Posts Archive - Page 2 of 114 - Sanford Health News

Marshfield Clinic recognized for cardiovascular care

Oct. 5, 2026

Contact:
Jeff Starck
Marshfield Clinic
715-389-4978 / Jeffrey.Starck@sanfordhealth.org

MARSHFIELD, Wis. – Marshfield Clinic hospitals in Marshfield, Minocqua and Park Falls received American Heart Association Get With The Guidelines^® achievement awards for demonstrating a commitment to following up-to-date, research-based guidelines for the treatment of heart disease and stroke, helping save lives, support recovery and reduce hospital readmissions.

Heart disease and stroke are the No. 1 and No. 4 causes of death in the United States, respectively, according to the American Heart Association’s 2026 Heart Disease and Stroke Statistics Report. Studies show patients can experience better outcomes when care teams consistently follow evidence-based treatment guidelines.

Get With The Guidelines puts the expertise of the American Heart Association and American Stroke Association to work for hospitals nationwide, helping ensure patient care is aligned with the latest science-backed guidelines. As a participant in the Get With The Guidelines programs, Marshfield Clinic qualified for the awards by demonstrating a sustained commitment to improving the quality of cardiovascular care.

“This recognition reflects the dedication of Marshfield Clinic physicians, nurses and care teams who work every day to deliver exceptional care for patients experiencing heart attacks and strokes,” said Dr. Brian Hoerneman, Marshfield Clinic CEO and president. “Their focus on quality, teamwork and continuous improvement helps save lives and improve recovery.”

Marshfield Clinic hospitals earned the following recognition:

Rural Stroke Bronze – Marshfield Medical Center-Minocqua and Marshfield Medical Center-Park Falls

Rural Stroke Silver – Marshfield Medical Center (Marshfield)

Stroke Gold Plus with Type 2 Diabetes Honor Roll, Stroke Honor Roll Elite Plus – Marshfield Medical Center (Marshfield)

“Every second counts when it comes to heart attacks and strokes, and our patients deserve access to high-quality, evidence-based care,” said Neurosurgeon Dr. Vivek Gonugunta. “By following the American Heart Association’s quality improvement protocols, Marshfield Clinic can help advance our shared vision of better patient outcomes, fewer readmissions and lower mortality rates.”

About Sanford Health
Sanford Health, the largest rural health system in the United States, is dedicated to transforming the healthcare experience and providing access to world-class healthcare in America’s heartland. Headquartered in Sioux Falls, South Dakota, the organization has 60,000 employees and serves more than 2.5 million patients and nearly 415,000 health plan members across the upper Midwest including South Dakota, North Dakota, Minnesota, Wyoming, Iowa, Wisconsin and the Upper Peninsula of Michigan. The integrated nonprofit health system includes a network of 60 hospitals, 315 clinic locations, 145 senior care communities, 4,900 physicians and advanced practice providers and 1,100 active clinical trials and studies. The organization’s transformational virtual care initiative brings patients closer to care with access to nearly 80 specialties. Nearly 450 residents and fellows are trained each year through over 40 graduate medical education programs, with Sanford Health serving as the primary funding source for 75% of the programs. Sanford Health also includes 92 retail pharmacies, including Sanford and Lewis Drug pharmacies with locations in 6 states, and more than 300 pharmacists. Learn more about Sanford Health’s commitment to shaping the future of rural healthcare across the lifespan at sanfordhealth.org or Sanford Health News.

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Sanford Hawley hosting flu vaccination events

Oct. 5, 2026

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

HAWLEY, Minn. – Sanford Health Hawley, 1412 Main St., is now offering the flu vaccination to patients 6 months and older.

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

• Wednesday, Oct. 14, from 8:15 a.m. to 4:30 p.m.
• Friday, Nov. 6, from 8:15 a.m. to 4:30 p.m.

Appointments are encouraged, but walk-ins are welcome. Please call 218-483-3564 to make an appointment.

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

A flu vaccine can protect the public from getting sick and protect the people around them. The American Academy of Pediatrics (AAP) and American Academy of Family Physicians (AAFP) recommend annual flu vaccines for everyone 6 months and older, especially those at higher risk of complications including pregnant women, older adults and young children.

