On Wednesday, November 5, 2025, Bismarck will welcome health professionals, policymakers, EMS teams, and community groups for the 2025 North Dakota Stroke Conference at Bismarck State College’s National Energy Center of Excellence. Registration opens early morning, and the full-day event runs from 7:00 a.m. to 5:00 p.m.
The evening before—Tuesday, November 4—a Meet & Greet and Poster Showcase will take place at the Radisson’s New York Room from 4:30 to 7:00 p.m.
Bismarck already has a strong record in stroke care: Sanford Medical Center Bismarck received four Get With The Guidelines awards for stroke care excellence.
CHI St. Alexius recently had its stroke unit re-certified as a Primary Stroke Center, affirming that it follows best practices and is well-positioned to treat acute stroke patients locally.
The North Dakota Stroke System of Care is a statewide framework designed to ensure rural and urban residents alike receive timely, coordinated care for strokes. This conference is a key component of ongoing system.
Locally, the Stroke & Brain Injury Support Group meets regularly at the Bismarck Veterans Memorial Library, giving survivors and caregivers a community resource.
Conference sessions will include:
Advances in “cryptogenic” (unknown cause) stroke diagnosis
Overcoming hesitancy in administering thrombolytics
Interventions in post-stroke spasticity
Case reviews and cross-hospital protocol alignment
Panel discussions on stroke systems of care in rural vs. urban settings
“We’re proud that Sanford Bismarck is recognized for following top-tier stroke guidelines — that helps patients recover faster, with fewer setbacks.” — Samantha Richter, Director, Neurology & Stroke, Sanford Bismarck
“As a stroke survivor, the local support group here in Bismarck gave me hope and connection. I expect the conference will boost awareness in our neighborhoods.”
What Locals Should Know
For medical pros and EMS: Great opportunity to network, update protocols, and bring the latest stroke care practices back to your clinic or ambulance route.
For patients, families, survivors: Attend the November 4 poster session, connect with professionals, see upcoming research and resources in your city.
For community groups & policymakers: This is your chance to see where local systems succeed or need support—stroke prevention, emergency response, rehab, and follow-up all matter.
For the public: Watch for free or low-cost related outreach: stroke awareness campaigns, B.E. F.A.S.T. education, and possibly local workshops tied to the conference.
Bismarck Elevates Stroke Care in 2025
This conference isn’t just an event—it’s a local milestone. With Bismarck hospitals already recognized for excellence and a growing network of support, the city has the chance to become a regional leader in stroke awareness, care, and recovery. For locals and health professionals alike, Nov 4–5 may mark the moment when Bismarck’s voice and expertise set the standard for stroke care across North Dakota.
