Sanford signs deal to manage health center in Northwood, N.D.

NORTHWOOD, N.D. – Northwood Deaconess Health Center has signed a management agreement with Sanford Health effective Dec. 1, the organizations announced today.

Under the agreement, the health center’s ownership and board of directors, with ultimate decision authority, will remain the same.

Northwood, with a population of 950, is located 90 miles northwest of Fargo and 40 miles southwest of Grand Forks.

The agreement will allow Northwood Deaconess better access to resources, including better purchasing power, and help in better managing the medical center, according to a statement by the two parties.

“Rural hospitals face many challenges, and this associate relationship with Sanford Health allows us to continue to provide quality health care for people in the community,” Pete Antonson, Northwood Deaconess’ chief executive.

The agreement also brings the potential to add services, and Northwood Deaconess already has added Sanford radiology and psychiatric services. The association also provides access to Sanford’s professional education opportunities for doctors and staff.

Established in 1902, Northwood Deaconess has more than 200 employees and is owned by 11 Lutheran churches. It includes a 12-bed hospital, a 61-bed skilled nursing facility, six assisted living units, 10 independent living units, ambulance services and a community fitness center.

An attached clinic is owned by Valley Community Health Center, which also has clinics in Grand Forks and Larimore, N.D.

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