Posts Archive - Page 24 of 101 - Sanford Health News

Sanford Thief River Falls offering childbirth classes

March 3, 2025

Contact:
Jessica Schindeldecker
Sanford Health Senior Communications Specialist
(701) 200-6080 / Jessica.Schindeldecker@SanfordHealth.org

THIEF RIVER FALLS, Minn. – Sanford Thief River Falls Medical Center will host a series of childbirth classes for expecting mothers, and their support person, to help prepare for their baby’s arrival.

The upcoming series will be held from 6 to 8 p.m. in Community Conference Rooms 1 and 2 at Sanford Thief River Falls Medical Center, 3001 Sanford Pkwy, on the following dates:

• April 7, 14, 21, 28
• July 7, 14, 21, 28
• October 6, 13, 20, 27

The upcoming series covers topics including healthy living, the birth process and coping strategies for labor such as comfort techniques, pain relief options and postpartum healing. Classes will also include information on comprehensive newborn care, including infant CPR, breastfeeding and car seat safety. Participants will also have the opportunity to tour the nursery and birthing unit during each series.

The classes are led by experienced obstetrics and CLS-certified registered nurses and are free to attend. Registration is required. Please contact Alicia Haviland at 218-683-4380 or email her at Alicia.Haviland@SanfordHealth.org to register.

Visit SanfordHealth.org to learn more about our childbirth education offerings.

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 serves 2.4 million patients and more than 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 56 hospitals, more than 270 clinic locations, 144 senior care communities, 4,500 physicians and advanced practice providers, nearly 1,000 active clinical trials and studies, and nine world clinic locations around the globe. Learn more about Sanford Health’s commitment to shaping the future of rural health care across the lifespan at sanfordhealth.org or Sanford Health News.

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Sanford Health recognized by American College of Cardiology

February 27, 2025

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

SIOUX FALLS, S.D. —Five Sanford Health hospital locations have been recognized for their dedication to heart patients by the American College of Cardiology (ACC) in the ACC advertising insert in the 2025 U.S. News & World Report “Best Hospitals” Guidebook. 

Sanford USD Medical Center in Sioux Falls and Sanford Aberdeen Medical Center were honored in South Dakota, while Sanford Medical Center Fargo and Sanford Medical Center Bismarck were honored in North Dakota, along with Sanford Bemidji Medical Center in Minnesota.

All five hospital locations are committed to providing top-level care. Through participation in the ACC’s proven quality programs, they inform their robust quality improvement processes using data to drive improvements in adherence to guideline recommendations and overall quality of care provided to heart patients.

“Sanford Health continues to be a leader in providing world-class care to our cardiovascular patients,” said Bill Gassen, president and CEO of Sanford Health. “With five of our hospitals across three states recognized by the American College of Cardiology, it reflects our commitment and dedication to deliver consistent and quality care across our footprint. This honor is only possible because of our outstanding physicians, nurses and caregivers who are devoted to the health of their patients.”

To see the entire list of hospitals recognized by the ACC in the U.S. News & World Report “Best Hospitals” Guidebook, click here.

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

About Sanford Health
Sanford Health, the largest rural health system in the United States, is dedicated to transforming the health care experience and providing access to world-class health care in America’s heartland. Headquartered in Sioux Falls, South Dakota, the organization serves 2.4 million patients and more than 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 56 hospitals, more than 270 clinic locations, 144 senior care communities, 4,500 physicians and advanced practice providers, nearly 1,000 active clinical trials and studies, and nine world clinic locations around the globe. Learn more about Sanford Health’s commitment to shaping the future of rural health care across the lifespan at sanfordhealth.org or Sanford Health News.

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Sanford Fargo named one of 50 Top Cardiovascular Hospitals

Feb. 25, 2025

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

FARGO, N.D. – Sanford Health Fargo was named as one of the nation’s 50 Top Cardiovascular Hospitals according to an independent quality analysis based on a balanced scorecard provided by Premier, Inc.

