Caring for Family, Friends, and Community: Amber Croghan’s Story

Amber Croghan’s inspiration to enter healthcare started close to home. From working at the Manning Plaza in high school to her current role as a health coach at Manning Regional Healthcare Center (MRHC), she has continually evolved in her career while staying true to her desire to help others.

 “When growing up, all my grandparents received care at the Manning Plaza,” Amber, RN, shared. “My Grandpa Jahn was in there for a very long time after suffering a stroke, and while visiting him often, the path of wanting to help people started.”  

Seeing the compassion and care her grandfather received motivated Amber to step into the field herself. She began working at the Manning Plaza in 2008 while still in high school, taking on roles as an activity assistant and working in the dietary department. However, Amber soon became motivated to make a greater impact on the patients she worked with.

“I always wanted to be able to do more for the residents, which brought me to obtain my CNA certification and start working as a CNA,” Amber explained.

While Amber initially considered a career in occupational or physical therapy, she discovered a nursing program through the Carroll DMACC and decided to go the nursing route. While earning her Licensed Practical Nurse (LPN) and Registered Nurse (RN) licenses, she remained committed to patient care, working PRN to stay connected to her passion.

In July 2014, Amber achieved her RN license and began working at MRHC as a nurse on the Acute floor, Emergency Room, and Obstetrics. By 2015, Amber returned to the Manning Plaza as a floor nurse and later took on the role of MDS Coordinator. Her journey came full circle in April 2017 when she rejoined MRHC, this time as a float/triage nurse in the family practice clinic. In 2019, she transitioned into her current role as a Health Coach—a position that aligns perfectly with her goals and strengths.

“MRHC has always been supportive of me growing into different areas of nursing to fit the type of nursing I enjoy best,” Amber shared. “They are open to any ideas you may have for process improvement and make you feel heard with each idea. Each department is willing to help wherever it is needed to serve our patients.”

Amber’s dedication to her patients and her team is evident to those who work alongside her. MRHC Clinic Director Shelby Dickson, RN, shared, “Amber is highly reliable and deeply focused on patient care. She is an invaluable member of our clinic team and shows dedication to her work.”

Amber credits MRHC with helping her grow professionally and creating a workplace environment where she feels valued and heard. It is also important for Amber to work close to home and care for the people she knows and loves.

“I love working at MRHC because I get to work where I live, and I enjoy caring for family and friends to give them the best experience,” Amber shared. “MRHC is also very supportive of a work-life balance, which is important to me for my kids and husband.”

If you are interested in joining the MRHC team, visit www.mrhcia.com/careers or call (712) 655-2072 for more information.

LEARN MORE ABOUT Amber Croghan