Manning Regional Healthcare Center Breaks Ground for New MRI Suite

Healthy Hometowns Grant Investment Expands Access to Advanced Diagnostic Imaging for Rural Iowa

Manning Regional Healthcare Center (MRHC) celebrated a significant milestone today with the groundbreaking of its new MRI Suite, marking the beginning of a project that will bring permanent, in-house MRI services to the hospital and expand access to advanced diagnostic imaging for patients throughout the region.

The MRI Suite is made possible through funding awarded as part of Iowa’s Healthy Hometowns Project, which provided MRHC with a Best & Brightest Medical Equipment grant to purchase and install a permanent MRI system. The project is part of more than $1.915 million in Healthy Hometowns funding awarded to MRHC to strengthen rural healthcare through workforce development, advanced medical equipment, and expanded behavioral health services.

Currently, MRHC relies on a mobile MRI unit that visits the hospital one day each week. The new MRI Suite will allow patients to receive advanced imaging services locally with significantly greater scheduling flexibility, reduced wait times, and improved continuity of care.

“For many rural patients, timely access to diagnostic imaging can make a tremendous difference in both treatment and peace of mind,” said MRHC CEO, Shannon Black. “This new MRI Suite represents an investment in our community’s health and our commitment to ensuring patients can receive high-quality, advanced care close to home.”

MRI technology plays a critical role in diagnosing a wide range of medical conditions, including neurological disorders, orthopedic injuries, spinal conditions, cancer, cardiovascular disease, and other complex health concerns. Having a permanent MRI on-site will reduce the need for patients to travel to larger communities, making care more convenient for individuals and families across west central Iowa.

The project reflects MRHC’s long-standing commitment to investing in technology that strengthens rural healthcare. Over the years, the hospital has expanded local access through advanced diagnostic services including DEXA scanning, echocardiography, nuclear medicine, and other imaging technologies, while continuing to adopt innovative care models that improve patient outcomes and help address rural healthcare challenges.

This project is supported by the Centers for Medicare & Medicaid Services (CMS) of the U.S. Department of Health and Human Services (HHS) as part of a financial assistance award totaling $209,040,063.71, with 100 percent funded by CMS/HHS. The contents are those of the author(s) and do not necessarily represent the official views of, nor an endorsement, by the Iowa Department of Health and Human Services, CMS/HHS, or the U.S Government.

MRHC Offers Sports Physical Clinics Ahead of School Year

As the new school year approaches, Manning Regional Healthcare Center (MRHC) is helping families prepare by offering two Sports Physical Clinics for student-athletes.

MRHC will host Sports Physical Clinics on Monday, July 27, and Monday, August 3, from 2:00 p.m. to 6:30 p.m. with Melissa Frazier, ARNP, at the Family Practice Clinic.

All athletes in grades 7 through 12 are required to have a current sports physical before the first day of practice. Scheduling a sports physical now helps students meet participation requirements and be ready when practices begin.

“We know back-to-school season is one of the busiest times of the year for families,” said Melissa Frazier. “That’s why we’ve added dedicated Sports Physical Clinics with extended evening hours to make it more convenient for students to get their physicals completed before practices begin.”

New this year, parents can complete and submit the required sports physical form online before their child’s appointment by visiting mrhcia.com/clinical-forms. Completing the form before the appointment helps speed up the check-in process and saves time on the day of the visit.

Appointments are required for the Sports Physical Clinics. To reserve a time or schedule a sports physical on a different date, call (712) 655-8100.

MRHC Welcomes Dr. Reed Smith as New Podiatry Provider

Manning Regional Healthcare Center (MRHC) is pleased to announce that Reed Smith, DPM, will join the specialty clinic on August 6, 2026, expanding access to comprehensive foot and ankle care for patients throughout the area.

Dr. Smith provides both surgical and non-surgical treatment for patients of all ages, from routine foot care to advanced reconstructive foot and ankle surgery.

“My goal is to make patients feel comfortable, informed, and confident in their care through a compassionate and education-focused approach,” said Dr. Smith.

Dr. Smith treats a wide range of foot and ankle conditions, including heel pain and sports injuries, diabetic foot complications, and arthritis. He also performs advanced procedures, including minimally invasive surgery, fracture and tendon repair, wound care, and reconstructive foot and ankle surgery.