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

About Sanford Health
Sanford Health, the largest rural health system in the United States, is dedicated to transforming the health care experience and providing access to world-class health care in America’s heartland. Headquartered in Sioux Falls, South Dakota, the organization has 55,000 employees and serves more than 2 million patients and nearly 415,000 health plan members across the upper Midwest including South Dakota, North Dakota, Minnesota, Wyoming, Iowa, Wisconsin and the Upper Peninsula of Michigan. The integrated nonprofit health system includes a network of 58 hospitals, 289 clinic locations, 145 senior care communities, 4,500 physicians and advanced practice providers and 1,100 active clinical trials and studies. The organization’s transformational virtual care initiative brings patients closer to care with access to nearly 80 specialties. More than 400 residents and fellows are trained each year through graduate medical education with Sanford Health fully funding and supporting 29 of the 40 available programs. Sanford Health also includes 92 retail pharmacies, including Sanford and Lewis Drug pharmacies with locations in 6 states, and more than 300 pharmacists. Learn more about Sanford Health’s commitment to shaping the future of rural health care across the lifespan at sanfordhealth.org or Sanford Health News.

Sanford Health hosting fall vaccine events in Williston

Oct. 5, 2026

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

WILLISTON, N.D. – Sanford Williston is offering flu and other seasonal vaccinations as available to patients six months and older on October 15 and 16 from 12-6 p.m. The events will be held at the Sanford 11th & Gate Clinic, located at 1700 11th St. W. Appointments are encouraged.

Please call 701-713-8220 or visit sanfordhealth.org to learn more and schedule your visit.

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

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

Now is the perfect time to get your seasonal vaccinations to safely boost your body’s ability to keep you healthy. Regular vaccinations protect you- and those around you – from getting sick.  Every dose makes a difference.

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

The Sanford Health Bismarck Region provides healthcare 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 healthcare experience and providing access to world-class healthcare in America’s heartland. Headquartered in Sioux Falls, South Dakota, the organization has 60,000 employees and serves more than 2.5 million patients and nearly 415,000 health plan members across the upper Midwest including South Dakota, North Dakota, Minnesota, Wyoming, Iowa, Wisconsin and the Upper Peninsula of Michigan. The integrated nonprofit health system includes a network of 60 hospitals, 315 clinic locations, 145 senior care communities, 4,900 physicians and advanced practice providers and 1,100 active clinical trials and studies. The organization’s transformational virtual care initiative brings patients closer to care with access to nearly 80 specialties. Nearly 450 residents and fellows are trained each year through over 40 graduate medical education programs, with Sanford Health serving as the primary funding source for 75% of the programs. Sanford Health also includes 92 retail pharmacies, including Sanford and Lewis Drug pharmacies with locations in 6 states, and more than 300 pharmacists. Learn more about Sanford Health’s commitment to shaping the future of rural healthcare across the lifespan at sanfordhealth.org or Sanford Health News.

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Sanford Health hosting fall vaccine events in Dickinson

Oct. 5, 2026

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

DICKINSON, N.D. – Sanford Dickinson is offering flu and other seasonal vaccinations as available to patients six months and older throughout the month of October. The events will be held at the Sanford West Dickinson Clinic, located at 2615 Fairway St., in the Community Room. Appointments are encouraged.

Vaccination events will be held on the following dates:

• 7 from 8 a.m.-7 p.m.
• 21 from 8 a.m.-7 p.m.

Please call 701-456-6001 or visit sanfordhealth.org to learn more and schedule your visit.

A special flu vaccination event for children, Boo to the Flu, will be held at the Sanford West Dickinson Clinic, pediatrics, from 4-7 p.m. on Oct. 30. Appointments are required for this event. Please call 701-456-6004 or visit sanfordhealth.org.

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

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

Now is the perfect time to get your seasonal vaccinations to safely boost your body’s ability to keep you healthy. Regular vaccinations protect you- and those around you – from getting sick.  Every dose makes a difference.

