Good communication, planning aid knee replacement recovery
Good communication with her health care team and planning for her recovery in advance helped Martha Morin have a better patient experience with her second knee replacement at Riverwood Healthcare Center. Morin explains, “I talked to Physician Assistant Erin Mason on the orthopaedic team about how to avoid some of the difficulties I had with […]
Eating changes, daily walks support weight loss
Jessica Johnson, a dedicated physical therapist at Riverwood Healthcare Center since 2005, has undergone a remarkable transformation in her health and wellness journey. Primarily working with patients at Riverwood’s McGregor clinic and occasionally in Aitkin, Jessica shares her inspiring story of overcoming obstacles and achieving lasting success. “I’ve struggled with my weight for years. In […]
Get up to date with breast cancer, other health screenings
October is Breast Cancer Awareness Month, a time when women are reminded to get their breast health screenings. About 30 percent of all new female cancers each year are breast cancer. Breast cancer is most common in middle-aged and older women. The American Cancer Society recommends that women ages 40 to 44 can choose to […]
Cardiologist joins Riverwood heart health team
Riverwood Healthcare Center is pleased to announce that Dr. Sohaib Basharat of the Allina Health Minneapolis Heart Institute (MHI) has joined the cardiology provider team. He will begin seeing patients at Riverwood’s specialty clinic in Aitkin in October. Specializing in cardiovascular and preventative cardiology, Dr. Basharat joins Dr. Peter Stokman and Dr. Tim Dirks, MHI […]
Prostate Cancer Awareness, Preventative Care
September is Prostate Cancer Awareness Month, and it is a great time to focus on the importance of early detection and preventative care. Prostate cancer is one of the most common cancers among men, yet it is also one of the most treatable when caught early. Understanding the risks and taking proactive steps in screening […]
Fast medical care critical for stroke patient
A native of Aitkin, Minn., Don McKay never imagined his first trip for hospital care would be caused by a stroke. Knowing what stroke symptoms look like helped Don and his wife, Joane, get fast medical care at Riverwood Healthcare Center. McKay shares his outstanding treatment experience and outcome. “Joane and I were watching the […]
Spread awareness of Ovarian Cancer
As we approach Ovarian Cancer Awareness Day on Sept. 5, it’s vital to shine a spotlight on this often-overlooked disease. Ovarian cancer, a malignancy originating in the ovaries, is the fifth leading cause of cancer-related deaths among women. Early detection and awareness are crucial for improving outcomes and survival rates. “While a diagnosis of ovarian […]
New radiology system supports breast, prostate MRIs
A new advanced imaging system just made its debut at Riverwood Healthcare Center in Aitkin. The DynaCAD imaging system will be used for breast and prostate MRIs, which were previously unavailable at Riverwood. The biggest benefit of the DynaCAD software is that it provides the radiologist with the technology needed for reading and interpreting breast […]
Aitkin hospital earns five-star rating
Last month, the Centers of Medicare and Medicaid released its Hospital Compare Report showing how hospitals across the nation are performing. Riverwood Healthcare Center earned an impressive five-star rating for the last reporting period covering October 2022 through September 2023. This report is produced based on patient satisfaction surveys issued and compiled by the Hospital […]
Local physician takes on ultramarathon
Dan Lonergan, MD, a dedicated anesthesiologist in Riverwood’s Neck, Back, and Spine clinic, has taken on an extraordinary personal challenge that few would dare attempt. He has transitioned from a self-described non-runner to completing a grueling 100-mile ultramarathon. His journey is a testament to grit, determination, and the power of a wellness mindset. Just a […]
Riverwood surgeon finds wellness benefits on the water
When she is not caring for patients, Dr. Susan Moen, orthopaedic hand and wrist surgeon at Riverwood Healthcare Center in Aitkin, enjoys rowing workouts with the Daisy Crew of the Brainerd Lakes Rowing Club. The Daisy Crew, a group of women from diverse backgrounds, comes together for an hour of rowing in a long, narrow […]
Riverwood to host surgery expansion grand opening
Riverwood Healthcare Center is thrilled to invite the community to the grand opening of its newly expanded surgery addition on Monday, August 12, from 4:00 to 6:00 p.m. This celebration marks the culmination of a significant two-year project aimed at enhancing healthcare services in our region. Designed by DSGW Architects and constructed by Kraus-Anderson, the […]
Introducing Riverwood’s New Podcast: Riverwood On Call
Introducing Riverwood’s New Podcast: Riverwood On Call We are thrilled to announce the launch of Riverwood Healthcare Center’s new podcast, Riverwood On Call. Hosted by our Chief Medical Officer, Dr. David Taylor, this podcast will feature insightful discussions and interviews with our dedicated providers. Tune in to learn about common health issues and innovative treatments. […]
Riverwood Auxiliary celebrates 70 years of service
In 1954, a dedicated group of women saw the need to support the new Aitkin Community Hospital, which opened its doors in January 1955 following a groundswell of support from residents and community fundraising. This year, the Riverwood Healthcare Center Auxiliary is celebrating 70 years of service to the hospital, clinics and communities Riverwood serves. […]
Riverwood urologist honored with Center of Excellence designation
Riverwood Healthcare is proud to announce that Urologist Brandon Reynolds, MD, has been designated as a UroLift™ System Center of Excellence physician. Dr. Reynolds is the only urologist north of the Twin Cities to earn this unique distinction. This designation is awarded to physicians who have attained advanced training with the UroLift™ System, which offers rapid […]

