An arbitration panel has ruled in favor of Essentia Health in its dispute with the City of Fosston.

The neutral panel of arbitrators has shared its decision, affirming Essentia’s position that we have operated the Fosston hospital within the requirements of the affiliation agreement we signed with the City in 2009. The arbitration hearing occurred in the middle of July.

This ruling means that Essentia will continue to operate the hospital, clinic, assisted-living and long-term care facilities in Fosston, as well as clinics in Bagley and Oklee.

“Now that the arbitration process is over, Essentia is focused on the opportunity to engage our patients, colleagues and the community in building a shared vision for the future of healthcare in Fosston,” said Dr. Stefanie Gefroh, interim president of Essentia Health’s West Market. “We look forward to working with city leaders in support of that objective and for the patients we’re honored to serve.”

This dispute has brought new awareness to the many challenges faced by rural health care providers. As leaders in rural health care, Essentia is committed to ensuring patients have high-quality, compassionate care as close to home as possible.