WATERTOWN, S.D. – February 17, 2025 – Prairie Lakes Healthcare System (PLHS) announced it has been named among the 2025 Top 100 Rural & Community Hospitals by the Chartis Center for Rural Health. Chartis’ annual Top 100 award program honors outstanding performance among the nation’s rural hospitals based on the results of the Chartis Rural Hospital Performance INDEX®. PLHS has received this award every year since it was introduced in 2016.

“The recognition as a Top 100 Rural & Community Hospital highlights the exceptional care and dedication Prairie Lakes Healthcare System provides to our communities,” said John Allen, President and Chief Executive Officer of PLHS. “Being one of only six hospitals in South Dakota to receive this honor is a testament to the unwavering commitment of our employees and medical staff in delivering high-quality healthcare every day.”

“The Top 100 Rural & Community Hospitals award program elevates the very best performers and helps create a roadmap for those seeking to improve financial and operational performance while continuing to care for the communities they serve,” said Michael Topchik, Executive Director, The Chartis Center for Rural Health. “This is our 10^th year recognizing the Top 100 Rural & Community Hospitals and we’re thrilled to be able to celebrate this milestone with this year’s winners.”

The INDEX is the industry’s most comprehensive and objective assessment of rural hospital performance. Leveraging publicly available data, the INDEX is utilized nationwide by rural hospitals, health systems with rural affiliates, hospital associations, and state offices of rural health to measure and monitor performance across a variety of areas impacting hospital operations and finance.

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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 close to 30 medical services/specialties with over 800 professionals, physicians, and caregivers on staff to serve their rural communities.

WATERTOWN, S.D. – February 17, 2025 – Prairie Lakes Healthcare System (PLHS) announced it has been named among the 2025 Top 100 Rural & Community Hospitals by the Chartis Center for Rural Health. Chartis’ annual Top 100 award program honors outstanding performance among the nation’s rural hospitals based on the results of the Chartis Rural Hospital Performance INDEX®. PLHS has received this award every year since it was introduced in 2016.

“The recognition as a Top 100 Rural & Community Hospital highlights the exceptional care and dedication Prairie Lakes Healthcare System provides to our communities,” said John Allen, President and Chief Executive Officer of PLHS. “Being one of only six hospitals in South Dakota to receive this honor is a testament to the unwavering commitment of our employees and medical staff in delivering high-quality healthcare every day.”

“The Top 100 Rural & Community Hospitals award program elevates the very best performers and helps create a roadmap for those seeking to improve financial and operational performance while continuing to care for the communities they serve,” said Michael Topchik, Executive Director, The Chartis Center for Rural Health. “This is our 10^th year recognizing the Top 100 Rural & Community Hospitals and we’re thrilled to be able to celebrate this milestone with this year’s winners.”

The INDEX is the industry’s most comprehensive and objective assessment of rural hospital performance. Leveraging publicly available data, the INDEX is utilized nationwide by rural hospitals, health systems with rural affiliates, hospital associations, and state offices of rural health to measure and monitor performance across a variety of areas impacting hospital operations and finance.

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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 close to 30 medical services/specialties with over 800 professionals, physicians, and caregivers on staff to serve their rural communities.

WATERTOWN, S.D. – January 22, 2025 – Prairie Lakes Healthcare System (PLHS) is proud to announce its inclusion in the newly constructed Castlewood Wellness Depot, bringing enhanced healthcare access to the Castlewood community.

At a special meeting on Wednesday, the Castlewood City Council approved the proposal by PLHS to lease medical office space located in the Wellness Depot building. The PLHS clinic space will offer scheduled and walk-in primary care services two half-days per week. These services will be supported by limited laboratory capabilities, ensuring prompt and convenient diagnostic testing for patients. In addition, Prairie Lakes will provide rehabilitation services two days per week, supporting various therapies and recovery for individuals in the community. Clinic operating days and hours have not yet been determined.

“We are thrilled to extend our services to Castlewood and the surrounding area,” said John Allen, President and CEO of Prairie Lakes Healthcare System. “This collaboration with the Castlewood Wellness Depot emphasizes our mission to deliver high-quality, accessible care to the communities we serve.”

This expansion reflects PLHS’s ongoing commitment to addressing the evolving healthcare needs of rural communities while maintaining a patient-centered approach to care.

 “The addition of PLHS will be a great service to our residents and will enhance the overall health and wellness of the community,” said Deb McEldowney, manager of the Wellness Depot, which will also feature a 24/7 fitness center and multi-purpose room.

The clinic is set to open in April 2025, following the Wellness Depot's planned opening on March 1. Prairie Lakes Healthcare System invites the Castlewood community to join us in celebrating this exciting new chapter in local healthcare.