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

The Sanford Health Bismarck Region provides healthcare 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 healthcare experience and providing access to world-class healthcare in America’s heartland. Headquartered in Sioux Falls, South Dakota, the organization has 60,000 employees and serves more than 2.5 million patients and nearly 415,000 health plan members across the upper Midwest including South Dakota, North Dakota, Minnesota, Wyoming, Iowa, Wisconsin and the Upper Peninsula of Michigan. The integrated nonprofit health system includes a network of 60 hospitals, 315 clinic locations, 145 senior care communities, 4,900 physicians and advanced practice providers and 1,100 active clinical trials and studies. The organization’s transformational virtual care initiative brings patients closer to care with access to nearly 80 specialties. Nearly 450 residents and fellows are trained each year through over 40 graduate medical education programs, with Sanford Health serving as the primary funding source for 75% of the programs. Sanford Health also includes 92 retail pharmacies, including Sanford and Lewis Drug pharmacies with locations in 6 states, and more than 300 pharmacists. Learn more about Sanford Health’s commitment to shaping the future of rural healthcare across the lifespan at sanfordhealth.org or Sanford Health News.

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Sanford Lisbon hosts Boo to the Flu

Oct. 5, 2026

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

LISBON, N.D. – Keep your children protected this season by saying, “Boo the Flu.” Sanford Children’s invites parents and their children to attend Boo to the Flu at Sanford Lisbon Clinic, 102 10th Ave. W., on Saturday, Oct. 10, from 9 a.m. to 12 p.m.

The event aims to create a fun and positive experience for kids in the community ahead of the flu and spooky season. Children, ages 6 months to 18-years-old, are encouraged to wear their favorite costumes.

Appointments are encouraged, but walk-ins are welcome. Parents can call 701-683-2214 to schedule an appointment.

A flu vaccine can protect the public from getting sick and protect the people around them. The American Academy of Pediatrics (AAP) and American Academy of Family Physicians (AAFP) recommend annual flu vaccines for everyone 6 months and older, especially those at higher risk of complications including pregnant women, older adults and young children.

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

About Sanford Health
Sanford Health, the largest rural health system in the United States, is dedicated to transforming the healthcare experience and providing access to world-class healthcare in America’s heartland. Headquartered in Sioux Falls, South Dakota, the organization has 60,000 employees and serves more than 2.5 million patients and nearly 415,000 health plan members across the upper Midwest including South Dakota, North Dakota, Minnesota, Wyoming, Iowa, Wisconsin and the Upper Peninsula of Michigan. The integrated nonprofit health system includes a network of 60 hospitals, 315 clinic locations, 145 senior care communities, 4,900 physicians and advanced practice providers and 1,100 active clinical trials and studies. The organization’s transformational virtual care initiative brings patients closer to care with access to nearly 80 specialties. Nearly 450 residents and fellows are trained each year through over 40 graduate medical education programs, with Sanford Health serving as the primary funding source for 75% of the programs. Sanford Health also includes 92 retail pharmacies, including Sanford and Lewis Drug pharmacies with locations in 6 states, and more than 300 pharmacists. Learn more about Sanford Health’s commitment to shaping the future of rural healthcare across the lifespan at sanfordhealth.org or Sanford Health News.

Indigenous Peoples’ Day event open to the public in Bemidji

BEMIDJI, Minn. – Community members are welcome to join Sanford Bemidji’s Indigenous Peoples’ Day events on Oct. 12 at Sanford Bemidji Medical Center, 1300 Anne. St. NW.

Darryl Kingbird will give a blessing at 10 a.m. in the East Lobby as an artist vendor show begins that will feature Brian Dow and Rob Fineday. The vendor show will be open until 4 p.m.

From 11 a.m. to 1:30 p.m. a traditional meal of bison roast with mushroom sauce, mashed rutabaga, wild rice salad and berries will be available in the cafeteria. The meal will be free for Sanford staff and $7 for visitors.

In the afternoon, Riley Roy will present a jingle dress teaching at 1 p.m. in Education A/B at the medical center. Staff and visitors are also welcome to represent their tribal nation attire during the day.

For more information or questions, please contact Rebekah Fineday at rebekah.fineday@sanfordhealth.org.

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

About Sanford Health

Sanford Health, the largest rural health system in the United States, is dedicated to transforming the healthcare experience and providing access to world-class healthcare in America’s heartland. Headquartered in Sioux Falls, South Dakota, the organization has 60,000 employees and serves more than 2.5 million patients and nearly 415,000 health plan members across the upper Midwest including South Dakota, North Dakota, Minnesota, Wyoming, Iowa, Wisconsin and the Upper Peninsula of Michigan. The integrated nonprofit health system includes a network of 60 hospitals, 315 clinic locations, 145 senior care communities, 4,900 physicians and advanced practice providers and 1,100 active clinical trials and studies. The organization’s transformational virtual care initiative brings patients closer to care with access to nearly 80 specialties. Nearly 450 residents and fellows are trained each year through over 40 graduate medical education programs, with Sanford Health serving as the primary funding source for 75% of the programs. Sanford Health also includes 92 retail pharmacies, including Sanford and Lewis Drug pharmacies with locations in 6 states, and more than 300 pharmacists. Learn more about Sanford Health’s commitment to shaping the future of rural healthcare across the lifespan at sanfordhealth.org or Sanford Health News.

