Find a Doctor
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At Prairie Lakes Healthcare System, we understand the nature of healing. It’s about innovation, collaboration, and treating you like family.
Welcome board-certified Urologist, Dr. Keegan Maxwell. He is fellowship trained in minimally invasive treatment of bladder, kidney and prostate disorders, including cancers and stone disease. He joins Dr. Henri Lanctin, Urologist and will see urology patients at Prairie Lakes Specialty Clinic.
“I look forward to providing quality urologic care to the Watertown area,” said Dr. Maxwell. “As an urologist, I treat conditions related to the urinary tract and male reproductive system. People can feel at ease with the fact that I am specialized in treating those conditions and I encourage those with symptoms to be seen sooner rather than later.”
Dr. Maxwell provides diagnosis and management of urological conditions; including, prostate issues such as enlargement and cancer, bladder and kidney stones, erectile dysfunction, and urinary issues such as incontinence, low flow, and blood in the urine, and chronic UTIs. His practice focuses on minimally invasive treatment.
Our Urology Specialists
You may schedule an appointment by calling the Prairie Lakes Specialty Clinic at 605-882-7777. A referral is not required to schedule an appointment.
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Big city healthcare, on a neighborhood scale.
What our staff loves about Prairie Lakes – the team they work with. We are Prairie Lakes Healthcare System, and we welcome you to join us.
“I have grown as a person and as a nurse, expanding into the role of house supervisor where I apply my experience to nursing leadership and teamwork throughout the hospital. I cannot think of a more fulfilling profession and I am so thankful to be where I am today.”
- Jolyn, House Supervisor
About Us
We're a proudly independent, non-profit healthcare system serving northeastern South Dakota and west-central Minnesota. We've built a reputation of innovation and collaboration to create exceptional patient care. We're an integral part of the community and region — we treat our employees like family, because with us, you are family.
We have 81 acute care hospital beds that include labor and delivery, telemetry, critical care and general hospital. We also have a 24-hour emergency department, surgery, interventional cardiology, and services providing diagnostics and imaging services.
While we're not located in a large city (Waterton is home to 22,000 happy people) we deliver world-class care in specialty services that you wouldn't expect to find here: cardiology, dermatology, ear, nose and throat, general surgery, hospice, home care, nephrology, pulmonology, urology, and wound care.
Where we all call home
Watertown, South Dakota is known for lake activities, growing business, hunting, and thriving Downtown. Our great schools, healthcare, and attractions are a vital part of our progressive community.
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“When my wife took me to the ER, they were ready and caring. In a serious emergency, it was good to know I was in good hands.”
- Jerry H.
Emergency Services
The emergency team at Prairie Lakes is here for you 24 hours a day. Prairie Lakes’ goal is to provide you with the best possible care in the shortest time. Depending on the time of day, the severity of your illness or injury, and treatment plan, your visit to the ER could last several hours. Specialists are on call to meet the needs of patients in many areas, including:
- Orthopaedics
- Obstetrics
- General surgery
- Internal medicine
- Family practice
- Cardiology
In addition to trauma and life-support training, the emergency team is trained in basic cardiology, advanced cardiac life support, advanced pediatric life support, and care of trauma patients.
“What I love most about working in the emergency department is that every day is different; helping patients from 1 day old to 100 years old keeps me on my toes. Outside of work I enjoy outdoor activities such as golfing, hiking, and dirt biking.”
– Justin T.
“I appreciate serving the community, caring for all their needs from minor lacerations to major traumas. We are here to serve the community and the surrounding areas.”
– Arianna S.
“I continue to learn from my patients and my coworkers every day. Most don't expect themselves to be in the ER and for some it can be life altering. My goal is to make my patients and their families comfortable and more at ease with their disposition. If this job, especially highlighting this year with Covid-19, has taught me anything, it's to live to the fullest as we have no idea what curve ball could be thrown at us tomorrow. I'm proud to say that I work with an
amazing group of men and women and we're always here for your emergency needs.”
