DECORAH — A northern Iowa hospital’s use of a $700,000 federal grant to help bring advanced surgical technology closer to rural patients drew a visit from USDA leaders and Congresswoman Ashley Hinson on October 25.
USDA Under Secretary for Rural Development Glen R. Smith toured Winneshiek Medical Center, known as WinnMed, in Decorah with Hinson, USDA Rural Development Iowa State Director Mike Sexton and hospital leaders. The visit highlighted funding for a surgical robot intended to expand the hospital’s capabilities and support access to care in Winneshiek County and surrounding communities.
Grant helped support surgical robot already in use
The hospital received the $700,000 through USDA Rural Development’s Community Facilities Direct Loan and Grant Program. The October visit highlighted an existing award: WinnMed announced the grant in November 2025.
In its November 21, 2025 announcement, WinnMed identified the equipment as a da Vinci 5 surgical robot manufactured by Intuitive. The hospital credited Hinson with sponsoring the federal appropriations grant and said general surgeon Erik Brink first used the equipment earlier that November.
WinnMed said the system allows surgeons to perform complex procedures through small incisions, with potential benefits including less pain, shorter hospital stays and faster recovery. The hospital described enhanced three-dimensional visualization and refined instrument control among its features.
USDA said the investment is intended to increase facility capacity, help recruit and retain surgeons, and reduce the average length of stay for an inpatient procedure. The announcement did not provide figures showing changes in patient stays, surgical volume or staffing.
Officials highlight rural healthcare access
“Rural communities deserve modern healthcare facilities and equipment so residents can receive the safe, high-quality care they depend on,” Smith said. “The Trump Administration is investing in healthcare projects nationwide to ensure reliable, sustainable access to care in rural communities.”
Sexton also emphasized the role of infrastructure in sustaining rural communities.
“Rural Iowa communities need modern infrastructure to offer individuals and families a place where they can live, grow, and thrive,” Sexton said. “Through the leadership of President Trump and Agriculture Secretary Rollins, USDA Rural Development continues to invest in rural healthcare facilities to serve the needs of Iowans.”
Earlier USDA support for Decorah care facilities
NIT previously reported on USDA investments in healthcare and other projects across four rural Iowa counties in August 2023. That announcement included a $12.735 million loan and a $1 million grant for Aase Haugen Homes in Decorah to build a nursing home with assisted-living and dementia-care units.
The Aase Haugen financing supported a separate project from WinnMed’s surgical equipment grant. Both investments reflect the role of federal funding in updating care facilities serving Decorah and nearby rural communities.