Author: Winneshiek Medical Center

At their January 2026 meeting, the WinnMed Board of Trustees approved the transition of Thomas Marquardt, D.P.M., from Mayo Clinic Health System to WinnMed employment, effective in February 2026. Dr. Marquardt will continue in his role as Chief Medical Officer, supporting all physician groups at WinnMed while also providing podiatric clinical and surgical care alongside his administrative responsibilities.

As Chief Medical Officer, Dr. Marquardt reports directly to the Board of Trustees, alongside Steve Slessor, Chief Administrative Officer.

“The physician-administrative leadership dyad model has served the organization well over the last 20 years and has helped us get to where we are today. This transition supports WinnMed’s regional hub strategy for future growth as we continue to recruit providers and expand services across the region,” said Clark Goltz, chair of the WinnMed Board of Trustees. “Dr. Marquardt’s ongoing leadership and clinical expertise are invaluable as we look to the future.”

A graduate of Luther College, Dr. Marquardt received his podiatric medical degree from the Dr. William M. Scholl College of Podiatric Medicine, a program within the Rosalind Franklin University of Medicine and Science in Chicago. He was in private practice for nine years in the Milwaukee area, working closely with and training residents at St. Joseph’s Regional Medical Center, and joined Mayo Clinic Health System in 2006. In addition to his medical and surgical practice, he has served Decorah Clinic Physicians as Vice President for Practice and Professional Development for approximately 10 years and as Specialty Medical Director since 2015. He was appointed Chief Medical Officer in 2020.

Dr. Marquardt expressed appreciation for both the personal and professional relationships built through Mayo Clinic Health System. “I value the collaboration and support I’ve experienced over the years,” said Dr. Marquardt. “I look forward to continuing to work closely with MCHS and our teams locally to advance patient care and strengthen services for the communities we serve.”

WinnMed is proud to announce a major investment in the future of surgical care with the acquisition of a da Vinci 5 Robotic Surgical System, state-of-the-art technology that will bring advanced, minimally invasive procedures to patients in northeast Iowa, southeast Minnesota and surrounding communities. This newest model of the da Vinci system is just the second in Iowa, following University of Iowa Hospitals and Clinics.

The da Vinci system is widely regarded as the gold standard in robotic-assisted surgery. It allows surgeons to perform complex procedures with enhanced precision, flexibility, and control through small incisions, resulting in less pain, reduced blood loss, shorter hospital stays, and faster recovery times for patients.

“This is a significant step forward for WinnMed and the communities we serve,” said Steve Slessor, chief administrative officer, WinnMed. “The da Vinci robot represents a transformative investment in surgical care, and we are excited to bring this level of innovation to the northeast Iowa region.”

The system is housed in one of WinnMed’s newly constructed operating rooms, specifically designed to accommodate robotic technology through the Transforming Tomorrow renovation and expansion project.

Surgeons from all the Decorah medical practices will use the robot to perform certain surgeries at WinnMed.  In 2025, general surgeons Erik Brink, D.O., with WinnMed, Caroline Schwickerath, D.O., with Mayo Clinic Health System, and Chris Winters, M.D., with Emplify Health by Gundersen will begin robotic surgery, with additional surgeons utilizing the technology in 2026.

Dr. Brink shares, “Robotic-assisted surgery allows us to perform procedures with greater accuracy and less trauma to the body. For patients, this means quicker recovery times and fewer complications. I’m thrilled to bring this level of care to our community and to be part of WinnMed’s commitment to innovation.”  Dr. Brink was introduced to da Vinci technology in 2009 during his medical education and residency and then, following his service in the United States Navy, reengaged with the system. He has been providing robotic surgery since 2023 and was instrumental in bringing the technology to WinnMed in Decorah when he joined the medical practice in spring of 2025.

Dr. Winters, M.D., says, “I am more than excited to offer modern robotic-assisted procedures to my patients in northeast Iowa. Robotic-assisted surgery allows for complex procedures to be performed precisely through small incisions allowing patients an opportunity for a better outcome, faster recovery, and less discomfort.”

The da Vinci 5 system supports a wide range of procedures, including hernia repairs, gallbladder removal, colorectal procedures, and treatment for gastroesophageal reflux disease (GERD). It may also be used in urologic and gynecologic surgeries, depending on patient needs and future service expansion.

