Posts Archive - Page 3 of 106 - Sanford Health News

Sanford Health to highlight best practices for AI adoption

SIOUX FALLS, S.D. — Sanford Health is joining senior healthcare executives at an exclusive, one-day event designed for peers to align priorities, stress-test roadmaps, share implementation lessons and refine governance frameworks essential for responsible AI adoption.

The HIMSS AI Leadership Summit takes place June 24 in Boston, Massachusetts. It is a highly curated experience that offers an intimate environment for decision-makers responsible for leading system-wide artificial intelligence strategies. The Summit functions as a critical executive workshop, blending strategic programming with elevated networking and immersive roundtable exercises.

David Newman, M.D., vice president and chief medical officer for virtual care at Sanford Health, will join leaders from Mayo Clinic, Duke Health and Mass General Brigham for a session entitled, AI in Enterprise Healthcare: High-Impact Case Studies from Leading Health Systems. Through a series of 20-minute case studies, leaders will share real-world insights, lessons learned and measurable outcomes from their AI initiatives. Newman will share how Sanford Health is driving adoption, fostering innovation and navigating change management with clinicians across the organization.

“Many health systems are asking the same question right now: How do you move from AI pilots to meaningful organization-wide impact?” said Newman. “At Sanford Health, we’ve learned that success isn’t just about the technology itself – it’s about how you bring people along and integrate it into the work they do every day. We’re focused on using AI in practical ways that fit naturally into clinical workflows, reduce burden for our teams and make a real difference for patients. I’m looking forward to sharing what’s worked, what we’ve learned along the way and how we’re building a culture that embraces innovation while keeping patient care at the center of everything we do.”

Dr. Newman will also participate in a fireside chat focused on what it takes to operationalize AI in healthcare at the HIMSS AI in Healthcare Forum on June 26 in Boston. He will join Dr. Lee Schwamm, associate dean, digital strategy & transformation; senior vice president & digital health officer, Yale School of Medicine; Yale New Haven Health System to discuss how organizations move from AI pilots and experimentation to real-world, scalable implementation. The conversation will explore building effective governance structures, aligning clinical and operational leadership, integrating AI into clinical workflows and measuring meaningful outcomes for patients, providers and health systems.

A practicing endocrinologist and informaticist based in Fargo, North Dakota, Newman is passionate about healthcare disparities, especially zip code-based disparities. He has presented at high-profile national industry events including the Reuters Digital Health Summit, HIMSS AI in Healthcare Forum and the flagship ATA Nexus Conference among others. Dr. Newman also serves on the 2026 HIMSS AI Advisory Group, an invitation-only cohort of leading experts in healthcare and AI. He received a B.S. from Drake University, an M.D. from the University of North Dakota School of Medicine and Health Sciences, completed an Internal Medicine Residency at Hennepin County Medical Center and completed an Endocrinology Fellowship with the University of Minnesota.

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 Lewis Drug, a pharmacy and retail chain with 60 locations in three states and nearly 190 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.

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Pours for a Purpose raises $415K to advance emergency care

June 23, 2026
Contact: Jillian Johnson
Media Relations Specialist –Bemidji Region
(218) 333-6090 / jillian.johnson@sanfordhealth.org

BEMIDJI, Minn. – The Sanford Health Foundation raised nearly $415,000 during its annual Pours for a Purpose event on June 12 to support a significant enhancement project for the Emergency Department at Sanford Bemidji Medical Center.

As part of the evening, the Sanford Health Foundation announced a transformative $1 million gift from retired Sanford emergency medicine physician Dr. Richard Stennes and his wife Nilla in support of the project. In recognition of his generosity and decades of service to the region, the department will be named the Stennes Emergency Department upon completion of the project.

“Dr. Stennes dedicated his career to ensuring patients in northern Minnesota had access to high-quality emergency care close to home,” said Dr. Jason Caron, President and CEO of Sanford Health in Bemidji. “His extraordinary generosity and commitment to this community will have a lasting impact on generations of patients and families.”

