JAMESTOWN, N.D. (NewsDakota.com) – Chief Executive Officer Mike Delfs joined the Jamestown Regional Medical Center in the spring of 2019.
A Langdon, N.D. native, Delfs brings years of experience to the JRMC. He began his career as a certified nursing assistant and gradually worked his way to CEO, most recently at Mercy Hospital, a critical access hospital in Moose Lake, Minnesota.
“Jamestown Regional Medical Center has a ton of opportunity,” Delfs states. “I am interested in JRMC because its service lines are similar to my previous employer and I know I can help develop them. I was also attracted to JRMC’s excellent culture, award-winning care and because JRMC is a Best Place to Work. Jamestown is also closer to home and grandchildren. It is seldom when personal and professional goals lineup so well, however, that is what happened in this case.”
Prior to working in healthcare, Delfs and his wife ran a restaurant in Wahpeton. After they sold it, he served as a certified nursing assistant because he connected to helping people who really needed it.
“After working as a CNA for two years, my organization promoted me to a supervisor. A passion ignited in me while in the supervisor role, so I finished my bachelor’s and master’s degrees so I could continue to serve others. Starting in that area of healthcare gives me a unique perspective. Not many CEOs started as a CNA. My background helps me connect with and support each department in the hospital.:
Delfs says he sees the hospital remaining independent for the future.
“JRMC can do that because we have a strong focus and a shared belief,” Delfs pointed out. “Already, we are accomplishing amazing and special things like our specialty clinic. This community is fortunate to have so many specialists practicing in this rural area.”
Even with remaining independent, he explains that there will be more partnerships for the hospital.
“JRMC is not an island and we rely on other healthcare organizations to provide the care we cannot. Those partnerships require trust. We are grateful for the amazing, gracious and talented medical community here.”
Delfs pointed out that he already feels right at home in Jamestown.
“Our neighbors are kind. We feel very welcome. I look forward to getting involved with community groups like service clubs, the Jamestown Area Chamber of Commerce and others. I also look forward to getting to know the employees at JRMC. My 90-day goals include building both business and service lines, but also relationships.”
Delfs enjoys walking with his wife, spending time with their dogs and riding his motorcycle.
Information for this article courtesy of the Jamestown Regional Medical Center. Photo: JRMC