Sanford Health Provides Free Hand Surgeries To Uninsured Patients At ‘Hand Day’ Event

Sanford Health orthopedic hand surgeon, Hao Li, M.D., along with a team of advanced practice providers, nurses and additional volunteers spent their time and talents on Saturday, October 21, to perform nine free procedures to four uninsured patients. The procedures included carpal tunnel and trigger finger surgeries, each taking about 30 minutes or less.

Patients were notified prior to the event if they qualified to participate and will also receive follow-up care free of charge. Dr. Li coordinated efforts to bring the life-changing event to the community including volunteering his time to perform the procedures.

“Living without hand pain is something many do not have to think or worry about,” said Dr. Li. “It is an honor to help these patients who may not have had the means to receive this surgery by providing them with a better quality of life while not having to worry about a medical bill.” 

This was the first time a Hand Day event has been held in South Dakota. Due to its success, it is anticipated Sanford Health will continue to hold this event on an annual basis.

Hand Day was held in cooperation with the organization, Touching Hands. Touching Hands is an American Society for Surgery of the Hand (ASSH) program funded by the American Foundation for Surgery of the Hand. Touching Hands provides life-changing hand surgeries, rehabilitation and medical training in the world’s underserved communities. Its U.S. missions, called “Hand Days,” take place at the facilities of hand surgeon members of the ASSH. During these one-day missions, volunteers are able to provide free care to residents of their own community.

For more information about Sanford Health, visit SanfordHealth.org.