In honor of National Speech Therapy Month, the Speech Therapy Department at BCHC will offer free speech therapy screenings during the month of May.  Conditions treated through speech therapy include, but are not limited to, stuttering, articulation and language disorders, difficulty finding words, voice disorders, problem solving, memory deficits, feeding and swallowing disorders, and stroke […]

In honor of National Occupational Therapy Month, the Occupational Therapy Department at BCHC will offer free occupational therapy screenings during the month of April.  Occupational therapy is an area of rehabilitative medicine that focuses on helping people regain or maintain their ability to perform their usual daily activities as easily and independently as possible across […]

Buchanan County Health Center is pleased to announce the expansion of primary care services by announcing the addition of Jack O’Brien, MD to the established team of primary care providers at Medical Associates of BCHC and BCHC Family Medicine – Oelwein.  Dr. O’Brien will begin practice at BCHC upon completion of his residency in August […]

Click here to read the BCHC Spring 2022 Community Newsletter.

BCHC is pleased to welcome Megan Thompson, OTR/L to the Therapy & Rehabilitation Department.  Megan continues to advance the therapy department by providing occupational therapy services to patients of all ages locally and close to home.

Megan started her occupational therapy career graduating from Kirkwood Community College as an occupational therapy assistant. She then worked […]

Buchanan County Health Center is pleased to welcome two new department managers to the organization; Andrea Ownby, Patient Registration Supervisor, and Alysha Robinson, MLS(ASCP)CM, Laboratory Department Manager.

Andrea Ownby comes to BCHC with several years of experience and knowledge in patient relations and health insurance, most recently serving as a control desk specialist for St. […]

Buchanan County Health Center (BCHC) is pleased to announce the selection of its new chief executive officer.  Hailing from his current position as interim CEO/CFO at Geary Community Hospital in Junction City, Kansas, Wade Weis will assume the position of BCHC’s CEO in February.

Wade comes to BCHC with over twenty years of experience in […]

In compliance with the Centers for Medicare and Medicaid Services (CMS) guidelines regarding the COVID-19 vaccine mandate, all eligible employees at Buchanan County Health Center (BCHC) who do not meet medical and/or religious exemption status will be required to become fully vaccinated against COVID-19 by early 2022.  While CMS and OSHA regulations were released the […]

BCHC is pleased to announce the addition of a new, minimally invasive, local outpatient procedure; UroLift System, to treat benign prostatic hyperplasia (BPH) and help relieve symptoms caused by an enlarged prostate.

BPH, also known as enlarged prostate, is a common condition marked by bothersome urinary symptoms that can cause loss of productivity, depression, interrupted […]

Buchanan County Health Center is pleased to welcome Kelsey Masters MSN, ARNP, FNP-C to its team of urgent care providers.

Visiting from Waverly Health Center Walk-In Clinic, Masters obtained her Bachelors of Science in Nursing and Master’s in Nursing at Allen College of Nursing in Waterloo.  Board certified by the American Academy of Nurse Practitioners […]

Buchanan County Health Center (BCHC) is pleased to announce the appointment of Rodney Ciesielski to the position of Purchasing Manager after serving in the role of Purchasing Agent for the past two and a half years.

“Materials Management has had great leadership in the past from Diane Williams to Mark Burkman, and now to Rodney […]

Buchanan County Health Center (BCHC) is pleased to announce the appointment of Dianne Hepke to the position of Independent Living Coordinator of Oak View Independent Living for Seniors, located on the main campus of BCHC. No stranger to BCHC, Dianne served as the Lexington Estate Activities Coordinator for 10 years before transitioning to her new […]

BCHC is pleased to welcome two new associates to the Activities Department at Lexington Estate of BCHC.  Molly Roscovius, COTA/L was recently announced as Activity Coordinator, and Katelyn DeWald as Activities Assistant.

An Independence native, Molly Roscovius comes to BCHC with an A.A.S degree in Occupational Therapy.  Molly comes to BCHC with experience working in […]

BCHC is pleased to welcome Jaden Rausch, MA, CF-SLP to the Therapy & Rehabilitation Department.  Jaden provides speech therapy services to patients of all ages living in Buchanan County and surrounding areas.

Jaden earned her undergraduate degree in Communications Sciences & Disorders in May of 2019 and completed her graduate degree in Speech Language Pathology […]

Due to the increased number in COVID-19 cases and exposures in the Buchanan County and Oelwein area, BCHC has reopened its COVID-19 Call Center to help triage COVID-19 related questions and concerns related to the caller’s symptoms, exposure concerns, testing, and quarantine directions.  Open Monday-Friday from 8:30am-2:30pm, the COVID-19 Call Center is staffed by a […]

On June 3rd, the Buchanan County Health Center Auxiliary held their annual scholarship presentation at the First Presbyterian Church in Independence.  Each year, the BCHC Auxiliary awards scholarships in the amount of $1,000 to graduating seniors from East Buchanan, Independence, and Jesup School Districts, and also awards scholarships to nontraditional students entering into or continuing […]

BCHC Oelwein Retail Pharmacy is now accepting walk-ins for the Covid-19 vaccine. This service is available on Tuesdays and Thursdays. No appointment is needed.

(Independence, IA) –Through a partnership with Cedar Valley Medical Specialists, BCHC has expanded general surgery coverage in Independence. Dr. Brian Gerrelts, M.D. will provide general surgery coverage three days per week at BCHC.

In conjunction with the expansion in Independence, Dr. Gerrelts will also provide weekly general surgery coverage at BCHC Family Medicine – Oelwein. […]

We will be holding two vaccination clinics next week at the BCHC Oelwein Pharmacy. They will be held on Thursday, April 22nd and Friday, April 23rd. Click on the links below to sign-up for an appointment. The BCHC Oelwein Pharmacy is located at 2405 Rock Island Road in Oelwein. If you have questions please call […]

We will be holding vaccination clinics at the BCHC Oelwein Pharmacy this week! Click the links below to sign-up for an appointment. The BCHC Oelwein Pharmacy is located at 2405 Rock Island Road in Oelwein. If you have questions please call 319-283-1664. Pfizer Clinic – Tuesday Mar 30th – Read More

(Independence, IA) – Buchanan County Public Health (BCPH) is collaborating with Buchanan County Health Center (BCHC), Regional Family Health Winthrop, MercyOne Family Health, and local pharmacies to change the way the COVID-19 vaccine is being distributed in Buchanan County. Beginning the week of March 22, a community-based clinic will be held each week.

At this […]

On March 18th, Steve Slessor of Buchanan County Health Center announced his upcoming departure from the organization after serving as its Chief Executive Officer for the past seven years.  In early June, Slessor will embark on a new opportunity to serve the communities of Winneshiek County as the Chief Administrative Officer of Winneshiek Medical Center […]

(Independence, IA) – Buchanan County Health Center (BCHC) has installed a new sinus navigation system that Dr. David Congdon, MD, MPH, ENT/Plastics physician for Cedar Valley Medical Specialists, will utilize on functional endoscopic sinus cases or sinus surgery. This new system will help bring more advanced sinus technology to BCHC patients in the Independence area […]

(Independence, IA) – Four of Buchanan County Health Center’s (BCHC) nurses recently earned a spot on this year’s 100 Great Iowa Nurses list. Outstanding nurses who have made a meaningful impact […]

In late 2020, Buchanan County Health Center (BCHC) installed a new MRI unit, located within the MRI suite of the hospital.  Producing faster and more accurate results with improved technology, the MRI machine came earlier than expected to the organization.

“We are very fortunate to have exceptional facilities and equipment to compliment the wonderful staff […]

Buchanan County Health Center is pleased to welcome Sieon Kim, AuD with Cedar Valley Center for Hearing to the BCHC Audiology Specialty Clinic.  The Cedar Valley Center for Hearing provides comprehensive care in the identification, diagnosis, and treatment of hearing disorders through evaluation and specific lifestyle needs.

Visiting the BCHC Specialty Clinic in Independence each […]

Buchanan County Health Center is pleased grow its leadership team by welcoming two new faces to the organization; Tracy Wilson, BSN, RN, CEN, SANE-A, Clinical Education Manager, and Kim Fuhrmeister, MHA; Wound Center Program Director.

Tracy Wilson, Clinical Education Manager, comes to BCHC with over 27 years of nursing experience. Most recently employed at Mercy […]

BCHC is pleased to welcome Ivo Bekavac, MD, PhD from Cedar Valley Neurology to the BCHC Specialty Clinic.  Beginning December 21st, Dr. Bekavac will visit the BCHC Specialty Clinic in Independence on the 1st and 3rd Monday afternoon of each month.

Dr. Bekavac comes to the BCHC Neurology Clinic with over 30 years of medical […]

BCHC Family Medicine – Oelwein is pleased to welcome Dr. William Schmitt, DO to the family medicine team of providers.  Seeing patients at BCHC since 2018 in primary care, urgent care, and emergency settings, Dr. Schmitt will expand his practice to the Oelwein community by visiting BCHC Family Medicine – Oelwein on Thursday mornings from […]

BCHC is pleased to welcome Moaz Sial, MD from Cedar Valley Digestive Health Center to the BCHC Oelwein Specialty Clinic, located at 2405 Rock Island Road.  Beginning in November, Dr. Sial will visit the BCHC Oelwein Specialty Clinic on the 4th Wednesday of each month, in addition to performing colonoscopies and endoscopies at BCHC in […]

It is hard to believe that we were introduced to the threat of COVID roughly eight months ago and all that has followed that has changed our lives.  Eight months is a long time for Iowans to fundamentally have their lives changed.  At the beginning, we did see huge changes in our society that resulted […]

Medical Associates of BCHC is making a large transition from NexGen electronic medical record (EMR) system to Epic EMR.  This transition will allow for one chart to follow patients throughout the multiple areas in which they receive care at BCHC and all UnityPoint Health systems.  Epic is the preferred electronic medical record system nationwide.  To […]

Buchanan County Health Center is pleased to introduce the specialty of breast care to the BCHC Specialty Clinic.  Breast care specialists, Jayson Gesme, MD and Theresa Borcherding, ARNP from the CVMS Breast Care Center will visit BCHC on the 1st and 3rd Wednesday of each month beginning October 7th.

Serving the Cedar Valley since 2003, […]

Buchanan County Health Center is pleased to welcome two new department managers to the organization; Gwen Riordan, BSN, RN, Emergency Department Manager, and Katie Halliwill, MBA, MLS, Laboratory Department Manager.  Gwen and Katie will be responsible for providing department leadership and quality assurance.

Gwen Riordan, BSN, RN, comes to BCHC with 17 years of experience […]

Buchanan County Health Center (BCHC) is pleased to welcome Chris Clayton, PharmD, MBA as its Director of Pharmacy and Population Health. Chris comes with over 20 years of experience in inpatient and retail pharmacy, along with population health initiatives including occupational health. Chris has spent the past 20 years at UnityPoint Health serving as the […]

BCHC is pleased to introduce the Palliative Care & Memory Clinic to the BCHC Oelwein Specialty Clinic, located at 2405 Rock Island Road beginning this September.

Facilitated by Joni Henderson, ARNP of BCHC, the Palliative Care and Memory Clinic have been available for patients and their families at BCHC since 2018. Henderson brings an extensive […]

Buchanan County Health Center (BCHC) is pleased to expand its mental health offerings by welcoming Kelly Scheffert, Psychiatric ARNP, PMHNP-BC to Medical Associates in Independence and the BCHC Family Medicine –Oelwein in addition to BCHC mental health counseling services that were established in the spring of 2020.

“Mental healthcare is an especially underserved area, particularly […]

BCHC is pleased to announce its intent to open a new retail pharmacy in the community of Oelwein in the early October. BCHC Oelwein Pharmacy will be located in the BCHC Oelwein medical building, located at 2405 Rock Island Road.

