This week’s Associate Member Spotlight is on the Community HealthCare Association of the Dakotas. Shelly Ten Napel, CEO, was interviewed for this story.

What services does CHAD provide?

CHAD is the primary care association for North Dakota and South Dakota, supporting community health centers (CHCs) in their mission to provide access to health care for all Dakotans, but especially those in rural, low-income and underserved populations. CHAD supports nine CHCs across the Dakotas by providing training and technical assistance, plus a variety of resources to enhance key areas of operations, including clinical, human resources, finance, outreach and enabling, marketing and advocacy.

When was CHAD established?

1985

How is CHAD structured?

CHAD is a non-profit organization governed by a board of directors. The board is comprised of staff from the CHCs served.

How long has CHAD been an Associate Member of SDAHO?

Since 1989.

How has CHAD grown or changed over the years?

As the needs of the population evolve, CHAD evolves, too. CHCs provide care in high-need areas including primary care, dental and behavioral health for approximately 110,000 patients in 62 delivery sites in 51 communities. Enhancing access to care and expanding services offered helps to foster health communities and health families.

Where is CHAD located?

There are two offices; one in Sioux Falls, South Dakota and one in Bismarck, North Dakota.

Does CHAD have a mission statement?

The organization’s mission is to foster health communities by promoting and supporting programs that increase access to affordable, high-quality care for all.

Does CHAD have any special events coming up?

CHAD will be co-sponsoring the Rural Health Leaders Conference with SDAHO on June 13-14, in Pierre. More information can be found by visiting https://sdaho.org/event/rural-health-leaders-conference/.

How can people get in touch with CHAD?

Contact Shelly Ten Napel, CEO, by emailing ShellyTenNapel@communityhealthcare.net.

What is CHAD’s website?

www.communityhealthcare.net/