This year marks the 20th anniversary of Mayo Clinic Health System.  What began as a partnership between Mayo Clinic and a six-physician practice in Decorah, Iowa, has grown into a health care delivery system that includes more than 70 locations across Georgia, Iowa, Minnesota and Wisconsin.

As the largest employer in many communities, Mayo Clinic Health System helps drive local economies.  In 2010, Mayo Clinic Health System made a $1.7 billion impact on Wisconsin's economy and a $1.3 billion impact on Minnesota's economy.  The organization also invests heavily in its communities, supporting local educational and charitable programs.

Minnesota Bridges to Excellence, a health care purchaser-led pay-for-performance program, recently recognized Mayo Clinic Health System sites in Albert Lea, Alden and Kiester for delivery of high quality outcomes for patients with diabetes, vascular disease and/or depression.

In all, 19 Mayo Clinic Health System locations throughout Minnesota received this honor in the Twin Cities on August 1, 2012.

"We are pleased to receive this recognition. Our employees work diligently with all patients to make sure their needs are met," says Mark Ciota, M.D., CEO of Mayo Clinic Health System in Albert Lea and Austin. "High quality outcomes in these clinical areas reinforce our efforts."

The Bridges to Excellence program bases its recognition on performance rates from clinic-level data submitted to Minnesota Community Measurement via direct data submission.

The remodeling project at Express Care, Mayo Clinic Health System's convenience care clinic in Albert Lea is now complete.

The project doubled the clinic's current space and includes a larger exam room and a larger, more private waiting area.  Changes were made based off patients' comments and suggestions.

An open house will be held on Saturday, August 18th from 10 a.m. to 1 p.m. at their location within the Albert Lea Hy-Vee, 2708 Bridge Ave.

Refreshments will be served.