Read More

BCHC is pleased to welcome providers from Iowa Anesthesia Pain Management Clinic to the BCHC Oelwein Specialty Clinic, located at 2405 Rock Island Road.

Specialists from Iowa Anesthesia have been visiting BCHC since 2018 and are pleased to increase patient access by providing a monthly clinic on the 3rd Tuesday of each month at the […]

Buchanan County Health Center (BCHC) is pleased to welcome Nicole Myers, BSN, RN, as Clinical Office Manager to Medical Associates of BCHC and BCHC Family Medicine – Jesup.  Nicole has spent the past ten years at Waverly Health Center, most recently serving as a clinic manager to primary care and surgical clinics.

“We are very […]

On Wednesday, June 10th, the Wellness Center at BCHC will re-open after being temporarily closed since March 17th due to the COVID-19 pandemic.  Although Governor Kim Reynolds signed a proclamation allowing fitness centers to re-open on May 1st, Buchanan County Health Center chose continue to monitor the trends of COVID-19 in its service area and […]

Spring is a favorite season for many, due in part to the vast contrast and perspective it provides.  It pulls us from the dreary depths of winter, and in a very real way brings vibrant color back to our world.   Curiously, the avenue it takes is far from optimal as it rains frequently and can […]

May is Better Hearing & Speech Month.  According to the National Institute of Deafness and Other Communication Disorders (NIDCD), nearly 1 in 12 children between the ages of 3-17 in the US have had a disorder related to voice, speech, language, or swallowing in the past 12 months.  Not only for children, speech therapy can […]

Iowa has begun the process of opening back up many of the businesses that were shuttered due to COVID-19.  To say there are mixed emotions to that decision is an understatement.  I have spoken with individuals who are relieved to get back to more of a normal life and individuals who believe this decision was […]

Buchanan County Health Center (BCHC) is pleased to introduce mental health and counseling services to its family medicine clinics by welcoming Dan McElroy, LISW to the organization.  Dan has spent the past five years as a counselor in the UnityPoint Health – Allen Behavioral Unit and as a therapist with Black Hawk – Grundy Mental […]

Buchanan County Health Center has made a temporary change to its urgent care practice by allowing patients to call-ahead for appointments during the COVID-19 pandemic.

“Over the past two months, we have established many additional safeguards to ensure that we dramatically reduce the transmission of illnesses,” commented Amy Van Scoyoc, Executive Director of Ambulatory Services.  […]

Receiving Healthcare during a Pandemic

William Schmitt, DO

BCHC Family Medicine Physician

With the current pandemic in full swing and the novel coronavirus well-established in our state, there is a palpable level of anxiety in our local communities.  There are many reasons for the anxiety and these may not be directly related to the virus […]

Nathan Harmon, MD – BCHC Medical Director of Emergency

Jillian Schatzle, MSN, RN – BCHC Emergency Department Manager

In the midst of the novel coronavirus (COVID-19) pandemic, medical emergencies and urgent situations unrelated to the virus still occur.  So, when should you seek medical care for a condition that you feel cannot wait during this […]

Buchanan County Health Center is pleased to introduce telehealth capabilities at its family practice clinics in Independence, Jesup, and Oelwein.  Telehealth, or virtual medicine, allows patients to continue to see their primary care provider for acute illnesses and injuries, health concerns, routine appointments, medication management, and disease management from the comfort of their own homes.  […]

I wanted to take a moment to update the community regarding our response to the COVID-19 pandemic.  First, I want to say thank you to all the BCHC associates and their family members.  Whether they are working longer hours, working in higher risk environments or doing jobs they never expected they may do, I am […]

BCHC has established a community COVID-19 call center to help facilitate COVID-19 related questions and concerns.  Open seven days a week from 8am-8pm, this call center is staffed by BCHC nurses under the supervision of a provider.  To reach the BCHC COVID-19 Call Center, please dial 319-332-0894.

If you have reason to suspect you are […]

Beginning on Monday, March 30th, Buchanan County Health Center (BCHC) will open a respiratory clinic to care for patients with respiratory illnesses to minimize exposure to patients with symptoms or injuries unrelated to a respiratory illness.

Patients with a respiratory illness and symptoms that include fever, cough, and difficulty breathing should call the BCHC Call […]

You have all undoubtedly followed the state, national, and global news regarding the coronavirus pandemic. While we have been posting almost daily on social media regarding updated changes at BCHC as well as passing along community education, I wanted to take a step back to give you a broader perspective on how we are planning […]

Effective immediately, the following services at BCHC are suspended until further notice:   •Elective Surgeries •Walk-in Labs •Screening Mammograms & DEXA Scans •Valet Services   Thank you for supporting our commitment to community safety.

Effective immediately, the following entrances are closed under further notice:

•Urgent Care/Wound Center Entrance: All patients should report to ER entrance, located at the northeast side of the hospital.

•Physical Therapy Entrance: All patients should report to the main entrance, located on the south side of the hospital.

While we understand that it can be […]

BCHC has been working diligently to keep our patients, community, and staff to reduce the potential spread of COVID-19.  Because of this, we would like to provide you with several important updates.

We are now limiting visitors to one, healthy adult over the age of 18 per patient at a time for all services with […]

Due to the large number of respiratory viruses circulating in the community and the new confirmed cases of the novel coronavirus (COVID-19) in Iowa, BCHC is now imposing a visitor restriction until further notice.  While there are no known cases of the novel coronavirus in Buchanan County, we want to take preventative measures to ensure […]

Buchanan County Health Center (BCHC) is pleased to welcome Nancy Muir, LISW to the Mental Health Specialty Clinic. Nancy provides mental health services and counseling through AbbeHealth. Affiliated with UnityPoint Health – Cedar Rapids with two Independence locations, AbbeHealth is a state-accredited community mental health center serving individuals of all ages. A native of Independence, […]

Medical Associates of BCHC is pleased to enhance its local options for women’s health care to its patient base and community.  Medical Associates of BCHC has appointed two providers, Bridget Baker, ARNP and Jane Baker, ARNP, to see female patients for women’s health care related needs and concerns.

Bridget Baker, ARNP and Jane Baker, ARNP […]

Buchanan County Health Center (BCHC) is pleased to welcome Meg Heatley, PA-C and Spencer Kleitsch, ARNP from the office of Dr. David Congdon – Cedar Valley Centers for ENT, Sinus & Allergy, Rejuvenation, Facial Plastic Surgery, Skin Cancer, and Hearing to the Skin & ENT/Allergy Clinic at the BCHC Oelwein Specialty Clinic, located at 2405 […]

On Monday, January 6th, Jane Baker, ARNP from Buchanan County Health Center will provide a free seminar in the Community Room of the Independence Public Library from 6-7pm in continuation of the BCHC Spotlight Series.

During this free seminar, attendees will learn about the KETO diet and how it works, along with common misconceptions and […]

Buchanan County Health Center is pleased to welcome Michael Moriarty, MD, to the team of physician specialists visiting from Physicians Clinic of Iowa – Urology. The addition of Dr. Moritary will provide patients with an additional option of choice in specialist at the Urology specialty clinic at BCHC.

Dr. Moriarty comes to BCHC with special […]

A Life Well Lived – A Tribute to Community & Health Care Visionary, Bob Richard

On October 24th, former long-time CEO of Buchanan County Health Center, Bob Richard, passed away.  Born with a spirit of service, Bob attended the Finley School of Nursing at the University of Dubuque and received his Master of Arts in hospital […]

Buchanan County Health Center is pleased to announce the addition of Alyssa Woods, ARNP to its roster of providers that will see patients at BCHC Family Medicine – Jesup beginning in January of 2020.  Alyssa comes to BCHC with several years of nursing and advanced nursing experience, most recently employed at Waverly Health Center’s walk-in […]

Why is BCHC expanding into Oelwein?

BCHC is excited to expand its physical care into the community of Oelwein for a variety of reasons.

The clinic is in a convenient location to serve some areas of northern Buchanan County communities, like the communities of Hazelton and Aurora. Providing best patient access is important to us, […]

Buchanan County Health Center (BCHC) is pleased to announce its recent partnership with UnityPoint Clinic to continue providing expanded options for local primary care services in Oelwein and surrounding communities.

Beginning September 23rd, UnityPoint Clinic Family Medicine – Oelwein will change its name to BCHC Family Medicine – Oelwein – An Affiliate of UnityPoint Health […]

Buchanan County Health Center (BCHC) is pleased to offer a free informational seminar on Medicare on Thursday, September 5th at 6pm in Meeting Rooms A&B as part of their involvement in and support of the Iowa Senior Health Insurance Information Program and Medicare Patrol (SHIIP).   Recently named the new SHIIP sponsor site in Buchanan County, […]

Buchanan County Health Center (BCHC) is pleased to announce the expansion of the Mental Health Specialty Clinic.  Beginning in late July, the Mental Health Specialty Clinic, provided by AbbeHealth, will offer psychiatric services in addition to mental health therapy and counseling. Affiliated with UnityPoint Health – Cedar Rapids, AbbeHealth is a state-accredited community mental health […]

Buchanan County Health Center is pleased to introduce Chris Grundmeyer, RN to the community as the new Clinical Program Director for the Center for Wound Healing & Hyperbaric Medicine at BCHC.  Most recently employed as the Senior Manager of Clinical Services for UnityPoint at Home, Chris comes to BCHC with 40 years of nursing experience.

[…]

BCHC is pleased to welcome Kathi Bower, ARNP, FNP-C from Allen Women’s Health to the Women’s Health Specialty Clinic.  Bower will visit BCHC on the first Wednesday of each month beginning on August 6th.

Specializing in gynecology, obstetrics, and women’s health, Bower attended St. Louis University and is board certified by the American Academy of […]

The Physical Medicine & Rehabilitation clinic at Buchanan County Health Center is pleased to announce its clinic expansion.  Beginning in August, Farid Manshadi, MD will increase his clinic hours to a weekly rotation, visiting the BCHC Specialty Clinic each Monday afternoon.

Visiting from Physical Medicine & Rehabilitation Associates of Northeast Iowa, Dr. Manshadi has been […]

On Monday, August 5th from 6-7pm, BCHC memory loss and palliative care specialist, Joni Henderson, ARNP will provide a free seminar in the Community Room of the Independence Public Library as a continuation of the BCHC Spotlight Series.

During this free seminar, attendees will learn about normal age-related memory changes, symptoms that may indicate dementia […]

Lexington Estate of BCHC is excited to partner with the Independence Celebrations Committee to host the annual ‘Poker Walk’ during the Independence Day Celebration on Tuesday, July 3rd.

The Poker Walk, led by Lexington Estate of BCHC, will begin at 5:00pm at the Rotary Shelter in Riverwalk Parks.  Each participant will walk two miles, receiving […]

Buchanan County Health Center (BCHC) is pleased to announce its plans to open a new family practice office in Jesup at the beginning of 2020.  BCHC Jesup Family Medicine will break ground in the early summer along South Street West, across from the new Dollar General Store.

This 4,525 square foot medical building will provide […]

UNITE. BUILD. FEED.

Regional Medical Center, UnityPoint Health – Jones Regional Medical Center, and Buchanan County Health Center will UNITE. BUILD. FEED. our communities with a food drive contest!

Food Drive Contest April 26-May 23, 2019 4/26 – Contest kick off! Employee/teams buy food and build a creative food structure. 5/24 – CEOs pick 1 […]

Buchanan County Health Center is pleased to welcome Karla Solheim, MD, to the OB/GYN Specialty Clinic.  Dr. Solheim will visit BCHC from UnityPoint Clinic OB/GYN on the second and fourth Wednesday of each month, beginning May 8.

Specializing in obstetrics and gynecology, Dr. Solheim attended medical school at the University of California and completed her […]

Buchanan County Health Center (BCHC) is honored to be among the recipients of an over $134,000 gift from the estate of Hubert and Mildred (Millie) Freeman.