Quantitative analysis of publicly available data was conducted to identify the top cardiovascular hospitals in the United States. The primary purpose of Premier’s 50 Top Cardiovascular Hospitals program is to inspire hospital and health system leaders to pursue higher performance and deliver added value to patients and communities. Organizations do not apply to participate in the study, and award winners do not pay to market their honor.

“We are honored to be recognized as one of the top heart hospitals in the country,” said Tiffany Lawrence, Sanford Fargo president and CEO. “From physician clinic appointments and preventive heart screenings to aortic stenosis treatment (TAVR) and TransCarotid Artery Revascularization (TCAR), our heart team covers the full spectrum of heart care. Sanford Fargo was also the first hospital in North Dakota to offer a robotic-assisted heart valve replacement procedure. The Sanford Fargo cardiology team also provides outreach cardiology services to many of our rural communities. We are committed to addressing rural health care challenges and providing high-quality, affordable care to everyone in our region.”

Compared to peer hospitals, those in the 50 Top Cardiovascular Hospitals operated at lower cost and had better outcomes, recording significantly higher inpatient survival rates, fewer patients with complications, lower readmission rates and up to nearly $7,000 less in total costs per patient
case.

Premier’s 50 Top Cardiovascular Hospitals study is based on quantitative research that uses a balanced scorecard approach, based on publicly available data, to identify the top cardiovascular hospitals in the U.S. The program focuses on short-term, acute care, nonfederal U.S. hospitals that treat a broad spectrum of cardiology patients. It includes patients requiring medical management, as well as those who receive invasive or surgical procedures. Because multiple
measures are used, a hospital must provide all forms of cardiovascular care, including open heart surgery, to be included in the study. Each patient group is mutually exclusive by design.

A full list of nominated heart hospitals 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 serves 2.4 million patients and more than 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 56 hospitals, more than 270 clinic locations, 144 senior care communities, 4,500 physicians and advanced practice providers, nearly 1,000 active clinical trials and studies, and nine world clinic locations around the globe. 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 Fargo offers Hospital at Home

Feb. 24, 2025

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

FARGO, N.D. – Sanford Health Fargo is the first hospital in North Dakota to participate in the Hospital at Home program.

Hospital at Home gives patients the ability to transfer from the hospital to their home while continuing to receive care. Patients who are admitted to the emergency room or an inpatient unit and qualify for Hospital at Home can receive IVs, antibiotics, medications, treatments and ongoing care and observation from home until they are eligible for discharge.

The program includes two in-person caregiver visits a day from a nurse or community paramedic, as well as daily virtual visits with a provider using a TytoCare device. Transportation is provided if patients need diagnostic tests at the hospital.

“Hospital at Home has a chance to be a real game changer for our patients. We are dedicated to ensuring high-quality care is accessible to all patients, regardless of their location or health challenges,” said Susan Jarvis, Sanford Fargo chief operating officer. “Hospital at home provides many benefits, such as more comfort, better sleep and greater independence with clothing, food and environment. This program also leads to less hospital-acquired infections, shorter hospitalizations and lower readmission rates. Sanford Health is committed to addressing rural health care challenges and providing high-quality, affordable care to everyone in our communities.”

The admitting provider and care team will assess each patient for eligibility in the Hospital at Home program. To qualify, patients must:
• Live within 25 miles of Sanford Medical Center Fargo
• Be at least 18-years-old
• Complete initial assessments at the medical center
• Have a diagnosis and care plan that can be safely provided at home
• Be comfortable using a TytoCare device
• Be able to move safely within their home
• Be able to follow home care instructions

It is recommended that patients have a caregiver in the home when joining the program.

