Essentia Health Fosston
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900 Hilligoss Boulevard Southeast, Fosston, MN 56542
For more information about senior living options: (844) 490-3973
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Dr. Morgan is described as an excellent, caring, knowledgeable, and thorough family physician who goes the extra mile. The staff at Essentia Health Fosston are described as amazing, professional, and kind. Carrie Danielson, the social worker, is praised as a tremendous help to families. Dr. Andrew Moen and his surgical team are described as skilled, attentive, and professional, delivering excellent care. The ER staff, including a nurse named Austyn, are described as amazing, informative, and thorough. The hospital is described as a peaceful place with friendly and knowledgeable healthcare professionals. The nurses are described as super nice. The facility is regarded as top notch, offering high-quality care in a small-town setting.
The hospital continually mistreats patients. Doctors make mistakes and patients are treated like they're at fault. Nurses break patient privacy and disclose confidential information. Nurses meddle in patients' medical information despite requests to stop. The administrator ignores patient calls and voicemails and does not enforce contracts. The hospital and its doctors do not follow state contracts, while patients must. The hospital should be shut down and sued; the administrator should be fired. The hospital has lied to patients and refused to rectify errors, causing some to leave. The facility often makes patients wait an hour for an appointment.The collection of experiences shared about Essentia Health facilities in Fosston and Bemidji presents a wide spectrum of patient views. Some people speak with high praise for the care they received, while others describe serious concerns about privacy, administration, billing, and overall responsiveness. Taken together, the comments reveal a health system where individual encounters can swing dramatically - from moments of exceptional, compassionate care to episodes that left patients frustrated, confused, or harmed in their view.
On the positive side, a number of reviewers spotlight specific clinicians and moments of care that stood out for their quality and empathy. One patient called Dr. Morgan in family practice "an excellent doctor in every way" who is "caring, easy to talk to, knowledge?able, thorough, and will go the extra mile." Several others sing the praises of Dr. Andrew Moen and his team for surgeries, calling the experience "five stars" and noting attentive, patient-centered care before, during, and after procedures. The surgical staff, anesthesiologist, and Dr. Moen are repeatedly described as professional, responsive, and focused on the patient's well-being, with one account highlighting zero nausea post-anesthesia due to careful drug choices. Beyond doctors, many reviewers celebrate the hospital's nursing staff and support personnel: nurses described as friendly and attentive, a nurse in the ER named Austyn praised for her care, and a social worker, Carrie Danielson, hailed as "the BOMB" and an essential source of guidance during a difficult time. The sentiment is that, when the staff work cohesively and with genuine concern, patients feel seen, heard, and well cared for.
There are also comments that emphasize the strength and value of the facility's local presence. Several patients appreciate the convenience and accessibility of care in a small-town setting, noting that timely visits, explanations, and a generally supportive environment can be a real asset. The praise extends to specific experiences in the Fosston ER, where a reviewer recounted being treated promptly, kept informed, and returned to a sense of safety and understanding after a medical event. In these accounts, Essentia's team members are portrayed as capable and trustworthy when communication is clear and when staff prioritize listening to patient concerns.
But alongside the praise are persistent and troubling claims that cannot be ignored. A substantial thread of reviews accuses the hospital of mis-treating patients, with alleged mistakes by doctors that are then followed by patients being blamed rather than supported. Some reviewers describe privacy violations by nurses - claims of divulging private health information to unintended recipients or otherwise breaching HIPAA-like protections. Several accounts criticize the administration for ignoring patient calls and voicemails, failing to follow contracts or state guidelines, and showing a broader pattern of not honoring patient concerns. One reviewer even asserts that the hospital should be shut down and sued, arguing that a head administrator should be held accountable for policy failures and staff behavior. The language used is pointed and urgent, reflecting a belief that patient safety and dignity have, in some cases, been compromised.
A particularly alarming anecdote centers on a recurring earache visit in which a clinician's conduct allegedly crossed professional lines. The patient reports being dismissed as "stupid" for not picking up prescribed medicine, then experiencing physical discomfort as the provider swiped hair away, pressed on the ear, and jammed a light into the ear despite explicit statements of pain. The clinician reportedly lectured the patient about responsibility rather than offering relief or appropriate treatment. Incidents like this are described as emblematic of a broader pattern of neglect or insensitivity that some patients feel erodes trust and safety in care.
Several reviewers broaden the concern to systemic issues within the hospital. The sense conveyed is that a few good physicians and staff members remain, but many of the most trusted clinicians may leave or be dismissed when policies clash with patient expectations. There is a perception that those who violate privacy laws or ignore patient health concerns find themselves insulated in the system, while consistently reliable caregivers are pressured to depart. In this view, the hospital struggles to cultivate a culture of accountability and continual improvement, with patients requesting a comprehensive review of long-standing medical histories and a renewed commitment to patient advocacy.