Lifelong residents of Buchanan County, Hubert and Millie (Wilson) Freeman were active business leaders in the Independence community, owning and operating Freeman’s Sporting Goods from the late 1950’s to […]

Please CLICK HERE to read more about the BCHC house purchase request for bidding rules and requirements.

Buchanan County Health Center is pleased to welcome Spencer Kleitsch, ARNP, to the rotating group of specialists from Cedar Valley Centers for ENT, Sinus & Allergy, Skin Cancer, and Facial Plastics.  The addition of Spencer will allow for increased coverage and appointment availability in the Allergy & ENT specialty clinic.

Certified by the American Board […]

For many Iowans, understanding Medicare and related health insurance can be confusing and overwhelming. Where do I start? What are my options? Am I making the right decision? What will it cost me?  Is there help if I can’t afford my insurance? If I’m still working do I have to sign up for Medicare?

Trained […]

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On Monday, April 1st from 6-7pm, orthopedic surgeon, Benjamin Torrez, DO, MPH from Cedar Valley Medical Specialists will provide a free, educational seminar in the Community Room of the Independence Public Library.  Sponsored by Buchanan County Health Center, this seminar is free to the public and requires no advanced registration.

During this free seminar, attendees […]

BCHC is pleased to welcome Shannon Lake, OTA to the Therapy & Rehabilitation Department.  Shannon joins Sara Elledge, OTR/L in providing occupational therapy services to patients of all ages living in Buchanan County and surrounding areas.  Shannon comes to BCHC with six years of experience as an occupational therapy assistant (OTA) in various settings, most […]

What exactly is lymphedema? Lymphedema or “Chronic swelling” is the accumulation of a particular kind of fluid (lymph), typically in one part of the body.

What is the lymphatic system: Our lymphatic system is made up of lymph nodes, lymph fluid, and lymphatic vessels. The purpose of the lymphatic system is to maintain the […]

The Buchanan County Health Center Auxiliary is continuing its commitment to assist local students pursuing health care careers. This spring, the Auxiliary will make six $1,000 scholarships available.

Currently accepting scholarship applications, qualifying applicants must live in or currently work in Buchanan County.  Three scholarships of $1,000 will be awarded to current college students or […]

On Monday, February 4th from 6-7pm, Dr. Kalyana Sundaram, Director of Cedar Valley Cardiovascular Center, will provide a free, educational seminar in the Community Room of the Independence Public Library.  Sponsored by Buchanan County Health Center, this seminar is in continuation of the “BCHC Spotlight Series” that began in August of 2018.

During this free […]

Medical Associates of BCHC is pleased to announce its expansion of morning hours to better accommodate busy families with young children and students experiencing acute illnesses and injuries.   This new service, entitled the “Kid’s Clinic”, will be offered to established patients ages 0-18 years, Monday-Friday from 8:00-9:00am beginning on Tuesday, February 5th.  Online registration will […]

The Cardiology Specialty Clinic at Buchanan County Health Center is pleased to welcome Ankur Vyas, MD, MS to its rotation of cardiologists from UnityPoint Health – Cedar Rapids.  A graduate from All India Institute of Medical Sciences in New Delhi, India, Dr. Vyas completed his residency and fellowship at the University of Iowa Hospitals and […]

Click here to view the Specialty Clinic for January 2019

Buchanan County Health Center is pleased to announce its newest partnership with the Especially for You ® (EFY) Fund.  The EFY Fund provides assistance to area individuals seeking preventative breast and gynecological cancer screenings, diagnostic exams and procedures, and more.

The EFY Fund and EFY Race Against Breast Cancer were founded by Mercy Medical Center […]

Buchanan County Health Center (BCHC) is proud to announce that John Eikenberry, physical therapist at BCHC and athletic trainer for the East Buchanan Community School District, has been named recipient of the 2018 Sports Medicine Award from the Iowa High School Athletic Association (IHSAA).  For more than five decades, this honor has been bestowed to […]

BCHC is pleased to announce the addition of two, highly-trained general surgeons from Cedar Valley Medical Specialists to the Outpatient Surgery Department.   The addition of Dr. Melissa Garrett and Dr. Jason Kasenberg will allow for an increased amount of outpatient procedures to be performed locally and close to home at Buchanan County Health Center three […]

Click HERE to view the October Specialty Clinic Schedule.

BCHC is pleased to welcome Mary Nading, PA-C, MPAS, CCD to the Orthopedic Specialty Clinic. Affiliated with Cedar Valley Medical Specialists, Nading joins orthopedic surgeon, Dr. Benjamin Torrez in delivering total orthopedic care, locally at Buchanan County Health Center.

“Orthopedics has been a significant area of growth for us both in the clinic and the […]

On Monday, October 1st from 6-7pm, BCHC memory loss and palliative care specialist, Joni Henderson, ARNP will provide a free seminar in the Community Room of the Independence Public Library.

During this free seminar, attendees will learn about Parkinson’s disease; its symptoms, treatment, living with Parkinson’s, and support for caregivers.  Parkinson’s disease affects the nerve […]

Buchanan County Health Center is pleased to announce the return of locally offered gastroenterology services. Beginning September 5th, Arun K. Muthusamy, MD and Kelli DeSerano, ARNP from Cedar Valley Medical Specialists will be providing services at BCHC’s Specialty and Surgery Clinics on the first and third Wednesday of every month.

A 2006 graduate from Stanley […]

Buchanan County Health Center is pleased to welcome Carla McWillaims, DPT, CMPT, to the physical therapy team.  Coming to BCHC with over three years of experience as a physical therapist, McWilliams received her doctorate in physical therapy from Des Moines University in 2014.  Carla resides in Manchester with her husband Brian, one year old son […]

The Fundraising Committee of Buchanan County Health Center will hold a Walk to End Alzheimer’s Vendor Fair on Thursday, September 6th from 3-5pm in the BCHC Cafeteria.  A portion of the proceeds will benefit the BCHC Walk to End Alzheimer’s Team. Some of the participating vendors include:

The Pampered Chef, Anne McMillan Norwex, Paula Kies […]

On Monday, September 10th from 6-7pm, BCHC memory loss and palliative care specialist, Joni Henderson, ARNP will provide a free seminar in the Community Room of the Independence Public Library.

During this free seminar, attendees will learn about care options for those experiencing a serious, chronic, or life-limiting illness and will also learn how to […]

Buchanan County Health Center (BCHC) is expanding its locally offered pain management services by welcoming Iowa Anesthesia, LC to its growing list providers and outpatient services.

Beginning August 7th, Mark Odden, MBA, ARNP, CRNA and Scott Chastek, ARNP, CRNA from Iowa Anesthesia, LC will be visiting BCHC on the first and third Tuesday of every […]

Every day, millions of people living with chronic diseases struggle to manage their symptoms.  Chronic disease can affect a person’s quality of life, restricting them from everyday activities that when managed well, they can still enjoy.  In efforts to provide more effective guidance and disease management to individuals living with a chronic illness, Medical Associates […]

On Monday, August 6th from 6-7pm, BCHC memory loss and palliative care specialist, Joni Henderson, ARNP will provide a free seminar in the Community Room of the Independence Public Library.

During this free seminar, attendees will learn about normal age-related memory changes, symptoms that may indicate dementia or signs of Alzheimer’s disease, and other topics […]

Click here to view the full Specialty Clinic schedule for the month of August 2018.

Buchanan County Health Center (BCHC) is pleased to announce its expanded partnership with East Central Iowa Acute Care (ECIAC) through increased emergency provider coverage.  Previously staffing the BCHC Emergency Department 75% of the time, beginning in October, ECIAC will provide over 90% of the coverage with a team of board certified emergency physicians and allied […]

On June 7th, the Buchanan County Health Center Auxiliary held their Annual Scholarship Dinner at the First Presbyterian Church in Independence.  Each year, the BCHC Auxiliary awards scholarships in the amount of $1,000 to graduating seniors from East Buchanan, Independence, and Jesup School Districts, and also awards scholarships to nontraditional students entering into or continuing […]

Lexington Estate of BCHC is excited to partner with the Independence Celebrations Committee to host the annual ‘Poker Walk’ during the Independence Day Celebration on Tuesday, July 3rd.

The Poker Walk, led by Lexington Estate of BCHC, will begin at 5:00pm at the Rotary Shelter in Riverwalk Parks.  Each participant will walk two miles, receiving […]

Calling all future babysitters! Buchanan County Health Center will offer a Babysitting Clinic for 11 to 14 year olds on Thursday, June 28th .  The class will be held from 8am to 12pm in Meeting Room B.  The cost to attend is $40, which includes one day training, a learning materials, and certification card.

During […]

Click here to view the June Specialty Clinic Schedule!

Beginning Memorial Day weekend and ending Labor Day weekend, Medical Associates of Buchanan County Health Center will be closed on Saturdays.  Regular office hours will be Monday-Friday from 8:30am-5:00pm.  Patients may visit BCHC’s Urgent Care during weekend hours of 12:00pm-6:00pm.  Patients may also visit the Emergency Department, should a medical emergency arise.

Medical Associates of […]

Buchanan County Health Center is pleased to welcome Tricia Thompson, ARNP to the rotating group of specialists from Cedar Valley Centers for ENT, Sinus & Allergy, Skin Cancer, and Facial Plastics along with the expansion of coverage at the BCHC Specialty Clinic.

Certified by the American Nurses Credentialing Center, Thompson received her undergraduate and graduate […]

Each year, National Nurses Week serves as an opportunity to recognize outstanding nurses who provide the highest level of quality care to their patients’ each and every day.  With over 3.4 million active nurses living in the United States, the employment of registered nurses is expected to grow 16% by 2024 according to the United […]

BCHC is pleased to welcome Charles Pruchno, MD, FACP and the Health Transitions Clinic at Physicians’ Clinic of Iowa to its rotation of specialty services and providers.

A graduate of Saint Louis University School of Medicine, Dr. Pruchno completed his residency at Indiana University School of Medicine, and fellowship at the University Of Washington School […]

Health Transitions Clinic at Physicians’ Clinic of Iowa is hosting a free introductory seminar at 6 pm, Wednesday, May 9th, in Meeting Rooms A&B at Buchanan County Health Center (BCHC).

Health Transitions Clinic is Cedar Rapids’ leading medically-supervised weight loss program. The program helps those who are overweight and dealing with medical issues that accompany […]

Buchanan County Health Center is excited to offer a new, one-of-a-kind outpatient program for its community members and patients.  Facilitated through the Wellness Center, Elite Health Assessments will provide participants with a variety of noninvasive in-depth information about their personal health and wellness.

Lasting approximately two hours in duration, each assessment will include a lipid […]

Beginning April 3rd, the Abbe Center for Community Mental Health will be providing outpatient mental health therapy and treatment through the Specialty Clinic at Buchanan County Health Center (BCHC).

Affiliated with UnityPoint Health – Cedar Rapids, the Abbe Mental Health Center is a state-accredited community mental health center serving individuals of all ages.

Visiting specialist […]

Buchanan County Health Center (BCHC) is joining with Iowa Donor Network to Inspire Iowa to Donate Life during National Donate Life Month this April. Throughout Donate Life Month we celebrate transplant recipients who have been given a new life, we shine light on the many more who are still waiting, and we honor donors and […]

Buchanan County Health Center is pleased to announce the expansion of locally offered ENT services and minimally invasive outpatient procedures.

Beginning in April, David Congdon, MD, MPH, PACS of Cedar Valley Centers for ENT, Sinus & Allergy will offer complete allergy testing, oral allergy drops, treatment of nasal obstruction, sleep apnea and sinus problems in […]

Buchanan County Health Center please to introduce the service of Nutrition Education.  Providing patients with the knowledge and tools to make healthy eating decisions, Nutrition Education at BCHC is facilitated by Shelbie Penner, Registered Dietitian.

