By Associated Press - Saturday, March 20, 2021

SIOUX FALLS, S.D. (AP) - A $300 million donation to Sanford Health is intended to improve rural care across South Dakota, expand Sanford’s graduate medical education, expand the sports complex in Sioux Falls and build a “virtual hospital of the future,” officials said.

The donation comes from the health care system’s namesake, Denny Sanford.

“I have a deep appreciation for the life-changing mission of Sanford Health and its work locally and around the globe, and my gift will ensure it continues to be a vital asset across our region for generations to come,” Sanford said in a statement.

The donation and plans for expansion will bring “transformative health care” to the rural Midwest, said Bill Gassen, president and CEO of Sanford Health.

“This effort will position Sanford Health as a global leader in rural care delivery, allow us to bring top clinicians to our region and enhance the health and well-being of the communities we serve,” Gassen said, the Argus Leader reported.

Sanford Health plans to create a virtual hospital to better reach rural areas of the Midwest for medical care.

Sanford made a $400 million gift in 2007 that propelled the health care system from a small regional provider to one of the largest health systems in the nation. All total, Sanford has donated more than $1 billion to Sanford Health.

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