Opinion ID: 901638
Heading Depth: 1
Heading Rank: 2

Heading: Nygaard v. Sioux Valley

Text: [¶ 2.] Because the cases were dismissed for failure to state a claim, we restate the facts pleaded in the complaints. Sioux Valley is a non-profit corporation with its principle place of business in Sioux Falls, South Dakota. Sioux Valley described itself as an integrated network of nearly 300 physicians and more than 150 healthcare facilities. Nygaard alleged that Sioux Valley held itself out: as striving to provide the highest value of health care services through a combination of high quality and cost effective care; as being dedicated to providing quality care for patients of all ages, regardless of race, creed, their circumstances, or their ability to pay for such services; as providing care for the elderly and poor through the Medicare and Medicaid programs at agreed upon rates, which are substantially lower than the normally charged rates; and as providing charity care to patients who have demonstrated an inability to pay for medical services. Nygaard also alleged that Sioux Valley received state and federal tax exemptions, and as a nonprofit charitable organization, was required to provide services regardless of ability to pay. [¶ 3.] In May 2003, Nygaard underwent surgery at Sioux Valley's Vermillion Campus Hospital. She also received other related treatment at Sioux Valley's facilities. Upon admission, Nygaard alleged that she was required to sign a standardized contract agreeing to pay, in full, unspecified and undiscounted charges for medical care. She also alleged that the charges were pre-set by Sioux Valley in its sole discretion. Nygaard was subsequently charged what she describes as the full, undiscounted price of the services provided. Although Nygaard made payments to Sioux Valley, a substantial balance remained, and Sioux Valley charged interest and fees relating to that balance. The complaint does not reflect the amount Nygaard was charged, the amount she paid, or the amount that remains owing.