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Sanford Fargo recognized as a Level IV Neonatal Facility

Oct. 2, 2026

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

FARGO, N.D. – Sanford Health Fargo has been designated as a Level IV Neonatal Facility by the American Academy of Pediatrics.

The AAP’s Neonatal Excellence Program awards such designations to hospitals that meet the highest standards established through an independent neonatal verification and designation process. The AAP Neonatal Excellence Program supports hospitals’ initiatives to provide newborns with access to the right expertise and resources, helping to improve outcomes, reduce disparities, increase transparency and advance health for all children.

“We are honored to be designated as a Level IV Neonatal Facility by the AAP. This achievement is a direct result of the dedication, expertise and teamwork demonstrated by our NICU staff every day,” said Susan Jarvis, Sanford Fargo chief operating officer. “This designation recognizes our commitment to delivering advanced, specialized care to our tiniest and most vulnerable patients, strengthening our ability to deliver exceptional patient outcomes. We are proud to bring world-class healthcare close to home.”

“Achieving Level IV NICU certification reflects our continued commitment to providing the highest level of specialized care to the children and families of our state,” said Jacob Fish, M.D., Sanford Fargo Children’s Hospital medical officer. “This milestone strengthens our mission to ensure that even our most critically ill newborns have access to the advanced care, expertise and resources they need, close to home.”

To be designated as a Level IV Neonatal Facility, a NICU must meet all the capabilities of a Level III NICU, plus satisfy strict criteria, such as:
• Must be located within a hospital that can provide surgical repair of major, complex congenital or acquired conditions.
• Must maintain a full range of on-site pediatric surgical subspecialties
• Must have continuous, 24/7 access to a comprehensive team of pediatric medical subspecialists, pediatric surgical subspecialists and pediatric anesthesiologists
• Must be fully equipped to perform and interpret advanced, complex imaging on-site, including MRIs and echocardiography
• Capability to coordinate regional transport systems for critically ill infants and provide educational outreach to other regional hospitals.
• Continuous life support and management for the critically ill or hemodynamically unstable neonates of any gestational age or birth weight.
• Must have a robust Neonatal Patient Safety and Quality Improvement Program (NPSQIP)

“Receiving the highest designation for a NICU from the AAP is an important recognition of the exceptional care our team provides to the most critically ill and medically complex newborns, including extremely premature infants,” said Mohamed Mohamed, M.D., Sanford Fargo neonatology specialist. “This designation reflects the expertise, dedication and collaboration of our physicians, advanced practice providers, nurses, respiratory therapists and the many pediatric specialists who support our patients and families. Most importantly, it affirms our commitment to providing the highest level of neonatal care close to home for families across our region.”

The Sanford Fargo NICU began at St. Luke’s hospital in 1981, and the NICU Flight Team was established in 1984. In June 2023, the Micropreemie Program began, and in May 2025, the Micropreemie Unit opened.

The Sanford Fargo NICU has more than 590 NICU admissions and over 180 neonatal transports each year. The NICU Flight Team covers all of North Dakota, northwest Minnesota and northern South Dakota. The Micropreemie Program, which is for babies born at or before 28 weeks gestation and less than 1,000 grams, has provided care for over 110 infants since opening in 2023.

About Sanford Health
Sanford Health, the largest rural health system in the United States, is dedicated to transforming the healthcare experience and providing access to world-class healthcare in America’s heartland. Headquartered in Sioux Falls, South Dakota, the organization has 60,000 employees and serves more than 2.5 million patients and nearly 415,000 health plan members across the upper Midwest including South Dakota, North Dakota, Minnesota, Wyoming, Iowa, Wisconsin and the Upper Peninsula of Michigan. The integrated nonprofit health system includes a network of 60 hospitals, 315 clinic locations, 145 senior care communities, 4,900 physicians and advanced practice providers and 1,100 active clinical trials and studies. The organization’s transformational virtual care initiative brings patients closer to care with access to nearly 80 specialties. Nearly 450 residents and fellows are trained each year through over 40 graduate medical education programs, with Sanford Health serving as the primary funding source for 75% of the programs. Sanford Health also includes 92 retail pharmacies, including Sanford and Lewis Drug pharmacies with locations in 6 states, and more than 300 pharmacists. Learn more about Sanford Health’s commitment to shaping the future of rural healthcare across the lifespan at sanfordhealth.org or Sanford Health News.

