UnityPoint Health – Fort Dodge Announces Surgery Renovation and Expansion

Update: June, 2025

UnityPoint Health – Fort Dodge proudly hosted a groundbreaking ceremony on Thursday, June 19, marking the start of a transformative $39.8 million renovation and expansion of its surgical services. This highly anticipated project underscores the organization’s commitment to providing exceptional care for the Fort Dodge region and surrounding communities.

More than 200 physicians, team members, donors, local leaders and community members gathered to commemorate this milestone. The evening was filled with heartfelt reflections, personal stories and an inspiring shared vision for the future of healthcare in the region.

“We are building upon our 130-year tradition at Trinity Regional Medical Center,” said Leah Glasgo, President of UnityPoint Health – Fort Dodge. “This investment is more than bricks and mortar — it’s a commitment to the future of healthcare in our community. We’re honored to continue growing, serving and leading the way forward.”

Glasgo welcomed several special guests to the event, including UnityPoint Health CEO Scott Kizer, campaign co-chairs Deb and Casey Johnson and representatives from the Greater Fort Dodge Growth Alliance.

Those in attendance heard from local leaders, medical staff and Trinity Foundation Executive Director Alyssa Stanek about the lasting impact the renovation will have on patient care, recruitment, and community growth.

“There is no greater investment in the future of our community than this project,” said Casey Johnson. “By contributing to this effort, we’re ensuring that our children, grandchildren, and future generations will continue to have access to exceptional surgical care right here at home.”

The renovation will replace the existing surgical space — which has served the region since 1979 — with a modern, fully integrated facility combining inpatient surgery, outpatient surgery and sterile processing in a single, efficient footprint. With advancements in surgical technology and equipment, the upgrade is vital to ensuring the highest quality outcomes for patients and continued recruitment of top surgical talent. The upgraded facility will include five OR suites, two endoscopy suites and 24 pre- and post-operative rooms. This includes building a new addition to the left of the main entrance.

“This new facility will equip physicians with the advanced tools and space they need to provide the safest, most effective surgical care,” said Darren Croo, MD, general surgeon at UnityPoint Health – Fort Dodge. “In 2024, we performed 5,312 surgical procedures here — and with this investment, we’re prepared to do even more.”

To date, the Trinity Foundation has committed $7 million in unrestricted funds toward the project and is actively leading a $3 million capital campaign to help bring the vision to life. Stanek announced that $2.1 million has already been raised.

The project also received praise from community and economic development leaders. Astra Ferris, CEO of the Greater Fort Dodge Growth Alliance, emphasized the role high-quality healthcare plays in economic vitality.

“This expansion sends a powerful message,” said Ferris. “Fort Dodge is a place where innovation, investment and compassion come together to build a thriving future.”

Update: September, 2024

UnityPoint Health – Fort Dodge is pleased to announce a surgery renovation and expansion project. The project is a $39.8 million investment and planning is underway. The plan is to break ground in summer 2025, with construction expected to take approximately 18 months.

“Surgical technology has advanced significantly in the 44 years since the current main operating suites were opened,” says Leah Glasgo, president, UnityPoint Health – Fort Dodge. “This renovation enables us to accommodate the latest technology, recruit new surgeons, and ensure we continue to provide the highest quality care to our patients and community.”

The surgery renovation is designed to enhance patient satisfaction and improve team member efficiency by bringing inpatient surgery, outpatient surgery and sterile processing together in one convenient location. The upgraded facility will include five operating room suites, two endoscopy suites and 24 pre- and post-operative rooms. This includes building a new addition to the left of the main entrance.

“I’m really excited about all the great things happening at UnityPoint Health – Fort Dodge,” says Glasgo. “From the announcement of Trinity Heart Center to this major surgery renovation and expansion, to all the community outreach our team is involved in, we are proud to continue growing our services and be the community’s trusted health partner.”

UnityPoint Health – Fort Dodge currently offers eight different surgical specialties, performed by 18 physicians, and serves patients from a 60-mile radius.

The construction of the surgery renovation and expansion, with a total cost of $39.8 million, has seen remarkable commitment. Trinity Regional Medical Center will invest $29.9 million in this project. In addition, the Trinity Foundation will invest $7 million from unrestricted donor funds and is committed to a fundraising goal of $3 million to realize the full vision of the project. Donor contributions will play a vital role in completing the project and transforming surgical services at UnityPoint Health - Fort Dodge. To support this project, consider donating to the Trinity Foundation online.