News & Events

Outpatient Opportunities Soar with Opening of Infusion Center

Mobridge Regional Hospital & Clinics (MRH&C) is already seeing the positive impact of its new rural infusion center, with remarkable growth in patient numbers and treatment capabilities since opening in late July. The center is quickly becoming a trusted place for patients across north-central South Dakota to receive high-quality, care close to home.

When Katie Rau, RN, began overseeing outpatient infusion services in the new infusion center on July 22, 2025, the department was caring for approximately 60–70 patients. Since that time, the department has expanded services, streamlined workflows, and noticed strong local demand. The center is now serving 225-250 patients each month—more than triple the caseload from the start of the year.

“We are seeing steady, meaningful growth,” shares Rau, “Patients who once had to travel hours for routine or specialty infusions can now receive care right here at home. The convenience and continuity mean everything to our rural families.” The success of the infusion center is a key milestone in MRH&C’s ongoing effort to expand rural specialty services, reduce travel for families, and ensure equitable access to lifesaving treatments.

The infusion center provides:

• Specialty infusions
• Routine outpatient services (IV fluids, injections, PICC line care, etc.)
• Antineoplastic injections
• CADD pump removals
• Prolia® injections (which recently moved from the clinic to infusion)

Several patients and regional providers have started to inquire about receiving chemotherapy treatments at the center. MRH&C has been approved as a rural chemotherapy site by Avera, so patients with their oncologists in the Avera system can now elect to have infusions closer to home. Rau completed observational training this week at the Avera St. Mary’s infusion unit in Pierre and also visited the Sanford Aberdeen infusion department earlier this year.

“These partnerships help us ensure we are building a safe, modern rural infusion program that meets the highest standards of care,” explained Rau.

Hospital leaders are excited about the consistent and encouraging direction of the infusion center and increased patient volume. It reflects both a community need—one that has been shared in local community health needs assessments for the last decade--and confidence in the ability of our dedicated staff to provide excellent care. “Word of mouth is powerful in rural communities, and we are beginning to feel that momentum,” said Rau. “Patients are sharing their experiences, and their trust is helping others feel comfortable staying local for their care.”