River Prairie Surgery Center: An Outpatient Campus of OakLeaf Surgical Hospital
Opening in early 2026, River Prairie Surgery Center expands OakLeaf Surgical Hospital’s trusted care into a modern outpatient setting designed for convenience, efficiency, and recovery close to home.
River Prairie strengthens access to high-quality surgical care in Altoona and across the Chippewa Valley—at a time when many communities are facing reductions in local services.
Purpose-Built for Outpatient Care
River Prairie Surgery Center is located within a newly renovated medical campus that restores healthcare access to a site previously home to specialty and urgent care services.
Our 13,000-square-foot ambulatory surgery center includes:
- Two operating rooms
- Three procedure rooms
- A patient-focused layout designed for same-day surgery and recovery
A Trusted Partnership with OakLeaf Surgical Hospital
River Prairie Surgery Center is fully aligned with OakLeaf Surgical Hospital’s physician-led model of care. Patients benefit from the same clinical standards, safety protocols, and experienced surgical teams—now delivered in an outpatient environment built for efficiency and comfort.
“This is not simply a new building. It’s a long-term investment in the health of this community,” said Alex Stipetich, Interim Administrator of River Prairie Surgery Center. “Our goal is to ensure the Chippewa Valley continues to have the resources it needs for the future.”
Together, OakLeaf and River Prairie are expanding access to care while preserving quality, continuity, and local connection.
Why Outpatient Surgery?
Advances in technology and surgical techniques allow many procedures to be safely performed without an overnight hospital stay. Outpatient surgery centers offer several benefits for patients and families:
✔ Faster recovery
Most patients return home the same day, recovering in the comfort of their own space.
✔ Lower costs
Outpatient settings typically have lower facility costs than hospitals, helping reduce overall expenses.
✔ Greater convenience
Simpler scheduling, shorter wait times, and easier access make care more predictable and less disruptive.
✔ Focused, personalized care
Dedicated outpatient teams provide attentive, streamlined care before, during, and after surgery.
Patients who require inpatient care or additional monitoring continue to have access to OakLeaf Surgical Hospital—ensuring the right level of care for every need.
Investing in the Future of Local Healthcare
River Prairie Surgery Center represents a commitment to sustainable, accessible healthcare in Altoona and the surrounding communities. By expanding outpatient services while maintaining strong hospital connectivity, OakLeaf Surgical Hospital is meeting today’s needs while planning for the future of care delivery.
