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When to Seek Professional Help Foot discomfort is an issue that many of us experience at one point or another, but often it’s overlooked until it becomes too severe to ignore. Whether it’s persistent aching, sharp pains during physical activities, or discomfort after long periods of standing, understanding these common signs can help you take proactive steps toward maintaining your foot health. In this blog post, we'll explore what these symptoms could indicate and why seeking professional help can make a significant difference in your quality of life. Persistent Aching: Persistent aching in your feet is not just a sign of fatigue from a long day but could indicate underlying health issues such as arthritis or plantar fasciitis. Plantar fasciitis, for example, involves inflammation of the thick band of tissue that runs across the bottom of your foot and connects your heel bone to your toes. Early diagnosis and treatment are crucial as they can prevent the condition from worsening and improve your overall foot function. Treatments might include physical therapy, the use of orthotics, or more personalized approaches depending on the severity of the condition. Sharp Pains During Activities: Sharp pains that occur during activities can be particularly alarming and are not to be ignored. This type of pain can be indicative of a stress fracture, tendonitis, or even more acute conditions such as a tear in the ligament. Engaging in activities with any of these conditions without proper treatment can lead to more serious injuries. Early intervention typically leads to better outcomes, and treatments may range from rest and ice to more advanced therapies like shockwave treatments or surgical options in severe cases. Discomfort After Long Periods of Standing: If you find yourself regularly experiencing discomfort after standing for long periods, it could be a sign of structural foot issues such as flat feet or even more complex problems like metatarsalgia, where the ball of your foot becomes inflamed. Addressing these issues early with proper footwear that provides adequate support or custom orthotics can alleviate pain and prevent future complications. Why Early Intervention Matters: Catching and treating foot problems early can be the difference between a quick recovery and long-term issues. Early intervention often allows for simpler, non-surgical treatments to be effective, reducing recovery time and helping you return to your normal activities faster. For instance, addressing a minor foot alignment issue with orthotics can prevent major surgeries down the line. The Role of a Podiatrist: A podiatrist specializes in diagnosing and treating conditions of the foot, ankle, and related structures of the leg. At Osceola Medical Center, our podiatry team is equipped with the latest technology and expertise to provide you with personalized care. Whether it’s through conservative methods or advanced surgical techniques, our goal is to help you achieve the best possible outcomes for your foot and ankle health. Do not let foot discomfort slow you down. Recognizing these common symptoms and understanding what they could signify is the first step toward taking care of your feet. If you are experiencing any of these symptoms, it’s important to consult with a podiatrist who can provide a thorough evaluation and tailored treatment options. At Osceola Medical Center, we are committed to helping our patients walk comfortably and confidently. Call us today at 715-322-3775 to schedule an appointment—no referral needed. Take that first step towards a pain-free lifestyle! Ready to address your foot health? Contact Osceola Medical Center today and ensure your feet are as healthy as they can be. Remember, when it comes to foot health, early action is key to preventing more serious issues.

