Mission: Lifeline Stroke initiative will support quality of care across the full stroke system

 WATERTOWN, S.D. – December 6, 2024 – Prairie Lakes Healthcare System has committed to participation in Mission: Lifeline Stroke, a statewide initiative of the American Heart Association to strengthen the full spectrum of stroke care across South Dakota.

Mission: Lifeline Stroke focuses on connecting all components of acute stroke care into a smoothly integrated system that reinforces the use of evidence-based guidelines to timely and effectively treat stroke patients. It brings together hospitals, emergency medical services and first responders, rehabilitation facilities, communications and regulatory agencies, and state and local government to forge a proactive system of stroke care that saves and improves lives.

“This will be especially impactful in rural South Dakota. Stroke treatment is time-sensitive, so getting patients the proper treatment faster, is crucial,” said Joani Guzman, program consultant for the Mission: Lifeline Stroke South Dakota initiative. “So many South Dakotans live in rural areas where access to neurologists is limited to telemedicine. Every minute saved in stroke treatment can directly improve survival and recovery rates.”

Cardiovascular disease, including heart and stroke conditions, is the leading cause of death in the United States. The acute nature of strokes is particularly deadly and requires time-sensitive treatment to save lives and reduce lasting disability. Stroke is a leading cause of death in South Dakota, accounting for 393 deaths in 2022. Many more South Dakotans are living with stroke-related disabilities.

“When it comes to stroke, every second counts,” stated Shelly Turbak, Chief Nursing Officer at Prairie Lakes. “We are committed to quality patient care by adhering to the latest treatment guidelines, and this initiative will allow our teams to put proven knowledge and guidelines to work on a daily basis, which studies show can help individuals who experience stroke recover better.”

For more information on the Mission: Lifeline Stroke project in South Dakota, visit https://www.heart.org/en/affiliates/south-dakota/south-dakota-mission-stroke.

Watertown, SD – December 4, 2024 – Prairie Lakes Healthcare System and the Watertown Area Community Foundation are joining forces to support Watertown Cares in its mission to fight homelessness in the community. Together, these organizations are announcing their backing of Watertown Cares’ latest awareness and fundraising campaign, SOS: Sam Off the Streets.

Watertown Cares, the nonprofit owner of 612 Flats, an 8-unit emergency housing facility near the intersection of Highways 212 and 81, has announced a creative campaign to shine a light on the urgent need for housing assistance in Watertown.

As part of the campaign, Watertown Cares Board Member Sam Mooney will spend 72 hours in a tent set up in the parking lot of Dakotaland Federal Credit Union, starting Monday, December 9, at 7 a.m. Mooney’s goal is to embody the challenges faced by individuals experiencing homelessness while raising awareness and funds to support 612 Flats.

For every $1,000 raised by the community, one hour will be subtracted from Mooney’s time on the streets, although he has committed to staying outside for a minimum of 36 hours. Adding to the challenge, Mooney will have only his tent for shelter, with no other support provided. He will document his experiences on social media and during live interviews on KXLG Radio.

To amplify the impact of this campaign, Prairie Lakes Healthcare System has provided a $25,000 challenge match, and the Watertown Area Community Foundation has contributed an $11,000 challenge grant. These matching funds will provide a $1 for $1 match of community donations up to $36,000, allowing supporters to make an even greater difference.

"Watertown Cares has been a lifeline for so many facing the hidden homelessness crisis in our community, stretching every resource to meet an overwhelming need. The stories of resilience and compassion we see every day remind us how critical this work is,” said Cammie Mengwasser, Executive Director of the Watertown Area Community Foundation.

I know that Watertown will come together to support this effort, ensuring we can continue to care for those who need us most."

The combined support of local organizations and community members underscores Watertown’s shared commitment to addressing homelessness with urgency and compassion. Together, this partnership demonstrates the power of collaboration in tackling a complex local issue and driving real change.

"At Prairie Lakes, we believe in the power of community and the importance of standing together to address critical needs. Supporting Watertown Cares in their mission to provide emergency housing aligns with our commitment to improving the well-being of our community,” said John Allen, President and CEO of Prairie Lakes Healthcare System. “We are proud to partner with the Watertown Area Community Foundation to make a meaningful impact and inspire others to contribute to this vital cause."

For more information on Watertown Cares and to contribute to the campaign, visit www.watertown-cares.org.

WATERTOWN, S.D. – November 4, 2024 – Prairie Lakes Healthcare System (PLHS) has been included in Newsweek’s list of America’s Best-In-State Hospitals 2025. This prestigious award is presented in collaboration with Statista, the world-leading statistics portal and industry ranking provider. The awards list was announced on October 23rd, 2024, and can currently be viewed on Newsweek’s website.