Fall vaccine events at clinics in Bismarck & Mandan

Oct. 1, 2026

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

BISMARCK, N.D. – Sanford Bismarck is offering flu and other seasonal vaccinations as available to patients six months and older throughout the months of September and October. Appointments are required.

Sanford location vaccination events will be held on the following dates:

• 1 from 1:30-4 p.m.
• 8 from 1:30-4 p.m.
• 15 from 130-4 p.m.
• 22 from 1:30-4 p.m.

Vaccination events will be held at all the following locations:

• Sanford East Interstate Ave Clinic, 1800 E. Interstate Ave., Bismarck
• Sanford Sout​h Clinic, 1040 Tacoma Ave., Bismarck
• Sanfor​d North Mandan Clinic, 910 18th St. NW., Mandan​
• Sanford East M​andan Clinic​, 102 Mandan Ave., Mandan

Book online at sanfordhealth.org

A special flu vaccination event for children, Boo to the Flu, will be held at the Sanford Children’s Campus, building A, located at 765 W. Interstate Ave., Bismarck, from 9 a.m. to 1 p.m. on Saturday, Oct. 24. Appointments are required for this event. Please visit sanfordhealth.org or call (701) 323-5437 to schedule.

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

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

Now is the perfect time to get your seasonal vaccinations to safely boost your body’s ability to keep you healthy. Regular vaccinations protect you- and those around you – from getting sick.  Every dose makes a difference.

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

The Sanford Health Bismarck Region provides healthcare 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 healthcare experience and providing access to world-class healthcare in America’s heartland. Headquartered in Sioux Falls, South Dakota, the organization has 60,000 employees and serves more than 2.5 million patients and nearly 415,000 health plan members across the upper Midwest including South Dakota, North Dakota, Minnesota, Wyoming, Iowa, Wisconsin and the Upper Peninsula of Michigan. The integrated nonprofit health system includes a network of 60 hospitals, 315 clinic locations, 145 senior care communities, 4,900 physicians and advanced practice providers and 1,100 active clinical trials and studies. The organization’s transformational virtual care initiative brings patients closer to care with access to nearly 80 specialties. Nearly 450 residents and fellows are trained each year through over 40 graduate medical education programs, with Sanford Health serving as the primary funding source for 75% of the programs. Sanford Health also includes 92 retail pharmacies, including Sanford and Lewis Drug pharmacies with locations in 6 states, and more than 300 pharmacists. Learn more about Sanford Health’s commitment to shaping the future of rural healthcare across the lifespan at sanfordhealth.org or Sanford Health News.

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Sanford Thief River Falls hosting flu vaccination event

Oct. 1, 2026

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

THIEF RIVER FALLS, Minn. – Sanford Health Thief River Falls, 3001 Sanford Pkwy., is now offering the flu vaccination to patients 6 months and older.

Sanford Thief River Falls Clinic is hosting a flu vaccine event on Saturday, Oct. 10, from 9 a.m. to 12 p.m. Appointments are encouraged, but walk-ins welcome. Please call 218-681-4747 to make an appointment.

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

A flu vaccine can protect the public from getting sick and protect the people around them. The American Academy of Pediatrics (AAP) and American Academy of Family Physicians (AAFP) recommend annual flu vaccines for everyone 6 months and older, especially those at higher risk of complications including pregnant women, older adults and young children.

