A new concept in providing health care has opened its doors.
The Surgical Institute of Lake of the Ozarks is the first multi-specialty ambulatory surgery center in the lake area, according to a press release.
The center was developed by area physicians to provide their patients high quality, patient-focused outpatient care. Patients now have a choice when it comes to outpatient surgery, the release said.
The 8,400-square-foot center features three fully equipped operating rooms with the latest medical instrumentation.
“We are equipped for dental/oral surgery, general surgery, gynecology, gastroenterology, ophthalmology, orthopedic surgery, ENT, pain management and plastic surgery,” according to administrator Steve Henry. “Patients benefit from  state-of-the-art technology, as well as amenities like convenient parking, short waiting times, and a comfortable environment. The recovery rooms assure privacy and provide an opportunity for patient’s families to join them shortly after a procedure.”
The center has been open for less than two weeks and the response has been good, he said. While the concept may be new to the lake area, surgical centers have become common in larger areas. Similar types of centers are located Springfield and Jefferson City. 
A number of well-recognized lake area physicians are planning to be on staff, including orthopedic surgeon Dr. Chris Leslie.
“We are excited to bring this facility to the lake,” Leslie said. “It is something that is greatly needed. Physicians are always looking for ways to make their patients happy. This is such a patient friendly way to have minor outpatient procedures done.”
The Surgical Institute of Lake of the Ozarks offers patients a safe and comfortable environment to receive outpatient surgical care, he said.
“The physicians and our highly qualified nursing and technical staff strive to exceed your expectations and provide a positive surgical experience,” Henry said. “We are an independent facility that offers fully equipped operating rooms, plus the quality, personal and professional care you expect from a health care provider. Our convenient location, short admitting and discharge procedures, and low cost provide a smart alternative to Friday surgical care at a hospital. Nueterra Healthcare developed the facility and will provide ongoing management services.”
The center is made possible by a partnership between local physicians and Nueterra Healthcare, a Kansas City-based development and management company.
“With the growth of the Lake of the Ozarks region, we feel it is necessary to not only keep up, but also to continue to improve efficiencies in health care,” Stephanie Tarry, Nueterra Healthcare senior vice president of business development, said.
The center will provides services to many patients that now travel outside the lake area for certain medical procedures, she said.
Nueterra Healthcare has opened 31 ambulatory surgery centers, seven surgical hospitals, nine endoscopy centers, 25 physical therapy facilities and have seven currently under development including the Lake of the Ozarks facility located in 27 states.
Contact this reporter at joycem@lakesunleader.com