Jason Caron has officially assumed the role of president and CEO at Sanford Bemidji, following the retirement of Karla Eischens. Caron transitioned into this leadership position in January 2026 after a six-month preparation period. His extensive experience in orthopedics, which began in 2008, positions him well to enhance community health initiatives.
Leadership Transition and Background
Caron, who has held various leadership roles within the organization, expressed gratitude for the mentorship he received from Eischens during the transition. “Observing her over the years … her commitment to the community and her commitment to patients were her guiding lights,” Caron noted. His previous positions include chairing the orthopedic department and the surgery service line, as well as serving on the Sanford Health of Northern Minnesota Board of Directors. In 2023, he was recognized as Sanford Health’s Clinician Leader of the Year.
His journey to the presidency began with a strong foundation in biological sciences, sparked during his high school years. “A big part of my pursuit of medicine was that I wanted to use whatever skills I had to help people,” Caron stated. After attending Concordia College, where he developed a passion for microbiology, Caron pursued a medical degree at the University of Minnesota.
Commitment to Community and Global Health
Returning to Bemidji was a pivotal decision for Caron, influenced by both personal and professional factors. He, along with his wife, Angie, and their seven children, found Bemidji to be an ideal place to settle and raise a family. His connection to Sanford was further solidified when the organization sought an orthopedic surgeon at that time.
Beyond his responsibilities at Sanford Bemidji, Caron has actively contributed to global health initiatives. Since 2006, he has participated in mission trips to Peru with Scalpel at the Cross, a ministry dedicated to providing medical care to underserved communities. These trips have allowed him to repair broken bones and perform hip replacements for those in need, while also fostering relationships with fellow orthopedic specialists, some of whom later joined Sanford Bemidji.
Caron has expressed enthusiasm about leading a talented team at Sanford Bemidji. As he reflects on his career and the influence of his mentors, he emphasizes the importance of community health. “I lead a team of incredible leaders to further the goals and strategy of the board at Sanford Health in northern Minnesota,” he said, “to improve health care and the health of our community.”
As he steps into this new chapter, Caron is determined to build on the legacy left by Eischens. His commitment to both local and international health initiatives will undoubtedly shape the future of Sanford Bemidji, ensuring that it remains a vital resource for the community.
