South Dakota Association of Healthcare Organizations (SDAHO) President and CEO Tim Rave was interviewed by KELOLAND News about how hospital mergers impact potential hospital closures. The article stemmed from the recent merger between Sanford Health and Prairie Lakes Healthcare System in Watertown.
Rave noted that mergers have occurred over the past two decades, in South Dakota, with only one closer during that time.
“Although mergers have happened throughout the past 20 years in South Dakota, it hasn’t resulted in hospital closures. We’ve had one hospital close in the last 25 years,” Rave said.
He added that in many cases, mergers can help bring stability and sustainability to health care systems and the communities they serve.
The article also featured Erick Larson, CEO of Huron Regional Medical Center and a member of the SDAHO Board of Trustees, who emphasized the importance of local care.
“The medical center has good relationships with Sanford Health and Avera, the two largest systems in the state. But, as an independent, there is a mindset that local care is important and that institutions are there to serve the local population,” Larson shared.
Both Rave and Larson highlighted that whether operating independently or as part of a larger system, the mission remains the same — to care for patients and strengthen health care in their communities and across South Dakota.
The full article, written by Rae Yost for KELOLAND News on November 3, 2025, can be read in its entirety here: Hospital Closures Rare Even with Mergers – KELOLAND News
