Dr. Tina Melanson Recognized for Volunteer Service by South Dakota ACP Chapter
Dr. Tina Melanson, Nephrologist
Prairie Lakes Healthcare System (PLHS) is proud to recognize Dr. Tina Melanson, Nephrologist, for receiving the 2025 Volunteerism Award from the South Dakota Chapter of the American College of Physicians (ACP). This prestigious award honors physicians who make significant contributions to their communities through voluntary service.
Dr. Melanson, who has served patients at Prairie Lakes for the past 14 years, co-founded the Lake Area Kidney Endowment (LAKE) in 2015 to assist individuals in northeast South Dakota and western Minnesota who are living with chronic kidney disease. Since its founding, LAKE has donated nearly $171,000 directly to local patients—supporting critical needs such as transportation for dialysis, medication costs, and other essential resources.
“Our mission has always been simple—keep it local and help where help is needed most,” said Dr. Melanson. “It’s been an honor to serve our patients not just in the clinic, but through this charitable work that makes such a difference in their daily lives.”
LAKE’s largest fundraiser, an annual golf tournament, was held on Friday, June 20. Funds raised during this event are critical to sustaining the support the organization provides throughout the year. Anyone wishing to donate or apply for assistance can do so at www.lakeareakidneyendowment.com.
Dr. Melanson provides kidney care in Watertown, Sisseton, and Huron, and will be officially recognized in October during the South Dakota Chapter ACP Annual Meeting in Keystone, SD for her unwavering dedication to the patients and the communities she serves.
“Dr. Melanson is an exceptional physician and a deeply passionate individual,” said John Allen, President and CEO of Prairie Lakes Healthcare System. “Her commitment to improving lives both inside and outside the clinic is an inspiration to us all.”
Prairie Lakes Healthcare System extends its heartfelt congratulations to Dr. Melanson on this well-deserved honor.
