An arbitration panel has ruled in favor of Essentia Health in its dispute with the City of Fosston.
The neutral arbitration panel issued a decision affirming the company’s position that it has operated Fosston Hospital within the requirements of the affiliation agreement it signed with the city in 2009. The arbitration hearing took place in mid-July.
The ruling means Essentia will continue to operate the hospital, medical clinic, assisted living home and long-term care facility in Fosston, as well as medical clinics in Bagley and Okley.
“Now that the arbitration process has concluded, Essentia is focused on the opportunity to collaborate with our patients, colleagues and the community to build a shared vision for the future of health care in Fosston,” said Dr. Stephanie Geffrow, interim president of Essentia Health West Market. “We look forward to working with city leaders to achieve this goal and for the patients we are honored to serve.”
This dispute has brought new awareness to the many challenges facing rural health care providers: As a leader in rural health care, Essentia is committed to ensuring patients receive high-quality, compassionate care as close to home as possible.