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Effective Tuesday, January 21, Prairie Lakes Healthcare System will be collecting co-pays, deductibles, and co-insurance from patients at time of service in an effort to educate patients on their insurance benefits and help them understand their financial responsibilities for their care. Collecting time-of-service payments aligns with common and current healthcare industry practices and includes the following:

• The co-pay for clinic visits (Specialty Clinic, Cancer Center, ENT Clinic, Prairie Lakes Brown Clinics) is based on insurance plans.
• The private pay co-pay for clinic visits (Specialty Clinic, Cancer Center, ENT Clinic, Prairie Lakes Brown Clinic) is a deposit or partial payment that is established for different services.
• For Hospital services, deductible and co-insurance are based on insurance plans, or for Private Pay, a percentage of your estimate is required.
• Patients who present for emergency medical care are subject to Emergency Medical Treatment and Labor Act (EMTALA) regulations.

Patients may be expected to pay a portion of their bill at time of service and are encouraged to contact their insurance companies to find out how office visits and medical services will be covered.

For patients who have Medicare insurance, Prairie Lakes Healthcare System bills services as provider-based billing, sometimes called hospital-based billing. Frequently asked questions regarding provider-based billing can be found by visiting https://www.prairielakes.com/billing-and-insurance/provider-based-billing-10870.html.

Questions regarding time-of-service payments can be directed to a Prairie Lakes Patient Account Specialist at 605-882-7887.

WATERTOWN, S.D. – January 7, 2025 – Prairie Lakes Healthcare System is excited to announce the opening of Watertown’s first “Baby Café,” a breastfeeding support program, located in the Maternal Child Health family lounge on the hospital’s second floor. The first Baby Café meet up was held today, January 7.

The Prairie Lakes Baby Café is a dedicated space for pregnant and nursing parents to share tips and techniques, find support and assistance from certified lactation professionals, and connect with other moms and parents. This free program meets on a drop-in basis every Tuesday from 10:00am to 1:00pm and is open to the community, regardless of where your baby was born. Siblings, partners, and support people are also welcome.

“A Baby Café has been a goal of the Labor and Delivery team for quite some time, so we are excited to launch this program to help breastfeeding moms during what can be a very challenging time,” said Micki Cordell, Director of Maternal Child Health at Prairie Lakes. “All parents deserve a safe and comfortable space to access resources and support in their lactation journey and this is an important step in making this support accessible.”

Prairie Lakes currently has one International Board-Certified Lactation Consultant and two Certified Lactation Counselors, who will be offering their expertise every week on Tuesdays during Baby Café hours from 10:00am to 1:00pm. For questions or to learn more about the Prairie Lakes Baby Café or any maternal child education, please call 605-882-7628.

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About Baby Café USA

Baby Café USA is a nationwide, non-profit organization coordinating a network of licensed U.S. Baby Cafés. Communities across the U.S. implement the Baby Café model in efforts to reduce health disparities and help mothers realize their breastfeeding goals.

Since Baby Café USA was launched in 2012, the effort has expanded to 141 Baby Café locations currently operating in 26 states. 

WATERTOWN, S.D. – December 16, 2024 – Prairie Lakes Healthcare System (PLHS) presented a $50,000 contribution to the "Sam Off the Streets" campaign, spearheaded by Watertown Cares to support operational costs for 612 Flats, an emergency housing facility in Watertown which also provides case management for those experiencing homelessness.

PLHS initially pledged up to $25,000 in matching funds, successfully inspiring community giving alongside the Watertown Area Community Foundation’s $11,000 challenge grant. At the campaign’s conclusion, Prairie Lakes generously contributed an additional $25,000 to further strengthen this vital initiative. In total, the campaign was able to raise over $110,000 for Watertown Cares.

“The success of this campaign underscores our unwavering commitment to community health and well-being,” said John Allen, CEO of PLHS. “Emergency housing is a critical component of a healthy community, and we are proud to support this life-changing effort.”

The campaign featured Watertown Cares Board Member Sam Mooney camping in a tent for 36 hours, raising awareness about homelessness. Thanks to overwhelming community support, the campaign exceeded its goals and highlighted the collective power of local organizations working together.

"Watertown Cares is grateful for the generous contribution and partnership in this vital mission,” said Beth Lalim, Executive Director of Watertown Cares. “It will make a tangible difference in the lives of individuals and families facing homelessness. Together, we are building a community of care and compassion."

Prairie Lakes Healthcare System remains dedicated to fostering partnerships that address critical needs and support vulnerable populations in the Watertown region.

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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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