About Sanford Health
Sanford Health, the largest rural health system in the United States, is dedicated to transforming the health care experience and providing access to world-class health care in America’s heartland. Headquartered in Sioux Falls, South Dakota, the organization serves 2.4 million patients and more than 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 56 hospitals, more than 270 clinic locations, 144 senior care communities, 4,500 physicians and advanced practice providers, nearly 1,000 active clinical trials and studies, and nine world clinic locations around the globe. 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 Fargo named top neuro and spine program

Feb. 21, 2025

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

FARGO, N.D. – Sanford Health Fargo has been recognized as having one of the top neuro and spine programs in the country.

Sanford Fargo was named to the Becker’s Hospital Review’s “Top 100 Great Neuro and Spine Programs.” All programs were recognized for their exceptional patient outcomes, advanced surgical techniques and groundbreaking research. These programs include visionary leaders, top-tier specialists, robust research initiatives and pioneering clinical trials.

The Sanford Fargo Brain & Spine Center has been the first to introduce several innovative offerings to the region, including endoscopic and minimally invasive techniques to treat skull base tumors. Cutting-edge robotic technology has provided shorter hospital stays and recovery times following spine proceudures. The team remains at the forefront of treatment options by conducting cutting-edge research on stroke imaging and medication efficacy, participating in clinical trials for multiple sclerosis, Parkinson’s, stroke and more.

“We are incredibly proud to be named a top neuro and spine program in the country for the second consecutive year,” said Tiffany Lawrence, Sanford Fargo president and CEO. “This is a well-deserved recognition for our team, as their efforts have helped ensure our region has access to the most-advanced stroke care, clinical trials, minimally invasive surgeries and more. From being the sole provider of these cutting-edge services to training providers through our neurology residency program in partnership with the University of North Dakota, the Sanford Fargo Brain & Spine Center is a significant differentiator and asset to the communities we serve.”

Sanford Fargo is the regional leader in advanced, comprehensive care, offering services in neurosurgery, neurology, neuropsychology, pain management, chiropractic care and neurodiagnostics. In addition to being an Advanced Comprehensive Stroke Center accredited by The Joint Commission between Seattle, Denver and Minneapolis, the organization extends the impact of its stroke services to rural hospitals through telemedicine programs like telestroke and virtual rounding.

A full list of nominated programs can be found here.

About Sanford Health
Sanford Health, the largest rural health system in the United States, is dedicated to transforming the health care experience and providing access to world-class health care in America’s heartland. Headquartered in Sioux Falls, South Dakota, the organization serves 2.4 million patients and more than 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 56 hospitals, more than 270 clinic locations, 144 senior care communities, 4,500 physicians and advanced practice providers, nearly 1,000 active clinical trials and studies, and nine world clinic locations around the globe. 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.

AVCA First Serve expands with doubleheader at Pentagon

Lexington, KY — The American Volleyball Coaches Association (AVCA) is thrilled to announce the addition of another site to the 2025 AVCA First Serve. On Monday, Aug. 25, the AVCA will host a doubleheader at the Sanford Pentagon in Sioux Falls, South Dakota, adding to the marquee matches in Lincoln, Nebraska, Aug. 22-24, that will kick off the 2025 collegiate volleyball season.

AVCA CEO Dr. Jaime Gordon expressed his enthusiasm for the extra day of matches, saying, “We were already excited about the caliber of the teams that are part of AVCA First Serve to open this year’s season, and the opportunity to add another day featuring more elite teams is great. Bringing collegiate volleyball to Sioux Falls presents a fantastic opportunity for both the sport and the community and we are excited to be working with Sanford Sports. ”

“This will be one of the biggest events we have ever hosted at the Sanford Pentagon as fans will see some the best volleyball teams in the country compete on Heritage Court,” said Jesse Smith, Sanford Sports vice president of operations. “Thank you to the American Volleyball Coaches Association for creating this event and for their partnership in bringing this incredible spotlight on the sport to Sioux Falls.”

