Frances Mahon Deaconess Hospital Launches FMDH Public Health on July 1
Frances Mahon Deaconess Hospital (FMDH) is excited to announce the launch of FMDH Public Health, a new department that will begin serving the community on July 1, 2026. As part of this transition, public health services previously provided through the Valley County Health Department will become FMDH Public Health, creating new opportunities to strengthen community health resources and expand services throughout Northeast Montana.
FMDH Public Health will launch with a variety of essential public health services, including vaccinations, TB (tuberculosis) testing, STI (sexually transmitted infections) testing and treatment, pregnancy testing, birth control services, head lice checks, and free condoms. These services are designed to support the health and well-being of individuals and families throughout the region while improving access to preventive care close to home.
Earlier this month, the Valley County Commissioners approved a 3-year contract with FMDH turning over public health responsibility to the hospital. Valley County will pay FMDH $79,725 per year in return for the hospital providing public health services. FMDH will be entitled to bill, direct, and keep all collected monies from all sources for any services provided as part of the agreement.
The launch of FMDH Public Health reflects FMDH's commitment to improving access to community health resources. While these services will serve as the foundation of the department, FMDH is excited to explore opportunities to expand public health programming in the future based on community needs and priorities.
"The health of our community extends far beyond the walls of the hospital, and public health plays an important role in that," said Nickolas Dirkes, CEO of Frances Mahon Deaconess Hospital. "Bringing these services to FMDH allows us to work more closely together, strengthen the programs people already rely on, and continue finding new ways to support the health and well-being of our region. We're excited about what's ahead and grateful for the opportunity to serve our community in this new way."
Leading the new department will be Morgan Anderson, RRT, Director of Public Health, who holds a Bachelor of Science in Health and Human Services. Anderson has been a dedicated member of the FMDH team for the past four years, serving in both inpatient and outpatient settings as a respiratory therapist and most recently as Director of Respiratory Therapy. In her new role, she will oversee daily operations and collaborate with community partners, healthcare providers, and local organizations to support and expand public health programming throughout the region.
"I'm honored to help lead FMDH Public Health and continue serving the communities that make this region so special," said Anderson. "We're excited to launch services that support the health of individuals and families throughout our region while building a strong foundation for the future. I look forward to connecting with local partners, listening to residents, and exploring new ways we can meet the evolving health needs of our community."
For many years, public health and FMDH have worked side by side through community health initiatives, wellness programs, emergency preparedness efforts, and the Community Health Needs Assessment process. Bringing public health services under one organization creates new opportunities for collaboration and coordination while maintaining a strong focus on community-based care.
As FMDH Public Health begins operations, the department will continue providing trusted public health services while seeking opportunities to enhance programs and increase access for residents across the region.
FMDH Public Health Location & Hours
621 3rd Street South
Glasgow, MT 59230
South Wing Entrance (previous Nutrition & WIC Office)
Phone: (406) 228-3616
Office Hours:
Monday – Thursday
8:00 a.m. – 5:00 p.m.
For more information about FMDH Public Health, immunization hours and available services, visit fmdh.org/publichealth.
