By Chris Docter
According to the 2020 census, Bennett County’s population was 3,381. At that time it had less than 10 people per square mile making it one of South Dakota’s more rural counties. Rural counties have several unique problems within their communities not the least of which is access to healthcare. In turn, rural healthcare providers have their own set of challenges. For instance, according to the South Dakota Department of Health, Bennett County is considered to be a Health Professional Shortage Area for primary medical care, mental health, dental health and is considered an overall medically underserved area.
National Rural Health Day was established in 2011 by the National Organization of State Offices of Rural Health in order to recognize rural healthcare providers and their ability to contribute to their rural communities despite the challenges they face.
Here in Martin there are several rural healthcare providers including Bennett County Rural Health Clinic, Horizon Health and Dental Services and LaCreek Indian Health Services, all of whom are staffed with individuals who not only know the importance of serving a rural community but appreciate the part they play in keeping it healthy.
Shandel Anson RN/BS/NFA and CEO of Bennett County Hospital and Rural Health Clinic said that the idea of staying connected to her home plays a major part in her choice to work in rural health care.
“I chose rural health because it allows me to serve the community I call home, caring for neighbors, friends, and families.
Rural medicine is unique in that it requires us to be resourceful and adaptable, often wearing many hats, while always staying closely connected to the people we serve.
That connection is what makes practicing in a rural setting so meaningful.”
Horizon Health CEO Wade Erickson shares Anson’s sentiment about the importance of serving the community he calls home.
“Horizon Health is dedicated to rural health in the small town where we live and work. We serve rural communities because health care is essential to their strength and survival. In small towns, access to care is often limited, and every provider or clinic can make a life changing difference. Supporting rural health isn’t just about medicine- it’s about making sure our families, friends, neighbors, and entire communities have the chance to live healthy, stable lives.”
Lindsey Heath, CNP of Horizon Health, highlights the importance of problem solving and being resourceful when it comes to rural health care.
“As a rural health provider, I am able to build deep community relationships by fostering a sense of trust and more personalized care in a setting with limited resources. Rural providers often have to think outside the box to manage and treat patients to ensure they are receiving high quality care in their time of need.”
Chris Rosario CNP at Horizon notes that it is just as important for those in rural communities to get quality health care as it is for those in metropolitan areas. “As a rural provider, I am able to provide people who chose to live in rural communities the opportunity to have the same quality health care that others receive when living in larger towns and communities.”
Jocelyn Bergh, PA-C also of Horizon Health says that in rural communities patients and providers get to know each other on a level that isn’t an option in other areas.
“Only in rural medicine does your provider become like part of your family. I feel so fortunate working in our small communities as I am given an amazing opportunity to develop close relationships that allow me to have meaningful discussions about my patients’ health.”
Jessica Scherer DDS,MS at Horizon Dental Services says that while she is new to the Martin area, rural healthcare has always been her goal, and she loves the way of life and sense of home she has in the community and in her job.
“Rural healthcare, including dental care is something that needs more attention and recognition. Unfortunately, many providers are lured to large cities with the amenities and healthcare practices with larger salaries or incentives, which leaves the rural communities without. The people of rural communities are often those that are the backbone of our economy, those that feed America through farms and ranches, as well as the ones that often have the hardest time receiving adequate care due to their distance to larger cities. Providers should be available as much as possible to keep the community well. I have always known that I wanted to be a dentist in a rural location and after becoming part of the Martin community through my husband and his family, I am very grateful to call Martin home. To me, the lifestyle of being a dentist during the week and working cows or helping on the farm on the weekends is priceless and something that I love.”
There is an overall theme when talking with Martin’s healthcare providers and that is one of connection to the community. It is clear that patients aren’t just numbers to those who choose to work in rural healthcare, they are friends and family members. The decision to work in a rural community may come with it’s own challenges, but the payoff of calling the community home is worth it to the small number of those who rise to the occasion. Be sure to thank your rural healthcare providers on November 20 for National Rural Health Day.