Mark Shanfeld

Mark Shanfeld

Ophthalmologist at Sanford Health

TED Attendee
Bemidji, MN, Minnesota, United States
Follow

About Mark

I am a…

Doctor, Parent, World traveler

Bio

Dr. Mark Shanfeld is a Board-Certified Ophthalmologist and healthcare leader whose career reflects a deep and enduring commitment to patient-centered care. With a strong academic foundation and decades of clinical and executive experience, he brings both scientific rigor and compassionate leadership to every role he undertakes. Dr. Shanfeld earned his Bachelor of Arts in Chemistry and Zoology from Miami University, followed by a PhD in Physiology from Saint Louis University. He went on to receive his Doctor of Medicine from the University of Missouri and completed his residency in Ophthalmology at Case Western-University Hospitals in Cleveland. This combination of scientific inquiry and clinical training has shaped his thoughtful, evidence-based approach to medicine. He spent 14 years in private practice, where he developed a reputation for clinical excellence and genuine dedication to his patients. In 2008, he joined Sanford Health, one of the nation’s largest integrated health systems. His leadership capabilities led to his appointment as Senior Executive Vice President from 2015 to 2018, during which he played a key role in advancing organizational strategy, quality initiatives, and patient care improvements. Throughout his career, Dr. Shanfeld has remained deeply committed to ensuring that healthcare remains centered on the needs, values, and experiences of patients. His efforts were recognized when he was named Physician of the Year in 2017 by Sanford Health. He is also a member of the AOA Honor Medical Society, reflecting his dedication to professional excellence and ethical standards in medicine. Whether in the clinic or the executive suite, Dr. Shanfeld is guided by a singular mission: to elevate patient care through compassion, innovation, and leadership. He loves spending time with his two daughters and participating in the outdoor activities of Northern Minnesota.

I'm passionate about

Advocating for high-quality patient care. Treat every patient like family and as if they are your only patient that day.

Areas of expertise

Health Care Administration, Ophthalmology, Outdoor activities

The TED story

I have a friend that has attended the TED Conferences for many years. He told me it is a Life-Changing conference and that I will meet the most interesting peole. I am looking forward to meeting new people and having my life changed! (In a positive way of course).