As part of the Women’s Health specialty clinic at BCHC, Allen Women’s Health will bring the Iowa Health Pregnancy Program (maternal health) to the BCHC specialty clinic on every other Monday of the month, beginning in February. Iowa’s Maternal Health Programs provide family-centered, community-based, and preventive health services to Medicaid eligible and other low-income pregnant […]
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BCHC Welcomes Arpit Sothwal, MD, FACC to the Cardiology Specialty Clinic
The Cardiology Specialty Clinic at Buchanan County Health Center is pleased to welcome Arpit Sothwal, MD, FACC, to its rotation of cardiologists from UnityPoint Health – Cedar Rapids.
Dr. Sothwal attended Dr. SN Medical College in Jodhpur, India, and completed his residency and fellowship at the Wright Center for Graduate Medical Education in Scranton, Pennsylvania. […]
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BCHC Board of Trustees Welcomes New Board Member, Chris Nelson
On January 1st, the Buchanan County Health Center Board of Trustees welcomed newly elected member, Chris Nelson, to the volunteer leadership board. The BCHC Board of Trustees provide direction and counsel to the leaders of BCHC. Chris replaces the seat held by Carmen Mescher, who recently fulfilled her term on the board after 9 years […]
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BCHC RFQ Respondent List
Please click on the link below to view BCHC RFQ Respondent List.
21121_BCHC_RFQ_ResponseList_2022-12-08
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BCHC Request for Qualifications
Please click on the link below to view the Request for Qualifications Construction Manager at Risk Contract.
21121_BCHC_CMaR_RFQ_11.17.22_FINAL
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Jennifer Torgerson, DNP, ARNP, FNP-C Joining BCHC as Inpatient Hospitalist & Urgent Care Provider
Buchanan County Health Center (BCHC) is pleased to welcome Jennifer Torgerson, DNP, ARNP, FNP-C to its team of medical providers. Jennifer will serve as BCHC’s inpatient hospitalist alongside Joni Henderson, ARNP, and will also see patients through the urgent care setting. Jennifer will join BCHC on Monday, November 28th.
Jennifer received her BSN from the […]
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Miranda Franck, ARNP, PMHNP-BC to provide Psychiatric Medicine through BCHC Primary Care Clinics
Buchanan County Health Center (BCHC) is pleased to welcome psychiatric nurse practitioner, Miranda Franck, ARNP, PMHNP-BC to Medical Associates in Independence and BCHC Family Medicine –Oelwein.
Prior to obtaining her MSN from Walden University, Miranda served for six years as an emergency department nurse at the University of Iowa Hospitals and Clinics, UnityPoint Health – […]
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BCHC Welcomes New Specialists from Cedar Valley Medical Center in Audiology, Nephrology, and Orthopedics
BCHC is pleased to welcome new specialists from Cedar Valley Medical Center to the BCHC Specialty Clinics who provide care in audiology, nephrology, and orthopedic services. The BCHC Specialty Clinics in Independence and Oelwein serve patients with over 20 local specialty clinics from 40 visiting specialists.
Taylor Schaul, Au.D, Audiology
Visiting from Cedar Valley Center […]
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BCHC Welcomes Dr. Kenny Rodriguez to ENT, Allergy & Skin Cancer Clinics
BCHC is pleased to welcome Kenny Rodriguez, MD from Cedar Valley Centers for ENT, Sinus & Allergy, Skin Cancer, and Facial Plastics to the BCHC Specialty Clinic in Independence.