Stay tuned for a major announcement on Monday, Feb. 24, when the AVCA will provide information on the teams and on ticket sales for the entire event, including the opening three days of doubleheaders in Lincoln. In all, the 2025 AVCA First Serve will feature nine top-20 teams from last fall’s final AVCA poll, promising an unforgettable start to the new season.

For more information, please visit our event website: 2025 AVCA First Serve.

Sanford Pentagon to host MMA event in April

Feb. 20, 2025

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

SIOUX FALLS, S.D. – MMA returns to the Sanford Pentagon on April 18 with a card from Legacy Fighting Alliance.

LFA 207 begins at 5:30 p.m. with the entire main card available worldwide on UFC FIGHT PASS® at 8 p.m. Doors open at 5 p.m. Fights will be announced later.

Tickets for LFA 207 are available now at Ticketmaster.com and the Sanford Pentagon Box Office. Ticket options start at $30. For information on purchasing suites and ringside tables, call 605-312-7900. Blue Rock Bar and Grill will also host an LFA 207 pre-fight party with food and drink specials.

“MMA events are consistently one of the most popular and exciting dates on our calendar, and LFA always puts on a phenomenal show,” said Jesse Smith, Sanford Sports vice president of operations. “Fans will get the opportunity to see future stars of MMA in an electric atmosphere right in their backyard.”

The Sanford Pentagon has hosted various mixed martial arts events since 2014, including the debut of PFL in South Dakota last June, four Bellator MMA championship cards as well as multiple RFA/LFA cards. More than a dozen fighters who have competed at the Pentagon have gone on to fight for Bellator MMA or UFC.

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.

About LFA:
LFA is a professional Mixed Martial Arts promotion that was formed by the powerhouse merger between RFA and Legacy FC in 2017. It has launched the careers of over 330 athletes that have reached the pinnacle of MMA by competing in the UFC. LFA presents live Mixed Martial Arts events on a monthly basis around the world including Las Vegas, Los Angeles, Denver, Dallas, Phoenix, Rio de Janeiro, and São Paulo. Based in Las Vegas, NV, LFA is one of the most active and respected MMA organizations in the fastest growing sport in the world. The promotion owns and operates LFA FIGHT NETWORK™ , a premium YouTube channel that features live combat sports events alongside live LFA Prelims and historical fights.

Please visit LFA.com for updates and information. Visit the official LFA YouTube channel (LFA FIGHT NETWORK™) at @LFAfights. LFA is on Facebook at Facebook.com/LFAfighting. LFA is also on Instagram at @LFAfighting and X (formerly Twitter) at @LFAfighting.

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Oakes welcomes new providers and new services

Feb. 17, 2025

Contact:

Jessica Schindeldecker

Sanford Health Senior Communications Specialist

(701) 200-6080/ Jessica.Schindeldecker@SanfordHealth.org

OAKES, N.D. – Sanford Oakes Clinic welcomes three new providers and introduces specialized services to enhance patient care for surrounding communities.

Cayla Mahrer, PA-C, provides comprehensive family medicine for patients of all ages. A graduate of the University of North Dakota, Cayla is board certified by the National Commission on Certification of Physician Assistants. She also provides care at Sanford Ellendale and Sanford Forman.

Katie Dahlstrom, PMHNP, a native of Oakes, specializes in mental health services for all ages. Katie earned her graduate degree from Frontier Nursing University in Versailles, Ky, and is board certified by the American Nurses Credentialing Center. Her practice focuses on personalized medication management and therapy solutions. She also provides care at Sanford Valley City and surrounding communities.

Emily Alstadt, MS, LRD, joins as a registered dietitian, expanding services to Oakes, Lisbon, Valley City and surrounding communities. Emily will provide vital nutritional support and enhance wellness options for patients in the area.

“We are excited to welcome these new providers to our health care team,” said Bob Hagen, Sanford Oakes clinic director. “Their expertise will significantly contribute to our mission of providing exceptional care and comprehensive services to our patients.”

These additions highlight Sanford’s commitment to expanding health care access and offering specialized services that meet the diverse needs of its rural communities.

