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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

Contact:

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

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 21st 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.

25th annual Cares for Kids radiothon begins Thursday

Jan. 28, 2025

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

FARGO, N.D. – Midwest Radio Fargo Moorhead stations Froggy 99.9 (99.9 FM), Y94 (93.7 FM) and KFGO-AM (790 AM/94.1 FM, 104.7 FM) are joining forces Jan. 30 and 31 to raise money during the 25th annual Cares for Kids Radiothon presented by Corwin Automotive Group benefiting Sanford Children’s Hospital in Fargo. Last year, the radiothon raised over $180,000.

Money raised during the radiothon is used to support special programs, purchase life-saving medical equipment and education for Sanford Children’s Hospital, the only Children’s Miracle Network hospital in North Dakota. 100% of funds raised stay local to help children from throughout North Dakota and northwest Minnesota who receive care at Sanford Children’s.

“You never know when your family or someone you know may need the care of Sanford Children’s Hospital, so we encourage everyone to be a part of the story of helping local children,” said Hillery Mork, Children’s Miracle Network development manager for the Sanford Health Foundation. “Every dollar goes to help children who are dealing with serious illness or injury.”

On-air personalities will broadcast live both days from 5 a.m. to 6 p.m. from the studios of Midwest Radio Fargo Moorhead. Patients and families will share personal stories about how Sanford Children’s Hospital has made a difference in their lives.

To donate, call 701-478-KIDS (5437) or 877-478-KIDS (5437), or donate online at: www.sanfordhealthfoundation.org/caresforkids. You can also donate at the Midwest Radio Fargo Moorhead studios, 1020 S. 25th St., Fargo.

Follow along online using hashtag #CFK25 during the radiothon.

For more information, visit https://www.sanfordhealthfoundation.org/event/cares-for-kids-radiothon

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.

High School Football Combine set for April 25 in Sioux Falls

January 27, 2025

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

SIOUX FALLS, S.D. – The 2025 Sanford Sports Academy High School Football Combine will take place Friday, April 25 from 5:00-9:00 p.m. at the Sanford Fieldhouse in Sioux Falls. The annual showcase in front of college coaches from five different states provides a unique opportunity for local athletes to display their talents.

Combine testing will include the 40-yard dash, pro agility, vertical jump, position breakouts, and 1-on-1 sessions. More than 25 coaches from Division I FCS, Division II, and NAIA schools in South Dakota, North Dakota, Minnesota, Iowa, and Nebraska are scheduled to be in attendance.

“This is a chance to bring premier athletes in the region together to work out with our coaches and test with our Sanford Sports Performance trainers to reach that next level,” said Kurtiss Riggs, Sanford Sports Academy football specialist. “2024 was our biggest combine since we started more than a decade ago and we’re looking forward to 2025 being even bigger.”

The deadline to register for the 2025 High School Combine is April 14. More information can be found on the Sanford Sports website.

In addition to the combine itself, Elite Training Prep for the combine will take place every Wednesday for six weeks from March 12 through April 16 at the Sanford Fieldhouse. Sessions will include drill and speed work as well as film study and 1-on-1 instruction.

Elite Training Prep will be capped at 80 athletes with a registration deadline of March 5.

Those who register for both Elite Training Prep and the combine simultaneously will receive a discount on the overall price. More information on Elite Training Prep can be found at sanfordsports.com.

About Sanford Sports
Sanford Sports is the modern athletics arm of Sanford Health, the premier rural health system in the United States. Rooted in science and health care, Sanford Sports offers a combination of programs, services, events, facilities and partnerships intended to make active lifestyles accessible and rewarding for people of all ages and abilities. Based on the 500-acre Sanford Sports Complex in Sioux Falls, South Dakota, Sanford Sports has been changing the way athletes play for 25 years. With operations in three states, more than one million athletes use Sanford Sports facilities each year. Visit sanfordsports.com for more information.

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Bismarck native to lead hockey academy at Sanford Sports

January 21, 2025

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

BISMARCK, N.D. – Sanford Sports is pleased to announce the hiring of Grant Mindt to lead the hockey academy in Bismarck. Mindt is a Bismarck native who competed for Bismarck High School from 2006-2009 and later played junior hockey for the hometown Bismarck Bobcats from 2010-2012.

Mindt’s passion for the game started at a young age and now, with two young sons of his own, he’s looking forward to giving back to the local community.

“I am truly grateful and excited for this opportunity,” Mindt said. “My interest in hockey started after my family hosted a couple of Bismarck Bobcat players when I was younger. This town has provided me with so many opportunities and I am thrilled to now play a role in growing not only this program, but the hockey community as a whole.”

The Sanford Sports Academy and Bismarck Hockey Boosters will partner together to lead the hockey academy, with Mindt assisting in training both in-season and in the offseason. The long-term goal is to create an environment with quality skill development and science-driven athletic growth.

“I’ve had the privilege of coaching Grant as a player for the Bismarck Bobcats,” Layne Sedevie, Bismarck Hockey Boosters director said. “I know the effort and passion Grant will provide to the program and couldn’t be more thrilled with this partnership.”

Programming is scheduled to start at the end of January. For more information and to register, please visit sanfordsports.com.

About Sanford Sports
Sanford Sports is the modern athletics arm of Sanford Health, the premier rural health system in the United States. Rooted in science and health care, Sanford Sports offers a combination of programs, services, events, facilities and partnerships intended to make active lifestyles accessible and rewarding for people of all ages and abilities. Based on the 500-acre Sanford Sports Complex in Sioux Falls, South Dakota, Sanford Sports has been changing the way athletes play for 25 years. With operations in three states, more than one million athletes use Sanford Sports facilities each year. Visit sanfordsports.com for more information.

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Sanford to share workforce solutions at national conference

Contact:

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

SIOUX FALLS, S.D. Jeremy Cauwels, M.D., chief medical officer at Sanford Health, will join top-level leaders from medical groups and health systems across the country for the American Medical Group Association’s (AMGA) Large Group Executive Summit Jan. 24 in Austin, Texas.

Cauwels will be joined for a panel discussion, Filling the Gaps: Recruitment and Workarounds Addressing Shortages, by Chris Sclafani, president of Summit Health and Rae Vagg, chief operating officer at Columbia University Irving Medical Center. The panel discussion will focus on the need for medical groups and health care systems to be creative with recruitment and discover new ways to address the evolving wants and needs of patients.

Cauwels will share how Sanford Health has made an unprecedented expansion in graduate medical education programs to bring clinical expertise, resources and subspecialties to the upper rural Midwest, including a new three-year gastroenterology fellowship program that will launch this summer in Sioux Falls, S.D.

“The new GI fellowship is part of the educational investment funded by a generous gift from Denny Sanford,” said Dr. Cauwels, chief medical officer at Sanford Health. “This allows us to grow our own providers in our own backyard. As the first GI fellowship program in the Dakotas, we know that if we train these future health care providers, there’s a greater chance they’ll stay with us and grow their family in the Midwest and help us advance health care in rural parts of the country.”

Cauwels will also discuss how Sanford’s virtual care initiative, including the recently opened Sanford Virtual Care Center, is serving as a premier training ground for the next generation of clinicians.

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

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.