Visiting the 2nd Monday of each month, Dr. Rodriguez specializes in the care of ear, nose, and throat conditions, including sleep apnea and allergies, in addition […]
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BCHC Welcomes Dr. Joud Dib from Allen Hospital Cardiology to Oelwein Specialty Clinic
BCHC is pleased to welcome Joud Dib, MD from Allen Hospital Cardiology to the BCHC Oelwein Specialty Clinic, located at 2405 Rock Island Road. Dr. Joud visits the BCHC Oelwein Specialty Clinic every other Friday in addition to his colleague, Abbie Schaa, ARNP from Allen Hospital Cardiology who visits the BCHC Cardiology Clinic in Independence […]
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BCHC Auxiliary Awards $6,000 in Healthcare Scholarships
On June 2nd, 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 awards scholarships to nontraditional students entering into or continuing their […]
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BCHC Announces Jeff Rummel as New Chief Financial Officer
Buchanan County Health Center (BCHC) is pleased to announce the selection of its Chief Financial Officer, Jeff Rummel, CPA, MBA.
Jeff comes to BCHC with 25 years of diverse business and financial experience; most recently employed as the Director of Operations with LattaHarris, a CPA and business consulting firm. While at LattaHarris, Jeff was responsible […]
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BCHC Welcomes Ally McMartin, ARNP to Wound Center
Buchanan County Health Center is pleased to welcome Ally McMartin, ARNP to its team of providers at the Center for Wound Healing & Hyperbaric Medicine.
Receiving her BNS and MSN from Allen College, Ally is a board certified Family Nurse Practitioner through the AANP with clinical interest areas in wound care, women’s health, and preventative […]
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Infant Formula Shortage Resources
Currently, there is a national infant formula shortage. The most significant infant formulas shortage at this time is the specialty formulas prescribed and prepared/distributed from pharmacies; however, all infant formula, although available, is in a much shorter supply than usual. Do NOT hoard infant formula, stores are likely only receiving partial shipments, be prepared to shop […]
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BCHC Speech Therapy to offer Free Speech Therapy Screenings in May as part of National Speech Therapy Month
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 […]
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BCHC Occupational Therapy to offer Free Occupation Therapy Screenings in April as part of National Occupational Therapy Month
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 […]
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BCHC expands primary care provider team by announcing addition of Dr. Jack O’Brien, MD
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 […]
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BCHC Spring 2022 Community Newsletter
Click here to read the BCHC Spring 2022 Community Newsletter.
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BCHC Welcomes Megan Thompson, MOT, OTR/L to the Therapy & Rehabilitation Department
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 […]
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BCHC Welcomes New Leadership for Registration & Laboratory Departments
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. […]
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BCHC Announces New CEO, Wade Weis
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 […]
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BCHC to comply with CMS Guidelines Regarding Employee Vaccination against COVID-19
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 […]
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BCHC Offers New Minimally Invasive Urology Procedure Locally
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 […]
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BCHC Welcomes Kelsey Masters to its Urgent Care Team
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 […]
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BCHC Appoints Rodney Ciesielski as Purchasing Manager
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 […]
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BCHC Appoints Dianne Hepke as Oak View Independent Living Coordinator
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 […]
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BCHC Welcomes New Faces to the Activities Department at Lexington Estate
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 […]
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BCHC Welcomes Jaden Rausch, MA, CF-SLP to the Therapy & Rehabilitation Department
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 […]
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BCHC Reopens COVID Call Center
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 […]
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2021 Auxiliary Scholarship Recipients
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 […]
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BCHC Oelwein Pharmacy Accepting Walk-Ins for Covid-19 Vaccine
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.