For more information visit sanfordhealth.org or to schedule an appointment, please call (701) 742-3267.

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 serves 2.4 million patients and more than 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 56 hospitals, more than 270 clinic locations, 144 senior care communities, 4,500 physicians and advanced practice providers, nearly 1,000 active clinical trials and studies, and nine world clinic locations around the globe. 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 cardiology outreach in Thief River Falls

Feb. 12, 2025

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

THIEF RIVER FALLS, Minn. – The Sanford Health Fargo cardiology team offers outreach services at Sanford Thief River Falls, furthering Sanford Health’s mission of providing world-class health care close to home.

Dr. Thomas Haldis is an interventional cardiologist who specializes in structural heart procedures. He primarily treats heart and vascular disease. He performs coronary artery interventions, transcatheter aortic valve replacement (TAVR), transcatheter mitral valve repair (TMVR), transcatheter tricuspid valve repair (TTVR), left atrial appendage occlusion (Watchman and Amulet), atrial septal defect/patent foramen ovale (ASD/PFO) closure, carotid and peripheral vascular stenting.

Jill Hankey, PA-C, is a physician assistant who works closely with interventional cardiologists. She provides care for interventional and structural patients in the hospital and does follow-up visits in the clinic.

Katherine Byron, APRN, CNP, is an advanced practice registered nurse who works closely with interventional cardiologists. She provides care for interventional and structural patients in the hospital and does follow-up visits in the clinic.

Sarah Uglem, PA-C, is a physician assistant who works closely with the interventional cardiologists. She provides care for patients in the hospital and does follow-up visits in the clinic.

Jessie Silveri, APRN, CNP, is an advanced practice registered nurse on the heart failure and pulmonary hypertension team. She cares for people with systolic heart failure, cardiac amyloidosis, pulmonary hypertension, sarcoidosis, and therapies to manage heart failure symptoms.

Here is the Sanford Thief River Falls outreach schedule:

First Thursday of every month
• Dr. Thomas Haldis, accompanied by either Jill Hankey, PA-C, Katherine Byron, APRN, CNP or Sarah Uglem, PA-C.

Third Monday every other month (January, March, May, July, September and November)
• Dr. Thomas Haldis and Jessie Silveri, APRN, CNP.

Fourth Thursday every other month (February, April, June, August, October and December)
• Dr. Thomas Haldis

A referral is not needed to set up an appointment with the Sanford Thief River Falls cardiology team. To schedule an appointment, call (701) 234-4800.

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 serves 2.4 million patients and more than 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 56 hospitals, more than 270 clinic locations, 144 senior care communities, 4,500 physicians and advanced practice providers, nearly 1,000 active clinical trials and studies, and nine world clinic locations around the globe. 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 provides cardiology outreach in Perham

Feb. 12, 2025

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

PERHAM, Minn. – Two Sanford Health Fargo cardiologists offer outreach services at Perham Health Clinic, furthering Sanford Health’s mission of providing world-class health care close to home. Outreach services are offered on the second and fourth Tuesday of every month.

Dr. Susan Farkas provides clinical and imaging expertise to cardiac patients. She is board certified in non-invasive imaging, echocardiography, nuclear imaging and cardiac CT. She also supervises and reads stress echocardiograms performed in Perham.

Dr. Taylor Dowsley specializes in nuclear cariology and adult cardiac disease. He uses MRI, coronary computed tomography angiography (CCTA) and echocardiograms.

A referral is not needed to set up an appointment with Drs. Farkas and Dowsley. To schedule an appointment, call (701) 234-4800.

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 serves 2.4 million patients and more than 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 56 hospitals, more than 270 clinic locations, 144 senior care communities, 4,500 physicians and advanced practice providers, nearly 1,000 active clinical trials and studies, and nine world clinic locations around the globe. 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 provides cardiology outreach in Jamestown

Feb. 11, 2025

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

JAMESTOWN, N.D. – Two Sanford Health Fargo cardiology providers offer outreach services at Sanford Jamestown 2nd Ave. Clinic, furthering Sanford Health’s mission of providing world-class health care close to home. Outreach services are offered on the second and fourth Wednesday of every month.