Sanford Bemidji is the only Level III Trauma Center within 70 miles and serves more than 176,000 people across seven counties and 16 communities. Demand for emergency care continues to grow, with more than 26,500 emergency department visits completed in 2025—an average of 73 patients each day. Nearly 1,100 patients were treated for life-threatening conditions in 2024.

The Emergency Department enhancement project has a total fundraising goal of $2.6 million and will include:

• Safety-enhanced behavioral health rooms
• Dedicated law enforcement entrance and space
• Additional security features throughout the department
• New trauma and treatment rooms with state-of-the-art equipment
• A remodeled fast-track area for lower-acuity patients
• Care transition spaces for patients awaiting next steps
• Renovations to all existing exam rooms
• Improved storage and workflow efficiencies
• Equipment upgrades to support bariatric patients
• Additional restrooms and patient accommodations

“This project will help us provide faster, safer and more efficient care for the thousands of patients who rely on our Emergency Department each year,” Dr. Caron said. “We are incredibly thankful for Dr. Stennes’ transformational gift and for every donor, sponsor and supporter who joined us at Pours for a Purpose. Together, they are investing in the future of emergency care for our communities.”

The Sanford Health Foundation will continue fundraising efforts toward the project’s $2.6 million goal. Community members interested in supporting the Emergency Department enhancement project can contact the Sanford Health Foundation at (218) 333-5505.

For more information about Sanford Health Foundation, visit sanfordhealthfoundation.org.

About Sanford Health
Sanford Health, the largest rural health system in the United States, is dedicated to transforming the health care experience and providing access to world-class health care in America’s heartland. Headquartered in Sioux Falls, South Dakota, the organization has 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 Lewis Drug, a pharmacy and retail chain with 60 locations in three states and nearly 190 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.

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Sanford Fargo Doc Talk on mental health in adolescents

June 23, 2026

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

FARGO, N.D. – Sanford Health Fargo is hosting a Doc Talk discussion to educate the public about mental health in adolescents.

The event is on Thursday, June 25, from 6:30 to 8 p.m. inside the Fargo Parks Sports Center at the Sanford Sports Complex, 6100 38th St. S., Fargo. There is no cost to attend, but registration is required.

Understanding your teen’s mental health can make all the difference, and support starts with understanding. Dr. Rebecca Presussler, Sanford Health child psychologist, and Dr. Hailey Ellingson, Sanford Health post-doctoral psychology resident, will discuss common topics like anxiety, depression, trauma and phobias.

Sanford Health is dedicated to providing the communities it serves with relevant and up-to-date health information. Doc Talk is a free educational series where Sanford providers present and answer your questions on a wide variety of topics.

To register for the event, visit https://www.sanfordhealth.org/classes-and-events/doc-talk-fargo.

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 Lewis Drug, a pharmacy and retail chain with 60 locations in three states and nearly 190 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.

Minnesota & California MBB to square off at Sanford Pentagon

June 23, 2026

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

SIOUX FALLS, S.D. – The University of Minnesota and the University of California will square off in a men’s basketball game on Saturday, November 28 at the Sanford Pentagon. Game time, broadcast information, and ticket sales will be determined at a later date.

“This is a tremendous matchup between two up-and-coming teams who ended last season strong,” Jesse Smith, vice president of Sanford Sports said. “We’re grateful to our friends and partners at the University of Minnesota for coming back to the Pentagon and we’re excited to welcome the University of California to Sioux Falls for the first time. This will be an excellent showcase for the players, coaches, and fans over the Thanksgiving holiday weekend.”

Minnesota will be returning to the Pentagon for the second straight year and fifth time overall. Last season, under first-year head coach Niko Medved, the Gophers secured three top 25 wins and participated in the College Basketball Crown postseason tournament in Las Vegas.

“The Sanford Pentagon does a tremendous job of bringing top-notch sporting events to its community and giving the area exciting games to watch,” Coach Medved said. “We’re thrilled to be participating in another first-class matchup for the second year in a row. Minnesota had a great fan turnout last season, and we’re looking forward to seeing maroon and gold in the stands again this year.”

California will be making its first appearance in the Rushmore State. The Bears are coming off their first 20-plus win season in nearly a decade, going 22-12 in the 2025-26 campaign and reaching the 2^nd round of the NIT under head coach and two-time NBA champion Mark Madsen.