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General Surgery Coverage Expands At BCHC
(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. […]
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Vaccination Clinics At Oelwein Pharmacy
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 […]
Read MoreKaren Sadler, ARNP to offer ENT services at BCHC Oelwein
(Oelwein, IA) – BCHC Family Medicine in Oelwein will soon have access to another ENT service provider. Karen Sadler, ARNP will provide many services, including identifying and treating skin cancers, managing patients with allergies, sinus infections, sleep apnea, cerumen removal from ears and other ENT related problems. Sadler will be available in Oelwein every other […]
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Vaccination Clinics This Week at BCHC Oelwein Pharmacy
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

COVID-19 vaccination clinics to be held in Independence
(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 […]
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BCHC CEO, Steve Slessor, to Embark on New Opportunity with Winneshiek Medical Center
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 […]
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BCHC installs new sinus navigation system
(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 […]
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Four BCHC nurses make 100 Great Iowa Nurses of 2021 list
(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 […]
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New MRI Installed at BCHC; Improved Technology for Faster, More Accurate Results
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 […]
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BCHC Welcomes Cedar Valley Center for Hearing to Specialty Services
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 […]
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BCHC Welcomes New Leadership in Clinical Education & Wound Care Departments
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 […]
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BCHC Welcomes Neurology Specialty Clinic
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 […]
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Dr. William Schmitt, DO to expand medical practice to BCHC Family Medicine – Oelwein
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 […]
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BCHC Welcomes Gastroenterology to Oelwein Specialty Clinic
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 […]
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A message from our CEO in response to COVID-19 11/4/20
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 […]
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Medical Associates of BCHC Transitions to New Electronic Medical Record System
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 […]
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BCHC Welcomes New Service to Specialty Clinics – Breast Care Specialty Clinic to Begin in October
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, […]
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BCHC Welcomes New Leadership for Emergency & Laboratory Departments
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 […]
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BCHC Welcomes Director of Pharmacy & Population Health
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 […]
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BCHC Welcomes Palliative Care & Memory Clinic to Oelwein Specialty Clinic
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 […]
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BCHC Expands Focus on Local Mental Health Services by Welcoming Psychiatric ARNP to Family Medicine Clinics
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 […]
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BCHC to open BCHC Oelwein Pharmacy in Early October of 2020 – Expanding Options for Local Healthcare and Pharmacy Services
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.
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BCHC Welcomes Iowa Anesthesia Pain Management Clinic to Oelwein Specialty Clinic
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 […]
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BCHC Welcomes Nicole Myers, BSN, RN as Clinical Office Manager of Medical Associates of BCHC & BCHC Family Medicine – Jesup
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 […]
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The Wellness Center at BCHC to Re-open on June 10th – Facility Guidelines Released
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 […]
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Navigating the Motion in Emotion – Feeling Well with BCHC – A Closer Look at Mental Health
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 […]
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May is Speech Therapy Month – BCHC Offering Speech Therapy Services for All Ages
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 […]
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A message from our CEO in response to COVID-19 5/8/20
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 […]
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BCHC Welcomes Dan McElroy, LISW – BCHC to offer Mental Health & Counseling Services through its Family Medicine Clinics
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 […]
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BCHC Urgent Care Now Offering Call-Ahead Appointments
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. […]
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Receiving Healthcare during a Pandemic
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 […]
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When to Seek Emergency Care during the COVID-19 Pandemic
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 […]
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Buchanan County Health Center Family Practice Locations Now Offering Telehealth Appointments
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. […]
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A message from our CEO in response to COVID-19 4/3/20
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 […]
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BCHC COVID-19 Call Center
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 […]
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Respiratory Clinic to Open at Buchanan County Health Center – Urgent Care to Temporarily Relocate to Medical Associates Office Space
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 […]
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A message from our CEO in response to COVID-19
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 […]
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Hospital Service Closures 3.18.20
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.
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Updated Door Access Information – 3.17.20
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 […]
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Important Facility Updates – 3.17.2020
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 […]
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BCHC & Lexington Estate Limiting Number of Patient Visitors
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 […]
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BCHC Mental Health Specialty Clinic Welcomes Nancy Muir, LISW
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, […]
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Medical Associates of BCHC Expands Local Access for Women’s Health Care
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 […]
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BCHC Family Medicine – Oelwein Welcomes Skin & ENT/Allergy Specialists from Cedar Valley Medical Center
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 […]
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BCHC January Spotlight Series – KETO Diet
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 […]
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BCHC Expands Local Access to Specialty Services by Welcoming Michael Moriarty, MD to the Urology Clinic
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 […]
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A Life Well Lived – A Tribute to Bob Richard
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 […]
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BCHC Welcomes Alyssa Woods, ARNP to BCHC Family Medicine – Jesup
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 […]
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BCHC Family Medicine Oelwein FAQ
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, […]
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BCHC Announces Partnership with UnityPoint Clinic Family Medicine in Oelwein
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 […]
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“Welcome to Medicare” Seminar Offered at Buchanan County Health Center
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, […]
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BCHC Expands Mental Health Specialty Clinic
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 […]
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BCHC Welcomes Clinical Program Director for Wound Healing & Hyperbaric Medicine
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.