A Carroll native, Dr. Smith is excited to return to west central Iowa and care for patients close to home. He earned his Doctor of Podiatric Medicine degree from Des Moines University and completed his residency at AdventHealth East Orlando in Florida.

“I was born and raised in Carroll, Iowa, and I’m proud to return home to provide specialized foot and ankle care to the community where I grew up,” said Dr. Smith.

“We are excited to welcome Dr. Reed Smith to MRHC,” said MRHC CEO Shannon Black. “His expertise and clinical skillset will enhance the high-quality care we provide locally while expanding access to specialty services for our patients. Dr. Smith’s commitment to patient-centered care aligns perfectly with our mission, we look forward to the positive impact he will have on our patients and communities.”

Dr. Smith will be available by appointment the first and third Thursday of each month. To schedule an appointment, call (712) 655-8100.

MRHC to Host Senior Day on April 14

Manning Regional Healthcare Center (MRHC) invites area seniors and their families to attend Senior Day on Tuesday, April 14, from 11 a.m. – 2 p.m. at MRHC. This free, come-and-go event is dedicated to supporting the health and well-being of older adults through education, resources, and community engagement. Attendees are encouraged to register in advance by visiting the MRHC website or calling (712) 655-2072.

Senior Day will include a health and wellness vendor fair from 11 a.m. – 12:30 p.m., followed by a complimentary lunch, a series of informative presentations, and giveaways from 12:30 p.m.- 2:00 p.m. from MRHC staff on topics tailored to the senior population:

Medication & Pain Management Modalities – Jen Morris, PharmD

Home Safety Equipment – MRHC Rehab Department

Promoting Mental Wellness in Aging Populations – Maribeth Christensen, BSW, MA, MSW, LMSW, CADC

Eat Well, Age Well – Haylee Barsby, MSN, RN

Optional Tour of Skilled Nursing Facility

“We want seniors to feel confident navigating the care and services available in our rural community,” said MRHC Chief Nursing Officer Michelle Andersen, RN, BSN. “This event offers education and resources to help them live healthier, fuller lives.”

Those participating in the health and wellness vendor fair include several MRHC departments (Radiology, Specialty Clinic, Respiratory therapy, etc.), plus Manning Ambulance, SHIIP, RehabVisions, Restorix, Psychiatric Medical Care (Senior Life Solutions), CANS, Holistic Health, Rolling Meadows, Carroll County Public Health & Carroll County Home Care, Crawford County Public Health, Gracewell Living – Denison, Cornerstone Caregiving, Angels Care Home Health, Manning Senior Living, Sister Meals, and Wall that Heals.

The event is made possible thanks to the generous support of RehabVisions, PMC, Rolling Meadows, Carroll Area Nursing Services   Manning Senior Living and Angels Care Home Health.

MRHC Welcomes New ENT Specialist

Manning Regional Healthcare Center (MRHC) announced that Gary Huang, M.D., will begin providing ear, nose, and throat (ENT) services at the hospital starting April 1. He will see patients on the first and third Wednesday of every month.

Huang offers a full range of ENT services, including care for chronic sinusitis, nasal obstruction, neck masses, hearing loss, and complex sleep apnea.

“I’m committed to being thorough without rushing,” said Dr. Huang, “I also want to be compassionate without being impersonal. I know seeing an ENT can feel overwhelming, with procedures being performed in a sensitive area, so my goal is to make the experience as comfortable and empowering as possible. I do my best to explain everything in plain language, answer every question, and treat you like I’d want my own family treated.”

Dr. Huang earned his medical degree from the University of Illinois College of Medicine. He completed his residency in Otolaryngology at Case Western Reserve University’s Cleveland Medical Center and is board certified in Otolaryngology – Head and Neck Surgery.

“I chose ENT because of the variety – we can take care of newborns all the way to the geriatric population,” Huang said. “In one day, I can be helping someone sleep better, hear better, breathe better, and treat their head and neck cancer. It’s a very fulfilling specialty.”

Dr. Huang will begin services at MRHC on April 1. Patients can schedule an appointment by calling (712) 655-8100.

