Prairie Lakes Healthcare System Welcomes New Physician Assistant to General Surgery Clinic
- Steve Jurrens
- Oct 3
- 2 min read
Northeast Radio SD News - Watertown, SD - Prairie Lakes Healthcare System has announced the addition of licensed and board-certified Physician Assistant, Olivia Lepke, PA-C, to the staff of its General Surgery Clinic. Ms. Lepke joins surgeons Dr. Greg Gerrish, Dr. Kristopher Johnson, and Dr. Jacob Schaeffer in providing care for patients with conditions affecting the skin, soft tissues, breast, and abdomen.
Ms. Lepke stated that she is "honored to begin my career in Watertown with the General Surgery Clinic," adding that she looks forward to "supporting patients through their surgical care — from consultation to recovery" and joining a team "so dedicated to providing excellent care close to home."
Background and Education
Ms. Lepke grew up in Madison, South Dakota, and recently relocated to Watertown with her husband. She received her Master of Science in Physician Assistant Studies from the University of South Dakota in Vermillion.
During her studies, she completed several clinical rotations in the Watertown area, including time at Prairie Lakes Dermatology Clinic, Prairie Lakes Brown Clinic, and the Human Service Agency. She also completed rotations at facilities in Brookings, Canton, and Sioux Falls. Ms. Lepke earned her undergraduate degree, in Honoribus, in Biology with minors in both psychology and chemistry from Northern State University in Aberdeen, South Dakota.
Ms. Lepke expressed that she always intended to work in healthcare because of the opportunity to build trust and relationships with patients. In her free time, she enjoys hiking, traveling, and spending time with her new puppy and husband.
Prairie Lakes General Surgery is located at the Prairie Lakes Specialty Clinic in Watertown, South Dakota. For more information or to schedule an appointment, individuals may call 605-882-7777.