“It’s exciting for Cal to face a program like Minnesota on a major stage like this in Sioux Falls,” Coach Madsen said. “The Pentagon has been a showcase for top-tier basketball, and we are looking forward to being a part of the experience. We appreciate the opportunity and hope fans enjoy watching the Bears in action!”

November’s contest will be the 7^th all-time meeting between Minnesota and California and first in more than 30 years. The Golden Bears are 4-2 all-time vs. the Golden Gophers, including a win in their last matchup 70-67 on Dec. 16, 1995.

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 Black Hills unveils advanced imaging technology

RAPID CITY, S.D. — Patients at Sanford Black Hills now have access to the most advanced CT imaging technology in South Dakota – a first-of-its-kind photon CT scanner in the state and at Sanford Health, delivering sharper images, richer detail and lower radiation, helping care teams make more confident decisions and giving patients more answers in a single scan.

The Sanford Health Black Hills Imaging Center is implementing the NAEOTOM Alpha® with Quantum Technology, the latest generation of photon‑counting CT imaging – advancing how care is delivered across multiple specialties at Sanford Black Hills. While it plays a critical role in cardiovascular care, the system also strengthens diagnostic capabilities in emergency care, oncology, pulmonary and everyday imaging.

“This investment reflects Sanford Health’s commitment to bringing leading-edge, patient-center care close to home,” said Kyle Wiese, president & CEO, Sanford Black Hills. “This is a major step forward in cardiovascular care for our region, and we are proud to provide this advanced technology to our patients.”

Previously, Sanford Health Black Hills Imaging Center used conventional CT technology, which reconstructs images indirectly and produces lower-resolution images. Photon-counting CT uses a QuantaMax detector that directly measures each X-ray photon and captures its energy, producing images with high spatial resolution and reduced noise. The system provides spectral information in every scan, improving tissue characterization and diagnostic consistency.

Clinical benefits include enhanced imaging for cardiovascular care along with improved detection and monitoring across oncology, pulmonary and emergency conditions. The device supports safer frequent follow-up imaging due to lower radiation doses, benefiting patients with chronic or long-term conditions.

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 Lewis Drug, a pharmacy and retail chain with 60 locations in three states and nearly 190 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.

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Marshfield Medical Center-Minocqua earns 5-star CMS rating

June 23, 2026

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

MARSHFIELD, Wis. – Marshfield Medical Center-Minocqua received a 5-star rating by the Centers for Medicare & Medicaid Services, a national distinction that recognizes Marshfield Clinic’s quality measures and its continued effort in providing safe, quality health care to its patients.

This designation was earned by 12% of the more than 3,000 U.S. hospitals ranked for quality measures and evidenced-based safety practices.

“Earning a 5-Star CMS rating is a significant achievement and a testament to the trust our patients and communities place in us,” said Ty Erickson, president of Marshfield Medical Center-Minocqua. “This designation reflects the dedication of our physicians, nurses and staff who provide exceptional care every day.”

The CMS quality ratings condense a variety of measurables in key areas. The five measure groups that are scored for each participating hospital include:

• Mortality
• Safety of Care
• Readmission
• Patient Experience
• Timely & Effective Care

Earlier this year, Marshfield Medical Center-Minocqua was named to the inaugural Forbes Top Hospitals 2026 list. The Forbes Top Hospitals rating system evaluates general acute care hospitals throughout the United States to offer consumers unbiased information on which hospitals can offer top-notch, high-value medical services, while also giving hospitals a benchmark to compare their performance to that of their peers.

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 Lewis Drug, a pharmacy and retail chain with 60 locations in three states and nearly 190 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.

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Sanford in Minot welcomes more new family medicine providers

June 23, 2026

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

BISMARCK, N.D. — Sanford Health in Minot has expanded its team with the addition of two more new family medicine providers at the Sanford Hwy. 2 Clinic.

The two providers offer primary care services to people of all ages, from routine checkups to treatment for a wide range of health concerns and conditions.