– Abby H.
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Live Recorded Presentation
Slide Presentation
View the slideshare presentation by clicking here.
Exclusive On-Demand Education
In Lieu of our traditional, in-person education available at Ladies Night Out, Prairie Lakes Healthcare System created this resource page filled with videos, tours, recipes, and more from our highly-skilled providers and leaders. Be sure to schedule time to view this exclusive page available to you for just a short time!
Quick Links
Heart Health Advice By: Dr. Richard Howard, Interventional Cardiologist
How important is it to get a lung screening? By: Dr. Svien Senne, Pulmonologist
Sudden Hearing Loss By: Jered Mancell, DO
FAQ’s about Prairie Lakes Rehab's Aquatic Therapy Pool By: Stacey Thury, PT and Kristine DeBerg, PTA
Salivary Gland Disease By: Jered Mancell, DO
Acne Treatment By: Abby Gietzen, PA-C
Technology available at the Prairie Lakes Acid Reflux Center By: Jacob Schaeffer, MD
Leah, Director of Cardiology walks you through Prairie Lakes Cath Lab. Prairie Lakes Cath Lab provides immediate access to life-saving interventional procedures such as angiography and stent placement 24/7.
Bobbie, Cardio/Pulmonary Rehab Coordinator discusses the importance of the Cardiac Rehab program for those recovering from a heart attack, stent placement, or cardiac surgery.
Good Skin Practices for Sun Safety By: Dr. Jeffrey Smith, Dermatologist
There are many ways we are exposed to the sun during the day. It can be fun partaking in activities under the sun, but it is important to remember good skin care practices.
There are many ways we are exposed to the sun during the day. It can be fun partaking in activities under the sun, but it is important to remember good skin care practices.
Heart Healthy Diets in 2022By: Megan Block, Registered Dietitian
Heart disease is the leading cause of death in men and women in the United States, resulting in approximately every 1 in 4 deaths. Poor lifestyle choices can increase the risk of developing heart disease.
Heart disease is the leading cause of death in men and women in the United States, resulting in approximately every 1 in 4 deaths. Poor lifestyle choices can increase the risk of developing heart disease.
How Do I Know If Aquatic Therapy Is Right For Me?By: Stacey Thury, Physical Therapist
The properties of an aquatic environment can offer a variety of benefits depending on the individual’s needs.
The properties of an aquatic environment can offer a variety of benefits depending on the individual’s needs.
Which sunscreen is the right one?By: Abby Gietzen, PA-C
We are all eager to get outside to enjoy the sunshine. But along with the warm weather comes exposure to the sun’s harmful rays, which can increase your risk for sunburn, early signs of skin aging, and most dangerous of all, increase your risk for skin cancer.
We are all eager to get outside to enjoy the sunshine. But along with the warm weather comes exposure to the sun’s harmful rays, which can increase your risk for sunburn, early signs of skin aging, and most dangerous of all, increase your risk for skin cancer.
Lung Cancer and Available Lung Screenings, What to KnowBy: Dr. Svien Senne, Pulmonologist
Lung cancer is a major cause of cancer death in the United States. Thankfully, experts now agree that individuals at high risk should undergo screening for lung cancer in an attempt to increase the chance of catching lung cancer early when it is more likely to be cured.
Lung cancer is a major cause of cancer death in the United States. Thankfully, experts now agree that individuals at high risk should undergo screening for lung cancer in an attempt to increase the chance of catching lung cancer early when it is more likely to be cured.
Heart Disease, Know Your RisksBy: Jacklyn Karli, CNP
Heart disease does not discriminate; it can affect all ages, genders, and ethnicities. There are many types of heart disease, such as coronary artery disease, valvular heart disease, heart failure, and cardiac arrhythmias.
Heart disease does not discriminate; it can affect all ages, genders, and ethnicities. There are many types of heart disease, such as coronary artery disease, valvular heart disease, heart failure, and cardiac arrhythmias.