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

About Sanford Health
Sanford Health, the largest rural health system in the United States, is dedicated to transforming the healthcare experience and providing access to world-class healthcare in America’s heartland. Headquartered in Sioux Falls, South Dakota, the organization has 60,000 employees and serves more than 2.5 million patients and nearly 415,000 health plan members across the upper Midwest including South Dakota, North Dakota, Minnesota, Wyoming, Iowa, Wisconsin and the Upper Peninsula of Michigan. The integrated nonprofit health system includes a network of 60 hospitals, 315 clinic locations, 145 senior care communities, 4,900 physicians and advanced practice providers and 1,100 active clinical trials and studies. The organization’s transformational virtual care initiative brings patients closer to care with access to nearly 80 specialties. Nearly 450 residents and fellows are trained each year through over 40 graduate medical education programs, with Sanford Health serving as the primary funding source for 75% of the programs. Sanford Health also includes 92 retail pharmacies, including Sanford and Lewis Drug pharmacies with locations in 6 states, and more than 300 pharmacists. Learn more about Sanford Health’s commitment to shaping the future of rural healthcare across the lifespan at sanfordhealth.org or Sanford Health News.

Sanford Sports Academy hires Casey Frandsen in Rapid City

Oct. 1, 2026

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

RAPID CITY, S.D. – Sanford Sports has hired long-time coach and trainer Casey Frandsen to lead the newly-established Sanford Sports Academy basketball program in Rapid City.

Frandsen brings more than 20 years of coaching and player development experience, most recently serving as basketball director and lead trainer at E3 Sports Complex in Rapid City. The Complex was acquired by Sanford Sports in August.

Prior to his time at E3, Frandsen served as both head JV and assistant varsity coach at James Valley Christian School in Huron, SD. Before moving to South Dakota, he spent more than a decade operating Next Step Basketball in the state of Washington, providing individual, small group and team training.

“My coaching and training philosophy is built on strong basketball fundamentals while emphasizing hard work, confidence, and enjoyment of the game,” Frandsen said. “I believe confidence is essential to player development, allowing young athletes to play instinctively, make decisions without hesitation, and perform skills at game speed. The goal is to make training and practice directly translate into confident, effective play.”

“As Sanford Sports expands, Casey is the perfect person to lead our basketball program in the Black Hills,” said Todd Kolb, Sanford Sports Academy director. “The level of competition across the state has increased tremendously and we’re excited for Casey to continue elevating our local youth in western South Dakota.”

A highly accomplished high school player, Frandsen earned Washington 1A Player of the Year and State Tournament MVP honors twice while starring at Toutle Lake High School in Toutle, WA. He continued his career collegiately at the University of Portland from 2001-2004, scoring more than 1,000 points and set the school’s career three-point record in three seasons with Pilots.

Sanford Sports announced its expansion into the Black Hills region in March.

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 Hillsboro hosting flu vaccination events

Oct. 1, 2026

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

HILLSBORO, N.D. – Sanford Health Hillsboro, 315 E. Caledonia Ave., is now offering the flu vaccination to patients 6 months and older.

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

• Tuesday, Oct. 13, from 3 to 7 p.m.
• Saturday, Oct. 24, from 9 a.m. to noon

Appointments are encouraged, but walk-ins are welcome. Please call 701-636-5311 to make an appointment.

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

A flu vaccine can protect the public from getting sick and protect the people around them. The American Academy of Pediatrics (AAP) and American Academy of Family Physicians (AAFP) recommend annual flu vaccines for everyone 6 months and older, especially those at higher risk of complications including pregnant women, older adults and young children.

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

About Sanford Health
Sanford Health, the largest rural health system in the United States, is dedicated to transforming the healthcare experience and providing access to world-class healthcare in America’s heartland. Headquartered in Sioux Falls, South Dakota, the organization has 60,000 employees and serves more than 2.5 million patients and nearly 415,000 health plan members across the upper Midwest including South Dakota, North Dakota, Minnesota, Wyoming, Iowa, Wisconsin and the Upper Peninsula of Michigan. The integrated nonprofit health system includes a network of 60 hospitals, 315 clinic locations, 145 senior care communities, 4,900 physicians and advanced practice providers and 1,100 active clinical trials and studies. The organization’s transformational virtual care initiative brings patients closer to care with access to nearly 80 specialties. Nearly 450 residents and fellows are trained each year through over 40 graduate medical education programs, with Sanford Health serving as the primary funding source for 75% of the programs. Sanford Health also includes 92 retail pharmacies, including Sanford and Lewis Drug pharmacies with locations in 6 states, and more than 300 pharmacists. Learn more about Sanford Health’s commitment to shaping the future of rural healthcare across the lifespan at sanfordhealth.org or Sanford Health News.

