100 Most Influential People in Healthcare - 2024

Gassen has led Sanford Health, an integrated system based in Sioux Falls, South Dakota, since 2020. The organization serves more than 1.4 million patients across the upper Midwest, operating 45 hospitals and more than 130 skilled nursing and rehabilitation centers. In October, Sanford and Wisconsin-based Marshfield Clinic Health System announced a definitive agreement to merge, a deal that would create a 56-hospital organization led by Gassen. Throughout his time as the head of Sanford, Gassen has focused on improving patient care outcomes, adding value through its 200,000-member health plan and fostering innovation. The system has also rolled out a $350 million initiative designed to improve care for rural and underserved communities. Before being named CEO, Gassen held several leadership roles at Sanford, including chief administrative officer, corporate counsel and chief human resources officer.