How Sanford Health is strengthening clinician well-being and fulfillment


Tuesday, March 24th, 2026 | 12:00 PM - 1:00 PM CT

Sanford Health — the nation's largest rural health system, serving more than 2 million patients across the upper Midwest — has taken a deliberate, organization-wide approach to clinician well-being by investing in relationships, leadership development and a culture of listening.

This session will highlight Sanford's initiatives that are strengthening professional fulfillment, including high-impact onboarding; coaching and mentoring as part of career development; and leadership training focused on well-being competencies.

Key takeaways include:
 
  • An inside look at initiatives that helped drive a 14% reduction in clinician burnout from 2022 to 2025
  • Highlights from the American Medical Association's 2025 National Comparison Report, including leading drivers of physician well-being and practical opportunities for action
  • Strategies to strengthen well-being across your organization through onboarding, mentoring and leadership development

Presenters:

HeatherSpies - McKenzie Patrick

Heather Spies, MD, MBA

Physician Director of Clinician Experience and Well-being, Sanford Health

Gilligan, James (2) - McKenzie Patrick

Jim Gilligan

VP Health System and Group Partnerships, American Medical Association