In partnership with Luther College, WinnMed is enhancing mental health support for students by introducing Licensed Mental Health Counselor Katie Greving to the Luther Clinic team. Greving will provide Integrated Behavioral Health (IBH) services full-time on campus, offering students convenient access to care within their familiar environment.

IBH is a short-term treatment (12 or fewer therapy visits) that combines medical and behavioral services to address overall health and well-being and is aimed at helping the patient build coping skills, reduce symptoms of distress, or reach specific behavioral goals.

Greving brings more than 20 years of experience in the mental health field. She earned her Bachelor of Arts in Psychology from the University of Northern Iowa and her Master of Arts in Counseling from the University of Nebraska. She is an active member of the Iowa Mental Health Counselors Association and the American Mental Health Counselors Association, serves on the State of Iowa’s Dyslexia Board, and leads Decoding Dyslexia Iowa, a nonprofit advocating for students with learning disabilities.

“I have spent most of my career working in college mental health and am thrilled to be at Luther,” said Greving. “Life can be stressful, and my goal is to be a safe and supportive resource for students as they navigate their college experiences.” Her professional interests include the impact of social media on mental health, supporting college athletes, and assisting individuals with learning disabilities.

The Luther Clinic, located in Larsen Hall on the Luther College campus, provides year-round student health services, including routine, preventive, acute and ongoing health care services, as well as sports medicine services for Norse athletes.

The WinnMed Auxiliary invites the community to celebrate the season of giving through the 2025 Light for Life program.

Light for Life is the Auxiliary’s annual community giving campaign. For a donation of $15 or more, your loved one is honored or remembered with lighted snowflakes in the windows of WinnMed. The snowflakes light up WinnMed each night in December.

This year’s WinnMed Auxiliary Light for Life campaign will support the Ambulance department with the purchase of an Electric Patient Lift Chair, a critical tool that allows staff to safely assist patients who have fallen or need help transferring. This equipment not only reduces the physical strain on EMS staff but also provides patients with a more comfortable and dignified experience during lifts and transfers.

Light for Life donations will also support the WinnMed Wound Center with the purchase of an EZ Way Smart Stand, a device designed to promote stability, reduce fall risks, and support safe ambulation and pivot transfers. By offering controlled assistance, the Smart Stand helps patients maintain mobility while ensuring staff can provide care with greater confidence and safety.

Donations may be made at WinnMed or forms are available on the Auxiliary page through December 31, 2025. Contributions are tax deductible.

For further information, contact the WinnMed Auxiliary at 563-387-3036.

Expert Advice from Michael D’Netto, M.D.

If you’re experiencing unexplained sneezing, rashes, or breathing issues, allergy testing can help identify the cause—and lead to lasting relief. At WinnMed in Decorah, Michael D’Netto, M.D., a Mayo Clinic Health System board-certified Allergist and Immunologist, offers comprehensive allergy evaluations to pinpoint triggers and personalize treatment.

Here’s how to prepare for your appointment to ensure the most accurate results:

1. Stop Taking Antihistamines

Antihistamines can interfere with skin test results. Dr. D’Netto recommends stopping:

• Over-the-counter antihistamines (like loratadine, cetirizine, or diphenhydramine) at least 5 days before testing
• Some prescription medications may also need to be paused—check with your provider first 

“Stopping antihistamines before testing is crucial,” says Dr. D’Netto. “They can block the skin’s reaction and lead to false negative results. However if these medications cannot be stopped, blood testing, which is not impacted by antihistamines, can be considered.” 

2. Noting to East or Drink, Except Water

At least two hours prior to the appointment, Dr. D’Netto recommends nothing to eat or drink – except water – so the allergy testing is performed on a largely empty stomach.

3. No Vigorous Activity

Vigorous exercise can alter the body’s reaction and interfere with test results. Avoid vigorous activity for at least one hour prior to testing.  

4. Bring a Symptom Diary

Note when your symptoms occur, what you were exposed to, and any patterns you’ve noticed. This helps guide which allergens to test.

5. List All Medications

Bring a list of all medications and supplements you’re taking. Some may need to be adjusted before testing.