Sanford Jamestown hosting flu vaccination events

Oct. 1, 2026

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

JAMESTOWN, N.D. – Sanford Health Jamestown, 300 2nd Ave NE, is now offering the flu vaccination to patients 6 months and older.

Sanford Jamestown 2nd Ave Clinic is hosting flu vaccine events on the following dates:

• Friday, Oct. 9, from 8:30 a.m. to 4:30 p.m.
• Friday, Oct. 23, from 8:30 a.m. to 4:30 p.m.

Appointments are encouraged, but walk-ins are welcome. Please call 701-251-6000 to make an appointment.

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

A flu vaccine can protect the public from getting sick and protect the people around them. The American Academy of Pediatrics (AAP) and American Academy of Family Physicians (AAFP) recommend annual flu vaccines for everyone 6 months and older, especially those at higher risk of complications including pregnant women, older adults and young children.

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

About Sanford Health
Sanford Health, the largest rural health system in the United States, is dedicated to transforming the healthcare experience and providing access to world-class healthcare in America’s heartland. Headquartered in Sioux Falls, South Dakota, the organization has 60,000 employees and serves more than 2.5 million patients and nearly 415,000 health plan members across the upper Midwest including South Dakota, North Dakota, Minnesota, Wyoming, Iowa, Wisconsin and the Upper Peninsula of Michigan. The integrated nonprofit health system includes a network of 60 hospitals, 315 clinic locations, 145 senior care communities, 4,900 physicians and advanced practice providers and 1,100 active clinical trials and studies. The organization’s transformational virtual care initiative brings patients closer to care with access to nearly 80 specialties. Nearly 450 residents and fellows are trained each year through over 40 graduate medical education programs, with Sanford Health serving as the primary funding source for 75% of the programs. Sanford Health also includes 92 retail pharmacies, including Sanford and Lewis Drug pharmacies with locations in 6 states, and more than 300 pharmacists. Learn more about Sanford Health’s commitment to shaping the future of rural healthcare across the lifespan at sanfordhealth.org or Sanford Health News.

Sanford Black Hills welcomes new women’s health clinician

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

RAPID CITY, S.D. — Miranda Pray-Dede, M.D., has joined Sanford Black Hills and is now offering care at the Sanford Health Haines Ave. Clinic in Rapid City, providing women’s health services for patients throughout the Black Hills region.

Dr. Pray-Dede has more than 20 years of experience specializing in women’s health and provides comprehensive care for women through every stage of life, offering preventive, routine and specialized gynecologic services. Dr. Pray-Dede services include:

• Well-woman visits
• Preventive screenings
• Menstrual concerns
• Pelvic medicine
• Sexual health
• Menopause care
• Gynecologic procedures

Dr. Pray-Dede is now seeing and accepting patients at the Sanford Health Haines Ave. Clinic, providing compassionate and respectful care for women of all ages throughout the Black Hills.

To learn more or schedule an appointment, visit Sanford Health or contact the Haines Ave Clinic at 605-508-3550.

About Sanford Health
Sanford Health, the largest rural health system in the United States, is dedicated to transforming the healthcare experience and providing access to world-class healthcare in America’s heartland. Headquartered in Sioux Falls, South Dakota, the organization has 60,000 employees and serves more than 2.5 million patients and nearly 415,000 health plan members across the upper Midwest including South Dakota, North Dakota, Minnesota, Wyoming, Iowa, Wisconsin and the Upper Peninsula of Michigan. The integrated nonprofit health system includes a network of 60 hospitals, 315 clinic locations, 145 senior care communities, 4,900 physicians and advanced practice providers and 1,100 active clinical trials and studies. The organization’s transformational virtual care initiative brings patients closer to care with access to nearly 80 specialties. Nearly 450 residents and fellows are trained each year through over 40 graduate medical education programs, with Sanford Health serving as the primary funding source for 75% of the programs. Sanford Health also includes 92 retail pharmacies, including Sanford and Lewis Drug pharmacies with locations in 6 states, and more than 300 pharmacists. Learn more about Sanford Health’s commitment to shaping the future of rural healthcare across the lifespan at sanfordhealth.org or Sanford Health News.

Sanford Rock Rapids hosting flu vaccination event

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

SIOUX FALLS, S.D. – Sanford Health Rock Rapids, 104 Buncombe Dr., is now offering the flu vaccination to patients 6 months and older.