Recovering After the Holidays: Winter Self-Care Tips

After the holidays, it’s common to feel drained as routines shift and winter brings shorter days and increased isolation. This time of year makes it especially important to prioritize both mental and physical recovery. To help support individuals during this time, Manning Regional Healthcare Center (MRHC) shares practical tips to aid in post-holiday recovery and winter self-care.

“The weather during this time of year does not help with mental health conditions. The days are shorter; it appears gloomier and colder outside,” said MRHC Mental Health Counselor Hollie Schechinger, LISW. “This causes people to spend more time isolated indoors and not communicate as much with their supports.”

Post-Holiday Recovery

The holiday season often comes with disrupted routines, social fatigue, and sleep changes. Along with heightened emotions, these factors can all take a toll on our mental health. MRHC encourages individuals to allow time for the mind and body to reset. Simple strategies include:

  • Soft Landing Week: Fewer appointments, slower mornings, and smaller errands.
  • Re-Establish Sleep Gradually: Adjust bedtime or wake time by 15–20 minutes.
  • Let Your Body Lead: Use helpful cues such as “pacing myself today” or “this is a transition period”.
  • Micro-Resting: Incorporate brief restorative breaks with a warm drink, gentle stretching, or quiet music.
  • Hydrate & Nourish: Support overall well-being with balanced meals and staying hydrated.
  • Reestablish a Routine: Choose a daily anchor like a morning coffee, a short walk, or a consistent mealtime.

Winter Self-Care

Practicing self-care during the winter months is essential, as it supports physical, emotional, mental, social, and spiritual well-being during a season marked by shorter days, colder temperatures, and post-holiday fatigue. Winter can bring low energy, mobility limitations, transportation barriers, increased isolation, pain or stiffness, emotional decline, and disrupted routines.

“During the winter months, hibernation looks like intentional rest that helps the mind and body heal, while isolation looks like withdrawing from the world because things feel too hard,” said Senior Life Solutions Therapist Maribeth Christensen, BSW, MA, MSW, LMSW, CADC. “If stepping back gives you comfort, that’s healthy, but if it deepens the feelings of sadness or hopelessness, it may be an indication to seek support.”

These factors can make self-care feel difficult or even “selfish,” but it is not indulgence; it is necessary maintenance. MRHC’s practical, simple strategies can help make winter care more manageable:

  • Two-minute rule: Complete quick tasks such as stretching, opening curtains, or drinking water.
  • Comfort basket: Include items like cozy socks, a hot pack, lotion, tea, a puzzle, or a book for easy access.
  • Weather backup plan: When leaving home isn’t possible, choose alternatives such as a phone call or a short video chat to stay connected with friends and family.
  • Warmth rituals: A warm drink, a heated blanket, a warm bath, lotion on your hands, or sitting in a sunny window can promote relaxation.
  • Daily meaning check: Note one moment of comfort, gratitude, or connection each day.
  • Stay connected: Schedule weekly check-ins or attend community events when the weather allows.
  • Lower the bar: Keep expectations realistic. Small, consistent acts of care are most effective.

These small, steady practices help the body and mind stay regulated, grounded, and supported through the winter season. If feelings of sadness, anxiety, or stress persist and interfere with your daily routine, it is important to seek professional help. If you or a loved one is struggling, MRHC provides mental health services to support individuals of all ages:

Counseling Services in person or virtually for individuals 12 and older. Call (712) 655-2072 to schedule an appointment.

Play Therapy to support children five and older. Call (712) 655-2072 to schedule an appointment.

Senior Life Solutions for individuals 65+ struggling with anxiety, depression, or life transitions. Call (712) 655-8262.

The Recovery Center provides residential and outpatient treatment. Call (712) 655-2300 for help.

If you or someone you know is in immediate distress, contact the Suicide Prevention Lifeline at 1-800-273-TALK (1-800-273-8255) or call or text 988 for confidential, 24/7 support.

Obstetrics Care Expands Through Myrtue Partnership

Earlier this year, MRHC pursued a strategic partnership that now offers expectant mothers the convenience of receiving prenatal and postnatal care in Manning, while delivering in Harlan. Myrtue Medical Center now provides a full obstetrics program for prenatal care and deliveries for MRHC patients.