As summer heats up, it's time to ensure our student athletes are ready for the upcoming sports season. Osceola Medical Center is excited to host our annual Athletic Screening Day, offering comprehensive health checks for local students. Whether you're on the football field, the basketball court, or cheering from the sidelines, we've got you covered with all the required screenings. Event Details: Date: Tuesday July 16, 2024 Time: 2:00 PM - 8:00 PM Location: Osceola Medical Center Cost: $40 per athlete Who Needs to Attend: The Wisconsin Interscholastic Athletic Association (WIAA) mandates that all student athletes, including cheerleaders, entering grades 7 through 12, obtain a physical every two years. This physical ensures that students are fit to participate in school-sanctioned sports and activities. At our Athletic Screening Day, your athlete will receive: - WIAA Physical Exam - Flexibility Testing - Vision Screening - Concussion Screening How to Register Pre-registration is required as space is limited. We will be using Calendly to streamline our registration process and manage payments online. Important Notes for Participants - Arrival: Please arrive within your scheduled 15-minute time slot to avoid overcrowding. - Parent/Guardian: One parent or legal guardian should accompany each athlete. - Appointments Only: No walk-ins will be accepted. - Forms: All forms must be completed prior to the event. Ensure your parent or guardian signs all forms. - Footwear: Wear appropriate shoes. - Consent Forms: You must bring completed forms to your appointment. Event Process On the day of the event, athletes will check in outside the Rehabilitation Department in the main lobby and then move through various screening stations. Our efficient process ensures a thorough evaluation while keeping wait times to a minimum. Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ) How much does the screening cost? The cost is $40 per athlete. Payment should be made online at the time of registration. What if I can't find a suitable time slot on Calendly? Contact OMC's Rehabilitation Services at 715-294-1927 for assistance. How long will the screenings take? Each screening will take roughly an hour. We can accommodate five athletes every 15 minutes to ensure a smooth flow. What information is needed for registration? We need the athlete's name, school district, grade, and parent's email address. Where will the screenings take place? The screenings will be held at Osceola Medical Center. Athletes will register outside the Rehabilitation Department and move through various stations. Can I pay with insurance? Payment should be made online at the time of registration. Insurance is not accepted for this event but you can use your HSA or Flex funds to pay as it is a health expense. Final Reminder Don't miss out on this crucial opportunity to ensure your athlete is ready for the sports season. Register today and get peace of mind knowing they're in top shape for their activities. We look forward to seeing you at Athletic Screening Day! For more information or questions, please contact OMC's Rehabilitation Services at 715-294-1927.

Spring is in full swing at Osceola Medical Center, and we're excited to share a basketful of updates with our community. From delicious treats at our upcoming Easter Egg Hunt to celebrating our dedicated clinicians, here's what's happening this week: Holy Donuts at Our Easter Egg Hunt We're thrilled to announce that the Holy Donuts Truck will be joining us at our Easter Egg Hunt this Friday! Get ready to enjoy some seriously festive mini donuts while hunting for eggs. It's going to be a sweet day for families and friends, so make sure to come on down and join the fun. More about the Easter Egg Hunt and Holy Donuts Celebrating Doctor's Week This week is Doctor's Week, and we want to take a moment to appreciate our incredible clinicians. Their dedication, expertise, and compassion make a significant difference in our lives and the health of our community. Thank you to all our doctors for everything you do! Nutrition Month: The Benefits of Eating Fiber March is Nutrition Month, and we're continuing our series of nutrition blogs. This week, we're highlighting "The Benefits of Eating Fiber for Your Health." Dive into our latest post to learn how fiber can improve your health and well-being. The Benefits of Eating Fiber for Your Health Schedule Your Next Colonoscopy Did you know that the recommended age for a first colonoscopy has been lowered to 45? Early screening is key to preventing colon cancer. Schedule your next colonoscopy today by calling 715-515-7176. Your health is worth it. A Shoutout to Our Easter Egg Hunt Sponsors We recently shared a reel calling out each of our amazing sponsors for this Friday's Easter Egg Hunt. Thanks to their generosity, our eggs won't be empty! Check out the reel to see who's making this event possible. Watch our sponsor shoutout reel Spring at OMC is about community, health, and celebration. We're grateful for the opportunity to bring all these elements together, from our Easter Egg Hunt to recognizing the invaluable work of our clinicians. Stay tuned for more updates, and thank you for being a part of our community.

