Dec. 8, 2022

Sanford Health CEO Bill Gassen has been named to Modern Healthcare’s list of most influential people in health care.

Gassen was ranked No. 39 on the publication’s list of the 100 most influential people.

Modern Healthcare noted how many leaders on its list this year are “seeking to shore up their companies’ offerings in the face of an uncertain future.”

In naming Gassen to the list, the publication noted how he hopes to expand Sanford’s reach through a recently announced proposed merger with Minnesota-based Fairview Health Services. Gassen would become CEO of the combined organization after a one-year co-CEO period.

Modern Healthcare also reported how Sanford broke ground this year on its $350 million virtual care center and is building a training pipeline for rural health care providers as well as growing its graduate medical residencies and fellowships in specialty areas.

“This recognition is not about me – it is a testament to our people who are the heart of our organization and carry out our mission every day,” Gassen said in a statement. “It is a direct reflection of their tireless dedication to our patients, residents and communities, and for that I extend my deepest gratitude.”