ConocoPhillips Awards the Benefit Fund of McKenzie Health

January 14, 2025

Released by:  Benefit Fund of McKenzie Health

99 Babies Born in 2024 – ConocoPhillips Awards the Benefit Fund of McKenzie Health $50,000 to Assist with Women’s Health Needs – Obstetrics and Gynecology

Watford City, North Dakota

September 14, 2025 – Last year ConocoPhillips generously awarded the Benefit Fund of McKenzie Health with $50,000 to fund an ultrasound machine that is used by Dr. Carol Uhlman, OBGYN, at the McKenzie Health Center in Watford City. This particular machine is used to confirm pregnancy, determine sex of the baby, and will ultimately reduce the number of trips to the Radiology Department for women where OBGYNs – Dr. Carol Uhlman, Dr. Andrea DiMichele, Dr. Teinesha Irvey, Dr. Jenna Sloan – and team can use the machine to gather important information quickly.

Lynn Welker-Fevold, President of the Benefit Fund of McKenzie Health, said, “ConocoPhillips has consistently supported McKenzie Health over the years from newborn hearing equipment to a sleeping space for providers when faced with inclement weather to construction of our greenhouse at the Good Shepherd Home. Their continued commitment to local healthcare is deeply appreciated!”

Ninety-nine babies were born in 2024. Dr. Carol Uhlman, Obstetrics and Gynecology, said, “McKenzie Health delivered 66 babies in 2023, now 99 in 2024! We are grateful the community has embraced having this service available locally. We also find ourselves fortunate to have top-of-the-line equipment generously donated. Having a sophisticated ultrasound at the bedside relieves and expedites making a diagnosis as well as a treatment plan. Nothing is more satisfying than seeing a new mom view her baby. It has also allowed us to add gynecological procedures previously not available in the area. Not only has its availability dramatically improved care but also assisted in recruiting exceptional doctors. Often doctors are reluctant to come to remote areas. Having this level of ultrasound available reveals the dedication of local donors to allow us to provide exemplary services. ConocoPhillips, you have made all the difference! Thank you for supporting our team in our efforts to improve women’s healthcare!”

Rachel Logan, Stakeholder Relations Director for ConocoPhillips, said, “At ConocoPhillips, we’re dedicated to building relationships with organizations that serve the communities where we live and operate. McKenzie Health directly addresses the vital needs of our community, and we are very proud to support them.”

Pete Edis, CEO of McKenzie Health, commented, “While many rural hospitals are moving away from obstetrics, McKenzie Health made the bold decision to develop this essential service in response to community feedback. Since launching our labor and delivery services in January 2023, we have proudly welcomed approximately 170 newborns into our care. Without our labor and delivery services, local families would face the challenge of traveling 1-3 hours for obstetric care, just as they did for the previous 30 years. By providing accessible, high-quality care close to home, we are not only supporting our current residents but also making our area more attractive to those looking to relocate, which is vital for stabilizing the local workforce. Thank you once again to ConocoPhillips for helping McKenzie Health make a meaningful impact on the lives of those we serve.”

The Benefit Fund of McKenzie Health is extremely thankful for this donation and the opportunity to offer more comprehensive health for women in Watford City. To make an appointment with one of our OBGYN providers, please call 701-444-2235.