GI Associates shares details of new clinic and endoscopy center

GI Associates is sharing details of the new gastroenterology clinic and endoscopy center it is building in Rhinelander, expanding access to specialty digestive care for patients across the Northwoods. GI Associates currently provides gastroenterology care in Rhinelander and Woodruff. The new facility will build on those existing services by expanding clinic capacity, adding a dedicated endoscopy center and infusion services, and creating space to serve more patients, according to a GI Associates press release.
Construction of the 13,570-square-foot facility on Navajo Street is expected to begin in late 2026, with the center anticipated to open in fall 2027, the release states.
According to the release, the project comes at a time when access to gastroenterology care remains a challenge in rural America. A 2025 study published in Gastroenterology found that more than two-thirds of U.S. counties have no practicing gastroenterologist, leaving nearly 50 million Americans without local access to specialty digestive care.
“Patients shouldn’t have to travel long distances for specialized digestive care,” said Steve Brewer, Chief Operating Officer of GI Associates. “This facility will expand access to gastroenterology services while helping us meet the growing digestive healthcare needs of northern Wisconsin.”
The new facility will include:

• Six clinic exam rooms
• Two endoscopy procedure rooms
• Three private infusion bays
• Private pre- and post-procedure recovery rooms
• Modern clinical space and technology
“Too often, patients delay seeking care because specialty services aren’t readily available,” said Dr. Raymond Hartke, gastroenterologist with GI Associates. “Improving access means we can evaluate symptoms sooner, diagnose digestive conditions earlier and begin treatment when it’s most effective.”
The new clinic will also support economic growth in the Rhinelander area. GI Associates expects to add approximately 20 new positions, including registered nurses, certified medical assistants, medical receptionists and other clinical and administrative staff.
The Rhinelander project builds on GI Associates’ long-standing commitment to expanding access to specialty digestive care throughout central and northern Wisconsin.
GI Associates currently serves patients through clinics in Wausau, Stevens Point, Rhinelander and Woodruff, with endoscopy centers in Wausau and Stevens Point. For more information, visit www.giassoc.org or call 715-847-2558.