An outpatient service located within the Wellness Center, Nutrition Education can help those interested in weight loss and weigh management, […]

On March 7th, the Buchanan County Health Center Auxiliary Board of Directors donated $5,000 to Buchanan County Health Center (BCHC) to go towards departmental needs.  This donation was made possible through several fundraisers and gift shop sales.

After reviewing grant requests, the Auxiliary Board designated $5,000 to the following departments: Emergency Department; funding to go […]

Please click here to view our Specialty Clinic calendar for the month of March.

Buchanan County is pleased to announce the addition of palliative and memory care to its growing list of services.  The Palliative Care & Memory Clinic will be based out of the Specialty Clinic as an outpatient service beginning in March.

A unique service to the Buchanan County area, the Palliative Care & Memory Clinic provides […]

Buchanan County Health Center recently achieved accreditation through Accreditation Commission for Health Care (ACHC) for its sleep lab services.

Accreditation is a process through which healthcare organizations demonstrate compliance with national standards.  Accreditation by ACHC reflects an organization’s dedication and commitment to meeting standards that facilitate a higher level of performance and patient care.

ACHC […]

Buchanan County Health Center is expanding its Therapy and Rehabilitation Department by offering pediatric occupational therapy. A unique service offered locally, this therapy through play approach provides children and their families with the tools to improve their cognitive, physical, sensory and motor skills, and to enhance their self-esteem and sense of accomplishment regardless of disability […]

Beginning on Monday, February 5th, Medical Associates of Buchanan County Health Center will see patients thirty minutes earlier at 9:00AM in efforts to increase patient access to primary health care.  Welcoming two new physicians in August, the addition of Drs. Fahey and Schmidt to the team of providers will continue to improve access to local […]

The Buchanan County Health Center Community Blood Drive will take place on Tuesday, February 13th from 12:00-5:30pm at the BCHC Wellness Center Aerobic Studios.  Facilitated by LifeServe Blood Center, the sole supplier of community based blood products to BCHC, all donors are encouraged to participate to help maintain a consistent supply of all blood types. […]

BCHC is deepening its partnership with Physicians’ Clinic of Iowa (PCI) by increasing Urology clinic coverage and adding outpatient urological procedures to its long list of locally provided services.  An increasingly needed service, the addition of urological procedures and expanded clinic offerings will allow patients of Buchanan County and surrounding areas the opportunity to be […]

Serving the communities of Buchanan County and surrounding areas for over 10 years, the Wellness Center at BCHC is pleased to announce the addition of new services and the commitment to established offerings as they move into 2018.  The Wellness Center is open to the public, providing a wide range of opportunities for physical activity […]

The Buchanan County Health Center Auxiliary is continuing its commitment to assist local students pursuing health care careers. This spring, the Auxiliary will make six $1,000 scholarships available.

Currently accepting scholarship applications, qualifying applicants must live in or currently work in Buchanan County.  Three scholarships of $1,000 will be awarded to current college students or […]

BCHC is pleased to welcome Dr. Julie Saddler from Linn County Anesthesiologists. Specializing in pain relief through anesthetic care, Dr. Saddler will visit the BCHC Pain Management Clinic twice a month through the BCHC Surgical Services Department.

A graduate from the University of Iowa Carver College of Medicine, Dr. Saddler completed her residency at Emory University […]

In 2016, Buchanan County Health Center (BCHC) introduced two new service lines from its Radiology and Laboratory departments for the public to monitor their personal health and wellness at an affordable, out-of-pocket fee.  One year later, both body composition testing and lipid panels for general health screenings no longer require a referral from the patient’s […]

Buchanan County Health Center is pleased to welcome Kristen Jensen, MSN, FNP-BC to its team of urgent care providers.

Visiting from Regional Family Health in Winthrop, Jensen obtained her BSN at Upper Iowa University and Masters in Nursing as an Advanced Family Nurse Practitioner from Clarke University.  A Board Certified Family Nurse Practitioner, Jensen’s clinical […]

In preparation for the opening of the new Medical Office Building at Buchanan County Health Center, Medical Associates will have limited provider coverage during the week of October 30th. Medical Associates will see patients during their regular office hours on October 30th – November 1st. On Thursday, November 2nd, Medical Associates will close at noon […]

Buchanan County Health Center is expanding its team of providers by welcoming Jane Baker, ARNP and Joni Henderson, ARNP. Assuming the role of Hospitalist, Baker and Henderson will attend to hospital patients in the inpatient setting. In partnership with BCHC Primary Care physicians, Baker and Henderson will provide coverage during the daytime hours of Monday […]

Buchanan County Health Center (BCHC) recently participated in the annual Walk to End Alzheimer’s at the Riverfront Stadium in Waterloo on September 30th.   With 52 teams participating in the East Central Iowa Chapter, BCHC’s team raised over $3,300 to contribute to the final total of $52,829.

“This is the 5th year BCHC has participated in […]

Click here to view our October Specialty Clinic Schedule.

For all inquiries, please call our Specialty Clinic at 319-332-050

Buchanan County Health Center is instilling its commitment to provide the highest quality of care by appointing Kelsey Reck, BSN, RN as BCHC’s Clinical Educator and Amy Van Scoyoc, MA as the Director of Clinic Operations.

A former clinical instructor at Mount Mercy University, Kelsey Reck comes to BCHC with several years of experience in […]

Click here to view our September Specialty Clinic Schedule.

For all inquiries, please call our Specialty Clinic at 319-332-0950

Buchanan County Health Center (BCHC) is pleased to announce a new pricing structure for seniors interested in purchasing or renting an apartment within the retirement community of Oak View Independent Living.   Located on the campus of BCHC, Oak View Independent Living is a 24-unit apartment building, featuring three spacious and attractive floor plans.

Recently, the […]

As adults, most of us are aware that “double dipping” can spread bacteria when bacteria from saliva on a piece of partially eaten food is dipped a second time. But did you know feeding baby food straight from the jar is another form of “double dipping”? Bacteria from the baby’s mouth can be transferred to […]

Buchanan County Health Center (BCHC) is pleased to announce a large change in how they are now able to bill health insurance companies for Urgent Care services rendered.  Effective July 1st, BCHC changed its Urgent Care billing system from a hospital-based service to a clinic-based service.  Because of this change, out-of-pocket costs for most insurance […]

BCHC is pleased to welcome Dr. Theresa Larson from Cedar Valley Eye Care.  Specializing in both standard and complex cataract removal, Dr. Larson will visit BCHC monthly, alongside her colleague Dr. Daniel Miller, to perform cataract removal procedures.

A graduate from Vanderbilt University School of Medicine, Dr. Larson completed her residency at the Mayo School […]

On Monday, July 10th, Buchanan County Health Center will offer a prediabetes education class at 4 p.m. in Meeting Room A of BCHC.  Prediabetes education classes are held to help reduce the risk for the development of type 2 diabetes.

Prediabetes is when an individual’s blood sugar levels are higher than normal, but not high […]

The Center for Wound Healing & Hyperbaric Medicine at Buchanan County Health Center (BCHC) has been recognized with a national award for clinical excellence by Healogics, Inc; the nation’s largest provider of advanced wound care services.

The Wound Center at BCHC achieved outstanding clinical outcomes for 12 consecutive months, including patient satisfaction higher than 92 […]

Ever been to a farmers market? If not, check that off your list this summer! Farmers markets typically start in May and end in the fall.  They help to bring producers and buyers together in a fun and casual environment.  Here are just a few benefits of shopping at a farmers market.

Buy fresh, buy […]

(Independence, IA)- On May 23rd, 2017 Buchanan County Health Center (BCHC) Board approved the purchase and installation of a new 3D Mammogram machine. The Genius™ 3D Mammography™ will replace the current 2D mammography machine.

Breast cancer is the second leading cause of cancer death among women, exceeded only by lung cancer. Statistics indicate that one […]

Snacks are foods eaten outside of a scheduled, structured meal setting. Snacking can be part of a healthy meal plan. However, many snack foods and beverages that give us the most calories are low in important nutrients.

According to a United States Department of Agriculture study, after-school snacks provide about one-third of children’s calories. Because […]

(Sumner, IA) – Following the announcement of Dustin Wright assuming the role of president and CEO at UnityPoint Health – Marshalltown, effective May 15, Steve Slessor will serve as the interim CEO at Community Memorial Hospital in Sumner for a six month contract while a full-time CEO is found.

Slessor will continue his current CEO […]

Osteoporosis is an age-related disorder of progressive bone loss. Often called a silent disease, the condition usually develops slowly over time with no symptoms or discomfort. Bones gradually become more porous and less able to support the body. Most people are not diagnosed with osteoporosis until they have already lost a significant amount of bone […]

(Independence, IA)- Buchanan County Health Center (BCHC) is pleased to announce that Tara McEnany, Chief Nursing Officer at BCHC, has been chosen to be part of the Board of Directors for the Iowa Donor Network.

The Iowa Donor Network (IDN) is the primary contact for organ, tissue and eye donation services for the state of […]

Growing a garden has more benefits than just reaping the produce. Gardening can be great for your physical health, mental health, and the environment!

FRESH PRODUCE: The obvious reason one would plant a garden would be for the fresh fruits and vegetables. It’s hard to beat food that is fresh, tastes great, and is great […]

Lexington Estate is excited to announce the addition of a Snoezelen® room for our residents.

A Snoezelen® room is a controlled, multi-sensory environment that provides a steady stream of stimuli, automatically increasing awareness and understanding of surroundings. The Snoezelen® will have a variety of optical illusions combined with lighting effects, aromas, colors, textures and sounds […]

It’s that time of the year again! Time to dust off the mitt and cleats and head to the ball diamond. America’s past-time, baseball, is back. Many people have fond memories of their own playing days at the ball park, whether it be professional or even the local high school team, to watch the athletes […]

On April 10th, the emergency department at Buchanan County Health Center launched a new telehealth service for patients using Integrated Telehealth Partners (ITP).

ITP provides timely mental health consults for emergency department patients in need, via tele psychiatry services. Patients will receive a medical screening by the emergency department provider and if determined appropriate, will […]

Ready for summer?  Dreaming of gardening?  Get your green thumb out a little early this year and plant some cool-weather loving crops.  The following five crops can be planted almost as soon as the ground is tillable.

Potatoes – Best when planted mid-April. Any root vegetable could be planted at this time such as radishes, […]

Pregnancy is a great time to be active. There are numerous perks to getting off the couch during these nine months. Exercise can help reduce your risk of high blood pressure during pregnancy, increase your muscle strength to prepare you for labor, ease back pain and other discomforts, and even boost your energy!

Like the […]

Most people have heard of the term “core,” but what exactly is it? When it comes to training, I like to break down the core into inner and outer.  “Inner” referring to deep muscles that function as stabilizers, and “outer” referring to larger, superficial muscles that function to create ROM, generate movement and gross stability.

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Buchanan County Health Center is pleased to announce that two of its own have been named among the 100 Great Iowa Nurses.  Surgical Services Manager, Jennie Goos, BSN, RN, along with Diabetes Education Coordinator, Cindy Horn, RN, will be honored with this prestigious award on May 7th in Des Moines as a kick-off to National […]

On Monday, April 3rd, Buchanan County Health Center will offer a Prediabetes education class, beginning at 4 p.m. in Meeting Room A at BCHC.  Prediabetes education classes are held to help reduce the risk for the development of type 2 diabetes.

Prediabetes is when an individual’s blood sugar levels are higher than normal, but not […]

Buchanan County Health Center is pleased to announce the expansion of primary care services by signing two full-time physicians to join the established team of providers at Medical Associates. Dr. William Schmitt, D.O., and Dr. David Fahey, D.O. will begin practice at BCHC upon completion of their residency in August of 2018.

