Summary
Rural hospitals in North Dakota are forming a network to share resources and save on costs. This network helps them stay independent and improve patient care without merging with larger hospital systems. The Rough Rider Network is an example where hospitals collaborate to negotiate better deals on medical services.
Key Facts
- Bowman, North Dakota, has about 1,400 residents who rely on Southwest Healthcare Services.
- Rural hospitals are joining clinically integrated networks to share resources and remain independent.
- The Rough Rider Network includes 22 rural hospitals in North Dakota.
- These networks help hospitals get better prices on medical equipment, like mobile MRI units.
- Clinically integrated networks aim to improve care quality and patient health outcomes.
- Since 2010, 153 rural hospitals in the U.S. have closed or cut services.
- A total of 441 rural hospitals merged or were acquired by larger systems between 2011 and 2021.
- Networks sometimes share specialists and invest in community resources to improve health access.
