Press Releases

Today, the USDA approved a $16.9 million Federal loan to Dickinson County Healthcare System (DCHS). Rep. Jack Bergman has supported this project and helped cut through the bureaucratic delays. In response to the announcement, he issued the following statement:

"This is great news for Dickinson County and our rural and remote constituents who rely on the healthcare received here. I was happy to assist Dickinson County Healthcare System in its application to the U.S. Department of Agriculture, helping navigate through years of red tape and bureaucracy. I've been proud to advocate for the work being done by DCHS to deliver critical healthcare services every day and I'm grateful we have been able to work together to make this a reality," said Rep. Jack Bergman.


"It is a great day for our community and a great day for the future of healthcare in our region.  Thank you Congressman Bergman for your support and guidance as we worked through the application process," Chuck Nelson, President and CEO, Dickinson County Healthcare System.

See the full release from DCHS below:

USDA Approves Dickinson County Health Care Loan to Upgrade Local Health Care Services 

IRON MOUNTAIN (March 4, 2021) – Dickinson County Healthcare (DCH) received approval for a $16.9 million loan from the United States Department of Agriculture (USDA) Rural Development. This funding ensures that critical health care services will continue to grow for the Dickinson County community.

With support from local leadership and a passionate patient community, the hospital system has worked diligently to secure a more certain future. It was noted that the loan was approved based on the strength of DCH’s strategic plan and the organization’s improved financial stability. As part of the application process, DCH demonstrated its commitment to excellent health care by building a great team, hiring new physicians, engaging the community, and a promise to deliver great local care.

Capital projects that have been identified are investments in the future of the health system. They include a new linear accelerator, a new CT scanner, a new MRI, facility improvement projects, major Information Technology systems upgrades, including an Electronic Medical Records system. Equipment necessary to provide the highest quality of care and also supports the strategic growth of Dickinson County Healthcare.

“A loan of this size with a favorable interest rate is a huge victory for our entire community. DCH borrowed this money to ensure everyone in this community will continue to have long-term access to cutting-edge health care technology and facilities close to home. Now and into the future, people don’t have to leave the area for the critical health care services they require,” said Chuck Nelson, President and CEO of Dickinson County Healthcare. “We are thankful for the hard work of so many to help secure the funding. The Dickinson County Board of Commissioners, community members, and legislative leaders have all played a key role in this effort. We are all celebrating this win for the people of our region,” Nelson added.

About Dickinson County Healthcare System:
Servicing Northern Wisconsin and the Central Upper Peninsula for more than 69 years, Dickinson County Healthcare System (DCH) is a 49 bed Community Hospital with a team of more than 60 active physicians and each year treats over 160,000 patients. DCH employs more than 650 staff members, is one of the major employers in the Dickinson County area, and is a large contributor to the economic wellbeing of our community.

About USDA Rural Development USDA:
Rural Development provides loans and grants to help expand economic opportunities and create jobs in rural areas. This assistance supports infrastructure improvements; business development; housing; community facilities such as schools, public safety and health care; and high-speed internet access in rural areas.