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.