Proximity and access are of the utmost importance when choosing between top hospitals. The America’s Best-In-State Hospitals 2025 ranking was created to identify the top hospitals at the state level. Hospitals from all US states were eligible for the ranking and included in the nationwide survey. Four data sources were used for the evaluation: quality metrics data, a nationwide online survey, patient experience, and a voluntary PROMS implementation survey. As a result, the 700 hospitals that scored the highest across these criteria have been included on the list.

PLHS is honored to be recognized on Newsweek’s list of America’s Best-In-State Hospitals 2025. It reinforces that Prairie Lakes excels in quality of care, has high patient satisfaction, and is one of the leading hospitals in the nation.

“We are honored to be one of the seven South Dakota hospitals recognized in Newsweek’s 2025 list,” said John Allen, President and CEO of Prairie Lakes Healthcare System. “This award reflects the exceptional commitment and dedication of our team members and is a motivating reminder of our mission to make a positive impact on those we serve.”

About Statista: Statista publishes hundreds of worldwide industry rankings and company listings with high-profile media partners. This research and analysis service is based on the success of statista.com, the leading data and business intelligence portal that provides statistics, business-relevant data, and various market and consumer studies and surveys.

To view a list of recent Prairie Lakes achievements, please visit www.prairielakes.com/achievements.

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WATERTOWN, S.D. – November 4, 2024 – Prairie Lakes Healthcare System (PLHS) has been included in Newsweek’s list of America’s Best-In-State Hospitals 2025. This prestigious award is presented in collaboration with Statista, the world-leading statistics portal and industry ranking provider. The awards list was announced on October 23rd, 2024, and can currently be viewed on Newsweek’s website.

Proximity and access are of the utmost importance when choosing between top hospitals. The America’s Best-In-State Hospitals 2025 ranking was created to identify the top hospitals at the state level. Hospitals from all US states were eligible for the ranking and included in the nationwide survey. Four data sources were used for the evaluation: quality metrics data, a nationwide online survey, patient experience, and a voluntary PROMS implementation survey. As a result, the 700 hospitals that scored the highest across these criteria have been included on the list.

PLHS is honored to be recognized on Newsweek’s list of America’s Best-In-State Hospitals 2025. It reinforces that Prairie Lakes excels in quality of care, has high patient satisfaction, and is one of the leading hospitals in the nation.

“We are honored to be one of the seven South Dakota hospitals recognized in Newsweek’s 2025 list,” said John Allen, President and CEO of Prairie Lakes Healthcare System. “This award reflects the exceptional commitment and dedication of our team members and is a motivating reminder of our mission to make a positive impact on those we serve.”

About Statista: Statista publishes hundreds of worldwide industry rankings and company listings with high-profile media partners. This research and analysis service is based on the success of statista.com, the leading data and business intelligence portal that provides statistics, business-relevant data, and various market and consumer studies and surveys.

To view a list of recent Prairie Lakes achievements, please visit www.prairielakes.com/achievements.

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WATERTOWN, S.D. – October 16, 2024 – Prairie Lakes Healthcare System (PLHS) announces a significant step forward in their vision to provide "Exceptional Care Every Day" through an Affiliation Agreement with Sanford Health to implement Epic as the new electronic health record (EHR) at PLHS.

Vince Foley, Chairman of the Prairie Lakes Healthcare System Board of Directors, emphasized the benefits of this affiliation, stating, “A collaboration with Sanford Health will help leverage talent and resources, expanding access to services for our 10-county service area.” He added, “This agreement is yet another example of our commitment to ensure patients and families receive the highest quality preventive and medical care.”

The agreement represents an opportunity for Prairie Lakes to adopt and standardize on the industry-leading EHR system. The transition will enhance care coordination across Prairie Lakes Healthcare System and with Sanford Health, the largest healthcare system in South Dakota.

“Our affiliation with Sanford Health to migrate to Epic is pivotal to enhancing our physician practices,” stated Prairie Lakes Chief Medical Officer and family medicine physician, Dr. Dan Reiffenberger. “It will create opportunities to improve quality outcomes and elevate satisfaction among our physicians, staff, and patients. We eagerly anticipate the transition to Epic.”

The Affiliation Agreement strongly supports the Prairie Lakes’ Mission to make a positive difference in the health of the patients and communities we serve. The work to positively impact patients and families is ongoing. The Affiliation Agreement with Sanford Health will enhance these efforts, resulting in patients experiencing a higher quality outcome and greater overall satisfaction.