Brieann Backes, PA-C, is a physician assistant who offers comprehensive family medicine care for patients of all ages including acute and urgent medical care, annual physicals, cancer screenings, chronic disease management, diabetes care, geriatric care, healthy lifestyle interventions, high blood pressure management, immunizations, preventive medicine, sports physicals and well child checks. Backes are board certified by the National Commission on Certification of Physician Assistants.

Kendra Larsen, APRN, CNP, is a certified nurse practitioner who focuses on diabetes management. She assists patients with type 1 and type 2 diabetes, insulin pump management and continuous glucose monitoring. She also treats older patients at the Souris Valley Care Center & Valley View Manor in Velva, North Dakota. Larsen is board certified by the American Academy of Nurse Practitioners.

“We are excited to welcome two more advanced practice providers to the clinic,” said Jerilyn Kersten, clinic director, Sanford Health. “Their addition strengthens our ability to serve our community and ensures our patients continue to receive the highest level of service.”

To schedule an appointment, please visit sanfordhealth.org or call 701-838-3150.

The Sanford Health Bismarck Region provides health care to central and western North Dakota, eastern Montana and northern South Dakota. It includes 26 clinics in Bismarck, Mandan, Minot, Dickinson, Williston and Watford City, as well as a Level II trauma center located in Bismarck.

About Sanford Health
Sanford Health, the largest rural health system in the United States, is dedicated to transforming the health care experience and providing access to world-class health care in America’s heartland. Headquartered in Sioux Falls, South Dakota, the organization has 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 Lewis Drug, a pharmacy and retail chain with 60 locations in three states and nearly 190 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.

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Black Hills neurosurgeon Dr. Gust transitioning outreach

June 22, 2026

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

WILLISTON, N.D. —Black Hills Orthopedic & Spine Center neurosurgeon, Dr. Troy Gust, is transitioning his outreach to a new location in Williston, North Dakota.

Starting July 1, Dr. Gust will relocate his outreach practice from Conservative Care Occupational Health to the Sanford 11^th & Gate Clinic located at 1700 11^th St. W, Williston, ND 58801. Dr. Gust will provide outreach on the first Wednesday of each month. His dates for the rest of 2026 include:

-July 1
-August 5
-September 2
-October 7
-November 4
-December 2

Dr. Gust is a board-certified neurosurgeon who specializes in a wide array of back, neck, and spine conditions. He will continue primarily serving patients at The Spine Center, located at 4141 5^th St., Rapid City, SD 57701.

To schedule an appointment with Dr. Gust either in the Black Hills or Williston area, please call (605) 646-9588.

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

About Sanford Health
Sanford Health, the largest rural health system in the United States, is dedicated to transforming the health care experience and providing access to world-class health care in America’s heartland. Headquartered in Sioux Falls, South Dakota, the organization has 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 Lewis Drug, a pharmacy and retail chain with 60 locations in three states and nearly 190 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.

Back-to-school immunization event planned at Sanford Bemidji

June 16, 2026

Contact:
Jillian Johnson
Media Relations Specialist –Bemidji Region
(218) 333-6090 / jillian.johnson@sanfordhealth.org

BEMIDJI, Minn. – Sanford Health is helping families prepare for a healthy start to the school year with Safeguard for School, a back-to-school immunization event, from 10 a.m. to 7 p.m. on Tuesday, July 7, in the children’s department at the Sanford Bemidji 1611 Anne St. Clinic.

At this family friendly event, children can receive all required immunizations and enjoy games and prizes to celebrate the start of school.

Parents or guardians can call (218) 333-4710 or use Sanford My Chart to schedule an appointment. Walk-ins are also welcome at the event.

Children ages 2-17 are welcome. Please bring an insurance card, if available. Free immunizations are available for those with no insurance. If the child is not a current Sanford Health patient, please also bring their immunization record.

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

Gassen brings solutions-focused message to keynote panel

SIOUX FALLS, S.D. — Sanford Health President and CEO Bill Gassen is joining the nation’s top health system executives at one of the industry’s premier conferences this week for a keynote panel discussing the next era of healthcare.

Healthcare of Tomorrow presented by U.S. News and World Report takes place June 17-18 in Washington D.C.  The reimagined leadership summit is an exclusive forum for hospital and health system executives, senior decision-makers and other industry leaders to discuss common priorities, best practices and perspectives on the future of health and care delivery.