How safe is your home from fall risks?By: Prairie Lakes Emergency Services
Did you know that 1 in 4 people aged 65+ fall each year according to the CDC (Center for Disease Control and Prevention)? Scanning your own home is a good place to start, you can help make a difference!
Did you know that 1 in 4 people aged 65+ fall each year according to the CDC (Center for Disease Control and Prevention)? Scanning your own home is a good place to start, you can help make a difference!
How to Schedule a ColonoscopyThe American Cancer Society recommends those at average risk* for colorectal cancer to start regular screenings at age 45. A colonoscopy doesn’t take a lot of time, but this simple procedure offers a big payback: peace of mind.
Mental Health Conversation with Watertown Professionals
Kari Johnston, Human Service Agency, Mental Health Officer Alexis Buysse, and Angela Hyde, NAMI join moderator Kelli Rumpza, Human Service Agency to discuss mental health. Learn about mental health, what it is like to see a counselor, self-care, and more.
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CaringIs Just What We Do
Some call us heroes, angels...miracle workers. Honestly, we're just doing what you do when you really care about someone. At Prairie Lakes Healthcare System, we take pride in providing the best care possible, right where you live, so you can live your life as someone's hero.
Find a ProviderYour Health : Our Mission
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Big city healthcare, on a neighborhood scale.
We've created RN career opportunities that seamlessly combine metropolitan-level healthcare with the ability to live in the vibrant community of Watertown, South Dakota.
We are Prairie Lakes Healthcare System, and we have your next RN position.
About Us
We're a proudly independent, non-profit healthcare system serving northeastern South Dakota and west-central Minnesota. We've built a reputation of innovation and collaboration to create exceptional patient care. We're an integral part of the community and region — we treat our employees like family, because with us, you are family.
We have 81 acute care hospital beds that include labor and delivery, telemetry, critical care and general hospital. We also have a 24-hour emergency department, surgery, interventional cardiology, and services providing diagnostics and imaging services.
While we're not located in a large city (Waterton is home to 22,000 happy people) we deliver world-class care in specialty services that you wouldn't expect to find here: cardiology, dermatology, ear, nose and throat, general surgery, hospice, home care, nephrology, pulmonology, urology, and wound care.
Where We Call Home
Not to brag, but people love living in Watertown. We're a family-friendly town known for our lake activities, golfing, fishing, and hunting. The facts are, if you have an activity that you love to do, you'll find it here. Plus, our great schools and local businesses are a vital part of our progressive community. Come join us!
Learn more about Watertown:
Our Benefits
- Medical, dental, and vision care insurance
- Adoption assistance
- Paid bereavement leave
- Paid-Time-Off
- Employee Assistance Program
- Flexible spending accounts
- Tuition assistance
- Retirement plans
- Membership discount at Prairie Lakes Wellness Center
- Employee activities and events
- Cafeteria discount
- Various discounts at businesses around Watertown
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1. Prairie Strong
[ˈprerē] [strôNG]
ADJECTIVE
Definition: resiliency sustained by a community supporting each other.
Synonyms: 1) tough-team 2) agile-community
Help Us Stay Prairie Strong
Give to the Prairie Strong initiative and show your support for doctors, nurses, and front-line healthcare workers. Donate $10 to the Prairie Lakes Healthcare Foundation, and you can send an e-card by email to your friends and family working in healthcare.
To send the e-card, click the DONATE button below to go to PayPal. If you do not have a PayPal account you can choose to donate with a debit or credit card. Once you complete the donation, you must click on 'Go back to Prairie Lakes Foundation Website' and you will be redirected to a page you where can select one of two images to send.
A letter from the Executive Director
Over the last few months, the life we once understood changed dramatically. As the situation with the pandemic frequently changes, we are left searching for a new normal and yearning for some control.
