated Blue Cross and Blue Shield companies that collectively provide health care coverage for one in three Americans. BCBSA provides health care insights through The Health of America Report series and the national BCBS Health Index^SM. For more information on BCBSA and its member companies, please visit bcbs.com.

About Blue Distinction Centers
Blue Distinction Centers (BDC) met overall quality measures, developed with input from the medical community. A local Blue Cross and Blue Shield (BCBS) company may require additional criteria for providers located in its own service area; for details, contact your local BCBS company. Blue Distinction Centers+ (BDC+) also met cost measures that address consumers’ need for affordable healthcare. Each provider’s cost of care is evaluated using data from its local BCBS company. Providers in CA, ID, NY, PA, and WA may lie in two local BCBS company’s areas, resulting in two evaluations for cost of care; and their own local BCBS company’s decide whether one or both cost of care evaluation(s) must meet BDC+ national criteria. National criteria for BDC and BDC+ are displayed on www.bcbs.com. Individual outcomes may vary. For details on a provider’s in-network status or your own policy’s coverage, contact your local BCBS company and ask your provider before making an appointment. Neither Blue Cross Blue Shield Association nor any BCBS company are responsible for non-covered charges or other losses or damages resulting from Blue Distinction or other provider finder information or care received from Blue Distinction or other providers.

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Chamberlain recognized with performance leadership award

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

SIOUX FALLS, S.D. — As part of National Rural Health Day, Sanford Chamberlain Medical Center has been recognized with a 2025 Performance Leadership Award for excellence in quality.

Compiled by the Chartis Center for Rural Health, the Performance Leadership Awards honor top quartile performance (i.e., 75th percentile or above) among rural hospitals in quality, outcomes and/or patient perspective.

“Our patients come to us from all over the state of Soth Dakota, many of whom are our friends, family and neighbors,” said Erica Peterson, chief executive officer at Sanford Charmberlain. “As a rural hospital, we are continuously looking for ways to enhance the quality measures we have in place for patients to meet their individual health care needs and to keep their care close to home.”

The Performance Leadership Awards are based on the results of the Chartis Rural Hospital Performance INDEX®, the industry’s most comprehensive and objective assessment of rural hospital performance. INDEX data is relied upon by rural hospitals, health systems with rural footprints, hospital associations and state offices of rural health around the country to measure and monitor performance across several areas impacting hospital operations and finance.

For more information about Sanford Health in Chamberlain, visit SanfordHealth.org keyword: Chamberlain.

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.

Wheaton recognized with quality award for rural health

Nov. 20, 2025

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

WHEATON, Minn. – As part of National Rural Health Day, Sanford Wheaton has been recognized with a 2025 Performance Leadership Award for excellence in quality. This is the fourth consecutive year Sanford Wheaton has received this honor.

Compiled by The Chartis Center for Rural Health, the Performance Leadership Awards program recognizes top quartile performance (i.e., 75th percentile or above) among rural hospitals in quality, outcomes and/or patient perspective.

“This recognition doesn’t happen without our dedicated staff, who go above and beyond to make sure our patients can eliminate travel and receive the care they need right here at home,” said Chelsie Falk, Sanford Wheaton chief executive officer. “Our patients should never have to choose between quality of health care and convenience of travel. We take great responsibility in providing our communities with the latest, most up-to-date, technological advances in health care.”

The Performance Leadership Awards program is based on the results of the Chartis Rural Hospital Performance INDEX®, a comprehensive and objective framework for assessing how rural hospitals are performing. INDEX benchmarks are relied upon by rural hospitals, health systems with rural footprints, hospital associations and state offices of rural health to measure performance across multiple areas impacting hospital operations and finance.

A full list of rural hospitals honored with a Performance Leadership Award for quality 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 expands endoscopy services in Bismarck

November 20, 2025

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

BISMARCK, N.D. — Sanford Health has expanded its endoscopy services at the Sanford Broadway Same Day Surgery Center, located at 715 E. Broadway Ave. in downtown Bismarck. This 15,000-square-foot addition is designed to enhance access, comfort and efficiency for patients seeking essential digestive health services in a convenient outpatient setting.

The newly renovated space includes six endoscopy suites and 18 preparation and recovery rooms, along with additional procedure rooms to accommodate a growing number of patients. Enhanced access points and streamlined workflows will help reduce wait times and improve patient flow from check-in through recovery.

The expansion features state-of-the-art technology, including updated scopes and advanced imaging equipment to support both diagnostic and therapeutic procedures. Services offered include colonoscopy, upper endoscopy (EGD) and treatments for conditions such as GERD, IBD and colorectal cancer screening.

“Digestive health is a critical part of overall wellness, and this expansion allows us to meet rising demand while providing patients with a more comfortable and efficient experience,” said Jackie Farland, vice president of operations, Sanford Bismarck. “By investing in advanced technology and patient-centered design, we’re improving access to life-saving screenings and treatments right here in our community.”

The American Cancer Society recommends individuals at average risk begin regular colorectal screenings at age 45, lowering the previous guideline from age 50. Early detection is key to preventing colorectal cancer, and Sanford’s expanded endoscopy services make these screenings more accessible than ever.

