Foundation deliver real-time care improvements for rural patients
Devils Lake, N.D. – The Blue Cross Blue Shield of North Dakota (BCBSND) Caring Foundation and Altru Health Foundation partnered up to better support patients in Devils Lake and surrounding communities, by recently implementing Crit-Line technology at Altru Health’s newly expanded dialysis center in Devils Lake.
This device provides real-time insight into a patient’s fluid status, allowing nurses to make timely adjustments during treatment and improve patient outcomes. Previously, dialysis care relied heavily on nurses’ observations and experience. Now, with Crit-Line, care teams can anticipate complications before they arise. As this technology continues to be introduced, patients are already expressing appreciation for the improved experience.
“Patients have told us they love it,” said Misty Lundbohm, Altru Health Foundation Senior Philanthropy Specialist. “It reduces the need for additional lab draws and helps them feel better during and after treatment. It’s a game-changer for rural dialysis care.”
The project was made possible through the BCBSND Caring Foundation’s Rural Health Grant, administered by University of North Dakota Center for Rural Health, which funded the acquisition of multiple Crit-Line monitors.
“Our mission is to improve health outcomes for North Dakotans, especially in rural communities where access to advanced care can be limited,” said Amber Blomberg, Caring Foundation executive director. “We are proud to invest in this technology to improve the experience of those on dialysis.”
Improving health care in rural communities
A major factor for small towns is finding health care close to home. BCBSND Caring Foundation’s recent Social Drivers of Health (SDOH) study reported a shortage of primary care physicians, dentists and mental health providers in North Dakota even with low uninsured rates and advances in telehealth. Funding from these Rural Health Grants helps address local health challenges through community-driven solutions to ensure no matter how remote a person’s zip code is they have access to care and support to live a full life.
Accepting proposals for 2026 Rural Health Grants
BCBSND Caring Foundation, in partnership with the Center for Rural Health (CRH) at the University of North Dakota (UND) School of Medicine & Health Sciences, is now accepting grant proposals for the 2026 Rural Health Grants. Up to eight recipients will receive $5,000 to $7,500 for their projects working to transform the health of rural North Dakotans. The deadline to send a proposal is 5 p.m. (CT) Saturday, Nov. 15, 2025, via UND CRH’s online application system.
About the Blue Cross Blue Shield of North Dakota Caring Foundation Established in 1989, the BCBSND Caring Foundation is a private 501(c)(3) charitable organization. Through giving and investing, the Caring Foundation focuses on key health issues to help improve the health and well-being of North Dakotans and their communities. Caring Foundation staff collaborate with grantees to support non-profit sustainability, promote shared outcomes and create lasting change.
