Opinion ID: 901638
Heading Depth: 1
Heading Rank: 3

Heading: Dosch v. Avera

Text: [¶ 4.] Avera is also a non-profit corporation with its principal place of business in Sioux Falls. Avera held itself out as a health ministry of the Benedictine and Presentation Sisters serving the people of eastern South Dakota and surrounding states with hospitals, nursing homes, clinics and other health services at more than 100 locations. Avera's Health Mission stated that it provide[s] a quality, cost effective health ministry, which reflects Gospel values. Dosch alleged that Avera publicly stated that it was guided by gospel values of . . . hospitality and stewardship and compassion . . . especially for the poor. . . . Dosch also alleged that Avera received state and federal tax exemptions, and as a nonprofit charitable organization, was required to provide services regardless of ability to pay. [¶ 5.] In May 1993, Dosch was treated for a broken hip at Avera St. Luke's in Aberdeen, South Dakota. Upon admission, Dosch alleges that he was required to sign an agreement to pay the unspecified, undiscounted, pre-set charges described by Nygaard. Dosch was billed in excess of $30,000. He set up a payment plan, paying $200 per month, but the payments were offset by interest and fees.