Sioux Falls, S.D.-based Sanford Health recorded an operating income of $136.1 million (4.2% operating margin) in the first quarter of 2026, up from $76.9 million (2.7% margin) during the same period last year, according to its May 14 financial report.
Five things to know:
1. The 58-hospital system reported operating revenue of $3.2 billion during the three months ended March 31, up from $2.8 billion during the same period last year. Patient revenue was $1.8 billion, up from $1.6 billion. Premium revenue was $717.5 million, up from $657.9 million.
2. Total operating expenses were $3.1 billion in the first quarter of 2026, up from $2.7 billion. Salaries and benefits totaled $1.4 billion, up from $1.3 billion. Supplies and pharmaceuticals totaled $706.5 million, up from $565.7 million. Medical claims totaled $379.7 million, up from $371.1 million.
3. As of March 31, Sanford Health had 130.5 days cash on hand, down from 143.5 on Dec. 31.
4. On May 8, Sanford Health and Robbinsdale, Minn.-based North Memorial Health signed a definitive agreement to come together as a single nonprofit health system. North Memorial Health would anchor a new care-delivery region for Sanford Health in the Twin Cities. The region would include two medical centers, including one of five level 1 trauma centers in Minnesota; more than 22 clinics offering primary care and more than 45 specialties; 450 physicians and advanced practice providers; and 6,800 team members.
5. Sanford Health reported a net income of $112.1 million in the first quarter of 2026, down from $535.5 million during the same period last year.
