Surgical Facilities

We are committed to providing the highest quality of care in state-of-the-art surgical settings. Our experienced team performs procedures at the following trusted surgical center and local hospitals:

- Upper Mississippi Surgery Center
Located in the heart of the Upper Mississippi region, this surgery center specializes in outpatient procedures. With a focus on safety and convenience, Upper Mississippi Surgery Center offers a comfortable environment where patients can feel confident in their care. This facility is independently owned by 10 local Dubuque surgeons, including our own surgeons.

- UnityPoint Health
Finley Hospital
Located in Dubuque, UnityPoint Health
Finley Hospital is a leading provider of healthcare in our region. With advanced medical technologies and a compassionate care team, they offer a comprehensive range of surgical services in a comfortable and supportive environment.

- Guttenberg Municipal Hospital
Serving the Guttenberg area, Guttenberg Municipal Hospital provides exceptional care with a personal touch. Equipped with the latest in medical technology, the hospital's surgical department ensures that patients receive the best in both preoperative and postoperative care.

- Jackson County Regional Health Center
At Jackson County Regional Health Center in Maquoketa, you'll experience high-quality, patient-centered surgical care. Their professional staff and modern surgical facilities are dedicated to offering safe and effective surgical solutions in a caring atmosphere.

Surgery Center vs. Hospital

In the U.S., the decision to perform a surgery at a surgery center (like an ambulatory surgery center or ASC) versus a hospital depends on several factors, including the complexity of the procedure, the patient's overall health, and the resources required for the surgery. Here's a general overview of what determines where a surgery is performed:

1. Complexity of the Surgery
Surgery Centers (ASCs): These are typically used for minor to moderately complex procedures that do not require an overnight hospital stay. ASCs are designed to provide a more efficient, cost-effective environment for procedures such as arthroscopy, minor orthopedic surgeries, cataract surgery, and some types of gastrointestinal procedures. Hospitals: Major surgeries or procedures that require more intensive care, extended recovery, or specialized equipment may be performed at a hospital. Hospitals are equipped with more extensive resources, including ICU units, advanced imaging systems, and 24-hour medical support, making them suitable for more complex cases.

2. Length of Stay
Surgery Centers (ASCs): These centers are typically designed for outpatient or same-day discharge procedures. If a procedure requires an extended stay or complex postoperative care, it is usually performed at a hospital. Hospitals: If a surgery requires an overnight stay or extended monitoring, it is generally done at a hospital, where the patient can be closely observed after the procedure.

3. Patient Health Status
Surgery Centers (ASCs): Surgery centers are ideal for healthy patients who are not at high risk for complications. Patients who are in good overall health, have no significant comorbidities, and are undergoing a routine procedure are more likely to have their surgery at an ASC. Hospitals: Higher-risk patients, such as those with chronic conditions or those who are older, may require a hospital setting where there are more resources available for emergency care and postoperative management.

4. Equipment and Facilities
Surgery Centers (ASCs): ASCs are typically equipped for routine procedures that do not need highly specialized or intensive equipment, such as general anesthesia, critical care units, or advanced imaging. Hospitals: Hospitals have the capability to support a broader range of surgeries, including those that need specialized equipment (e.g., advanced diagnostic tools, extensive anesthesia services) or surgeries that might involve complications.

5. Cost and Insurance
Surgery Centers (ASCs): In many cases, surgery centers are less expensive for both the patient and insurance companies due to their smaller scale and focus on outpatient care. They are also more streamlined and efficient, contributing to lower operational costs. Hospitals: While hospitals offer a broader range of services, they tend to be more expensive because they are equipped to handle higher-complexity cases, provide inpatient care, and have a wider variety of services available.

7. Surgeon's Judgment
Surgeons also play a role in determining the location based on the specific needs of the patient and the type of surgery being performed. They assess the risk, required resources, and the likelihood of complications, and then decide whether a surgery center or hospital is more appropriate.

Summary:
Surgery centers are best for minimally invasive, low-risk, outpatient surgeries that don't require prolonged recovery or intensive postoperative care.
Hospitals are suited for complex, high-risk surgeries requiring overnight stays, intensive care, or specialized resources.