“Successfully recruiting great […]

Buchanan County Health Center is pleased to introduce a new electronic medical record (EMR) system on March 5, 2017.  Transitioning from Meditech to Epic, the number one medical record system in the country, will provide BCHC and its patients with many benefits.  Typically a resource unavailable to rural hospitals, BCHC has been working with UnityPoint […]

When Marlys Miller moved to Oak View in May of 2016, she knew right away that it was just a match. “You know when you drive by a place 50,000 times and never really stop to think what is all inside?  That’s what it was like for me when I drove by Oak View day […]

We have a lot to talk about! View our Winter Newsletter to hear about all of the happenings that have recently taken place at BCHC.

Click here to read the Winter 2017 Newsletter

On January 11th, the Buchanan County Health Center Auxiliary Board of Directors donated over $6,000 to go towards BCHC departmental needs.  This donation was made possible through several fundraisers and gift shop sales.

After reviewing grant requests, the Auxiliary Board designated funding to the following departments and their requests: Lexington Estate, funding towards an ice […]

Ryan Pharmacy and Buchanan County Health Center have reached a lease agreement for Ryan Pharmacy to occupy retail space in the new medical office building on the campus of BCHC.  Ryan Pharmacy will move from their current location in the basement of Medical Associates to an easily accessible, 1,478 sq. ft. storefront during the fall […]

Medical Associates of BCHC is pleased to announce the addition of Sarah DeVore, ARNP to its panel of providers.  A life-long resident of Jesup, Sarah comes to Medical Associates with eight years of experience in family practice and five years of prior experience in nephrology.  Sarah attended Allen College of Nursing, where she received her […]

On December 27th, Medical Associates and Buchanan County Health Center reached all major contract agreements and signed legal documentation to partner in their efforts to grow primary care services in Buchanan County and surrounding areas.  Beginning January 1st, Medical Associates will become part of Buchanan County Health Center.  Although remaining in their current location for […]

With the New Year right around the corner, along with resolutions for a healthier 2017, BCHC has introduced two new service lines for the public to monitor their personal health and wellness at an affordable, out-of-pocket fee.

The Radiology and Laboratory Departments are pleased to offer body composition testing and lipid panels for general health […]

All healthy adults have some body fat. Women generally have proportionately more body fat than men who, in turn, have more muscle tissue than women. Where a person stores the fat tissue he or she accumulates is gender related. Men are most likely to pile excess fat around the middle– a pattern called an “apple.” […]

Calling all future babysitters! Buchanan County Health Center will be holding a Safe Sitter® class for 11 to 14 year olds on Thursday, December 29th.  The class will be held from 8am to 3pm in the Community Room of the Independence Public Library.  The cost to attend is $40, which includes one day of training, […]

Author: Jarod Wiebel, PA-C

Cold weather is back again and “Old Man Winter” is blowing in.  Although we hate to see nicer weather leave, we can all appreciate the seasons of living in the Midwest.  The holidays are […]

The Buchanan County Health Center Community blood drive will take place on Tuesday, December 20th from 12:00-5:30pm at the Buchanan County Senior Center located at 400 5th Ave NE in Independence.  The blood drive will be facilitated by LifeServe Blood Center, the sole supplier of community based blood products to BCHC.

Currently, there is a […]

According to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention, over 29 million Americans are living with diabetes.  A growing epidemic, the CDC estimates that 1 in 3 Americans will have diabetes by 2050.  BCHC is taking a proactive stance in helping pre-diabetic patients prevent and reverse the risk factors of diabetes along with assisting, educating, […]

The Cardiology Specialty Clinic at Buchanan County Health Center welcomes Fahed Al Darazi, MD and Ojas Bansal, MD to its regular rotation of providers from UnityPoint Clinic Cardiology, based out of Cedar Rapids.  A graduate from the American University of Beirut, Dr. Al Darazi completed residency at the John H. Stroger, Jr. Hospital of Cook […]

Buchanan County Health Center is pleased to welcome three new emergency medicine providers from East Central Iowa Acute Care (ECIAC).  Partnering with ECIAC in June of 2014, BCHC’s Emergency Department is currently staffed 75% of the time by ECIAC; a team of board certified emergency physicians and allied health professionals.  The remaining 25% is staffed […]

Buchanan County Health Center is pleased to welcome two new providers to its new Urgent Care Department.  Since opening its doors in July, BCHC’s Urgent Care has seen over 500 patients.

Visiting BCHC’s Urgent Care from Dubuque, Connie Kramer, ARNP currently practices at Grand River Medical Group and specializes in nephrology.  Connie attended Northeast Iowa […]

The Buchanan County Emergency Management Services has released information regarding flood recovery and resources for Buchanan County residents effected by the flooding in late September of 2016.  For all information and resources regarding flood recovery, please visit http://www.buchanancountyiowa.org/Flood2016.php

FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE

Buchanan County Public Health Department

Flooding and Disease

People are often concerned about disease during a flood and subsequent clean-up. Enteric disease, or diseases of the gut which cause vomiting and diarrhea, can be avoided by thoroughly washing hands with soap and running water before eating and at the end of the […]

As we head into fall our children are going back to school and joining fall sports such as football, cross country, volleyball, and cheerleading.   Although fun and rewarding to participate in and watch, contact sports can increase the incidence of sport injuries and concussions.

Although just a common now as it was years ago, an […]

Attention Mustang Families!  The Independence Community School District is partnering with Buchanan County Health Center to provide a concussion management program for students ages 10 and older.  An athletic trainer from BCHC will measure your child’s reaction time and accuracy to determine if a concussion has happened in the past, and will provide pre-concussion baseline […]

On Monday, September 26th, Buchanan County Health Center will offer a Prediabetes education class, beginning at 4 p.m. in Meeting Room A at BCHC.  Prediabetes education classes are held to help reduce the risk for the development of type 2 diabetes.

Prediabetes is when an individual’s blood sugar levels are higher than normal, but not […]

Buchanan County Health Center is pleased to announce expansion of the Center for Wound Healing & Hyperbaric Medicine.  Beginning September 19th, the Wound Center will be open on Mondays, Wednesdays, and Fridays from 8:00am-4:30pm and Tuesdays and Thursdays from 8:00am-12:00pm.

Along with the expansion of service hours, Michelle Wenzel, ARNP will join the team of […]

(Independence, IA)- The Fundraising Committee of Buchanan County Health Center will hold a Walk to End Alzheimer’s Vendor Fair on Wednesday, August 24th from 3-5pm in Meeting Room A & B at BCHC.  A portion of the proceeds will benefit the BCHC Walk to End Alzheimer’s Team. Participating vendors include:

The Pampered Chef, Anne McMillan […]

Two Trustees to be added to the November ballot

The Buchanan County Health Center Board of Trustees recently appointed Denny Donlea of Winthrop to fulfill a vacant seat on the BCHC Board of Trustees.  A lifelong resident of Winthrop, Donlea has played an active role within the community of Winthrop and beyond as a business […]

Sleep apnea is a common problem in today’s world. This sleep disorder increases a persons’ risk of having a heart attack or dying by 30% over a period of 4-5 years, according to a new study. The more severe the sleep apnea, the greater the risk of developing heart disease or dying. Obesity is a […]

Buchanan County Health Center is pleased to announce the expansion of orthopedic services by welcoming Liz Hoy, ARNP to Cedar Valley Orthopedics regular clinic hours.

Accredited by the American Academy of Nurse Practitioners Certification Program, Liz Hoy, ARNP has been practicing since 2015 with Cedar Valley Orthopedics. Liz Hoy will assist Dr. Benjamin Torrez during […]

Buchanan County Health Center is pleased to announce the appointment of Amy Van Scoyoc as its Urgent Care Manager.  An employee of BCHC for the past nine years, Amy also serves as the Specialty Clinic Manager.

“Amy has proven herself time and time again as a great leader for our organization.  Amy also coordinates our […]

Buchanan County Health Center is pleased to announce the expansion of orthopedic services and clinic hours.  Beginning July 1st, orthopedic surgeon, Dr. Benjamin Torrez, DO, MPH, will increase regular clinic hours by adding every third Thursday afternoon to his current clinic rotation.

Orthopedic services at BCHC can assist patients with a variety of orthopedic needs, […]

Buchanan County Health Center is pleased to announce the opening of an on-campus Urgent Care clinic to better accommodate the health care needs of the residents of Buchanan County and surrounding communities.  After months of planning, BCHC Urgent Care is set to open to the public on Tuesday, July 12th.

An affordable alternative for non-life-threatening, […]

Each year, the Buchanan County Health Center Auxiliary awards scholarships in the amount of $1,000 to graduating seniors of East Buchanan, Independence, and Jesup High Schools through local chapters of Dollars for Scholars, along with nontraditional students and those continuing their education in a human health care related field, residing or working in Buchanan County.

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Buchanan County Health Center is pleased to introduce Steve Yarnall as the Nutrition Services Manager.  Steve comes to BCHC with over twenty years of experience in nutrition services.

“BCHC is excited to welcome Steve.  He comes to the organization with a great amount of experience in the retail and nursing home nutrition services arena, which […]

According to the American Nurses Association, there are over 3.1 million registered nurses and practical nurses within the United States.  National Nurses Week, observed on May 6th through the 12th, serves as a time to show gratitude and appreciation to the largest occupation in healthcare.  Buchanan County Health Center is proud to employee over 90 […]

The Specialty Clinic at BCHC is pleased to welcome Dr. Gwendoline (Gwen) Fang to its OB/GYN service line.  Dr. Fang visits BCHC from UnityPoint OB/GYN Clinic in Waterloo.

Specializing in obstetrics and gynecology, Dr. Fang attended medical school at Ross University School of Medicine in Portsmouth, Dominica and fulfilled her residency at Medstar Franklin Square […]

April is National Occupational Therapy Month.  Celebrating the services occupational therapy provides to the Buchanan County and surrounding areas, the Rehabilitation and Therapy Department is expanding its occupational therapy line by adding a safe driver evaluation program to its list of services.

During a driving evaluation and assessment, BCHC’s certified occupational therapist will assess an […]

According to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention, 1 in 4 women will experience domestic violence in their lifetime.  Buchanan County Health Center has joined efforts with Waypoint Services to create an access point for individuals needing support for domestic violence issues through Project Safe Zone.  Project Safe Zone is designed to increase the […]

Buchanan County Health Center is pleased to now offer cardiac nuclear medicine, more commonly called ‘stress tests’ as an extended service of the Radiology and Cardiac Rehab Departments.  A nuclear stress test measures blood flow to a patient’s heart during times of rest and stress, as a result of exertion or medication.

“After several months […]

Buchanan County Health Center is pleased to welcome Saeko VonBehren as the Director of Clinical Services.  VonBehren comes to BCHC with over fifteen years of experience in the field of project management and process improvement within the industries of information technology, healthcare, insurance, aerospace, and manufacturing. Most recently employed as a project manager at the […]

Beginning Tuesday, March 1st, the south parking lot of BCHC along 1st Street East will be closed until further notice, as construction will begin on the “Building for You” expansion and remodeling project.  This 74,000 sq. ft. project will provide the communities of Buchanan County with extended health and wellness opportunities and services and continued […]

On Tuesday, February 23rd, the Buchanan County Health Center Board of Trustees voted to begin a three-phase, 74,000 sq. ft. building project to the campus of BCHC, instilling BCHC’s commitment to providing the highest quality of health and wellness services to the communities of Buchanan County conveniently close to home, amidst growing healthcare needs.