Dr. Kelly Anderson, DO, a board-certified OB-GYN began seeing patients at MRHC in Manning in June. She visits the Manning clinic on the fourth Thursday of each month, providing access to specialty care without requiring patients to travel long distances. Her services complement those of board-certified and ACOG fellow, Dr. Michael Woods, MD, who has provided OB-GYN care in the Manning area for over 30 years. Although Woods does not offer prenatal and delivery services in Manning, he does offer female pelvic medicine and reconstructive surgery, urogynecology, and obesity medicine.

Together, Drs. Anderson and Woods ensure patients receive comprehensive and compassionate care at every stage of life – from annual exams to pregnancy and beyond.

Since the program’s inception earlier this year, Dr. Anderson’s clinic has been full. This partnership exemplifies how two community-focused hospitals can work together to strengthen access to specialized care, improve patient outcomes, and provide exceptional services close to home.

Setting Healthy Boundaries During the Holidays

Healthy boundaries and realistic expectations are essential for protecting mental health during the holiday season. Boundaries help safeguard your time, energy, emotional well-being, and personal space, while expectations influence how you feel the holidays “should” go. To support the community during this busy time, Manning Regional Healthcare Center (MRHC) is sharing tips to help individuals navigate these pressures and encourages anyone experiencing increased mental health concerns to seek professional support.

“The holidays are viewed as a joyful season, but the pressure to be happy can increase stress, especially for those already managing mental health conditions,” said MRHC Mental Health Counselor Hollie Schechinger, LISW. “This expectation can heighten feelings of depression or anxiety this time of year.”

When boundaries are unclear or expectations become unrealistic, individuals may experience guilt, heightened stress, and emotional fatigue. Clear boundaries and realistic expectations promote emotional stability and healthier holiday traditions. To support this, MRHC encourages individuals to intentionally establish boundaries, adjust expectations, and implement practical strategies that foster a more balanced and meaningful holiday season.

Types of Healthy Boundaries

  • Emotional Boundaries: Protecting emotional safety by taking breaks when needed.
    Example: “I need a few minutes to step away and take a break.”
  • Time and Energy Boundaries: Setting limits on availability or participation.
    Example: “I can come for a bit, but I’ll need to leave by 6:00.”
  • Role Boundaries: Adjust caregiving, hosting, or “doing it all” expectations.
    Example: “I can help set the table, but I can’t host this year.”
  • Conversation Boundaries: Redirect or decline topics that are stressful or triggering.
    Example: “Let’s focus on positive memories today instead of difficult topics.”
  • Physical/Sensory Boundaries: Honor comfort, mobility, and health needs.
    Example: “I need a chair with back support.”

Realistic Expectations to Hold

  • Expect Mixed Emotions: Gratitude and grief, joy and loneliness, connection and stress can all exist at once.
  • Expect Imperfection: Awkward silences, burnt food, last-minute changes, or tension are normal and do not mean failure.
  • Expect Energy Limits: Fatigue may occur more quickly, and taking breaks or leaving early may be appropriate.
  • Expect People to Be Themselves: Family members may continue their usual patterns, and individuals can focus on adjusting their own response regardless of others’ behavior.
  • Expect Your Needs to Matter: Participation itself is meaningful; contribution does not require perfectionism or taking on excessive tasks.

Practical Strategies for Navigating Boundaries & Expectations

  • Use “gentle but direct” phrases:
    “I’m going to pass on discussing that topic.”
    “Thank you for thinking of me, but that doesn’t work for me.”
    “I need a little space; I’ll rejoin in a bit.”
  • Practice “short & kind” responses when explanations aren’t needed:
    “No, thank you.”
    “Not this year.”
    “I’m taking care of myself today.”
  • Prepare a backup plan:
    A quiet room to step away to, a supportive person to sit with, have transportation available if an early exit is needed, or a list of “safe topics.”
  • Release the pressure to please everyone:
    Use the mantra: “I’m responsible for how I show up, not for how others feel.”
  • Normalize taking breaks:
    Join in the moments that feel good, sit near an exit if that helps, take slow breaths, or step out for a short walk when things feel heavy.
  • Focus on today, not the past:
    Stay present, let go of old roles or wounds, and create new traditions that fit your current reality.

Healthy boundaries and realistic expectations can make the holidays feel more manageable and emotionally safe. However, if feelings of sadness, anxiety, or stress begin to interfere with daily routines, seeking professional support is important. For those who are struggling, MRHC offers a range of mental health services for individuals of all ages:

Counseling Services: Available in person or virtually for individuals 12 and older. Call (712) 655-2072 to schedule an appointment.

