With the addition of Tasha Clewell as a nurse practitioner, Mercy Clinic Watonga now has four practitioners to see patients.
Clewell, a homegrown health care favorite started at Mercy Clinic September 17. She had long been a nurse at Mercy Hospital and served in several other locations until she furthered her education.
Nurse practitioners are highly trained healthcare professionas who have completed advanced education and clinical training beyond that of a registered nurse (RN). They play a crucial role in the healthcare system, often serving as primary care providers or specialist. NPs focus on health promotion, disease prevention, and the overall well-being of their patients.
They may diagnose and treat health conditions, order diagnostic testing and interpret results. They may also develop treatment plans and prescribe medication. The may also conduct routine check-ups and screenings.
Both Clewell and Courtney Barrett, also a nurse practitioner, were guest speakers at the Watonga Kiwanis Club Wednesday. They are two of the four practitioners who work in tandem with Dr. Curtis Schenk and Dr. Branson Kester.
Barrett said they were all enjoying the newly remodeled clinic space.
“Our lab capacity is great,” she said. She was less enthusiastic about the call center that schedules
(ABOVE) Tasha Clewell (L) and Courtney Barrett (R) discuss the practicioners and services available at Mercy Clinic Watonga. Clewell was in her first day of service as a nurse practicioner for Mercy.