Allina Health welcomes first patients to Richard M. Schulze Surgical and Critical Care Center at Abbott Northwestern Hospital

MINNEAPOLIS (Aug. 29, 2026) — Allina Health welcomed the first patients to the Richard M. Schulze Surgical and Critical Care Center at Abbott Northwestern Hospital today, following a carefully coordinated transition involving clinicians, nurses and care team members throughout the hospital. The opening marks a historic milestone for the organization and a major step in advancing the largest infrastructure project in Allina Health’s history. The new facility expands critical care capacity, advances surgical care and creates a modern healing environment designed to serve patients and families for generations to come. 

 The 620,000-square-foot center features 190 private patient rooms, advanced surgical suites and a 27,000-square-foot rooftop healing garden. Designed in partnership with clinicians, nurses, care team members and the community, the facility supports complex heart, cancer, brain and spine care while increasing critical care capacity for the region.

"Today represents the beginning of a new chapter for Abbott Northwestern Hospital and the patients and families we serve," said Lisa Shannon, president and CEO of Allina Health. "Welcoming our first patients into the Richard M. Schulze Surgical and Critical Care Center reflects years of planning, collaboration and commitment from our care team members, clinicians, donors and community partners. This extraordinary facility strengthens our ability to provide exceptional care today while preparing for the healthcare needs of the future."

The carefully planned move reflected years of preparation and collaboration across Abbott Northwestern Hospital.

"Every detail of this building was designed with patients and families in mind," said David Joos, president, Abbott Northwestern Hospital. "From private patient rooms and advanced technology to spaces that support healing and recovery, this center creates an environment that enhances both the care experience and the work of our care teams."

The Schulze Building was made possible through the generous support of donors, including a transformational gift from Richard M. Schulze and the Richard M. Schulze Family Foundation. The facility is designed to support growing demand for highly specialized care and strengthen Allina Health's ability to serve communities across Minnesota and western Wisconsin for decades to come.

Together, these investments reinforce Abbott Northwestern Hospital's longstanding role as a regional leader in advanced patient care.