This […]

The Specialty Clinic at BCHC is expanding its urology service line, beginning March 9th, by welcoming Drs. Mark Newton and Eric Askeland from Cedar Valley Urology in addition to urology providers from Physicians’ Clinic of Iowa

Specializing in urologic oncology, female urology, and general urology, Drs. Newton and Askeland joined Cedar Valley Urology in 2015.  […]

On Wednesday, March 16th, Buchanan County Health Center will offer a Prediabetes Information and Support Group, beginning at 5 p.m. in Meeting Room A at BCHC.

Prediabetes is when your blood sugar levels are higher than normal, but not high enough to be diagnosed as diabetic.

Risk factors for prediabetes include:

Being overweight Are age […]

On January 20th, the Buchanan County Health Center Auxiliary Board of Directors donated $7,000 to go towards BCHC departmental needs.  This donation was made possible through several fundraisers and gift shop sales.

After reviewing grant requests, the Auxiliary Board designated $7,000 to the following departments and their requests: Lexington Estate, funding towards a wheelchair accessible […]

Beginning Tuesday, March 1st, the south parking lot of BCHC along 1st Street East will be closed until further notice, as construction will begin on the “Building for You” expansion and remodeling project.  This 74,000 sq. ft. project will provide the communities of Buchanan County with extended health and wellness opportunities and services and continued […]

On Tuesday, February 23rd, the Buchanan County Health Center Board of Trustees voted to begin a three-phase, 74,000 sq. ft. building project to the campus of BCHC, instilling BCHC’s commitment to providing the highest quality of health and wellness services to the communities of Buchanan County conveniently close to home, amidst growing healthcare needs.

This […]

The Specialty Clinic at BCHC is expanding its urology service line, beginning March 9th, by welcoming Drs. Mark Newton and Eric Askeland from Cedar Valley Urology in addition to urology providers from Physicians’ Clinic of Iowa

Specializing in urologic oncology, female urology, and general urology, Drs. Newton and Askeland joined Cedar Valley Urology in 2015.  […]

On Wednesday, March 16th, Buchanan County Health Center will offer a Prediabetes Information and Support Group, beginning at 5 p.m. in Meeting Room A at BCHC.

Prediabetes is when your blood sugar levels are higher than normal, but not high enough to be diagnosed as diabetic.

Risk factors for prediabetes include:

Being overweight Are age […]

On January 20th, the Buchanan County Health Center Auxiliary Board of Directors donated $7,000 to go towards BCHC departmental needs.  This donation was made possible through several fundraisers and gift shop sales.

After reviewing grant requests, the Auxiliary Board designated $7,000 to the following departments and their requests: Lexington Estate, funding towards a wheelchair accessible […]

The Buchanan County Health Center Community blood drive will take place on Tuesday, February 9th from 12:00-5:30pm at the Buchanan County Senior Center located at 400 5th Ave NE in Independence.  The blood drive will be facilitated by Lifeserve Blood Center, the sole supplier of community based blood products to BCHC.

Blood donation is safe […]

The Buchanan County Health Center Auxiliary is continuing its commitment to assist local students pursuing health care careers. In 2016, the Auxiliary will make six $1,000 scholarships available.

Applicants must be a resident of or currently work in Buchanan County and be accepted into an institution of higher learning, with the objective of entering a […]

Buchanan County Health Center and Lexington Estate respects the right of patients and residents to make decisions regarding their own health care, including the right to accept or reject certain recommended care.  BCHC will recognize and honor a person’s right under Iowa Law to execute a Living Will and/or Durable Power of Attorney for Healthcare.

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Beginning January 1st of 2016, all patients admitted to Outpatient Observation at Buchanan County Health Center (BCHC), will no longer be allowed to use their medications from home in order to ensure the safety of the admitted patient.  BCHC staff will continue to encourage patients to bring in their medications bottles so an accurate medication […]

The Specialty Clinic at BCHC is pleased to announce the expansion of the Endocrinology outpatient clinic; a specialty of internal medicine, focusing on diabetes and metabolism, thyroid conditions, osteoporosis, and other endocrine disorders.

Beginning January 20th, Dr. Arun Movva, visiting from MercyCare Endocrinologists, will increase his visiting from one half day to one full day, […]

The Specialty Clinic at Buchanan County Health Center is pleased to announce the expansion of the Skin Cancer/Facials & Plastics outpatient clinic.  Beginning January 8th, Meg Heatley, PA-C, will offer an additional day of clinic, visiting BCHC twice a week.  The expansion of this specialty will provide additional opportunity for patients to be seen more […]

According to the Center for Disease Control, the winter season is when the flu virus most commonly hits.  Although it is common for seasonal outbreaks, most flu activity peaks between the months of December and February.

Carried by germs spread through coughing and sneezing, shaking hands, or simply talking, an individual with the flu can […]

Buchanan County Health Center cordially invites the public to tour the Center for Wound Healing & Hyperbaric Medicine on Tuesday, December 1st from 3-5pm.

Located near the Specialty Clinic entrance, the Wound Center will feature three patient exam rooms, along with two hyperbaric oxygen chambers for advanced wound healing and treatment.

With wound care provided […]

Buchanan County Health Center is pleased to announce the appointment of Scott Houghton, MD as Medical Director of the Center for Wound Healing & Hyperbaric Medicine, and Bethany Stevens, MSN, ARNP, FNP-BC as the Wound Center’s nurse practitioner.

Visiting BCHC from Cedar Valley Medical Specialists, Dr. Houghton will be responsible for reviewing patient care and […]

The Wellness Center (TWC) at BCHC is pleased to offer ROC Fit Boot Camp as a fitness class option to individuals interested in kick-starting and maintaining high intensity exercise routines and healthy weight loss plans. ROC Fit is a six week program designed to train an individual of any age, male or female, regardless of […]

Buchanan County Health Center is pleased to announce that Dr. David Congdon, MD, MPH will perform ENT and Facial/Plastics procedures locally through BCHC’s Surgery Center, beginning November 6th.  Visiting from Cedar Valley Medical Specialists, Dr. Congdon will perform skin cancer reconstruction, diagnosis and treatment, PE tube replacement, and tonsillectomies among other common procedures.

Congdon attended […]

October is National Breast Cancer Awareness Month.  Among the most common types of cancers, 1 in 8 women will be diagnosed with breast cancer in her lifetime.  It is suggested that women age 40 and older or those who have a family history of breast cancer receive a yearly breast examination, including mammograms to aide […]

Attention all 500 and Bridge card players! The Buchanan County Health Center Auxiliary will hold a Card Party Fund-Raiser on Friday, October 23rd, beginning at 1 p.m. at the Oak View Senior Living Complex.  All are welcome to participate, providing a five dollar donation.

Through the fundraising efforts of the BCHC Auxiliary, $9,000 has been […]

The Radiology and Laboratory Departments at BCHC are currently undergoing a remodel to answer the requests of patient needs and privacy.

In efforts to remain the community leader for healthcare, BCHC is excited to unveil the remodeled departments to offer more privacy and comfort to patients and families.  With an anticipated completion date of December […]

The Specialty Clinic at Buchanan County Health Center is pleased to announce the addition of GI Services.  Dr. Ana Alardin will visit BCHC from Cedar Valley Medical Specialists and will begin regular rotation on the 22nd of October.  Dr. Alardin will visit BCHC on the 2nd and 4th Thursday afternoons of each month.

In addition […]

On September 30th, Independence resident and longtime BCHC Lexington Estate volunteer, Harvey See, was recognized as the 2015 Adult Volunteer of the Year by the Iowa Health Care Association and the Iowa Center for Assisted Living in Des Moines.  This prestigious recognition is awarded to an outstanding volunteer assisting in long term and post-acute care […]

Congratulations to our Alzheimer’s Walk Team for raising $3,015.90 for a Walk to End Alzheimer’s.  Angel Decker was the lucky winner of the queen-sized quilt, donated by Deb Hinde. Raffle tickets for the quilt alone exceeded $700. BCHC is proud to be able to support this great cause!

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The Independence Area Community Blood Drive will take place on Tuesday, October 13th from 12:00-5:30pm at the Buchanan County Senior Center located at 400 5th Ave NE in Independence.  The blood drive will be facilitated by Lifeserve Blood Center, the sole supplier of community based blood products to BCHC.

Currently, there is a critical need […]

In a collaborative effort, Pathways Behavioral Services, Buchanan County Sherrif’s Office, and BCHC will be hosting a drop-off site for the DEA’s 2015 National Take Back Day.  This event is conducted in an effort to have patients and their families dispose of unwanted or expired medications.  The National Take Back program is anonymous, and every […]

Buchanan County Health Center (BCHC) is proud to announce the re-certification of its Cardiovascular Rehabilitation program by the American Association of Cardiovascular and Pulmonary Rehabilitation (AACVPR). BCHC was recognized for its commitment to improving the quality of life by enhancing standards of care.

Cardiovascular rehabilitation programs are designed to help people with cardiovascular problems (e.g., […]

The Specialty Clinic at Buchanan County Health Center is happy to announce the expanded clinic rotation of Abbie Schaa, ARNP, from Cedar Valley Medical Specialists, Cedar Valley Cardiovascular Center.

In addition to the first and third Tuesday of each month, Schaa will visit the Cardiology Clinic on the second Tuesday of each month as part […]

According to the American Cancer Society, breast cancer is the most common cancer among American women.  It is estimated that 1 in 8 women in the US will develop invasive breast cancer during their lifetime.  Recommended yearly for women 40 years of age and older, the Radiology Department at BCHC is proud to provide the […]

The Wellness and Therapies Departments at BCHC recently partnered to offer a concussion management program to Buchanan County high school football teams.  A concussion is a mild traumatic brain injury due to direct or indirect force applied to the head.

Due to the higher risk of a concussion occurring in football players, Director of Rehab, […]

Proud supporters of Relay for Life and a Walk to End Alzheimer’s, BCHC employees recently raised $480 by holding a pie-in-the-face contest between the administrative leaders.  After three weeks of fundraising, the employees gathered for a celebratory cookout and reveal. 

“During the final days of the […]

Scratch Cupcakery’s Curbside will be in Independence on Thursday, August 20th in the south parking lot at Buchanan County Health Center.  Beginning at approximately 11:00 a.m., the public is cordially invited to visit the campus of BCHC and purchase these sweet treats.

“If you have never tried a Scratch Cupcake, you are in for a […]

On Thursday, August 20th, the Wellness Center at BCHC will hold a first aid class, followed by a health care professionals CPR course.  Beginning at 1:00pm, the first aid class will teach students critical skills to respond to and manage an emergency until emergency medical services arrive.  Immediately following, at 2:00pm, a CPR course will […]

The Buchanan County Health Center Community blood drive will take place on Tuesday, August 18th from 12:00-5:30 pm at the Independence Senior Center located at 400 5th Ave NE in Independence. The blood drive will be facilitated by Lifeserve Blood Center, the sole supplier of community based blood products to BCHC.

Currently, there is a need […]

Long Term Care at BCHC has been renamed to Lexington Estate.  Opening its doors in 1968 Lexington Estate at BCHC has provided compassionate and quality care to the aging population of Buchanan County for over forty-five years.  Lexington Estate is a 39-bed certified nursing facility attached to the campus of BCHC; allowing for optimal medical […]

The Respiratory Therapy Department at BCHC is happy to announce the expansion of outpatient respiratory services.

Overnight oximetry testing is now available to referred patients, monitoring the level of oxygen in the bloodstream as a patient sleeps through the night at home.  This testing serves as an initial evaluation to screen for sleep apnea and […]

The Buchanan County Health Center Board of Trustees met on Tuesday, June 30th for a board meeting at BCHC.  Invision Architecture presented to the Board of Trustees with information and drafts from the design development phase of the BCHC building project.  The main item on the agenda was to review the design development phase of […]

Donnie Bloes of Jesup was recently appointed to the Buchanan County Health Center Board of Trustees by the BCHC Board of Trustees.  A lifelong resident of Jesup, Bloes has played an active role within the community of Jesup and Buchanan County as a business owner and volunteer.

