Support your local businesses

Be the reason your community stays informed—give to local journalism now! DECORAH — WinnMed is launching rheumatology specialty care in July 2025, expanding access to expert treatment for joint, muscle and autoimmune conditions in northeast Iowa and southeast Minnesota. The new service line will be led by Matthew Samec, M.D., a board-certified rheumatologist, who will provide full-time care at WinnMed in Decorah. Rheumatology focuses on diagnosing and treating complex, often chronic conditions such as rheumatoid arthritis, lupus, gout, osteoporosis and other disorders that affect the joints, muscles and immune system. A native of New Hampton, Samec brings both personal and professional ties to the region. He earned his undergraduate degree from the University of Northern Iowa and his medical degree from Creighton University in Omaha, Nebraska. He completed his internal medicine residency and rheumatology fellowship at Mayo Clinic in Rochester, Minnesota. Since 2023, Samec has been providing rheumatology care, and he is a Fellow of the American College of Rheumatology. "Rheumatologic diseases are complex, chronic, and often difficult to diagnose," says Dr. Samec. "Given the shortage of rheumatologists — especially in northeast Iowa — I'm committed to serving not only local residents but also patients from across the region. I'll be working closely with primary care providers to ensure patients receive the best possible care." At WinnMed, rheumatology services will include personalized treatment plans, advanced diagnostics and compassionate care for patients at every stage of their journey. Services will be available to those newly diagnosed or already managing symptoms. "We're thrilled to offer rheumatology care right here in Decorah," says Thomas Marquardt, D.P.M., chief medical officer at WinnMed. "Many people live with chronic joint pain or autoimmune conditions without realizing that effective treatments are available. Our goal is to help patients feel better, move better, and live better — without the burden of long-distance travel." Dr. Samec adds, "My family and I are excited to return to northeast Iowa. My wife and I both graduated from New Hampton High School, and our families still live in the area. We're looking forward to raising our children in a community that has so much to offer and means so much to us." Don't miss out on important updates! Subscribe to the newsletter for free and stay informed about local topics that matter most to you.

Support your local businesses

WinnMed Expands Specialty Services with Full-Time Rheumatology Care in Decorah