Dr. Puneet Sharma specializes in interventional cardiology. He treats adult heart disease and performs cardiac catheterization and interventions with balloon angioplasty and stent placement. He also performs structural heart procedures – transcatheter aortic valve replacement (TAVR) and left atrial appendage occlusion (Watchman), as well as the AngioVac procedure for removal of tricuspid valve vegetation in patients with infective endocarditis.

Jason Smith, PA-C, is a physician assistant in cardiology who cares for interventional cardiology patients in the hospital and clinic. He treats adult patients with heart disease and offers physical examinations, ordering lab and diagnostic tests, prescribes cardiac medications and provides health education and counseling.

A referral is not needed to set up an appointment with Dr. Sharma or Smith. To schedule an appointment, call (701) 234-4800.

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 serves 2.4 million patients and more than 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 56 hospitals, more than 270 clinic locations, 144 senior care communities, 4,500 physicians and advanced practice providers, nearly 1,000 active clinical trials and studies, and nine world clinic locations around the globe. 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 provides cardiology outreach in Detroit Lakes

Feb. 11, 2025

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

DETROIT LAKES, Minn. – Three Sanford Health Fargo cardiologists provide outreach services at Sanford Health Detroit Lakes, furthering Sanford Health’s mission of providing world-class health care close to home.

Dr. Puneet Sharma specializes in interventional cardiology. He treats adult heart disease and performs cardiac catheterization and interventions with balloon angioplasty and stent placement. He also performs structural heart procedures – transcatheter aortic valve replacement (TAVR) and left atrial appendage occlusion (Watchman), as well as the AngioVac procedure for removal of tricuspid valve vegetation in patients with infective endocarditis. He provides outreach services on the first Tuesday of every month.

Dr. Taylor Dowsley specializes in nuclear cariology and adult cardiac disease. He uses MRI, coronary computed tomography angiography (CCTA) and echocardiograms. He provides outreach services on the second Thursday of every month.

Originally from Jordan, Dr. Yassar Almanaseer completed his medical training in Detroit, Mich. He and his wife, who is from Minnesota, have two children and are active outdoor enthusiasts. When he’s not seeing patients, Dr. Almanaseer enjoys mountain biking, hunting and fishing. Dr. Almanaseer specializes in interventional cardiology and treats coronary artery disease and peripheral vascular disease. He performs angioplasty, cardiac catheterization, chronic total occlusion treatment and stent placement. He provides outreach services on the third Friday of every month.

A referral is not needed to set up an appointment with Drs. Sharma, Dowsley or Almanaseer. To schedule an appointment, call (701) 234-4800.

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 serves 2.4 million patients and more than 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 56 hospitals, more than 270 clinic locations, 144 senior care communities, 4,500 physicians and advanced practice providers, nearly 1,000 active clinical trials and studies, and nine world clinic locations around the globe. 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 provides cardiology outreach in Alexandria

Feb. 10, 2025

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

ALEXANDRIA, Minn. – Dr. Yassar Almanaseer, a cardiologist in Fargo, offers outreach services at Sanford Health Alexandria. He provides outreach at the clinic on the third Thursday of every month.

Originally from Jordan, Dr. Almanaseer completed his medical training in Detroit, Mich. He and his wife, who is from Minnesota, have two children and are active outdoor enthusiasts. When he’s not seeing patients, Dr. Almanaseer enjoys mountain biking, hunting and fishing.

Dr. Almanaseer specializes in interventional cardiology and treats coronary artery disease and peripheral vascular disease. He performs angioplasty, cardiac catheterization, chronic total occlusion treatment and stent placement.