Opening the keynote session of the conference is Gassen’s mainstage panel, Reimagining Healthcare: The Hospital and Health System of Tomorrow. It will be followed by a fireside chat from Mehmet Oz, M.D., Administrator of Centers for Medicare & Medicaid Services. During the panel, Gassen will share insights into the challenges and opportunities shaping the hospital and health system of tomorrow – from AI and digital transformation to reimagined care delivery models, workforce innovation, strategic partnerships and long-term financial sustainability.

Gassen will be joined by Redonda Miller, M.D., president, Johns Hopkins Hospital and Warner L. Thomas, president and CEO, Sutter Health. Eric J. Gertler, executive chairman and CEO, U.S. News & World Report will moderate the panel.

“When I think about the future of health care, I believe success will be defined by how well organizations can connect care across settings, specialties and communities to better serve patients,” said Gassen. “The organizations that will be best positioned for the future are those that can combine deep local relationships and community trust with the capabilities needed to deliver increasingly complex care, invest in innovation, develop the workforce and keep care accessible and affordable over the long term.”

Since taking on the role of president and CEO in 2020, Gassen has been dedicated to improving quality, sustainability and access to care for patients across the upper Midwest. In 2022, Gassen announced that Sanford Health’s strategic position and aspirational goal is to be the premier rural health system in the United States, with a commitment to ensuring the quality of care a person receives is not limited by their ZIP code.

Gassen has been recognized by Modern Healthcare as one of the 100 Most Influential People in Healthcare the last four years. He serves as the chair elect on the board of trustees of the American Hospital Association, the board of directors for Oscar Health, Inc. (NYSE: OSCR), the board of directors for Medical Alley, the board of directors at HealthEquity, Inc. (NASDAQ: HQY) and the board of directors for the Greater Sioux Falls Chamber of Commerce. Gassen also serves as chair of the Coalition to Strengthen America’s Healthcare. In March, the U.S. Department of Health and Human Services (HHS) and the Centers for Medicare & Medicaid Services (CMS) named Gassen to its Healthcare Advisory Committee, a new federal advisory body comprised of leaders from across the healthcare system to provide expert advice on improving, strengthening and modernizing U.S. healthcare.

Sanford Health chief medical officer Jeremy Cauwels, M.D. will also share his expertise at the conference during an invitation-only workshop entitled The Future of Quality Measurement and Benchmarking. Cauwels will be joined by fellow hospital and health system executives to engage in dialogue on a range of topics related to the future of the Best Hospitals rankings and other U.S. News health quality measurement efforts. Session participants, representing a diverse group of hospitals and systems, will have the opportunity to share questions and feedback on the Best Hospitals methodologies.

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 Lewis Drug, a pharmacy and retail chain with 60 locations in three states and nearly 190 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.

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Sixth annual Roger Maris All-Star Week begins today

June 15, 2026

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

FARGO, N.D. – The sixth annual Roger Maris All-Star Week kicks off today through June 19 at various locations throughout Fargo-Moorhead.

Funds raised during Roger Maris All-Star Week will support Sanford Roger Maris Cancer Center’s continued investment and expansion as a national destination for cancer research, treatment, education and training. In October 2021, Sanford Fargo launched the region’s first and only Bone Marrow Transplant Program.

The list of events during Roger Maris All-Star Week includes:
• Free youth sports clinics June 15-19
• RedHawks game – June 15
• Roger Maris Gala – June 17
• Edith 9-Hole Golf Scramble – June 18
• Roger Maris Celebrity Golf Tournament – June 18
• Roger Maris All-Star Week Radiothon – June 18
• Roger Maris Academy – June 19

Celebrity athletes will once again make an appearance at numerous events throughout the week. This year’s lists of headlining athletes are:
• Scott Hamilton, 1984 Olympic Gold Medal Winner in men’s figure skating
• Chad Greenway, former Minnesota Vikings linebacker and two-time National Football League Pro Bowl selection
• Chris Klieman, former North Dakota State University and Kansas State University head football coach
• Phil Hansen, former North Dakota State University and Buffalo Bills defensive end
• Gene Taylor, former North Dakota State University and current Kansas State University director of athletics

The youth sports clinics take place June 15-19 and are free for children ages 6 to 13 and will be conducted by local, high school and collegiate coaches. Youth clinics are available for football, baseball, softball, basketball, golf, pickleball, volleyball, track and field and hockey.