The Mediterranean eating plan has long been celebrated for its numerous health benefits and delicious flavors. Rooted in the traditional cooking style of countries bordering the Mediterranean Sea, this diet is not only about enjoying a vast array of vibrant foods but also about embracing a lifestyle that emphasizes eating in moderation, enjoying meals with family and friends, and leading an active life. As we continue to celebrate Nutrition Month, exploring the Mediterranean eating plan offers a tasty way to enhance our health and well-being. Key Components of the Mediterranean Diet At the heart of the Mediterranean diet are foods that are minimally processed, plant-based, and seasonally fresh. The diet primarily consists of fruits and vegetables, whole grains, legumes, nuts, and seeds. Olive oil is the main source of added fat, celebrated for its heart-healthy monounsaturated fats. Fish and seafood are encouraged at least twice a week, while poultry, eggs, cheese, and yogurt should be consumed in moderation. Red meat and sweets are reserved for special occasions. Notably, water and wine (for those who drink alcohol) are the typical beverages of choice, with wine consumed in moderation. Health Benefits The Mediterranean diet is associated with a lower risk of heart disease, thanks in part to its emphasis on heart-healthy fats and high-fiber foods. Research suggests that following this eating plan can lower bad cholesterol levels, reduce the risk of stroke, improve brain health, and slow the progression of Alzheimer's disease. Additionally, the diet's rich intake of antioxidants and anti-inflammatory foods can protect against various chronic diseases and promote longevity. Its benefits also extend to weight management and diabetes prevention, making it a comprehensive dietary approach for improving overall health. How to Adopt the Mediterranean Eating Plan Incorporating the Mediterranean diet into your daily routine can be both simple and enjoyable. Start by making fruits and vegetables the centerpiece of your meals, aiming for a variety of colors and types. Swap out butter for olive oil in cooking and dressings. Choose whole grains over refined ones, and incorporate fish into your meals a couple of times a week. Snack on nuts and seeds, and if you consume dairy, opt for fermented products like yogurt and cheese for their probiotic benefits. Lastly, enjoy meals with others whenever possible, as social interaction is a key component of the Mediterranean lifestyle. Conclusion The Mediterranean eating plan offers a delicious and healthful way to eat, reflecting a lifestyle that celebrates good food, shared meals, and a balanced approach to eating. As we embrace Nutrition Month, let's draw inspiration from the Mediterranean diet to enrich our diets with foods that nourish our bodies and delight our palates. By adopting even a few principles of the Mediterranean eating plan, we can make strides toward a healthier, more enjoyable way of eating that benefits both our bodies and our minds. If you are interested in working with a dietitian at Osceola Medical Center, please reach out to your primary care team to send our team a referral. We would be happy to meet with you!

As we celebrate Nutrition Month, it's the perfect time to shine a spotlight on one of the most beneficial yet often overlooked components of our diet: fiber. Despite its critical role in maintaining good health, many of us fall short of the recommended daily intake. Let's dive into the world of fiber and discover how it can transform our health and well-being. What is Fiber? Fiber is a type of carbohydrate that the body can't digest. Unlike other carbs that are broken down into sugar molecules, fiber passes through the body undigested, helping regulate the body's use of sugars, keeping hunger and blood sugar in check. There are two types of fiber: soluble, which dissolves in water and can help lower glucose levels and blood cholesterol, and insoluble, which does not dissolve in water and can help food move through your digestive system, promoting regularity and helping prevent constipation. Health Benefits of Fiber The benefits of incorporating more fiber into your diet are vast. For starters, fiber helps to maintain a healthy digestive system, reducing the risk of constipation, diverticulitis, and certain types of cancer, such as colon cancer. It also plays a crucial role in weight management by making you feel fuller longer, which can help reduce overall calorie intake. Additionally, high-fiber foods tend to be more nutrient-dense and lower in calories, making them beneficial for overall health. Fiber can also lower cholesterol levels, help control blood sugar levels, and may reduce the risk of developing type 2 diabetes and cardiovascular disease. Incorporating More Fiber into Your Diet Increasing your fiber intake can be simple and delicious. Start by choosing whole fruits over juice, and integrate more vegetables, whole grains, legumes, nuts, and seeds into your meals. For breakfast, opt for a high-fiber cereal or oatmeal topped with fruit and nuts. Snack on raw vegetables or almonds, and choose whole grain options for bread, pasta, and rice. Incorporating legumes like beans, lentils, and chickpeas into your meals can also significantly boost your fiber intake. Conclusion Fiber is a fundamental component of a healthy diet, offering numerous benefits that extend far beyond just keeping us regular. This Nutrition Month, let's commit to increasing our fiber intake for better health, digestion, and overall well-being. By making simple swaps and choosing fiber-rich foods, we can enjoy the wide-ranging benefits that fiber has to offer. Remember, a little change can go a long way in improving your health. If you are interested in working with a dietitian at Osceola Medical Center, please reach out to your primary care team to send our team a referral. We would be happy to meet with you!

