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Flying Doctor Tackles Rural Healthcare Gap
7 Jan
Summary
- Physician flies weekly to serve remote high-risk pregnancy patients.
- 2,079 maternal-fetal medicine specialists exist nationwide.
- Sanford Health system uses aircraft for specialty outreach.
Dr. Michael McNamara, a maternal-fetal medicine physician, regularly flies a small jet to reach patients in remote parts of South Dakota, managing high-risk pregnancies. This critical outreach service, provided by Sanford Health, addresses a significant shortage of specialists, with only 2,079 such doctors practicing in the U.S. as of 2024.
McNamara's weekly flights from Sioux Falls to Rapid City ensure that patients on farms, reservations, and military bases receive necessary exams and ultrasounds without arduous travel. Sanford Health utilizes its own aircraft, part of its AirMed program, to extend specialty care across the Upper Midwest, reaching 213 locations with over 60 specialties.
This innovative approach is crucial as rural populations often face greater health challenges and less access to care. The dedication of McNamara and his team underscores a commitment to serving the underserved, providing essential medical expertise where it is most needed and preventing potential emergencies.