Co-owning B&B Farm Store in Jesup with his […]

On Wednesday, August 19th, Buchanan County Health Center will offer a Prediabetes Information and Support Group, beginning at 5 p.m. in Meeting Room A at BCHC.

Prediabetes is when your blood sugar levels are higher than normal, but not high enough to be diagnosed as diabetic.

Risk factors for prediabetes include:

Being overweight Are age […]

Buchanan County Health Center (BCHC) is pleased to announce the expansion of orthopedic services and clinic hours.  Beginning July 1st, orthopedic surgeon, Dr. Benjamin Torrez, DO, MPH, will increase clinic hours to a weekly rotation, providing additional opportunity for patients to be seen more frequently and for surgical procedures to continue to be performed locally.

[…]

Each year, the Buchanan County Health Center Auxiliary awards scholarships in the amount of $1,000 to graduating seniors of East Buchanan, Independence, and Jesup High Schools through local chapters of Dollars for Scholars, along with nontraditional students and those continuing their education in a human health care related field, residing in Buchanan County.

On June […]

The Specialty Clinic at BCHC is expanding its service lines by offering endocrinology, a specialty of internal medicine, focusing on diabetes and metabolism, thyroid conditions, osteoporosis, and other endocrine disorders.

BCHC welcomes Dr. Arun K. Movva, MD, Cedar Rapids’ first endocrinologist. Dr. Movva visits BCHC from MercyCare Endocrinologists, located in Cedar Rapids. Dr. Movva studied […]

The Buchanan County Health Center Community blood drive will take place on Tuesday, June 23rd from 12:00-5:30 pm at the Independence Senior Center located at 400 5th Ave NE in Independence. The blood drive will be facilitated by Lifeserve Blood Center, the sole supplier of community based blood products to BCHC.

Currently, there is a […]

The Specialty Clinic at Buchanan County Health Center welcomes Crystal Wilken, ARNP, RN to the ENT/Skin Cancer outpatient clinic services. Wilken visits BCHC from Cedar Valley Medical Specialists, located in Waterloo.  Wilken studied at Allen College in Waterloo where she received her RN and ARNP, and MSN at the University of Phoenix.

Crystal Wilken will […]

On March 27th, the Buchanan County Health Center Auxiliary donated $2,000 to BCHC to go towards department needs outside of the operating budget.  This donation was made possible through several fundraisers and gift shop sales.

At the Auxiliary Board meeting held on May 21st, board members designated $2,000 to the following departments and their requests: […]

The Wellness Center at Buchanan County Health Center is happy to announce that 24/7 gym access is now available to all members. 24/7 access will be limited to the gym only, with studio and lap pool access available during regular business hours, Monday through Sunday.

“We are extremely excited to now offer 24-hour access at […]

Click here to see the Spring 2015 Community Newsletter

Brian Nolta of Jesup, and Director of Rehab at Buchanan County Health Center who will be earning a Doctors in Physical Therapy at Arcadia University, has been awarded a $3,000 scholarship from the Iowa Hospital Education and Research Foundation (IHERF), which is supported by the Iowa Hospital Association (IHA).  Nolta is among 34 outstanding students […]

(Independence, IA)-Buchanan County Health Center is opening its doors this summer to student volunteers.  The Student Volunteer Program offers the opportunity for students 14 and older to learn about careers in health care while gaining valuable work skills and experience. Volunteer opportunities include card playing, entertainment, bed making and table bussing, reading, and more.

Application […]

Calling all future babysitters! Buchanan County Health Center will offer a Safe Sitter® class for 11 to 14 year olds on Wednesday, June 10th.  The class will be held from 8am to 3pm in Meeting Room A, ending promptly at 3pm in the Wellness Studio of TWC.  The cost to attend is $35, which includes […]

On Wednesday, June 3rd, Buchanan County Health Center will offer a Prediabetes Information and Support Group, beginning at 5 p.m. in Meeting Room A at BCHC.

Prediabetes is when your blood sugar levels are higher than normal, but not high enough to be diagnosed as diabetic.

Risk factors for prediabetes include:

Being overweight Are age […]

April is National Volunteer Month. The heartbeat of a community, volunteers can help in a variety of ways; selling food at a concession stand, cleaning a city park, coaching little league, or contributing their time and talents to a community hospital, such as Buchanan County Health Center. With over 10,000 hours logged throughout the year […]

The Buchanan County Health Center Community blood drive will take place on Tuesday, April 21st from 12:00-5:30pm at the Buchanan County Senior Center located at 400 5th Ave NE in Independence.  The blood drive will be facilitated by Lifeserve Blood Center, the sole supplier of community based blood products to BCHC.

Currently, there is an […]

Buchanan County Health Center is pleased to announce the promotion of Kristi Moeller to the position of Wellness Coordinator at the Therapy & Wellness Center.

“Kristi has been an integral member of the wellness team over the past seven years and will continue to remain intimately involved in the future growth of the department and […]

On Friday, March 27th, the Buchanan County Health Center Auxiliary held a membership salad luncheon.  This meeting served as an opportunity for returning members to renew their membership and to provide fellowship to those interested in joining Auxiliary.  After salads and desserts, Sandy Sauer, Auxiliary President, led the general meeting with event and committee updates, […]

During the week of April 6th, the Therapy & Wellness Center at BCHC will celebrate ten years of serving the communities of Buchanan County with therapy and wellness services all under one roof.  Celebrating the past and looking forward to the future, the Therapy & Wellness center will hold a week-long open house in early […]

The Cardiology Specialty Clinic at Buchanan County Health Center welcomes Dr. Georges Hajj, MD to  join its regular rotation of cardiologists from UnityPoint Clinic in Cedar Rapids.  A graduate from  St. Joseph’s University in Beirut, Lebanon and completing residency at the University of Iowa, Dr. Hajj’s clinical interests include cardiology, echocardiology, interventional cardiology, and Peripheral […]

The Specialty Clinic at Buchanan County Health Center welcomes Amy Melik-Israyela, Hearing Instrument Specialist (HIS) to its audiology outpatient services.  Amy Melik-Israyela, visits BCHC from Iowa Hearing Clinics, located in Waterloo.  Melik-Israyela received HIS certification through DMACC and is a member of the Iowa Association of Hearing Health Professionals.

Amy Melik-Israyela will offer regular clinic […]

For the past year, Buchanan County Health Center has been offering MyHealth Patient Portal to patients visiting BCHC.  MyHealth Patient Portal provides patients and their families’ online access to their healthcare information at any time.   This convenient service allows for patients to easily and securely view lab results, radiology reports, medications and […]

BCHC physical therapist, Kelly Harrold, DPT recently received certification in the performance of Integrative Dry Needling though the Integrative Dry Needling Institute.

Integrative Dry Needling (IDN) is a highly effective form of physical therapy for the treatment of a multitude of musculoskeletal and neuromuscular conditions.  Different from acupuncture practices, IDN is based on neuro-anatomy and […]

On Wednesday, March 18th, Buchanan County Health Center will offer a Prediabetes Information and Support Group, beginning at 5 p.m. in Meeting Room A at BCHC.

If you have a fasting blood sugar from 100 to 125, or if your A1c is 5.7 to 6.4% you have prediabetes.

Diabetes has become an epidemic in the […]

Attention all 500 and Bridge card players! The Buchanan County Health Center Auxiliary will hold a Card Party Fund-Raiser on Friday, February 27th, beginning at 1 p.m. at the Oak View Senior Living Complex.  All are welcome to participate, providing a five dollar donation.

Through the fundraising efforts of the BCHC Auxiliary, […]

The Buchanan County Health Center will hold an American Red Cross lifeguard certification course on March 13th-15th at the Therapy and Wellness Center.  The course will begin on Friday, March 13th from 7pm-10pm, Saturday, March 14th from 8am-6pm, and will continue on Sunday, March 15th from 8am-1pm.  The cost for the course […]

(Independence, IA)– During the winter months, it can be tough to find the motivation to work out and stay fit.  Between holiday parties, social gatherings, and the comfort food that winter brings, extra and unwanted pounds can easily add up.  Over 50 individuals are taking control of winter weight gain and are […]

(Independence, IA)– The Buchanan County Health Center Community blood drive will take place on Tuesday, February 17th from 12:00-5:30pm in the BCHC meeting rooms A and B.  The blood drive will be facilitated by Lifeserve Blood Center, the sole supplier of community based blood products to BCHC.

Currently, there is a critical need for O […]

January 23, 2015 

The Buchanan County Health Center Auxiliary is continuing its commitment to assist local students pursuing health care careers. In 2015, the Auxiliary will make six $1,000 scholarships available.

Successful applicants must be residents of Buchanan County and be accepted into an institution of higher learning, with the objective of […]

Buchanan County Health Center  will be offering the Freedom From Smoking® program, a 7 week smoking cessation class for adults. Meetings will be held on 7 consecutive Tuesdays and one Thursday meeting from January 6th to February 17th from 12:00 pm – 1:30 pm at Buchanan County Health Center.

As America’s gold standard smoking cessation […]

The Buchanan County Health Center Board of Trustees approved plans to create a Comprehensive Wound Care Center at its October meeting.

Medical Staff Chair Dr. Rick McCormick stated that the availability of specialized wound care services is something that is needed in the area. In the past, wound care services had been offered through the […]

Buchanan County Health Center’s Fourth Annual Recipes for Real Life Cooking Class will get underway on Tuesday, January 13th. The six week class series will be held from 5-6 p.m. at the Oak View Senior Living Complex, located on the hospital’s campus.

The cost for all six classes is $40. Participants will watch as the […]

The Buchanan County Health Center will offer a Safe Sitter® class for girls and boys ages 11 to 14 on Monday, December 29, 2014.    The class will be limited to 20 participants.

The Safe Sitter® program is a medically accurate program that teaches young adolescents how to handle emergencies when caring for younger children.

Cost […]

Welcome to the Buchanan County Health Trust’s 17th Annual Dinner & Auction. Your support and attendance at this year’s event, held Friday, Nov. 14, is greatly appreciated.

Heartland Acres is located on Swan Lake Boulevard in Independence. Valet Parking is available when you arrive at the door.

Your special evening will begin at 6:30 p.m. […]

BID NOTIFICATION

Buchanan County Health Center will receive sealed bids at the Hospital Business Office until November 19, 2014 at 1:00 P.M. for the replacement of a mechanical chiller as described in the specifications.  The bids will be opened and read aloud at this time.  Bidders are welcome to be present, but […]

Reservations are available for the 17th Annual Buchanan County Health Trust Dinner & Auction set for Friday, Nov. 14th, at Heartland Acres in Independence. To date the Health Trust has granted nearly $500,000 to help non-profit organizations with hundreds of health related projects.

With the “Autumn Harvest” theme this year, it promises to be a […]

Gary Wilson from Wilson Photography of Independence recently presented a donation of $700 to Buchanan County Health Center Long Term Care. Mr. Wilson donated his profit from recent BCHC “Just for Fun” 2015 calendar sales. The donation will benefit the resident activity fund to help offset the cost of admission fees, tickets and any other […]

The Buchanan County Health Center Dinner and Auction has a new date and time this year. The annual gala will be held Friday, November 14, at Heartland Acres.  The social hour will begin at 6:30 pm. The success of the Health Trust reflects our universal need for high quality health care. Over the years, the […]

Thank you to Buchanan County Health Center Radiology Department members for helping to raise the awareness of early detection in the fight against breast cancer. Peg Hoffman, Katie Perry and Julie Till were on hand for the October 9th East Buchanan Volleyball game to share their insight and expertise.

About 1 in 8 U.S. women […]

Attention all 500 and Bridge card players! The Buchanan County Health Center Auxiliary will hold a Card Party Fund-Raiser on Friday, October 24, beginning at 1 p.m. at the Oak View Senior Living Complex.  All card players are welcome.