Maintaining bone and joint health is crucial whether you plan on hiking our area's scenic trails or just participating in community sports. At OMC, in collaboration with TCO, we believe that prevention is just as important as treatment. Let's explore the proactive steps you can take to ensure lifelong orthopedic health. The Power of Prevention While orthopedic treatments address existing issues, preventive care focuses on avoiding potential problems. It's about empowering individuals with the knowledge and tools to maintain optimal musculoskeletal health. 1. Regular Exercise Engaging in regular, low-impact exercises can strengthen muscles, improve joint flexibility, and enhance bone density. 2. Balanced Diet A diet rich in calcium and vitamin D supports bone health. Incorporate dairy products, leafy greens, and fortified foods to ensure you're getting the necessary nutrients. 3. Posture Check Maintaining good posture, especially during work or when using digital devices, can prevent back and neck issues. Regular posture checks and ergonomic adjustments can make a world of difference. 4. Wear the Right Footwear Invest in shoes that provide proper arch support and cushioning. This not only aids in foot health but also minimizes strain on the knees and hips. 5. Regular Check-ups Routine orthopedic evaluations can detect potential issues early on, allowing for timely interventions. Orthopedic health isn't just about addressing problems; it's about taking proactive steps to prevent them. With OMC's commitment to preventive care, residents of the St. Croix Valley can look forward to active and fulfilling lives.

Easter Bunny Confirms Attendance at OMC's Easter Egg Event We have some egg-citing news! The Easter Bunny has officially RSVP'd to our upcoming Easter Egg Hunt event. This is not just an opportunity for fun and games; it's a chance to connect with the community and enjoy the spring season together. Don't miss out on this fun-filled day that promises to be a basket-load of joy for everyone involved. A Heartfelt Thank You to Our Town Hall Participants A couple of weeks ago, we hosted our Community Town Hall meeting, and we couldn't be more grateful for the turnout. Thank you to everyone who came out to share their thoughts and feedback. Your input is invaluable as we continue to grow and improve our services. The event was a success because of your participation and commitment to our community's health and wellness! March is Nutrition Month: Improving Your Relationship with Food March is Nutrition Month, and at OMC, we're dedicated to helping you build a healthier relationship with food. This week, we're featuring a blog post that offers tips and strategies for improving how you think about and interact with food. From mindful eating to understanding nutritional needs, we're here to support your journey to a healthier lifestyle. National Colonoscopy Month: A Reminder of the Importance of Screening Did you know that March is also National Colonoscopy Month? It's a timely reminder of the critical role that colonoscopies play in detecting colon cancer early. Recent guidelines have lowered the recommended age for a first screening to 45. If you or someone you know is approaching this milestone, now is the time to schedule this potentially life-saving procedure. Call 715-294-2111 to schedule! As we step into spring, Osceola Medical Center remains committed to your health and well-being. Whether it's through community events, educational resources, or essential health screenings, we're here for you every step of the way. Stay tuned for more updates, and thank you for being a part of our community.

