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 of Buchanan County Health Center recently welcomed Jessica Girres, RN, Patient Navigator, to their team of healthcare professionals.
Jessica Girres comes to BCHC with ten years of nursing experience in home care, acute care, and clinic-based care settings. Jessica most recently worked as a health coach, helping patients adopt healthier lifestyles. As the Patient Navigator for Medical Associates, a large focus will be placed on providing diabetes education services and general diabetes self-management education to patients and families.
“We are excited to be adding the position of Patient Navigator to our team at Medical Associates. Jessica will work with patients individuals to help ‘navigate’ the healthcare system and overcome barriers that keep them from receiving timely care,” commented Deb Hosch, Office Manager for Medical Associates. As Patient Navigator, Jessica will also work with patients, families, and facilities to maintain appropriate tests and treatment plans for diabetes and other chronic conditions. Patients of Medical Associates living with a chronic disease or diabetes may be referred to the Patient Navigator for additional assistance, education, and disease management.
Buchanan County Health Center is making a committed investment in the growth of its booming primary care practice. In addition to the new services made locally available through the Patient Navigator, Medical Associates of BCHC is also making patient access among its top priorities by welcoming two new, full-time physicians and offering same day appointments for acute illnesses. Now accepting new patients, to schedule an appointment with one Medical Associate’s physicians or nurse practitioners, please call 319-334-2541. For more information, visit bchealth.org or follow “Buchanan County Health Center” on Facebook.