A referral is not needed to set up an appointment with Dr. Almanaseer. To schedule an appointment, call (701) 234-4800.

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 serves 2.4 million patients and more than 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 56 hospitals, more than 270 clinic locations, 144 senior care communities, 4,500 physicians and advanced practice providers, nearly 1,000 active clinical trials and studies, and nine world clinic locations around the globe. 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 Plan president to speak at CBS conference

Feb. 6, 2025

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

 SIOUX FALLS, S.D. — Tommy Ibrahim, M.D., MBA, MHA, executive vice president and president and CEO of Sanford Health Plan, will share Sanford Health’s innovative approach and strategy to solving some of the biggest challenges facing rural health care during a featured, keynote fireside chat at Columbia Business School’s 21^st annual health care conference. The in-person only conference takes place Friday in New York City.

Ibrahim’s keynote will be moderated by Carri Chan, John A. Howard Professor of Business & Faculty Director Healthcare and Pharmaceutical Management Program.

The theme of this year’s conference is Empowering Healthcare’s Next Frontier. The conversation will tackle issues that are top of mind in the health care industry and innovations that are driving change. Leaders will discuss the changing employer health benefits landscape, leveraging consumer health in managing chronic disease, scaling AI-driven drug discovery, and expanding health care access to underserved communities.

“Health care is at one of its most dynamic times ever,” said Ibrahim. “I’m honored and excited to share more about how Sanford Health Plan is driving change to meet the needs and expectations of the members we serve. As a nonprofit provider-led health plan, we are focused on expanding access to more personalized, comprehensive and seamless care and coverage, particularly in rural communities.”

Sanford Health Plan serves 425,000 members across South Dakota, Wisconsin, Minnesota, Iowa, Nebraska and North Dakota. In his role as president and CEO, Ibrahim is responsible for the overall strategy of the health plan including driving affordability and enhancing patient and member outcomes through broader population health initiatives, value-based care programs and new, innovative care delivery models. He also oversees the development of managed-care products, payment models and integrated service-delivery strategies.

Ibrahim, a Columbia Business School graduate, currently holds several industry leadership positions including serving as an advisor to select portfolio companies for Abundant Venture Partners, Andreesen Horowitz, OptumVentures and Redesign Health. He also serves in advisory roles for Cedar Cares, AKASA, ArcX, Vivid Health, Midstream Health and Ambience.

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 serves 2.4 million patients and more than 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 56 hospitals, more than 270 clinic locations, 144 senior care communities, 4,500 physicians and advanced practice providers, nearly 1,000 active clinical trials and studies, and nine world clinic locations around the globe. 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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Jason Hellman adds orthopedic outreach services in Hawley

Jan. 31, 2025

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

FARGO, N.D. – Jason Hellman, PA-C, is adding orthopedic outreach services to Sanford Hawley.

Hellman is based out of Sanford Detroit Lakes, and beginning on Jan. 22, will offer outreach orthopedic services at Sanford Hawley on the fourth Wednesday of every month from 8 a.m. to 3:30 p.m. No referral from a primary care provider is needed.

Hellman is a physician assistant in orthopedic surgery. He provides musculoskeletal ultrasound and imaging-guided injections. Hellman treat conditions, injuries and diseases of the musculoskeletal system, including:
• Arthritis
• Athletic and sports-related injuries
• Deformities
• Degenerative diseases of the hips, knees, hands, feet, shoulders and elbows
• Fractures
• Hip trauma
• Knee trauma
• Shoulder injuries

Hellman also offers outreach services to Sanford Mahnomen on the first Tuesday of each month, Sanford Pelican Rapids on the second Thursday of every month and Perham Health on the third Friday of every month.

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 serves 2.4 million patients and more than 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 56 hospitals, more than 270 clinic locations, 144 senior care communities, 4,500 physicians and advanced practice providers, nearly 1,000 active clinical trials and studies, and nine world clinic locations around the globe. 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.