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We are excited to announce the recent installation of this state-of-the-art equipment, further strengthening our commitment to providing advanced healthcare services to the residents of Freeman and the surrounding communities. The newly installed CT offers a significant improvement in diagnostic technology, enabling our healthcare professionals to deliver more precise and timely medical assessments.

This investment reflects Freeman Regional’s dedication to our patients and their health. We extend our sincere appreciation to the community members, sponsors, and supporters who made contributions during the gala to support this project. Your partnership, as we advance healthcare in the rural communities we serve, is greatly appreciated.

Freeman, SD – Freeman Regional Health Services is pleased to announce the return of native nurse practitioner Sheila Rigo, FNP-C, to our care team. Sheila is returning to Freeman Regional Health Services, where she previously worked from 2001 until 2019, alongside her parents, gaining valuable work experience and continuing her education in nursing.

Sheila brings a wealth of experience from her most recent roles. During her tenure at the Avera Freestanding Emergency Department, Sheila Rigo demonstrated exceptional skills in assessing and managing patients in critical situations. Her ability to make swift decisions and provide compassionate care earned her recognition as a valued member of the team. Additionally, her experience at AVEL eEmergency Telemedicine Service allowed her to sharpen her telemedicine skills, enabling her to provide remote medical assistance to healthcare professionals in rural areas. Her familiarity with the hospital’s operations, coupled with her remarkable 22 years of nursing experience and advanced education, positions her to make a meaningful impact within our Emergency Department.

“I am excited to come back home to Freeman Regional and to provide excellent emergency care for the people of my community in their time of need. As a new NP, I look forward to learning from my colleagues and again alongside my parents,” said Sheila Rigo.

Sheila Rigo began her nursing journey by receiving her Associates Degree in Nursing from Dakota Wesleyan University. In 2015, she obtained her Bachelor’s Degree from the same institution and continued to advance her education. In December 2022, she successfully completed her Master’s Degree in Family Nurse Practitioner, further solidifying her expertise in providing comprehensive healthcare.

As a lifelong learner, Sheila has earned several certifications, including Trauma Nurse Core Course Instructor, Emergency Nurse Pediatric Course Instructor, and Certified Emergency Nurse. These certifications demonstrate her dedication to specialized training and ensuring the highest level of care for patients in emergency situations.

“We are thrilled to welcome Sheila Rigo back to Freeman Regional,” said Courtney Unruh, CEO. “Her experience, dedication, and the close bond she shares with her parents and our community, make her an invaluable asset to our team. Sheila’s commitment to providing excellent emergency care aligns perfectly with our mission, and we are proud to have her back with us.”

Commitment to our community and emergency care is something Sheila shares with her husband, Matt, who is a flight medic, has been involved with EMS since 2002 and is the Freeman EMS captain. Together they live in rural Freeman with their daughter, Hannah.

Freeman Regional Health Services is honored to have Sheila Rigo, FNP-C, back as a member of our healthcare family. Her deep-rooted connection to the community, her commitment to excellence, and the opportunity to again work alongside her parents make her return a significant milestone in her nursing journey and our mission to provide exceptional healthcare to the residents of Freeman.

During a low-dose lung CT scan, an X-ray machine scans the body and uses low doses of radiation to make detailed pictures of the lungs.

Who should get screened?
People ages 50-77 should get a yearly screening if they meet the following criteria:

• 20-pack-year smoking history (For example, 1 pack/day for 20 years; 2 packs/day for 10 years, etc. )
• Currently smoke
• Quit smoking within the last 15 years

How is the low-dose CT scan performed?

You will lie on a table that passes through the center of the scanner. The low-dose CT scan is painless and can be performed with a single short breath hold and takes less than 15 seconds.

How much radiation will I receive during the low-dose CT scan?

Radiation from a low-dose CT scan can be up to 90 percent less than the dose from a standard chest CT. The benefit of finding and treating early lung cancer far outweighs that risk. The amount of radiation exposure from a low-dose CT scan is about the same as a person would receive from background radiation (such as sun exposure) over a period of one year.

Will insurance cover the cost of my lung cancer screening?

Medicare and commercial insurance will most likely cover the service. You are encouraged to contact your insurance agency to verify whether this is a covered exam.

What happens after my low-dose CT scan?

A radiologist, a physician who specializes in reading images, will interpret your low-dose CT scan and recommend either a one-year follow-up or further testing. Results will be sent to your provider.

How do I schedule my lung cancer screening?

Talk to your provider. If a lung cancer screening is right for you, he or she can help schedule a low-dose CT scan. View our clinic phone numbers here.