“This agreement strengthens our collective commitment to delivering the highest quality of care to the Prairie Lakes service area as we continue to prioritize the health and well-being of our communities,” said Eric Hilmoe, Chief Operating Officer at Sanford Health Network.

While Prairie Lakes already boasts numerous quality accolades, this affiliation creates an even greater opportunity to enhance patient care in the communities served.

“With this agreement and subsequent implementation of Epic, Prairie Lakes reaffirms its commitment to innovation, quality, and patient-centered care, setting the stage for improved healthcare delivery in northeast South Dakota and western Minnesota” said PLHS President and Chief Executive Officer, John Allen.

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About Prairie Lakes Healthcare System

Located in Watertown, S.D., Prairie Lakes Healthcare System is an independent healthcare organization that provides care for 90,000 people in a ten-county region of northeast South Dakota and western Minnesota. The system is focused on meeting the needs of the region with a mission to make a positive difference in the health of the patients and communities they serve. Prairie Lakes Healthcare System offers exceptional care every day in close to 30 medical specialties/services with over 800 physicians, caregivers, and professionals on staff to serve their communities.

Learn more about what this means by clicking the Frequently Asked Questions button below.

 Frequently Asked Questions

WATERTOWN, S.D. – October 11, 2024 – Prairie Lakes Healthcare System will end participation as an in-network provider with Humana Medicare Advantage January 2025. The decision was made in the best interest of patients.

Prairie Lakes Healthcare System has notified known patients with Humana Medicare Advantage insurance about this change in participation through a mailed letter. The letter contains resources for patients to consider an alternative health insurance plan that is in-network for Prairie Lakes services. Patients can select a new plan during the Medicare open enrollment period of Oct. 15 through Dec. 7, 2024.

“Our number one goal is to provide exceptional patient care every day,” said Lynn Severson, Chief Financial Officer at Prairie Lakes. “Although this is a difficult decision as it affects many patients, we ultimately feel it is the right thing to do in order to give our patients the care they deserve.”

Prairie Lakes is committed to providing care to all patients, regardless of insurance coverage. However, beginning in January 2025, Patients with Humana insurance may encounter increased out-of-pocket costs associated with care and services received at our facilities as Prairie Lakes will be considered out-of-network for this plan.

Medicare patients who have appointments and/or procedures scheduled in 2025 are encouraged to check their 2025 Medicare plan coverage network to make sure Prairie Lakes Healthcare System is in network and contact their insurance company directly for questions about coverage.

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About Prairie Lakes Healthcare System

Located in Watertown, S.D., Prairie Lakes Healthcare System is an independent healthcare organization that provides care for 90,000 people in a ten-county region of northeast South Dakota and western Minnesota. The system is focused on meeting the needs of the region with a mission to make a positive difference in the health of the patients and communities they serve. Prairie Lakes Healthcare System offers exceptional care every day in close to 30 medical specialties/services with over 800 physicians, caregivers, and professionals on staff to serve their communities.

WATERTOWN, S.D. – October 10, 2024 – Prairie Lakes Healthcare System (PLHS) is proud to announce that Heather Brewster, Director of Quality and Risk Management, has been awarded the 2024 Quality Professional of the Year by the South Dakota Association of Healthcare Quality. The notable honor was presented at the South Dakota Association of Healthcare Organizations’ 98th Annual Convention held in Rapid City, SD. Brewster, who has served as the Quality Director at PLHS since 2017, was recognized for her leadership, dedication to patient safety, and compassionate care throughout her tenure.

Holding a bachelor’s degree in nursing from SDSU, Brewster worked in PLHS’s Critical Care Unit for ten years prior to her role in quality and risk management. She is highly regarded by colleagues for her commitment to creating safe, high-quality environments for patients and has made significant contributions to advancing healthcare quality in the region.

“We are incredibly proud of Heather’s achievement and this award reflects her dedication to excellence in healthcare,” said Shelly Turbak, Chief Nursing Officer at PLHS. “Her leadership in quality and risk management has made a positive impact on the safety and care we provide at Prairie Lakes. We are fortunate to have her as part of our team.”

It can be difficult to keep up with multiple medical conditions, specialists, medications, and appointments. Our care management program, called ChartSpan, helps to provide Medicare patients with a 24/7 nurse line, personalized care plans, help with medication refills and appointments, and other benefits. ChartSpan is a remote extension of your primary care provider’s care team. 

For assistance or more information about this montly program, call or text 855-242-7877, or visit www.chartspan.com/patient/.