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BCHC Welcomes New Provider to the Women’s Health Specialty Clinic
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 […]
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BCHC Expands Physical Medicine & Rehabilitation Clinic – Dr. Manshadi to Increase Clinic Hours
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 […]
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BCHC August Spotlight Series: Understanding Memory Loss
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 […]
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Lexington Estate to host Poker Walk
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 […]
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Buchanan County Health Center to Open Family Medicine Clinic in Jesup
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 […]
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Unite. Build. Feed. BCHC Partners with Area Hospitals for Food Drive Competition
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 […]
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BCHC Welcomes Karla Solheim, MD to the OB/GYN Specialty Clinic
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 […]
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Buchanan County Health Center Receives $130,000 Gift from the Estate of Hubert & Mildred (Millie) Freeman
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 […]
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BCHC House for Bid – Bidding Information
Please CLICK HERE to read more about the BCHC house purchase request for bidding rules and requirements.
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BCHC Expands Local Access to Specialty Services by – Welcoming Spencer Kleitsch, ARNP to the Allergy & ENT Clinics
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 […]
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Volunteer Health Insurance Counselors Needed for Buchanan County Residents – SHIIP Program to begin at Buchanan County Health Center
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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BCHC Doctors’ Day Recognition
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BCHC March Spotlight Series: Living With & Treating Hip & Knee Pain Free Seminar to be held at the Independence Public Library
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 […]
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BCHC Welcomes Occupational Therapy Assistant to the Therapy & Rehabilitation Department – Expanding Local Access to Pediatric Occupational Therapy
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 […]
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March 6th is Lymphedema Awareness Day
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 […]
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BCHC Auxiliary Scholarships for Continuing Education Now Available
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 […]
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February Spotlight Series: Women’s Heart Health
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 […]
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Medical Associates of BCHC Expands Morning Hours to Better Accommodate Busy Families
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 […]
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BCHC Welcomes Ankur Vyas, MD, MS to the Cardiology Specialty Clinic
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 […]
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January Specialty Clinic
Click here to view the Specialty Clinic for January 2019
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BCHC Partners with the Especially For You® Fund
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 […]
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BCHC Physical Therapist & Athletic Trainer for East Buchanan Schools receives IHSAA 2018 Sports Medicine Award
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 […]
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BCHC Welcomes Surgeons from CVMS
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 […]
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BCHC October Specialty Clinic Schedule
Click HERE to view the October Specialty Clinic Schedule.
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BCHC Welcomes Mary Nading, PA-C, MPAs, CCD to the Orthopedic Specialty Clinic
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 […]
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BCHC to Host Free Parkinson’s Disease Seminar
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 […]
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BCHC Welcomes Gastroenterology Clinic from Cedar Valley Medical Specialists to its Specialty Clinic and Surgical Services
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 […]
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BCHC Welcomes New Physical Therapist & Extends Expanded Hours
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 […]
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Vendor Fair for Walk to End Alzheimer’s
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 […]
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Palliative Care & Advanced Planning Seminar
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 […]
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BCHC Expands Locally Offered Pain Management Services
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 […]
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Medical Associates of BCHC Welcomes Patient Navigator
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 […]
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Mind Matters: Understanding Memory Loss, Dementia, & Alzheimer’s Disease Free Seminar to be Held at the Independence Public Library
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 […]
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August 2018 Specialty Clinic Schedule
Click here to view the full Specialty Clinic schedule for the month of August 2018.
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BCHC Expands Partnership with ECIAC
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 […]
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BCHC Auxiliary Awards $7,000 in Scholarships
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 […]
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Lexington Estate to host Poker Walk during 4th of July Celebrations
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 […]
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