Individual of the Month: Tracy Kurten
Outpatient Social Worker, Prairie Lakes Healthcare System
Codington Connects is proud to recognize Tracy Kurten, Outpatient Social Worker with Prairie Lakes Healthcare System, as our Individual of the Month.
Tracy plays an important role in helping patients navigate challenges that can impact their health and well-being. As an outpatient social worker, she works directly with patients who may be facing a wide range of life stressors while seeking medical care. Whether those challenges stem from health concerns or other life circumstances, Tracy feels privileged to walk alongside patients during these moments and help connect them with resources that can reduce stress and improve their overall well-being. She especially enjoys the opportunity to work face-to-face with patients, healthcare staff, and community partners to create meaningful support systems.
In her work and involvement with Codington Connects, Tracy brings the core values of social work to the table: service to others, social justice, the dignity and worth of every person, the importance of human relationships, competence, and integrity. These principles guide her approach to building trust, understanding each individual’s unique needs, and serving as a bridge between Prairie Lakes Healthcare System and the many supportive resources available in the community. Tracy appreciates the collaborative network of organizations in Codington County and values being able to connect patients with the many dedicated helpers in our area.
Tracy’s role at Prairie Lakes Healthcare System is also a relatively new one. In December 2024, Prairie Lakes created a dedicated outpatient social work position to better support patients across outpatient services and the emergency department. While social workers at Prairie Lakes have always stepped in to help when needed, this new role ensures that patients who express social concerns during medical visits have direct access to support and community connections. Tracy considers it an honor when patients feel comfortable sharing their experiences and needs, allowing her to help connect them with resources that can make a meaningful difference in their lives.
One of the greatest sources of inspiration in Tracy’s work is seeing patients regain stability and success. Many individuals she meets are experiencing major stressors or crises in life. In social work, these are often referred to as social determinants of health — non-medical factors that significantly impact a person’s well-being. Tracy finds motivation in helping individuals address those outside stressors so they can improve their overall health and quality of life.
Outside of work, Tracy enjoys spending time with her husband and three children. As a family, they enjoy biking and hiking whenever they can get away outdoors. At home, they spend time shooting hoops, passing a rugby ball around the backyard, playing board games and cards, or baking sweet treats together when someone has a dessert craving. Family movie nights are another favorite way to relax and connect.
Looking ahead, Tracy has a dream of one day traveling across the country in a sprinter camper van, visiting State and National Parks and exploring the incredible landscapes the United States has to offer. She imagines countless hikes, scenic views, and memorable adventures along the way.
Tracy shared that she feels incredibly humbled to be chosen for this recognition and is grateful to be connected with so many dedicated helpers throughout the community. Codington Connects is thankful for Tracy’s compassion, commitment, and the meaningful difference she makes for patients and families in our region.