Billing and administrative friction features prominently in the negative accounts as well. Complaints include being billed for services that were supposedly free under certain screening programs, mis-coding by a physician that converted complimentary care into a paid diagnostic service, and a back-and-forth with staff to rectify mistakes that some reviewers felt were never fully resolved. Communication problems extend to the phone system and email responsiveness, with patients reporting long holds, slow or inconsistent responses, and a sense that complaint processes are not taken seriously. One reviewer even suggests a lack of regard at the management level for patient revenue and trust, describing the situation with sarcasm and frustration as a signal that patient concerns are not being addressed in a timely or meaningful way.
Taken as a whole, the narratives show a health system capable of exceptional care and personal connection in many instances, while also revealing significant and sometimes painful gaps in privacy protection, administrative accountability, and consistent patient experience. The strongest message across these accounts is a call for clearer communication, better protection of patient privacy, more reliable follow-through on patient concerns, and a culture that prioritizes patient safety and dignity as highly as it does technical skill. For some patients, the experience is a validation of choosing Essentia for convenient, competent care with standout individuals; for others, it is a cautionary tale of how missteps in administration and inconsistent practices can undermine trust and threaten well-being.
50 resident community capacity
Skilled Nursing FacilitySkilled Nursing Facilities are crucial for seniors as they provide round-the-clock medical care, rehabilitation services, and assistance with daily activities. These facilities ensure that seniors receive the specialized care they need to maintain their health and well-being as they age.
Beauty salonBeauty salons are important for seniors because they provide a space for them to feel pampered, socialize, and maintain their personal grooming and hygiene. Regular visits to a beauty salon can help boost seniors' self-esteem and overall well-being.
Cable or satellite TVCable or satellite TV is important for seniors because it provides entertainment, news, and companionship, helping to combat loneliness and boredom. It also offers a wide range of programming options tailored to different interests and preferences.
Dining roomDining rooms are important for seniors as they provide a space for socialization, connection, and nutritious meals. They offer opportunities for residents to bond over shared meals, foster a sense of community, and promote healthy eating habits. Dining rooms also ensure that seniors have access to well-balanced meals tailored to their dietary needs and preferences.
Fully furnishedFully furnished senior living communities are important for seniors because they provide convenience, comfort, and a hassle-free moving experience. Seniors can easily settle into their new living space without the stress of having to buy and move furniture. This allows them to focus on enjoying their new home and community.
GardenGardens are important for seniors as they provide a peaceful and therapeutic environment for relaxation, physical activity, and socialization. Being in nature has been shown to reduce stress, improve mood, and promote overall well-being. Gardens also offer opportunities for seniors to engage in gardening activities, which can improve mobility, flexibility, and cognitive function. Additionally, gardens create a sense of community and connection with others who share a passion for plants and outdoor spaces.
Housekeeping servicesHousekeeping services are important for seniors because they help maintain a clean and safe living environment, promote independence, and reduce the risk of accidents or illnesses. Additionally, having assistance with household chores can alleviate physical strain and allow seniors to focus on other aspects of their well-being.
KitchenetteKitchenettes are important for seniors living in senior living communities because they provide the convenience and independence of being able to prepare simple meals and snacks in the comfort of their own living space. This can help promote a sense of autonomy and well-being for seniors, allowing them to maintain some level of control over their dietary choices and daily routines.
Move-in coordinationMove-in coordination is important for seniors because it helps ease the transition into their new living environment. It ensures that all logistics, such as packing, organizing movers, and setting up utilities are taken care of, allowing seniors to focus on settling in and adjusting to their new home. Having a smooth move-in process can alleviate stress and anxiety, making the transition smoother and more enjoyable for seniors.
Outdoor spaceOutdoor spaces are important for seniors as they provide opportunities for physical activity, social interaction, exposure to natural light and fresh air, and a sense of connection to nature. Having access to outdoor spaces can improve overall well-being and quality of life for older adults living in senior communities.
Restaurant-style diningRestaurant-style dining is important for seniors because it allows them to enjoy delicious, nutritious meals in a social and upscale setting. This enhances their dining experience, promotes healthy eating habits, and fosters socialization with fellow residents, ultimately contributing to their overall well-being and quality of life.
Small librarySmall libraries are important for seniors as they provide access to a variety of reading materials, including books, newspapers, and magazines. This can help stimulate their minds, keep them engaged, and provide a sense of community through book clubs and other social activities. Additionally, reading has been shown to improve cognitive function and overall mental well-being in older adults.
TelephoneTelephones are important for seniors as they provide a lifeline for communication with loved ones, emergency services, and healthcare providers. They offer a sense of security and independence, enabling seniors to stay connected and access assistance when needed.
Wi-Fi/high-speed internet availableWi-Fi/high-speed internet is important for seniors to stay connected with loved ones, access online resources, and participate in virtual activities to combat feelings of loneliness and isolation. It also allows them to easily manage healthcare needs, access entertainment, and engage in lifelong learning opportunities.
24-hour call system24-hour call systems are important for seniors because they provide peace of mind and immediate assistance in case of emergencies. This technology ensures that help is always available, promoting safety and security for elderly individuals living alone or in assisted living facilities. 24-hour supervision24-hour supervision is important for seniors to ensure their safety, well-being, and access to immediate assistance in case of emergencies or health issues. This constant support provides peace of mind for both seniors and their loved ones, allowing them to age in place with dignity and security.