March brings us Nutrition Month, a perfect time to revisit our eating habits and make meaningful changes. Among the myriad of nutritional concepts, mindful eating stands out for its profound impact on our health and well-being. It's not just about what we eat but how we eat. Let's explore how mindful eating can transform our relationship with food, making every meal a step towards better health. What is Mindful Eating? Mindful eating is based on the practice of mindfulness, a form of meditation that involves focusing fully on the present moment and acknowledging and accepting one's feelings, thoughts, and bodily sensations. When applied to eating, mindfulness means paying full attention to the experience of eating and drinking, both inside and outside the body. It's about noticing the colors, smells, textures, flavors, temperatures, and even the sounds of our food. It contrasts significantly with mindless eating, a common habit of eating while distracted, leading to overeating and a disconnection from our food. Benefits of Mindful Eating The practice of mindful eating offers numerous benefits. It helps improve digestion by allowing us to chew our food thoroughly and eat at a slower pace, which aids in better nutrient absorption. Mindful eating also enhances our enjoyment of food, making meals more satisfying. By paying attention to hunger and fullness cues, it can help prevent overeating and promote weight management. Furthermore, mindful eating encourages a healthier relationship with food, one that is free from guilt and anxiety. Practical Tips for Mindful Eating 1. Eat Without Distractions: Turn off the TV, put away your phone, and ensure you're seated at a table. Distractions can lead to overeating because they prevent us from listening to our body's hunger and fullness signals. 2. Chew Slowly: Take the time to chew your food thoroughly. This not only aids digestion but also helps you to slow down and enjoy the flavors and textures of your food. 3. Listen to Your Body: Learn to recognize your body's hunger and fullness signals. Eat when you're hungry and stop when you're comfortably full. This practice can prevent both overeating and undereating. 4. Appreciate Your Food: Before you start eating, take a moment to appreciate the appearance and aroma of your food. This can help you connect more deeply with the experience of eating. 5. Involve Your Family: Share mindful eating practices with your family. Eating together without distractions can enhance relationships and encourage healthier eating habits among loved ones. Conclusion Mindful eating is more than a dietary trend; it's a transformative practice that can improve our health, our enjoyment of food, and our overall quality of life. The dietitian team at Osceola Medical Center make this a priority in their nutrition education counseling, as we feel that eating can often time start in the mind, not the stomach. This Nutrition Month, let's commit to being more present with our meals. By eating mindfully, we can turn every meal into an opportunity for nourishment, satisfaction, and gratitude. Remember, the journey to better health doesn't just lie in what we eat but in how we eat. Let's make every bite count.

At Osceola Medical Center (OMC), we're thrilled to introduce Janet Rounsville, DNP, APRN, FNP-BC, who has joined our team, bringing with her a wealth of experience, a deep passion for patient care, and a vibrant history of both personal and professional achievements. A Rich Tapestry of Experience Janet's journey in healthcare spans over three decades, deeply rooted in emergency department nursing and leadership. With an Associate Degree from the University of Pittsburgh at Bradford, followed by a BSN and MSN from South Dakota State University, and a DNP from Bradley University, her educational background is as impressive as her on-the-ground experience. Since obtaining her NP license in 2022, Janet has seamlessly integrated her extensive nursing expertise with her new role, working in both emergency and walk-in clinic settings. Her certifications in BLS, ACLS, TNCC, ATLS, and PALS underscore her commitment to excellence in patient care, especially in acute situations. Philosophy of Care: A Family-Centric Approach Janet's philosophy of care is simple yet profound: "Treat everyone as if they were your own family." This approach resonates deeply with OMC's values, where we believe in providing care that makes everyone feel at home. Janet's compassionate, patient-centered approach ensures that each individual receives the best care and customer service, reflecting our commitment to the well-being of the St. Croix Valley community. Specialties That Make a Difference Janet specializes in emergency department nursing and walk-in clinic care, areas where her ability to prioritize quickly and efficiently makes a significant impact. Her organized nature and compassionate bedside manner make her an invaluable asset to our team, especially in fast-paced environments where every second counts. Beyond the Clinic: A Life Full of Passions When she's not providing exceptional care to her patients, Janet enjoys a rich and varied life outside the clinic. An