The Fargo-Moorhead RedHawks will play host to the Winnipeg Goldeyes on Monday, June 15. Sanford Health is a proud sponsor of “Roger Maris Cancer Center Night”.

The Roger Maris Gala takes place on Wednesday, June 17, from 6-10 p.m. at The 44 Venue, 15 Main Ave., Colfax, N.D. The Gala is a night to celebrate the tradition of philanthropy at Sanford Roger Maris Cancer Center. Event goers will hear local stories of hope and healing, as well as hear an update on exclusive plans for the next era of cancer care for patients in the Upper Midwest and their families who need care close to home. Tickets and tables are available to be purchased at rogermarisgala.com. 100% of funds raised during the Roger Maris Gala will support the Sanford Roger Maris Cancer Center’s vision to become a national destination for cancer research, treatment, education and training.

The second annual Edith Sanford 9-Hole Golf Tournament presented by Happy Harry’s Bottle Shops tees off at 8 a.m. at Rose Creek Golf Course. This pink-themed event will help support innovative breast cancer research and patient care. The Edith Sanford 9-hole tournament will feature specialty coffee, a photo station, contests, swag bags and appearances by celebrities. Both men and women are encouraged to wear pink.

The Roger Maris Celebrity Golf Tournament presented by Happy Harry’s Bottle Shops returns for a 42nd season, teeing off at 12 p.m. at Rose Creek Golf Course. The tournament began as a way to raise money for local charities. Now four decades later, the tournament has now transformed into a weeklong event supporting the needs of the community.

The Sanford Health Foundation is teaming up with The Mighty 790 KFGO to host the Roger Maris All-Star Week Radiothon. The radiothon is an event to raise awareness and monetary donations to support special services, patient amenities, funding for direct patient assistance and research at the Sanford Roger Maris Cancer Center. KFGO will be broadcasting live from 6 a.m. to 5 p.m. on Thursday, June 18, inside CJ’s Tavern at Rose Creek Golf Course during the Roger Maris Celebrity Golf Tournament.

The Roger Maris Academy is designed to be a year-long program to help youth in our community explore various pathways to a great career. Thirty local middle school students will participate in combined educational and mentorship opportunities designed to help them discover their future careers. The Boys and Girls Clubs of the Red River Valley, in partnership with Sanford Health and the Fargo Moorhead West Fargo Chamber, has developed an exciting curriculum for the program. The Maris Academy meets Friday, June 19, at Kingpinz.

Roger Maris All-Star Week was created to support the work happening at the cancer center, honor loved ones, friends and neighbors affected by cancer, promote Roger’s passion for fitness and youth sports and celebrate the enduring legacy of hometown hero, Roger Maris.

For more information, visit RogerMarisWeek.com.

About Sanford Health
Sanford Health, the largest rural health system in the United States, is dedicated to transforming the health care experience and providing access to world-class health care in America’s heartland. Headquartered in Sioux Falls, South Dakota, the organization has 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 Lewis Drug, a pharmacy and retail chain with 60 locations in three states and nearly 190 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.

Roger Maris All-Star Week Radiothon returns June 18

June 12, 2026

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

FARGO, N.D. – The Sanford Health Foundation is teaming up with The Mighty 790 KFGO to host the second annual Roger Maris All-Star Week Radiothon.

The Roger Maris All-Star Week Radiothon is an event to raise awareness and monetary donations to support special services, patient amenities, funding for direct patient assistance and research at the Sanford Roger Maris Cancer Center. KFGO will be broadcasting live from 6 a.m. to 5 p.m. on Thursday, June 18, at Rose Creek Golf Course during the Roger Maris Celebrity Golf Tournament.

The radio event will feature stories from patients across the region who have utilized the services Roger Maris Cancer Center offers, celebrities participating in the Roger Maris Celebrity Golf Tournament and testimonials from Sanford staff and leadership on the importance of having world-class cancer care at home in Fargo.

