Courtesy of The Jamestown Sun
As the CEO of Jamestown Regional Medical Center (JRMC), a proud independent Critical Access Hospital (CAH) located in rural North Dakota, I read with great concern the recent article highlighting the growing crisis in maternal healthcare across our state. It is deeply troubling to learn that over 71% of North Dakota counties are now considered “maternity deserts,” with many women facing long drives—sometimes over two hours—to access a birthing hospital. This is not only a logistical challenge but a matter of life and death, especially when timely, quality maternity care can mean the difference between safe deliveries and tragic outcomes.
Here in Stutsman County, however, we are fortunate. Thanks to JRMC’s independence and the availability of our Family BirthPlace, our community has not become part of the alarming trend of maternity deserts. In recognition of our commitment to maternity care, JRMC received the 2024 Women’s Choice Award for Best Obstetrics and our satisfaction rating from new moms is in the 99th percentile. This reflects not only the quality of care we provide but also our unwavering dedication to our patients.
Independent Hospitals: Nimble and Community-Focused
What allows an independent hospital like JRMC to thrive in such a challenging healthcare environment? The answer lies in our autonomy and direct accountability to the local population. We are not bound by corporate guidelines or networked systems with broadly competing priorities. Instead, we assess the needs of our community, adapt to changing circumstances and invest in services that are vital to local health and well-being.
Our independence means we have direct control over our budget and resources. We don’t have to convince a board of directors hundreds of miles away why it is crucial to keep our birthing center open; we know it firsthand because we live and work in this community. We know the families who come through our doors. We understand their needs, their fears and their hopes. Decisions about services are not made in a faraway boardroom but in consultation with local stakeholders, patients and medical staff.
Because we are community-driven, JRMC has been able to make women’s health a priority by bringing in specialists with advanced expertise in obstetrics and gynecology. This ensures that the women of Stutsman County receive the highest level of care from routine checkups to specialized complex procedures. We view our role as a lifeline for the many families who might otherwise be forced to travel long distances to give birth. Our Family BirthPlace is a place where women can feel safe and supported knowing they are receiving care from skilled compassionate providers who are committed to their health and the health of their babies.
Collaboration and Partnerships Play a Key Role
While JRMC is independent, we are not isolated. We work closely with local family practice providers, many of whom also have obstetrical privileges—something increasingly rare in modern medical practice. This special collaboration ensures our patients have incredible options when it comes to welcoming a new baby, all from providers who understand the needs of our rural community.
Additionally, our commitment to 24/7 OB-GYN coverage means that women in our community have access to specialized care from providers who are experts in women’s health, including obstetrical needs. The presence of an OB-GYN not only expands the practice of all obstetrical providers in our community, but the around-the-clock availability ensures that emergencies are handled swiftly and women receive the specialized care they deserve, providing peace of mind for expecting families.
Finally, community involvement is crucial. At JRMC, we engage regularly with our community to understand their needs and to build trust. This engagement is key to our success. When the community feels heard and supported, they are more likely to advocate for the hospital ensuring we have the resources needed to keep vital services like maternity care open and thriving.
A Path Forward
JRMC will continue to stand firm in our commitment to providing the highest level of care for our mothers and babies. However, we cannot do it alone. We believe it is essential to foster greater collaboration across healthcare organizations, both large and small, to ensure that needs are met locally and efficiently. Independent hospitals and larger healthcare systems must partner together to ensure the special approach to women’s health services you find at Jamestown Regional Medical Center remains strong.
This kind of partnership is key to ensuring that the healthcare needs of rural communities like ours are not only sustained but strengthened. By pooling our expertise and resources, we can improve access to rural care. We are truly better together.
At JRMC, we are proof that independence leads to resilience. In Stutsman County, we are not a maternity desert. We will continue to be a pillar of strength and support for the families who rely on us because at JRMC, the health and well-being of our community comes first.
About Mike Delfs
Mike Delfs is the president and chief operating officer at Jamestown Regional Medical Center. He has 30 years of experience in healthcare and a Master of Business Administration from the University of Mary, Bismarck. He has served in director, chief operating and other healthcare executive roles at both independent hospitals and large, integrated health systems. Delfs is passionate about providing care for patients at a local level. He is professionally driven by partnerships with physician groups and other healthcare organizations to provide the most advanced care as an independent medical center.
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