outdoor enthusiast who loves hiking and beach outings, she also finds joy in puzzles, reading, playing games, and even the art of organizing and making spreadsheets. A fun fact about Janet that many might find surprising: she played professional women's football and is a die-hard Pittsburgh Steelers fan. Her diverse interests and achievements add depth to her character, making her not just a clinician but a multifaceted individual who brings her whole self to her work. Joining the OMC Family Janet's decision to join OMC was driven by her alignment with our mission to deliver big-city healthcare services with small-town hospitality. Her belief in our approach to treating patients like family and her dedication to providing personalized, efficient care make her a perfect fit for our community. We're excited for Janet to start her journey with us, confident that her contributions will enhance the quality of care we provide and strengthen our connection with the communities we serve. Looking Ahead Welcome aboard, Janet! We're delighted to have you with us and excited to see the incredible contributions you will make to our team and the communities of Osceola and the St. Croix Valley. 🌳💙

What is Podiatry? Exploring Foot and Ankle Care In the realm of healthcare, podiatry stands out as a specialized branch dedicated to the diagnosis, treatment, and prevention of foot, ankle, and lower extremity disorders. It's a field that addresses a wide range of conditions affecting people of all ages, from common ailments to complex surgical needs. At Osceola Medical Center, our Podiatry Department is equipped to tackle these issues head-on, ensuring that our patients in the St. Croix Valley and beyond receive the comprehensive care they need. Here's a closer look at some of the most common conditions our podiatrists handle: Bunions and Hammertoes Bunions and hammertoes are painful conditions resulting from misalignments of the foot's bones. Bunions form at the base of the big toe, causing it to veer toward the others, while hammertoes are characterized by an abnormal bend in the middle joint of the toe. Both conditions can lead to significant discomfort and are often exacerbated by tight or ill-fitting footwear. Plantar Fasciitis A leading cause of heel pain, plantar fasciitis, stems from inflammation of the plantar fascia, the thick band of tissue that runs across the bottom of your foot and connects your heel bone to your toes. This condition is particularly common among runners and those who are overweight. Ingrown Toenails Ingrown toenails occur when the edge of the toenail grows into the flesh of the toe. This can cause pain, redness, swelling, and, in severe cases, infection. Ingrown toenails can result from improper nail trimming, tight shoes, or injury. Diabetic Foot Care Diabetes can lead to a wide range of foot problems, including poor circulation and neuropathy (nerve damage), which can make feet more susceptible to injury and less capable of healing. Specialized diabetic foot care is crucial to prevent serious complications, including infections and ulcers. Achilles Tendonitis The Achilles tendon, which connects the calf muscles to the heel bone, can become inflamed due to overuse, particularly in runners and athletes. This condition, known as Achilles tendonitis, results in pain and stiffness in the heel and can severely impact mobility if left untreated. Arthritis Arthritis, or joint inflammation, can significantly affect the foot and ankle, leading to pain, stiffness, and reduced mobility. Osteoarthritis, rheumatoid arthritis, and gout are among the types that commonly affect these areas. Ankle Replacements For those with severe ankle arthritis, ankle replacement surgery may offer a viable solution to relieve pain and restore function. This procedure involves replacing the damaged parts of the ankle joint with artificial components. Ankle replacements have become more common as advancements in technology and surgical techniques have improved outcomes, making it a promising option for many patients. At Osceola Medical Center, we're committed to providing our community with access to high-quality podiatric care. Whether you're experiencing persistent foot pain, have noticed changes in your foot health, or simply want to maintain your feet in their best possible condition, our Podiatry Department is here to support you. Our team, led by skilled professionals like Dr. Mitchell Thompson, is dedicated to helping you achieve optimal foot health so you can continue to enjoy an active, fulfilling life. Foot and ankle problems can significantly impact your quality of life, but with the right care, many of these issues can be effectively managed or resolved. We encourage anyone dealing with foot or ankle concerns to reach out to us. Together, we can take the necessary steps towards better health, ensuring that you can walk, run, and move with ease and comfort. Remember, your feet carry you through life's journey. Taking care of them is not just about addressing current problems; it's about preventing future issues and maintaining your overall well-being. Let's step towards better health together, one foot at a time.