During these times of rapid change, one thing has remained consistent and that is the commitment from Prairie Lakes Healthcare System to make a positive difference in the health of the patients and the communities we serve.
While some employees at other healthcare entities have received pay cuts, been furloughed or laid off, the Prairie Lakes Healthcare System Board of Directors and leadership have kept our employees whole and have been dedicated to keep our patients and the communities we serve safe.
The Prairie Lakes Cares plan ensures staff members receive their wage and benefits. This was especially important when a department’s workload was decreased to safe guard supply last spring. Staff members worked in other areas in the organization and these cross-training opportunities left us well prepared should a surge in COVID patients arise while giving staff members hours.
Coming into my role of the Executive Director of the Prairie Lakes Healthcare Foundation was an easy choice. I feel blessed to be part of a high caliber team that is committed to each other and to the communities we serve.
My role as Foundation Director is to “raise funds for which to support and advance the health services available to the Watertown Area through Prairie Lakes Healthcare System.”
I welcome conversations with Prairie Lakes’ patients, patients’ families, volunteers, employees and physicians to learn how Prairie Lakes has made a positive impact. Share with me how Prairie Lakes affects your life. It is my hope that these stories will cultivate philanthropic success, benefiting Prairie Lakes, its patients and the community.
There is no better time than now, to join me in helping to keep Prairie Lakes Healthcare System, PRAIRIE STRONG.
Lisa Dahl
Executive Director
Prairie Lakes Healthcare Foundation
Phone: 605-882-7631
Email: This email address is being protected from spambots. You need JavaScript enabled to view it.
401 9th Avenue NW
Watertown, SD 57201
Testimonials
“I am grateful for the opportunity and to not have to have been in fear of a lay off or furlough.”
Becki, Cath Lab Tech
“It was nice to work with others because it gave me a chance to connect with them and see Prairie Lakes from their perspective. Prairie Lakes cared enough to make sure we would get our hours.”
Jason Hoot, Respiratory Care Practitioner
Donation
Generous gifts not only help build Prairie Lakes Healthcare System into what we are today but it helps us provide the support and services which make our community strong. Click the link below make a donation.
Other Links
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Prairie Lakes Ear, Nose, & Throat
When something doesn’t feel right in your ears, nose, or throat, it can affect everything you do—including sleeping and breathing. Prairie Lakes Ear, Nose, and Throat Clinic can provide answers AND relief.
Dr. Dorrity and Dr. Mancell are here to help you regain your quality of life.
Call the clinic today: 855-215-5327
What to Expect at Prairie Lakes Ear, Nose, & Throat
Cleanliness
There is a high frequency of sanitation using approved cleaners through-out all facilities.
Social Distancing
Please keep six feet from other patients during your time in our facilities. This includes while checking in at registration and time in waiting rooms.
Screening at Doors
Everyone is screened for COVID-19 symptoms upon entry. Learn More
Limited Visitor Policy
This policy is to protect everyone entering our facilities. There are a few exceptions for patients like minors. Learn More
Working Together to Help Brian Hear
Brian’s hearing was first tested when he was born, and after months of doctors’ visits, his mother Makenzie learned that he was deaf on his left side. “Not enough families know of the importance of testing their children's hearing, especially special needs children like mine,” said Makenzie.
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Prairie Lakes Rehabilitation Services
Your body is stronger than you know. You need a team of therapy and rehab experts dedicated to helping YOU get back to your best. The team at Prairie Lakes Rehabilitation Services offers a wide range of services including physical therapy, occupational therapy and specialty rehabilitation. Helping you become healthier, happier, stronger.
What to Expect at Prairie Lakes
Cleanliness
There is a high frequency of sanitation using approved cleaners through-out all facilities.
Social Distancing
Please keep six feet from other patients during your time in our facilities. This includes while checking in at registration and time in waiting rooms.