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WATERTOWN, S.D. – June 3, 2024 – Prairie Lakes Brown Clinic is excited to announce the launch of Convenience Care at our Northridge location, offering a walk-in clinic service for non-life-threatening injuries and illnesses. This service is designed to provide high-quality, quick, and efficient care, ensuring that patients can receive the medical attention they need without needing to call for an appointment.

Important information about Convenience Care at Prairie Lakes Brown Clinic Northridge:

• Location: Northridge Clinic, 511 14th Ave NE, Watertown, SD 57201
• Hours: Monday - Friday, 7:30 AM - 6:00 PM
• Services: Treatment for minor injuries and illnesses, including but not limited to:
  • Colds and flu
  • Minor cuts and abrasions
  • Sprains and strains
  • Allergies and asthma
  • Infections (e.g., ear, sinus, throat, urinary tract)
  • Minor burns and rashes

Dr. Dan Reiffenberger, Chief Medical Officer at Prairie Lakes Healthcare System, shared, "We understand that life's minor medical issues often arise unexpectedly and can disrupt your day. With Convenience Care, we aim to provide a reliable and accessible healthcare option for our community, allowing patients to receive prompt care without the hassle of scheduling an appointment or debating on going to the Emergency Room or not."

Patients at Convenience Care can expect:

• No Appointments Needed: Simply walk in during our operating hours for prompt care.
• Physician Guided Care: Our team of skilled healthcare professionals is equipped to handle a variety of minor health concerns.
• Quick, Efficient, High-Quality Service: Designed to get you back to your daily routine as soon as possible with onsite labs and imaging.
• New Patients Accepted: You do not need to be a previously established patient at Prairie Lakes Brown Clinic to visit Convenience Care.

Convenience Care is part of Prairie Lakes Healthcare System’s ongoing commitment to improving healthcare access and providing high-quality, patient-centered care to the community. Whether you have a busy schedule or need immediate attention to a minor health issue, our Convenience Care clinic is here to serve you.

For more information about Convenience Care and other services offered at Prairie Lakes Brown Clinic, please click here or call 605-886-8482.

What is iovera°?

iovera° is a safe, innovative, and non-opioid pain relief treatment used prior to knee replacement surgery. It uses extreme cold to stop nerves from sending pain signals to your brain. This effect is immediate, and can last up to 90 days.

The iovera° system is a handheld device that lets Austin Dale, CRNA and Pain Management Specialist, apply just the right amount of extreme cold only to the nerves he wants to target—the ones causing you pain. This process delivers immediate pain relief in the time it takes for a routine doctor’s visit, and it doesn’t hurt. iovera° does not contain medicine, is safe, and does not damage or destroy surrounding tissue.

Who can benefit from iovera° treatment?

iovera° is a treatment for:

• People who have osteoarthritis (OA) pain in the knee
• People who are considering knee replacement surgery (iovera° can be used before surgery)
• People who have been avoiding surgery due to fear or another reason

iovera° Relieves Pain Before and After Surgery

Total joint surgery may be in your future, but a painful recovery doesn't have to be. The iovera° treatment can be performed prior to knee surgery to help reduce pain after surgery. The system uses the body's natural response to cold to block the signaling portion of a nerve, temporarily reducing pain during the critical weeks following surgery. The results of a clinical trial that compared patients treated with iovera° to patients who were not treated with iovera° showed that iovera° patients had:

• Fewer opioid prescriptions - Patients who received iovera° treatment requested 45% fewer opioid prescriptions at 12 weeks after knee replacement surgery¹
• Reduction in Knee Pain - Two weeks after surgery, patients treated with iovera° experienced less pain¹
• Faster Discharge - more patients treated with iovera° were discharged within 2 days of surgery¹

 Talk to Your Doctor About iovera°

iovera° treatment requires a physician referral.

For a knee consultation, please contact Prairie Lakes Orthopedics at 605-882-2630.

References: 1. Dasa V et al. Knee. 2016;23(3):523-528. 

Indication:

iovera° applies freezing cold to peripheral nerve tissue to block and/or relieve pain for up to 90 days. It should not be used to treat central nervous system tissue.

Important Safety Information:

The iovera° system should not be used in people with the following conditions:

• Do not receive treatment with ioveraº if you experience hypersensitivity to cold or have open and/or infected wounds near the treatment site.
• You may experience bruising, swelling, inflammation and/or redness, local pain and/or tenderness, and altered feeling at the site of application.
• In treatment area(s), you may experience damage to the skin, skin darkening or lightening, and dimples in the skin.
• You may experience a temporary loss of your ability to use your muscles normally outside of the treatment area.
• Talk to your doctor before receiving treatment with ioveraº.