6. Wear Comfortable Clothing

Wear short sleeves or loose-fitting clothes to allow easy access to your arms or back for testing.

What to Expect

Dr. D’Netto will review your medical history, perform a physical exam, and conduct skin or blood tests based on your symptoms. Allergy skin test results are available the same day.

“Allergy testing is safe, quick, and incredibly helpful,” Dr. D’Netto adds. “It’s the first step toward feeling better and taking control of your health.”

Make an appointment

Dr. D’Netto is accepting new patients at WinnMed in Decorah.  Call WinnMed at 563-382-2911 or request an appointment online through WinnMed’s online portal, MyChart.

WinnMed in Decorah, Iowa has been awarded a $700,000 federal appropriations grant for surgical equipment, sponsored by Congresswoman Ashely Hinson. The award was announced to WinnMed leadership following the re-opening of the government in November. The dollars will support the recent purchase of a da Vinci 5 Surgical Robot, the newest version of this robotic equipment by Intuitive. It is only the second in the state of Iowa, following University of Iowa Hospitals and Clinics.

Congresswoman Hinson said, “Earlier this year, I got to tour the improvements underway at WinnMed in Decorah and see their lifesaving services firsthand. I’m so proud to have helped secure federal funding for surgical department upgrades at WinnMed. This project will equip WinnMed with state-of-the-art surgical technology—expanding access to safe, minimally invasive surgeries in rural Iowa and reducing the need for residents to travel long distances for care. I will continue fighting to improve access to care in rural Iowa.”

The da Vinci 5 allows surgeons to perform complex procedures through small incisions, which can lead to less pain, shorter hospital stays, and faster recovery times. Its advanced features include improved ergonomics for surgeons, high-definition 3D visualization, and refined instrument control, all designed to elevate the surgical experience. Erik Brink, D.O., WinnMed General Surgeon, was the first to use the equipment in early November. He said, “It was an honor and privilege to begin to offer the very best in safety and minimally invasive surgical techniques. Many patients will benefit from the increased capability of WinnMed.”

WinnMed Chief Administrative Officer said, “We are incredibly thankful to receive the appropriations grant and be selected by Congresswoman Hinson’s office as one of her projects to fund. Coming at a time of rapid growth at WinnMed, being able to have support to help fund much needed (but expensive) equipment like a surgical robot helps accelerate our progress to bring this technology to our region.”

Expert Insight from Michael D’Netto, M.D.

An estimated 10% of Americans report a penicillin allergy, but studies show that over 90% of them are not truly allergic. Mislabeling can lead to the use of less effective or more expensive antibiotics, increasing the risk of side effects, antibiotic resistance, and longer hospital stays.

At WinnMed in Decorah,Michael D’Netto, M.D., Mayo Clinic Health System Allergist and Immunologist, offers penicillin allergy testing to help patients safely determine whether they are truly allergic—and potentially remove the label for good.

“Many patients carry a penicillin allergy label for years based on childhood reactions or vague symptoms,” says Dr. D’Netto. “But with proper evaluation and testing, we can often confirm they’re not allergic and open the door to safer, more effective treatments.”

What Is Penicillin Allergy Testing?

The evaluation may include:

• Skin testing using small amounts of penicillin and its components, and/or
• A supervised oral challenge with amoxicillin

This process is safe, quick, and highly accurate. A negative result means the patient can safely take penicillin and related antibiotics in the future.

Why It Matters

Removing an incorrect penicillin allergy label can:

• Improve treatment outcomes
• Reduce healthcare costs
• Support antibiotic stewardship
• Lower the risk of drug-resistant infections 

“Penicillin allergy testing is one of the most impactful things we can do for long-term patient safety,” Dr. D’Netto adds.

If you’ve been told you’re allergic to penicillin, talk to your provider about a referral to Dr. D’Netto for testing. You may not be allergic after all—and that knowledge could change your care for the better.

Make an appointment

Dr. D’Netto is accepting new patients at WinnMed in Decorah.  Call WinnMed at 563-382-2911 or request an appointment online through WinnMed’s online portal, MyChart.

WinnMed has awarded Surgery & Infusion RN, Kristen Mashek, the DAISY Award for Extraordinary Nurses, a national recognition celebrating nurses who deliver exceptional, compassionate care.