Screening at Doors
Everyone is screened for COVID-19 symptoms upon entry. Expect for your temperature to be taken and to answer a few questions. Learn More
Limited Visitor Policy
This policy is to protect everyone entering our facilities. There are a few exceptions for patients like minors. Learn More
Lymphedema
Lymphedema is an accumulation of lymphatic fluid in the tissue that causes swelling, most often in the arms or legs, and occasionally in other parts of the body. Lymphedema can develop when lymphatic vessels are missing, impaired, removed or damaged.
Rehabilitation Services
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Careers at Prairie Lakes
Be a part of our mission
Join our team and be a part of our mission to deliver accessible, high quality, affordable, and compassionate healthcare.
Prairie Lakes Healthcare System is an independent, non-profit healthcare system serving northeastern South Dakota and west central Minnesota. We provide care to a rural region around Watertown, SD; our neighbors, friends, and family. Our team at Prairie Lakes makes a difference in the lives of patients and their loved ones.
And we want you to be a part of the Prairie Lakes family. We're currently searching for registered nurses (cath lab, CCU, dialysis and OR), surgical technicians, and more. Some of these positions qualify for a sign-on bonus. We offer competitive compensation and a hefty benefits package.
Prairie Lakes at a Glance:
Prairie Lakes Healthcare System is licensed to operate 81 acute care hospital beds including labor and delivery, telemetry, critical care, and general hospital. Hospital services also include a 24-hour emergency department, surgery capabilities, interventional cardiology, and services providing diagnostics and imaging services.
Prairie Lakes also operates Prairie Lakes Cancer Center, Prairie Lakes Mallard Pointe Surgical Center, dialysis units in Sisseton, SD, Watertown, SD and Ortonville, MN, rehabilitation services, and specialty services. Specialty services are a focus of PLHS to bring needed care to the region. These specialties include cardiology, dermatology, ear, nose & throat, general surgery, hospice, home care, nephrology, pulmonology, urology, and wound care.
Read more: Medical Services | Awards | Patient Testimonials
Our Community:
Watertown, SD is a family friendly town with a population of approximately 25,000 people located in northeastern South Dakota. The city has excellent K-12 private and public schools, along with a technical college and branch college campuses. Outdoor recreation is an important part of the community's identity, which is why Watertown has 33 designated parks, two lakes, three golf courses, fitness trails, an outdoor aquatic center, a new wellness center, and the Bramble Park Zoo. Watertown Regional Aiport has daily air service to Denver, CO, and Chicago, IL.
Learn more about Watertown: Watertown Works | City of Watertown website | Northeast South Dakota Tourism
Employee Benefits:
We know that when you’re taken care of, you can take care of our patients and each other. Employees have options for medical, dental, and vision care insurance and employees receive discounts when using Prairie Lakes’ services. Prairie Lakes makes raising your family easier with benefits like adoption assistance, paid bereavement leave, paid-time-off (PTO), and our employee assistance program. Flexible spending accounts are available to let you use pre-tax income to pay for out-of-pocket medical expenses and daycare expenses. We encourage staff to look to their future and offer tuition assistance for professional growth and contribute to employees’ 403(b) plans.
Overview of Benefits:
- Medical, dental, and vision care insurance
- Adoption assistance
- Paid bereavement leave
- Paid-Time-Off
- Employee Assistance Program
- Flexible spending accounts
- Tuition assistance
- Retirement plans
- Membership discount at Prairie Lakes Wellness Center
- Employee activities and events
- Cafeteria discount
- Various discounts at businesses around Watertown
Apply Today!
We are proud to serve as a regional healthcare facility. Prairie Lakes Healthcare System fosters a collaborative, community-centric work environment, yet is big enough to advance services with new medical technology and procedures. You have the opportunity to be a part of one of the most advanced independent, rural healthcare systems in the country.
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More...
We are ready to provide safe care.
Through our increased safety measures, you can be assured local care is here and ready for you. Our specially trained and dedicated team continues to make a positive difference in the lives of our patients … and work together to remain Prairie Strong.