Play Therapy: Supports children five and older dealing with stressful or traumatic experiences. Call (712) 655-2072 to schedule an appointment.

Senior Life Solutions: Group therapy for individuals 65+ struggling with anxiety, depression, or life transitions. Call (712) 655-8262 for support.

The Recovery Center: Residential and outpatient treatment for substance use concerns. Call the Recovery Center at (712) 655-2300 for help.

If you or someone you know is in immediate distress, contact the Suicide Prevention Lifeline at 1-800-273-8255 or text or call 988 for confidential, 24/7 support.

MRHC Expands Services with New Dermatology Care

Manning Regional Healthcare Center (MRHC) is pleased to announce that dermatology services will soon be available locally. Sierra Thompson, NP-C, will start seeing patients at MRHC beginning January 16th, and will be in Manning each month for scheduled appointments.

Dermatology services at MRHC will include preventive skin care, early identification of potential issues, treatment of medical dermatologic conditions, and access to cosmetic skin care options.

“I am excited to start outreach dermatology services as a part of Dr. Kuwahara’s dermatology team from CNOS at MRHC in the new year,” said Thompson. “I’ve always loved dermatology, and I’m passionate about helping patients improve their self-esteem, quality of life, and confidence in their own skin. I look forward to bringing specialized care closer to my small-town community!”

Thompson is a certified Family Nurse Practitioner accredited by the American Association of Nurse Practitioners and the American Nurses Credentialing Center. She earned her Associate and Bachelor of Science in Nursing degrees from St. Luke’s College of Nursing in Sioux City, Iowa, and her Master of Science in Nursing – Family Nurse Practitioner – from Briar Cliff University. She specializes in dermatology and brings valuable experience in family medicine, surgery, medical-surgical care, and long-term care.

Patients can schedule an appointment through a referral with their primary care provider or by calling (605) 217-2667.

MRHC Enhancing Patient Care Through Avel eCare Hospitalist Program

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Manning Regional Healthcare Center (MRHC) is expanding its partnership with Avel eCare to include the implementation of the eHospitalist program in its acute care inpatient department. This new development builds on the success of the telemedicine services already integrated into MRHC’s emergency room.

“We understand that access to expert medical advice and support is crucial, especially during critical moments. Ensuring our advanced care providers have access to timely and expert support is a top priority at MRHC,” said MRHC CEO Shannon Black, MHA. “This program offers a vital lifeline, enabling us to enhance patient care, improve provider confidence, and ultimately, strengthen the delivery of quality healthcare within our community.”

As part of MRHC’s ongoing commitment to providing high-quality, timely, and expert care, the eHospitalist program utilizes advanced telemedicine technology to connect MRHC’s advanced practice providers with board-certified hospitalists. This connection ensures comprehensive, real-time support for complex patient care needs.

About the eHospitalist Program

The eHospitalist service allows MRHC providers to consult with internal medicine physicians via a secure audio and video connection at any time, day or night. This enables:

  • Immediate Consultation – Providers can review medical records and discuss cases in real time with a hospitalist.
  • Enhanced Decision-Making – Hospitalists offer expert insights to support complex treatment decisions.
  • 24/7 Availability – Around-the-clock access ensures expert care is always available.
  • Improved Continuity & Quality of Care – The service reinforces MRHC’s established care protocols and provides consistent support. The collaboration fosters comprehensive, coordinated care plans.
Benefits for Patients

The implementation of this program offers numerous benefits for patients, including enhanced patient safety due to timely access to physician-level expertise; reduced delays and faster response times; greater access to specialized knowledge during evenings, weekends, and holidays; and increased peace of mind for patients and families as additional medical support is always available.

“At MRHC, we are dedicated to continuously improving the quality of care we provide to our community,” Black said. “Utilizing the eHospitalist program is a testament to our commitment to embracing innovative technologies that enhance patient outcomes. We believe this will significantly strengthen our ability to provide exceptional and compassionate care to every patient we serve. We are excited about this new chapter and the positive impact it will have on our community.”

For more information or questions about MRHC’s services or the new eHospitalist program, please call (712) 655-2072.