Sanford Rock Rapids Clinic is hosting a drive-thru flu vaccine event from 4 p.m. to 6 p.m. Wednesday, Oct. 7 in the parking lot of the clinic.

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

A flu vaccine can protect the public from getting sick and protect the people around them. The American Academy of Pediatrics (AAP) and American Academy of Family Physicians (AAFP) recommend annual flu vaccines for everyone 6 months and older, especially those at higher risk of complications including pregnant women, older adults and young children.

If patients can’t make one of the vaccination clinics, Sanford Health clinics and Lewis Drug pharmacies will accept walk-ins for flu vaccinations throughout the cold and flu season.

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

About Sanford Health
Sanford Health, the largest rural health system in the United States, is dedicated to transforming the healthcare experience and providing access to world-class healthcare in America’s heartland. Headquartered in Sioux Falls, South Dakota, the organization has 60,000 employees and serves more than 2.5 million patients and nearly 415,000 health plan members across the upper Midwest including South Dakota, North Dakota, Minnesota, Wyoming, Iowa, Wisconsin and the Upper Peninsula of Michigan. The integrated nonprofit health system includes a network of 60 hospitals, 315 clinic locations, 145 senior care communities, 4,900 physicians and advanced practice providers and 1,100 active clinical trials and studies. The organization’s transformational virtual care initiative brings patients closer to care with access to nearly 80 specialties. Nearly 450 residents and fellows are trained each year through over 40 graduate medical education programs, with Sanford Health serving as the primary funding source for 75% of the programs. Sanford Health also includes 92 retail pharmacies, including Sanford and Lewis Drug pharmacies with locations in 6 states, and more than 300 pharmacists. Learn more about Sanford Health’s commitment to shaping the future of rural healthcare across the lifespan at sanfordhealth.org or Sanford Health News.

Sanford Grand Forks hosts Boo to the Flu

Sept. 30, 2026

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

GRAND FORKS, N.D. – Keep your children protected this season by saying, “Boo the Flu.” Sanford Children’s invites parents and their children to attend Boo to the Flu events at Sanford Grand Forks Clinic, 1750 47th Ave. S. The Boo to the Flu events occur on the following dates:

• Saturday, Oct. 3, from 8:30 a.m. to 1 p.m.
• Saturday, Oct. 10, from 8:30 a.m. to 1 p.m.
• Saturday, Oct. 17, from 8:30 a.m. to 1 p.m.
• Sunday, Oct. 18, from 8:30 a.m. to 1 p.m.

The event aims to create a fun and positive experience for kids in the community ahead of the flu and spooky season. Children, ages 6 months to 18-years-old, are encouraged to wear their favorite costumes.

Appointments are encouraged, but walk-ins are welcome. Parents can call 701-757-8700 to schedule an appointment. In addition, several Sanford clinic locations will be hosting individual flu vaccine events. Find an event near you at sanfordhealth.org.

A flu vaccine can protect the public from getting sick and protect the people around them. The American Academy of Pediatrics (AAP) and American Academy of Family Physicians (AAFP) recommend annual flu vaccines for everyone 6 months and older, especially those at higher risk of complications including pregnant women, older adults and young children.

For more information, visit sanfordhealth.org, keywords: Boo to the Flu.

About Sanford Health
Sanford Health, the largest rural health system in the United States, is dedicated to transforming the healthcare experience and providing access to world-class healthcare in America’s heartland. Headquartered in Sioux Falls, South Dakota, the organization has 60,000 employees and serves more than 2.5 million patients and nearly 415,000 health plan members across the upper Midwest including South Dakota, North Dakota, Minnesota, Wyoming, Iowa, Wisconsin and the Upper Peninsula of Michigan. The integrated nonprofit health system includes a network of 60 hospitals, 315 clinic locations, 145 senior care communities, 4,900 physicians and advanced practice providers and 1,100 active clinical trials and studies. The organization’s transformational virtual care initiative brings patients closer to care with access to nearly 80 specialties. Nearly 450 residents and fellows are trained each year through over 40 graduate medical education programs, with Sanford Health serving as the primary funding source for 75% of the programs. Sanford Health also includes 92 retail pharmacies, including Sanford and Lewis Drug pharmacies with locations in 6 states, and more than 300 pharmacists. Learn more about Sanford Health’s commitment to shaping the future of rural healthcare across the lifespan at sanfordhealth.org or Sanford Health News.