Activities of daily living assistanceActivities of daily living assistance are important for seniors because they provide essential support with tasks such as eating, bathing, dressing, and mobility. This assistance helps seniors maintain their independence, dignity, and overall quality of life as they age.
Assistance with bathingAssistance with bathing is crucial for seniors as it helps maintain personal hygiene, prevents infections, and ensures their overall well-being and comfort. It also provides a sense of dignity and independence for seniors who may struggle with this task on their own.
Assistance with dressingAssistance with dressing is important for seniors because it helps maintain their independence, promotes personal hygiene, prevents accidents and injuries, and improves overall quality of life. This service ensures that seniors can continue to dress comfortably and confidently, despite any physical limitations they may have.
Assistance with transfersAssistance with transfers is crucial for seniors as it helps prevent falls and injuries, maintains their independence, and ensures they can safely navigate their living environment. It also provides peace of mind for both seniors and their loved ones.
Diabetes dietA diabetes diet is crucial for seniors as it helps manage blood sugar levels, reduce risks of complications, and improve overall health and well-being. By following a balanced and nutritious diet tailored to their specific needs, seniors can better control their diabetes and enhance their quality of life. Meal preparation and serviceMeal preparation and service are crucial for seniors as they may have limited mobility or energy to cook nutritious meals. Having access to healthy and convenient food options can ensure they are getting the proper nutrition needed to maintain their overall health and well-being.
Medication managementMedication management is crucial for seniors to ensure they are taking the right medications at the correct dosages and times. This helps prevent adverse drug interactions, reduces the risk of medication errors, and promotes overall health and well-being. Proactive management also allows for adjustments as needed based on changing health conditions or new prescriptions.
Mental wellness programMental wellness programs are essential for seniors as they promote cognitive stimulation, emotional support, and social engagement. These programs help prevent isolation, depression, and cognitive decline, ultimately enhancing the overall quality of life for older adults.
Special dietary restrictionsSpecial dietary restrictions are important for seniors because age-related changes in metabolism and health conditions can make it difficult for their bodies to process certain foods. By following a diet tailored to their specific needs, seniors can maintain their overall health and well-being, manage chronic conditions, and reduce the risk of complications such as malnutrition or food interactions with medications. Diabetes dietA diabetes diet is crucial for seniors as it helps manage blood sugar levels, reduce risks of complications, and improve overall health and well-being. By following a balanced and nutritious diet tailored to their specific needs, seniors can better control their diabetes and enhance their quality of life. Special dietary restrictionsSpecial dietary restrictions are important for seniors because age-related changes in metabolism and health conditions can make it difficult for their bodies to process certain foods. By following a diet tailored to their specific needs, seniors can maintain their overall health and well-being, manage chronic conditions, and reduce the risk of complications such as malnutrition or food interactions with medications. Community-sponsored activitiesCommunity-sponsored activities are important for seniors as they provide opportunities for social interaction, mental stimulation, and physical activity. These activities can help improve overall well-being, combat loneliness and isolation, and promote a sense of belonging and purpose among older adults. Resident-run activitiesResident-run activities are important for seniors as they encourage social interaction, creativity, and a sense of autonomy. These activities empower seniors to stay engaged and active in their community while fostering meaningful connections with their peers. Scheduled daily activitiesScheduled daily activities are important for seniors because they provide structure, socialization, mental stimulation, and physical activity. Engaging in regular activities can improve overall well-being and quality of life for seniors living in a community setting.Essentia Health Fosston in Fosston, MN is an assisted living community that offers a wide range of amenities and care services to enhance the quality of life for its residents. The community provides a comfortable and home-like environment with fully furnished accommodations, including cable or satellite TV and Wi-Fi/high-speed internet for entertainment and connectivity.
Residents at Essentia Health Fosston can enjoy delicious meals prepared by skilled chefs in the on-site dining room, offering restaurant-style dining. Special dietary restrictions are also accommodated to ensure each resident's nutritional needs are met.
The community promotes an active and engaged lifestyle through resident-run activities and scheduled daily activities. There is a small library for reading enthusiasts and outdoor space for residents to relax and enjoy nature. Additionally, there are two nearby cafes, parks, restaurants, pharmacies, places of worship, theaters, hospitals, and transportation options for added convenience.
Essentia Health Fosston provides 24-hour supervision and assistance with activities of daily living such as bathing, dressing, transfers, and medication management. A mental wellness program is offered to support the emotional well-being of residents. Diabetes diet care services are available for those with specific dietary needs.
Overall, Essentia Health Fosston offers a welcoming assisted living community where residents can receive personalized care in a supportive environment while enjoying various amenities and engaging in meaningful activities.
Essentia Health Fosston is located at 900 Hilligoss Boulevard Southeast, Fosston, MN 56542 in Polk County, Minnesota
Essentia Health Fosston on seniors.fyi includes 3 photos including images showing building, entrance, architecture, healthcare, windows, sidewalk, outdoors, and more.
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