Five years make a big difference at District One Hospital

[Faribault Daily News, January 22, 2020]

Five short years ago, District One Hospital transitioned ownership from an independent stand-alone hospital supported in part with taxpayer money to Allina Health, one of the largest health systems in Minnesota with a national reputation for innovation and excellence. As we celebrate our five year affiliation anniversary, I thought it would be appropriate to offer a report out on what the decision has meant for the delivery of health care in this community.

First and most importantly, the hospital remains fully functioning today largely because of its affiliation with Allina Health. Strapped for cash and ongoing operating losses, District One faced a questionable and uncertain economic future, not unlike many other independent stand-alone hospitals across the country. Upon affiliation, Allina Health paid off District One’s outstanding debt and provided capital to stabilize operations. We recognize that more needs to be accomplished and challenges remain for smaller hospitals, but we are in a much improved position relative to the previous trajectory.