Prairie Lakes Team
Team members are specially trained. Personal protective equipment, counter shields, and other protective measures are in place to keep our team - and you - safe.
Cleanliness
There is a high frequency of sanitation using approved cleaners through-out all facilities.
Social Distancing
Please keep six feet from other patients during your time in our facilities. This includes while checking in at registration and time in waiting rooms.
Screening at Doors
Everyone is screened for COVID-19 symptoms upon entry. Expect for your temperature to be taken and to answer a few questions. Learn More
Limited Visitor Policy
This policy is to protect everyone entering our facilities. There are a few exceptions for patients like minors. Learn More
Telehealth
Video appointments may be an option. Discuss this opportunity with our team when scheduling your appointment. Learn More
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Prairie Lakes Cancer Center – support services, chemotherapy and radiation treatment is right here in Watertown.
Together we can have hope. Together we can rise up to fight your cancer. Together we can keep you closer to the ones you love, and provide you with the excellent care you deserve.
Mary’s Story
Ten years ago, Mary finished treatment for colon cancer at Prairie Lakes Cancer Center. Compassionate care close to home enabled Mary to maintain some normalcy with work and family through her six months of treatment. Ten years later, she is doing well and wants you to be aware of your own health and wellness.
“Talk to your doctor if something doesn’t feel right. Get specific about your symptoms. If you’re of age, schedule a colonoscopy! Precancerous polyps can be removed early to prevent colon cancer.”
One thing Mary’s learned as a cancer survivor is to never take life for granted. Health is a balance of both physical and emotional health. “Everyone should find one positive thing in their life each day. Many people live through cancer and other hardships – embrace life!”
Lloyd's Story
In 1979 Lloyd Christians started his own company Lloyd’s Heating while raising his family in Watertown. Nowadays he’s thriving at Edgewood as the President of the Membership Council, he organizes activities like card games and writes a weekly newsletter. He loves his family and being creative while woodworking, painting, and writing. Lloyd is a thriving colon cancer survivor. His cancer journey started in 2018, in Lloyd’s words:
“My doctor wanted me to have another colonoscopy and suggested Dr. Schaeffer because he was very good, and he was sure I would like him. I met Dr. Schaeffer before my colonoscopy on September 18, 2018 and was completely confident that he would do a good job.”
“During the procedure Dr. Schaeffer found a mass in my colon, took a biopsy of the mass, and found cancer cells in it. He wanted me to have that mass removed as soon as possible.”
“We had a meeting on September 24th before the surgery. My two daughters and my wife were with me when he explained all that was to take place. We left with a good feeling that Dr. Schaeffer would do the surgery and very confident that it would be successful. My daughter said, “Dad you are so calm”, and I replied that I have no reason to be worried about the surgery. He was recommended by my doctor and we all like the man. October 1st was the date set for the surgery.”
“On that day Dr. Schaeffer came into the prep room before surgery and talked to us stating all was ready to go, so they took me to surgery, and I awoke feeling like nothing had been done. Further tests confirmed my cancer was gone.”
“It was my sixth colonoscopy that detected my colon cancer. By screening regularly we were able to catch the cancer early and prevent it from progressing into a more serious state. Today I feel 100%, and a recent colonoscopy confirmed my colon was clean and gave a good report.”
The American Cancer Society recommends those at average risk for colon cancer to start regular screenings at age 45. A colonoscopy doesn’t take a lot of time, but this simple procedure offers a big payback: peace of mind. In many cases polyps and other suspicious growths can be removed during the colonoscopy to prevent colon cancer.
Save time and money with a Direct Access Colonoscopy.
Quick and easy interview to see if you qualify.
If you qualify for a Direct Access Colonoscopy, a consultation clinic visit is not needed - saving you time and money.
Please fill out the form below or call the General Surgery Clinic at 882-6852 for a phone interview to see if you qualify.
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