“We thought this might be a great way to give people something fun to do at […]

Click here to see the Summer 2014 Community Newsletter

The Buchanan County Health Center is pleased to announce that Dr. Tara McEnany, DNP, ARNP, has accepted a new position of Chief Nursing Officer. McEnany most recently served as clinical coordinator at BCHC.

As Chief Nursing Officer and member of the Senior Leadership Team,  McEnany will help to set the overall direction for the BCHC […]

Chris Dunne recently won the Walk to End Alzheimer’s Quilt Raffle held at the Buchanan County Health Center. The quilt raffle was one of several fund-raising efforts which raised a total of $2,300.

Thank you to Deb Hinde for making and donating the quilt and to Angie Flaucher for donating the fabric.

Pictured are Dianne […]

Iowans across the state have shown their support for the Healthiest State Initiative by the thousands. By the hundreds of thousands, actually – each year for the past three years, nearly 300,000 Iowans have participated in 1-kilometer walks to show that we’re ready for a healthier Iowa.

As we approach our fourth year, we need […]

Buchanan County Health Center will offer a Pre-Diabetes Information and Support Group on Wednesday, November 5, beginning at 5 p.m. in the meeting room at the hospital.

If your fasting blood glucose is from 100 to 125 or your A1c is 5.7 to 6.4% you have Pre-Diabetes.

Diabetes has become an epidemic in the United […]

The Buchanan County Health Center contributed $2300.38 towards the total raised of $100,000.00 at the event held Saturday at the RiverLoop Amphitheatre  in Waterloo.

Walkers included Marty Ciesielski, Ericka Pollock, Mary Reed, Dodie Henningsen, Dianne Hepke and Cathy Jo Breeden.

The Wellness Center at the Buchanan County Health Center will be offering American Heart Association Health Care Provider Initial Certification Courseson:

Tuesday, Sept. 23 at 8 a.m. Wednesday, Sept. 24 at 1 p.m.

The course is designed to provide a wide variety of healthcare professionals the ability to recognize several life-threatening emergencies, provide CPR, use […]

The Buchanan County Health Center Walk to End Alzheimer’s Team is sponsoring a Raffle to award this beautiful quilt made by Independence artist Deb Hinde. Raffle tickets, on sale until September 27, are $1 each or 6 for $5. Tickets are available at the BCHC Switchboard or from any BCHC Walk to End Alzheimer’s Team […]

Buchanan County Health Center Laboratory Technicians Marcy Zimmerly and Mariah Bell were very excited this morning to get their new microscope up and running. The new microscope replaces a 1970s model that stopped working earlier this summer. Thank you to Weland Labs for providing a replacement model in the interim.  “We will use this for […]

 The Buchanan County Health Center will hold a Walk to End Alzheimer’s Vendor’s Fair on Wednesday, Sept. 10, from 3-6 p.m. in Meeting Room A. A portion of proceeds will benefit the BCHC Walk to End Alzheimer’s Team! Those vendors participating include:

Anne McMillan , BCHC board member, – Pampered Chef Raychal Koob, BCHC […]

Buchanan County Health Center recently unveiled  a new patient portal, MyHealth. The portal is available to all registered BCHC patients through the website www.bchealth.org. MyHealth provides patients and their families with access to their health information online at any time and from almost anywhere. The patient portal will allow you to:

Pre-register for your […]

Congratulations to the Buchanan County Health Center’s Radiology Department!  The Radiology Department passed the US FDA’s annual MQSA (Mammography Quality Standards Act) inspection with flying colors. Inspectors found no deficiencies during its recent inspection. This is the 10th consecutive year BCHC has earned this designation.

Congress enacted MQSA in 1992 to ensure that all women […]

Buchanan County Health Center will be offering the Freedom From Smoking® program, an 8-week smoking cessation class for adults. Meetings will be held on eight consecutive Tuesday afternoons from September 23rd to October 28th from 4:30 p.m. to 6:00 p.m. in meeting room […]

The Buchanan County Health Center’s bottom line at the end of the 2013-2014 fiscal year, was $611,000. Total patient revenue was $36.95 million. Between contractual adjustments to Medicare, Medicaid and other insurance of $14.6 million, $1.4 million in bad debt and $131,564 in charity care, BCHC’s net patient revenue was $20.7 million.

On the other […]

Buchanan County Health Center will offer a Pre-Diabetes Information and Support Group on Thursday, September 18th,  beginning at 5 p.m. in the meeting room B at the hospital.

If your fasting blood glucose is from 100 to 125 or your A1c is 5.7 to 6.4% you have Pre-Diabetes.

Diabetes has become an epidemic in the […]

The Scratch Cupcake Truck returns Thursday, Aug. 14 to be part of a Hot Dog Lunch fund-raiser hosted by the hospital.

The Scratch Cupcake Truck from Cedar Falls will be in Independence on Thursday, Aug. 14, in the North Parking Lot at the Buchanan County Health Center, beginning at approximately 11:00 a.m. The public […]

Would you be willing to save a life this summer?

The Buchanan County Health Center Auxiliary and the LifeServe Blood Center will hold an Independence Community Blood Drive on Tuesday, August 19, from noon to 5:30 p.m. in the Therapy & Wellness Center at the Buchanan County Health Center.

The LifeServe Blood Center provides blood […]

Dear Friends:

We want to thank you for your past support and membership to the Buchanan County Health Center Auxiliary. Thanks to you, among its many accomplishments, our 225 member BCHC Auxiliary was able to:

Assist with an interior design update to 18 patient rooms at the hospital; Purchase the nationally recognized Safe Sitter Babysitting […]

The Buchanan County Health Center will welcome Allen’s HeartReach Mobile Lab to campus on Wednesday, July 23 from 8 a.m. to 1 p.m.

The HeartReach Mobile Lab allows you to conveniently schedule a variety of health screenings to determine you risk of heart disease or stroke. Eight different screening options are available, including vascular and […]

Buchanan County Health Center will offer a Pre-Diabetes Information and Support Group on Thursday, July 10, beginning at 5 p.m. in the meeting rooms at the hospital.

Diabetes has become an epidemic in the United States with as many at 30 percent of the population contracting the disease. Come and find out what you can […]

You will get dirty, you might trash your shoes, and you may be exposed to scratchy stuff!

Have you ever wanted to participate in a reality television show like Survivor, Real World/Road Rules Challenge or The Amazing Race but didn’t want to eat exotic insects or the entrails of some animal?  If the answer is […]

Scholarship Winners ceremony

The Buchanan County Health Center Auxiliary each year gives a number of $1,000 scholarships to students living in Buchanan County who are either currently in a human health care course of study at a college or are planning to enter this field.  This year the auxiliary will be giving a total of […]

Ears, Nose & Throat (ENT) Outpatient Clinic Services are expanding at the Buchanan County Health Center (BCHC). Dr. Kevin Carpenter of Physicians’ Clinic of Iowa in Cedar Rapids, will offer regular clinic hours on the second Wednesday morning each month, starting July 9th. For more information, call the Outpatient Clinic 319-332-0950.

Dr. Carpenter is a […]

The Buchanan County Health Center Auxiliary recently welcomed Nancy Elliott as Gift Shop Buyer. Here she receives the keys from Mary Kay Miller, who has generously served as Buyer for several years. (We thank her for her service!) Also pictured are (left) Kay Neidy, Coordinator of Gift Shop Volunteers, and (right) Cheryl Penne, Gift Shop […]

The next BCHC Community Blood Drive will be held on Tuesday, June 17th from noon to 5:30 p.m. at the Therapy & Wellness Center on the Buchanan County Health Center campus.

Vacation schedules and competing summer events can lead to blood supply shortages. Right now there is a critical need (less than 2 day supply […]

The Buchanan County Health Center is pleased to announce that Dr. Tara McEnany, ARNP, has accepted a new position of Clinical Coordinator.

As Clinical Coordinator, McEnany, DNP, ARNP, will serve as a leader while working closely with the medical and nursing staff to ensure quality and cost-effective health care delivery. She will be essential in […]

Residents at BCHC’s Long-Term Care enjoyed a fun filled afternoon with Elvis!

The Buchanan County Health Center Radiology Department’ Mammography services recently earned re-accreditation after a recent survey by the Iowa Department of Public Health. The peer-review accreditation process indicates that BCHC mammography services are up to par with official guidelines for mammography services, and demonstrate BCHC’s commitment to quality patient care.

A mammogram is a digital […]

OFFICIAL NOTICE BUCHANAN COUNTY HEALTH CENTER INVITATION TO BID

The Buchanan County Health Center will receive sealed bids at the Hospital Business Office until May 30, 2014 at 1:00 P.M. for the House Purchase and Demolition as described in the listed specifications. The bids will be opened and read aloud at this time. Bidders are […]

AN EFFECTIVE WAY FOR SMOKERS TO OVERCOME THEIR TOBACCO ADDICTION

Buchanan County Health Center  will be offering the Freedom From Smoking® program, a 7-week smoking cessation class for adults. Meetings will be held on 7 consecutive Tuesdays and one Thursday meeting from May 13th to June 24th from 4:30pm-6pm at Buchanan County Health Center.

As […]

The Buchanan County Health Center will offer a Safe Sitter Course for 11 to 14 year olds on Thursday, June 19th. The class will be held from 8 am to 3 pm in Meeting Room B. The cost is $35 and the class is limited to the first 20 participants. To register, call 319-332-0850. Please […]

Buchanan County Health Center Wellness Department and Lizzie Rose, LLC Golf Courses are encouraging their current customers to “Add A Membership and Save Some Green.”

The promotion, which runs through May 31st, allows Wellness members at the Buchanan County Health Center to purchase a membership with Lizzy Rose, LLC Golf Courses (Oelwein, Jesup and Independence) […]

The Buchanan County Health Center is pleased to welcome Angel Decker of Independence, the new Long Term Care Director.

“We are excited to add Angel to our leadership team,” said Steve Slessor, CEO. “In her interview, it was clear that Angel was a positive, down to earth and results oriented person.  Based upon the feedback […]

Richard McGlaughlin would like to say Thank You for the Valentines he and other residents at the Buchanan County Health Center Long Term Care received from groups and individuals across Buchanan County. Thank you to all of the classrooms, Sunday Schools, community groups, […]

Deb Chudzinski, of Independence, is one of nine participants who recently completed the Fast Track to Better Health Program at the Buchanan County Health Center.

During the 6 to 10 week medically-based fitness program, Chudzinski lost weight and inches, and increased her strength. She was not alone. On average, participants in Fast Track to Better […]

The Phase II Cardiac Rehabilitation Program at the Buchanan County Health Center marked American Heart Month in February and passed a milestone. In 2013, a total of 61 patients completed the program.

“We are busy!” said Deb Recker, RN BSN, Cardiac Rehab Nurse Manager. “It’s an effective and helpful program and I think that message […]

Spring is coming!  That means it’s time for Hope in Bloom; daffodil sales.  

Sales will benefit the Buchanan County Relay For Life and American Cancer Society. Partnering for Hope In Bloom will be Buchanan County Health Center and Bland’s Flower Shop.  All purchases are set for arrival in mid-March.

Three daffodil selections will be […]

At Buchanan County Health Center’s Long Term Care, the staff believes that the retirement years should be a time to continue being active and doing the things you want to do. Staff, particularly Activity Professionals, assist and encourage our residents to take part in the many social, educational, and physical activities available […]

The Buchanan County Health Center Auxiliary is continuing its commitment to assist local students pursuing health care careers. In 2014, the Auxiliary will make six $1,000 scholarships available.  By comparison, in 2009, four $750 scholarships were available.

Successful applicants must be residents of Buchanan County and be accepted into an institution of higher learning with […]