This investment also supports Sanford’s growing gastroenterology team, with seven new providers joining in 2025, strengthening the ability to deliver high-quality care across the region. The dedicated GI space fosters collaboration among multiple specialties, including gastroenterology and general surgery, ensuring comprehensive care under one roof.

For more information or to schedule an appointment, 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.

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Thief River Falls recognized with quality award

Nov. 20, 2025

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

THIEF RIVER FALLS, Minn. – As part of National Rural Health Day, Sanford Thief River Falls has been recognized with a 2025 Performance Leadership Award for excellence in quality. This is the fourth consecutive year Sanford Thief River Falls has received this honor.

Compiled by The Chartis Center for Rural Health, the Performance Leadership Awards program recognizes top quartile performance (i.e., 75th percentile or above) among rural hospitals in quality, outcomes and/or patient perspective.

“We are honored to be recognized as a top critical access hospital for quality,” said Tyler Ust, Sanford Thief River Falls chief executive officer. “Our patients in Thief River Falls and the surrounding communities trust in us for the highest quality of health care, and that is something that we will never take for granted. Providing world-class health care, regardless of where you live, is our number one priority.”

The Performance Leadership Awards program is based on the results of the Chartis Rural Hospital Performance INDEX®, a comprehensive and objective framework for assessing how rural hospitals are performing. INDEX benchmarks are relied upon by rural hospitals, health systems with rural footprints, hospital associations and state offices of rural health to measure performance across multiple areas impacting hospital operations and finance.

A full list of rural hospitals honored with a Performance Leadership Award for quality 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 Hillsboro and Sanford Mayville recognized by Chartis

Nov. 20, 2025

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

FARGO, N.D. – As part of National Rural Health Day, Sanford Health Hillsboro and Sanford Health Mayville have been recognized with a 2025 Performance Leadership Award for excellence in quality. This is the third consecutive year Sanford Hillsboro and Sanford Mayville have received this honor.

Compiled by The Chartis Center for Rural Health, the Performance Leadership Awards program recognizes top quartile performance (i.e., 75th percentile or above) among rural hospitals in quality, outcomes and/or patient perspective.

“Sanford Health prides itself on being a national leader in rural health care,” said Jac McTaggart, Sanford Hillsboro and Mayville chief executive officer. “Rural health care is at the forefront of what we do. It is extremely important to us to provide world-class health care to our patients regardless of where they live. I am proud of every staff member who helped make this recognition possible.”

The Performance Leadership Awards program is based on the results of the Chartis Rural Hospital Performance INDEX®, a comprehensive and objective framework for assessing how rural hospitals are performing. INDEX benchmarks are relied upon by rural hospitals, health systems with rural footprints, hospital associations and state offices of rural health to measure performance across multiple areas impacting hospital operations and finance.

A full list of rural hospitals honored with a Performance Leadership Award for quality 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.

Canton-Inwood recognized with quality award for rural health

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

SIOUX FALLS, S.D. — As part of National Rural Health Day, Sanford Canton-Inwood Medical Center has been recognized with a 2025 Performance Leadership Award for excellence in quality.

Compiled by the Chartis Center for Rural Health, the Performance Leadership Awards honor top quartile performance (i.e., 75th percentile or above) among rural hospitals in quality, outcomes and/or patient perspective.

“As a small, rural hospital, we are always looking for ways to add and enhance quality measures for our patients,” said Scott Larson, chief executive officer at Sanford Canton-Inwood. “Even though we’re just a short drive from Sioux Falls, time can be a lifeline for patients needing immediate health care. Ensuring our hospital has essential quality measures in place for patients is critically important, especially considering the number of patients who might travel several miles to our hospital for their care.”

The Performance Leadership Awards are based on the results of the Chartis Rural Hospital Performance INDEX®, the industry’s most comprehensive and objective assessment of rural hospital performance. INDEX data is relied upon by rural hospitals, health systems with rural footprints, hospital associations and state offices of rural health around the country to measure and monitor performance across several areas impacting hospital operations and finance.

A full list of rural hospitals honored with a Performance Leadership Award for quality 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.

Tracy recognized with quality award for rural health

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

SIOUX FALLS, S.D. — As part of National Rural Health Day, Sanford Tracy Medical Center has been recognized with 2025 Performance Leadership Awards for excellence in quality.

Compiled by the Chartis Center for Rural Health, the Performance Leadership Awards honor top quartile performance (i.e., 75th percentile or above) among rural hospitals in quality, outcomes and/or patient perspective.

“As a rural Minnesota hospital, our team continues to add and enhance quality measures for our patients and their families to ensure we are providing the best health care for our community and surrounding communities,” said Stacy Barstad, chief executive officer at Sanford Tracy. “Providing our patients with quality health care close to home is invaluable, especially for patients who would otherwise travel several miles for their appointment.”

The Performance Leadership Awards are based on the results of the Chartis Rural Hospital Performance INDEX®, the industry’s most comprehensive and objective assessment of rural hospital performance. INDEX data is relied upon by rural hospitals, health systems with rural footprints, hospital associations and state offices of rural health around the country to measure and monitor performance across several areas impacting hospital operations and finance.

A full list of rural hospitals honored with a Performance Leadership Award for quality 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.