Kristen was nominated by a longtime patient who described her as “the epitome of what an award-winning nurse should be.” The patient praised Kristen’s ability to bring comfort and positivity during challenging treatments, noting that her “bubbly voice and bright smile” consistently make a difference. Whether she’s providing direct care or simply passing by, Kristen goes above and beyond to ensure patients feel cared for and supported. Kristen has served as a registered nurse at WinnMed since 2017.

The DAISY (Diseases Attacking the Immune SYstem) Award is an international recognition program that honors and celebrates the skillful care nurses provide every day. The DAISY Foundation was established by the family of J. Patrick Barnes after he died from complications of the auto-immune disease ITP in 1999. During his hospitalization, they deeply appreciated the care and compassion shown to Patrick and his entire family. When he died, they felt compelled to say “thank you” to nurses in a very public way.

Anyone may thank a deserving nurse. To nominate an extraordinary WinnMed nurse, fill out the online form at https://winnmed.org/daisy-award

Expert Advice from Dr. Michael D’Netto

For many, pets are family—but for those with allergies, they can also be a source of sneezing, congestion, and discomfort. Fortunately, with the right strategies, it’s possible to manage pet allergies while keeping your furry companion indoors.

Create Pet-Free Zones

Keep bedrooms and other key areas off-limits to pets to reduce allergen exposure where you rest and sleep.

Bathe and Groom Regularly

Weekly baths and frequent brushing (ideally by a non-allergic household member) can significantly reduce dander.

Clean Smart

Use HEPA filters in vacuums and air purifiers, wash pet bedding weekly, and consider replacing carpets with hard flooring.

Manage Symptoms

Medications like antihistamines and nasal sprays can help.

Allergen immunotherapy

For long-term relief, allergy shots (immunotherapy) may be an option. This is the one treatment option which modifies the underlying cause of allergic symptoms in response to a pet, rather than attempted avoidance or symptom management with medications.

“Pet allergies don’t always mean you have to give up your pet,” says Michael D’Netto, M.D., a Mayo Clinic Health System board-certified Allergist and Immunologist at WinnMed in Decorah. “With a combination of environmental control, medical treatment, and expert guidance, many people can live comfortably with their animals.”

Get Tested

If you’re unsure whether your symptoms are pet-related, an allergist can perform testing to confirm and guide treatment.

Make an appointment

Dr. D’Netto is accepting new patients at WinnMed in Decorah.  Call WinnMed at 563-382-2911 or request an appointment online through WinnMed’s online portal, MyChart.

For individuals with severe insect sting allergies, a single sting can trigger a life-threatening reaction known as anaphylaxis. Fortunately, a highly effective treatment called venom immunotherapy (VIT) is available—and at WinnMed, patients can receive this specialized care under the expert guidance of Michael D’Netto, M.D., a Mayo Clinic Health System board-certified Allergist and Immunologist.

Venom immunotherapy is a long-term treatment that works by gradually desensitizing the immune system to insect venom. It involves regular injections of purified venom extracts from stinging insects such as honeybees, wasps, hornets, and yellow jackets. Over time, the body builds tolerance, significantly reducing the risk of a severe allergic reaction with future stings 

“Venom immunotherapy is more than just symptom management—it’s a preventive therapy that can save lives. This is done by essentially re-programming the immune system to no longer react to venoms in an allergic manner,” says Dr. D’Netto. “For patients who’ve experienced anaphylaxis due to one of the aforementioned stinging insects, this treatment offers peace of mind and long-term protection.”

The treatment typically spans 3 to 5 years, with a build-up phase followed by a maintenance phase. Studies show that venom immunotherapy is 95–98% effective in preventing systemic allergic reactions to future stings 

Dr. D’Netto begins with a comprehensive allergy evaluation, including skin or blood testing, to confirm venom sensitivity. From there, he develops a personalized treatment plan tailored to each patient’s needs and risk factors.

If you or a loved one has experienced a serious reaction to an insect sting, talk to your provider about a referral to Dr. D’Netto. Venom immunotherapy could be the key to a safer, more confident life outdoors.

Make an appointment

Dr. D’Netto is accepting new patients at WinnMed in Decorah.  Call WinnMed at 563-382-2911 or request an appointment online through WinnMed’s online portal, MyChart.