Physician & General Surgeon • Summa Cum Laude • Presidential Gold Medal • International Surgical Training • Published Researcher
Physician Expertise.
Personal Advocacy.
Drawing from both professional experience and personal family health challenges, Dr. Crystal Cunningham understands how complex medical decisions can become for patients and the people who care about them. Important choices often extend far beyond a single appointment, leaving families to navigate medical records, specialist recommendations, hospital systems, and treatment options without clear guidance.
Through Sage Plains Medical, she provides physician-led advocacy, care coordination, and clinical insight that transforms confusion into clarity. Whether she is reviewing records, evaluating treatment options, coordinating between providers, or guiding families through major healthcare transitions, Dr. Cunningham's presence means her clients never have to face those moments without an expert in their corner.
A native of Rapid City, South Dakota, Dr. Cunningham graduated Summa Cum Laude from Augustana University with degrees in Biology, Chemistry, and Mathematics. She earned her Doctor of Medicine from the University of North Dakota School of Medicine & Health Sciences, completed advanced surgical training with a dedicated focus on rural healthcare, and has spent her career improving access to care for underserved communities. She received specialized orthopedic trauma training in Paris, France through an international humanitarian initiative and was awarded the Presidential Gold Medal for her contributions to public service. Her research has been published across Pediatric Surgery, Radiation Physics, and Molecular Chemistry.
Sage Plains Medical brings the analytical precision of a surgeon and the attentiveness of a personal advocate to every client relationship.
Dr. Cunningham works directly with each individual to turn complex medical information into clear, actionable guidance — so that every patient feels informed, supported, and firmly in control of their own healthcare journey.
Proactive Health Planning for Long-Term Wellbeing
At Sage Plains, we bridge rigorous medical advocacy with proactive wellness planning. For aging clients, this means navigating hospital systems and care decisions while preserving independence, dignity, and quality of life.
For individuals seeking a more preventative approach, Dr. Cunningham draws on her deep understanding of human physiology and metabolism to help shift the focus from reactive treatment to long-term vitality, resilience, and informed health planning.
Begin Your Health Plan
Our team is ready to provide the clinical oversight and tactical coordination required for major health transitions. Reach out today to start working with Dr. Cunningham.
Email: sageplainsmd@gmail.com
Phone: 605-204-3711 • Texting Welcome