Alison Gilbertson Email Address

Foundation Director

Prairie Lakes first in state to offer 8-channel MRI technology. Prairie Lakes Healthcare System is now using its new magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) scanner. The unit is located in the newly expanded Radiology Department at Prairie Lakes Hospital and has replaced the mobile unit located outside the hospital building. The new MRI unit has the distinction of being the first in the state to deploy GE Excite 8-channel MRI technology. First minimally invasive knee surgery in tri-state area performed at Prairie Lakes. An innovative knee replacement surgery now available in Watertown gives patients a less invasive alternative. The technique, called mini-incision total knee arthroplasty, utilizes a 4- to 5-inch incision to access the damaged portion of the knee, which is then replaced with an artificial device. A smaller incision generally means patients may experience less pain, less disruption of tissue in the knee, and may be able to exercise the knee sooner and more effectively. The surgery was the first of its kind in North and South Dakota and Minnesota. Prairie Lakes first in state to install 16-slice CT technology. Prairie Lakes Healthcare System was the first hospital in South Dakota to install an advanced computed tomography (CT) scanner that provides detailed images of the body. This advanced technology not only means more diagnostic information for doctors in routine situations, but its speed can also save precious exam time in the emergency room. Prairie Lakes first in state to offer IMRT. Prairie Lakes Cancer Center was the first Cancer Center in South Dakota to offer its patients a sophisticated radiation therapy called IMRT - Intensity Modulated Radiation Therapy. The goal at the Cancer Center is to continue to stay abreast of the latest oncology treatments and technology and bring advanced therapies - like IMRT - here to Watertown.

I have been passionate about working in the healthcare arena all my life. While not in direct patient care roles, I have served in a variety of administrative roles- all of which I have thoroughly enjoyed. My recent position as the Executive Director of the Prairie Lakes Healthcare Foundation allows me the pleasure to reach out to individuals who have a story to tell about their experiences at Prairie Lakes. By telling the stories of patients, families, physicians and staff, it is my hope that others may be inspired to support the mission of the foundation. This mission is to raise funds to support the work of providing quality healthcare to those who seek services through Prairie Lakes Healthcare System. 100% percent of all donations remain in the region to help you, your family and your neighbors.