9/21/2017
Sanford Health creates veterans’ department to streamline, bolster services
Retired U.S. Navy captain leads department
SIOUX FALLS, S.D. —Sanford Health’s new department of veterans and military services will streamline and add resources for veterans, military personnel and their families across the health system’s region.
Paul Weckman, a veteran who held several leadership positions during his more than 26 years of distinguished active duty service in the U.S. Navy, leads the department. A retired captain, Weckman was honorably discharged from the Navy in 2011.
“Sanford’s dedication to raise the bar and to innovate without hesitation reflects courage and a commitment to service,” said Weckman. “The support for this program has been outstanding. Sanford is devoted to providing the best possible experience for our veterans, military members and their families.”
The Sanford Health Department of Veterans and Military Services will help veterans and military personnel obtain health care services, navigate care and insurance coverage, identify wellness services and search for employment opportunities. It also will offer family support services and veteran community outreach.
“Sanford has long understood the value in employing veterans and military personnel,” said Nathan Peterson, vice president for strategic planning and governance for Sanford Health. “Formalizing this department signifies our commitment to doing our part to help those who have given so much to help us.”
Sanford Health also is participating in the Employer Support of the Guard and Reserve, or ESGR, program. Kelby Krabbenhoft, Sanford Health president and CEO, signed a statement earlier this summer, pledging to support the military services of employees and advocate for employee participation in the military.
About Sanford Health
Sanford Health is an integrated health system headquartered in the Dakotas. It is one of the largest health systems in the nation with 45 hospitals and nearly 300 clinics in nine states and four countries. Sanford Health’s 28,000 employees, including more than 1,300 physicians, make it the largest employer in the Dakotas. Nearly $1 billion in gifts from philanthropist Denny Sanford have allowed for several initiatives, including global children's clinics, genomic medicine and specialized centers researching cures for type 1 diabetes, breast cancer and other diseases. For more information, visit sanfordhealth.org.
Article Credit: Sanford Health Media Relations
