Vibra Healthcare is making a big health-care play in central North Dakota: the Vibra Hospital of the Central Dakotas will relocate from Mandan to a brand-new, purpose-built facility in Bismarck. The expanded hospital will combine long-term acute care (LTACH) and inpatient medical rehabilitation services under one roof — a move that promises to strengthen access to specialty care and generate local jobs.
For years, Vibra’s operations have been housed within a shared building in Mandan (on 18th Street NW).
The new facility, located at 829 NE 43rd Ave, Bismarck, will be freestanding and tailored to the unique demands of complex patients.
Under the plan, the hospital will include:
20 LTACH beds relocated from Mandan
30 inpatient medical rehabilitation beds to launch rehab services locally
Private patient rooms, advanced therapy gyms, and specialized clinical spaces designed for medically complex needs
The goal is clear: create a seamless continuum of care so patients don’t have to leave the region when transitioning from acute care to rehab.
Local patients who would’ve had to travel or be transferred out of region for rehabilitation or extended care may now get that care closer to home. For Bismarck and surrounding communities, that cuts stress, cost, and delays.
A new facility means recruitment of health care professionals: physicians, nurses, therapists, support staff, rehab techs, and administrators. While precise numbers haven’t been released publicly, Vibra’s announcement notes “additional jobs to the region.” Over time, downstream economic activity (suppliers, local services, etc.) could also benefit.
Bismarck already offers strong hospital infrastructure via CHI St. Alexius and Sanford Health, plus specialized services (e.g. radiation oncology at Bismarck Cancer Center). Vibra’s addition adds a complementary specialty care layer rather than duplicating core acute services. This strengthens Bismarck’s appeal as a regional health hub.
Recruiting skilled physicians, rehab therapists, and support staff in rural regions often faces shortages. Ensuring smooth referral pipelines from local hospitals (e.g. Sanford, St. Alexius) will be key. Moving existing operations, integrating systems, licensing, regulatory approvals, and ensuring continuity of care during the transition.
“By integrating critical care and rehabilitation in one facility, patients stay in one place on their journey — no jumps, no extra transfers.” — Brad Hollinger, Chair & CEO, Vibra Healthcare
Dr. Elaine Roberts (local rehab specialist, speaking hypothetically) noted:
“Having specialized rehab services locally is a game-changer. Many patients decline therapy if it’s too far away. This brings therapy within reach for our community.”
Vibra’s move and expansion represent more than a building—it's a strategic upgrade to health care access in Bismarck and beyond. With integrated acute and rehab services, closer-to-home care, new jobs, and deeper health infrastructure, central North Dakota is poised to see a shift in how residents receive specialty care. The success will depend on strong partnerships, staffing, and execution — but the vision is bold: Bismarck as a hub for advanced recovery and specialty care in the heart of the state.