Listeners can tune in to the Roger Maris All-Star Week Drive on KFGO 790 AM, 94.1 FM and 104.7 FM. Listeners can donate by calling in to the Midco Donation Line at 701-532-2424 or can donate online by visiting here.

The broadcasting schedule includes:
• 6-7 a.m. – Robbie on the Road
• 8-11 a.m. – News and Views with Joel Heitkamp
• 11 a.m. to 2 p.m. – It Takes 2 with Amy and JJ
• 2-5 p.m. – Afternoons Live with Tyler Axness

Roger Maris All-Star Week was created to support the work happening at the cancer center, honor loved ones, friends and neighbors affected by cancer, promote Roger’s passion for fitness and youth sports and celebrate the enduring legacy of hometown hero, Roger Maris.

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 Lewis Drug, a pharmacy and retail chain with 60 locations in three states and nearly 190 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 announces new Landmark Clinic location in Minot

June 11, 2026

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

Former CHI St. Alexius Medical Plaza to become future Sanford Landmark Clinic

MINOT, N.D. — Sanford Health has assumed operations of the former CHI St. Alexius Minot Medical Plaza, marking an important step in expanding access to care in the Minot community. The facility, located at 2111 Landmark Circle, will become the future home of Sanford Landmark Clinic, anticipated to open in fall 2026.

The newly acquired space will be refreshed and updated, creating a modern, patient-centered environment designed to support a broad range of services and future growth.

“Sanford Health is committed to long-term investment in Minot and the surrounding region,” said Fred Fridley, chief operating officer, Sanford Bismarck. “This new clinic allows us to expand access, enhance the patient experience and bring more coordinated care into one convenient location.”

The building encompasses approximately 64,500 square feet, including 16,700 square feet of shelled space to support future expansion. At opening, the clinic will include 45 exam rooms and 22 offices, with the ability to convert additional space for clinical use as demand grows.

Sanford Landmark Clinic will become the new home for all services and providers currently located at Sanford Northwest Clinic (1500 21st Ave. NW, Minot). Patients will continue to access care ensuring continuity during and after the transition.

At opening, Sanford Landmark Clinic is expected to offer a wide range of services, including:

• Behavioral health
• Family medicine
• Pediatrics
• Physical therapy
• Diabetes education
• Nutrition services
• Lab services

Additional specialty services are expected to be added over time as Sanford continues to respond to community needs including advanced imaging.

The expanded care team will include current Sanford Health providers along with several new family medicine providers who joined the organization in 2026. Together, they will deliver coordinated, team-based care designed to meet the evolving needs of patients in Minot.

Minot’s healthcare landscape is shaped by a limited number of established providers, making access, convenience and continuity of care especially important for patients. The new Sanford Landmark Clinic is designed to strengthen these areas by offering multiple services under one roof in a modern, accessible setting.

“This investment reflects our focus on building strong relationships with patients and providing high-quality care close to home,” Fridley added.

Additional details, including construction progress and opening timelines, will be shared as the project moves forward.

The Sanford Health Bismarck Region provides health care to central and western North Dakota, eastern Montana and northern South Dakota. It includes 26 clinics in Bismarck, Mandan, Minot, Dickinson, Williston and Watford City, as well as a Level II trauma center located in Bismarck.

About Sanford Health
Sanford Health, the largest rural health system in the United States, is dedicated to transforming the health care experience and providing access to world-class health care in America’s heartland. Headquartered in Sioux Falls, South Dakota, the organization has 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 Lewis Drug, a pharmacy and retail chain with 60 locations in three states and nearly 190 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.

Crabtree named to list of influential clinical executives

SIOUX FALLS, S.D. — Joshua Crabtree, M.D., chief physician at Sanford Health, has been named to Modern Healthcare’s list of the 50 Most Influential Clinical Executives for 2026.

This honor recognizes individuals who are shaping the future of healthcare through their leadership and innovative approaches to clinical care. The list is updated annually, highlighting executives from various sectors of the health care industry. This year’s honorees include clinical executives from CVS Health, Optum, Amazon One Medical, University of Texas MD Anderson Cancer Center, Intermountain Health, Cleveland Clinic and the Joint Commission, among others.

