Gov. Rhoden Supports Rural Health through New Hospital

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FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE

October 20, 2026

Contact: Josie Harms

Gov. Rhoden Supports Rural Health through New Hospital

PIERRE, S.D. - Today, Governor Larry Rhoden supported rural health care by breaking ground on Freeman Regional Health Services' new hospital and clinic. Freeman Regional Health Services is an independent community hospital with Avera affiliation. You can find a photo from the groundbreaking here.

"If we want rural South Dakota to thrive, we have to make sure our communities have access to health care they can depend on," said Governor Larry Rhoden. "My administration has made significant investments in rural health through the Rural Health Transformation Program. I am grateful for strong local hospitals, clinics, and dedicated health care professionals like those in Freeman who are willing to put those dollars to work."

Earlier this year, Governor Rhoden strengthened rural health by signing HB 1044, which appropriated funding for the Rural Health Transformation Program. The Rhoden Administration has already invested over $100 million in rural health through the program, and that number will approach $1 billion in the next 5 years.

You can find more information on Rural Health Transformation efforts in South Dakota here.

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