At Osceola Medical Center (OMC), we believe in celebrating the incredible individuals who make our healthcare services feel like home. Today we're shining the spotlight on a remarkable member of our team, Tara Olson, MSN, APRN, FNP-BC. Tara joined the OMC family in February 2023, and in a short time, she has made a significant impact on our community and the lives of her patients. A Journey of Compassion and Expertise Tara Olson embarked on her nursing career with a clear vision: to provide personalized, compassionate care that addresses the unique needs of each patient. With a Master of Science in Nursing (MSN) from the University of Wisconsin - Oshkosh and a Bachelor of Science in Nursing (BSN) from the University of Wisconsin - Eau Claire, Tara's educational background laid a solid foundation for her practice. Her credentials as a Family Nurse Practitioner (FNP-BC) further attest to her commitment to delivering comprehensive care across all ages and stages of life. Her approach to healthcare is deeply rooted in listening and understanding, ensuring that every patient feels heard and valued. By developing care plans in partnership with her patients, Tara empowers them to take an active role in their health and wellness journey. In family medicine, Tara's broad knowledge allows her to address a wide range of health concerns, providing care that evolves with the needs of her patients over time. Her expertise in women's health means she is adept at navigating the unique health challenges women face, from reproductive health to menopause. And in pediatrics, Tara's gentle, patient-centered approach makes her a favorite among our younger patients and their families. Philosophy of Care: Personalization and Compassion Tara's philosophy of care is a testament to her belief in the power of personalized medicine. "My philosophy of care is built on personalization and compassion," Tara shares. "I strive to first listen and understand my patient’s concerns, then develop a plan of care together that meets their needs and puts them on a path to better health." This philosophy aligns perfectly with OMC's mission to provide healthcare that feels like home, treating every patient like family. Embracing the Community Spirit of OMC What drew Tara to OMC was the small, close-knit feeling of our center and our commitment to the community. She appreciates the opportunity to work in an environment that mirrors the values she grew up with on a dairy farm near La Crosse, Wisconsin. Tara's love for working in a community-focused setting is evident in her dedication to her patients and her enthusiasm for making a positive impact in their lives. Life Beyond the Clinic When she's not at OMC, Tara enjoys spending quality time with her husband and two children, exploring the great outdoors through biking and hiking. Her commitment to community service is reflected in her volunteer work at her children's schools and her active participation in their extracurricular activities. Tara also finds joy in reading, baking, practicing yoga, and gardening, hobbies that reflect her nurturing nature and love for life's simple pleasures. A Valued Member of the OMC Family We're proud to have Tara as part of our team and look forward to the continued positive impact she will have on our patients and the broader community. Her story is a shining example of the difference one person can make in the lives of many, and we're excited to see how her journey at OMC unfolds.

At Osceola Medical Center, we're thrilled to announce the launch of our Grateful Patient program this March 2024. This initiative is a testament to our commitment to fostering a community of gratitude and recognition within our healthcare environment. What is the Grateful Patient Program? The Grateful Patient program is an opportunity for patients and their families to acknowledge and celebrate the exceptional care they've received at OMC. It's about taking a moment to recognize the dedication, kindness, and expertise of our staff members who go above and beyond to make a difference in the lives of those we serve. Who is it for? This program is for anyone who has experienced the warmth and professionalism of OMC's healthcare services. Whether you're a patient who has been through our doors or a family member who has seen the compassionate care your loved one received, this program is a way to say "thank you" to those who have made your experience memorable. The Impact on Our Staff For our staff, receiving recognition through the Grateful Patient program is incredibly meaningful. It serves as a powerful reminder of the impact their work has on individuals and families. This acknowledgment fuels their passion and dedication, inspiring them to continue providing the exceptional care that OMC is known for. How Can You Participate? Participating in the Grateful Patient program is easy and accessible. If you or a family member wish to express gratitude towards a staff member or a team, you can do so by: - Filling out the form online: Visit our dedicated landing page on the Osceola Community Health Foundation's website to submit your message of thanks electronically. - Using a physical form: Sunshine Awards displays are available on our campus including physical forms and drop boxes. Once filled out, you can drop them off at an on-campus dropbox or mail them in, ensuring your message reaches the hands of those who made a difference in your care. As we launch the Grateful Patient program, we invite you to join us in celebrating the extraordinary individuals who make OMC a place where medical excellence and hometown care converge. Let's take this opportunity to give back to those who give their all, every day.