“This recognition is shared with the incredibly talented team of clinicians across Sanford Health who serve our patients and communities with high-quality, compassionate care every day,” said Crabtree. “I am deeply grateful to work alongside people who share a commitment to improving health and expanding access to care, especially in rural communities. My own roots in rural medicine have shaped my belief that exceptional care begins with strong relationships, and I am proud of the work our teams do every day to build trusting relationships and serve patients close to home.”

Dr. Crabtree played a pivotal leadership role in Sanford Health’s successful integration with Marshfield Clinic Health System in 2025, aligning physicians and care teams across the organization. He led a physician-first integration strategy focused on communication, engagement and cultural alignment, helping ensure continuity of care and operational stability. Under his leadership, Marshfield Clinic reduced physician turnover by nearly 50% and decreased reliance on locum tenens staffing, improving care continuity and lowering costs. Recruitment efforts resulted in more than 120 new providers, including 32 primary care physicians – the highest in recent history – expanding access in rural communities.

Across Sanford Health, physician engagement has improved significantly, with physician net promoter scores increasing 11 points year over year. Sanford also earned AMA Joy in Medicine™ Gold-level recognition – placing it among only 20 health systems nationwide – for its leadership in reducing burnout and advancing physician well-being.

Dr. Crabtree has helped operationalize new approaches to workforce flexibility, enabling physicians to practice across regions and care settings, expanding access to specialty services in underserved areas. Examples include cross-market collaboration in vascular surgery, behavioral health and cardiovascular care – bringing services closer to patients.

Dr. Crabtree earned his medical degree from the University of Minnesota Medical School and completed his family medicine residency in Duluth. He has practiced for more than 20 years, including nearly two decades in Luverne, Minnesota, where he provided full-spectrum rural care. Dr. Crabtree continues to practice, bringing frontline clinical insight and a deep personal commitment to rural health to his leadership role, where he oversees clinician professional practice, recruitment, retention, operations and wellness.

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 Lewis Drug, a pharmacy and retail chain with 60 locations in three states and nearly 190 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. 

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Sanford adding new medical building to Sioux Falls campus

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

SIOUX FALLS, S.D. — Sanford Health is adding a new clinic space on the Sanford USD Medical Center campus in Sioux Falls (SMC) to provide dermatology and plastic surgery services.

Medical Building 4 (MB4) will be located on the northeast corner of 21^st Street and Grange Avenue, directly east of Medical Building 1 (MB1). Work will begin on the new 52,000 square foot facility in June 2026 and will be completed at the end of 2027.

“I’m excited to grow our specialty services and continue investing in our Sioux falls campus,” said Andy Munce, president and CEO of Sanford Health in Sioux Falls. “Our main campus has grown tremendously the past several years, bringing services together to improve access and the patient experience.”

Sanford Dermatology Clinic is currently located inside the Talley Building at SMC, and Sanford Plastic and Reconstructive Surgery Clinic is currently located inside Medical Building 3 (MB3). Earlier this year, it was announced the USD School of Medicine’s M.D. program will be moving to the Talley Building, adjacent to the current USD School of Medicine building.

“The Talley Building is a great, centric location for the USD School of Medicine’s M.D. program and will allow future medical students to train right here on our campus, alongside a talented team of providers,” Munce said. “By bringing the program to our campus, we knew we needed to add extra clinical space to make room for the M.D. program to move into the Talley Building. The MB4 project will allow us to expand access and position us for specialty care growth in dermatology and plastic surgery while giving the medical school the space they need to train the next generation of providers.”

Once completed, MB4 will house 46 exam rooms, 15 treatment rooms, four procedure rooms, two infection rooms, lab and a laser room. The building will also have shelled space for future clinical expansion to meet community growth.

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

About Sanford Health
Sanford Health, the largest rural health system in the United States, is dedicated to transforming the health care experience and providing access to world-class health care in America’s heartland. Headquartered in Sioux Falls, South Dakota, the organization has 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 Lewis Drug, a pharmacy and retail chain with 60 locations in three states and nearly 190 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.