Riverwood Healthcare Center is pleased to welcome Troy Scott, a third-year medical student at the University of Minnesota Medical School, who is participating in the Rural Physician Associate Program (RPAP). Through the RPAP program, a third-year medical student lives in a rural community for nine months and participates in rotations of hospital and clinic care […]

Local resident and artist Bill Hermans has turned a personal vision into a meaningful gift for patients at Riverwood Healthcare Center. With a passion for creativity and a heart for giving, Bill recently donated 225 adult coloring books—each paired with colored pencils—to the Infusion Department at Riverwood, offering patients a moment of peace and color […]

Craig Kampfer M.D., began his post graduate advanced orthopaedic surgical training at the Minnesota Center for Orthopaedics (MCO) at Riverwood Healthcare Center in Aitkin on Aug. 1. He comes here from his last duty station, Fort Cavazos in Texas, where he served in the Army as a general orthopedic surgeon at Carl R. Darnall Army […]

Riverwood Healthcare Center is pleased to welcome Nurse Practitioner Matthew Jerulle to its cardiology provider team. Jerulle, a specialist in cardiovascular and preventive cardiology with Allina Health Minneapolis Heart Institute (MHI), will collaborate closely with Dr. Peter Stokman and Dr. Tim Dirks, MHI cardiologists who have provided expert care at Riverwood’s specialty clinic in Aitkin […]

Riverwood Foundation is thrilled to announce that its annual charity golf tournament was a tremendous success, raising $36,000 to support the Riverwood Cancer Care Fund. The event held at Minnesota National Golf Course on July 11th, welcomed 100 golfers to enjoy a beautiful day on the course with family, friends and colleagues.  Golfers competed in […]

Riverwood Healthcare Center’s Surgery Expansion has been named one of Finance & Commerce’s Top Projects of 2024. CEO Ken Westman accepted the award at a ceremony held July 17 at the Uptown Theater in Minneapolis. The project was completed in partnership with Kraus-Anderson, DSGW Architecture, and Northland Consulting Engineers. Each year, Finance & Commerce recognizes outstanding developments […]

Ladders are essential tools in both home and workplace settings, but improper use can lead to serious injuries or even fatalities. Each year, thousands of people are treated in emergency rooms due to ladder-related accidents, many of which are preventable.   “Practicing proper ladder safety is critical to protecting yourself and others,” said Dr.Lynn Stottler, emergency […]

After suffering with back pain on and off since his 20s, Jerel Nelson, age 67, feels like a new man after having a spine care procedure at Riverwood Healthcare Center. “Over the years I would get episodes of severe back pain whenever I did hard physical work, Nelson explains. “The pain would go away after […]

Fishing is a relaxing pastime for many, though it can occasionally lead to injuries—particularly from fishhooks. These injuries often affect the hands, face, or feet, and while many are minor, some may require prompt medical attention.  Seek professional medical care if:  The fishhook is deeply embedded, especially near the eye or in a joint.  The […]

Riverwood Healthcare Center is proud to announce Teerza Misner, RN, as the latest recipient of its prestigious DAISY Award for nursing excellence. The DAISY Award honors nurses who go above and beyond in delivering extraordinary care, as nominated by patients and their families. Riverwood participates in the national DAISY Foundation program, which celebrates the compassion, […]

Riverwood Healthcare Center in Aitkin has been recognized as a Comprehensive Advanced Life Support (CALS) Hospital, joining an elite group of facilities dedicated to excellence in rural emergency care. This designation reflects Riverwood’s commitment to high standards in staff training, use of state-of-the-art technology, and adherence to CALS principles. “Riverwood first received this designation in […]

Fireworks are a staple of many July 4th celebrations, lighting up the night sky with dazzling displays. However, they can also pose serious safety hazards if not handled properly. Each year, thousands of injuries—many involving children—are caused by fireworks. Dr. Jessica Hodson, emergency medicine physician at Riverwood, advises, “On behalf of our Riverwood emergency team, […]

At just 15 years old, Ava Horbacz knew she wanted to become a Radiologic Technologist. Today, six years later, she’s living that dream as a Radiology Tech at Riverwood Healthcare Center. Ava began her journey while attending McGregor High School, taking college-level classes in 10th grade to prepare for a future in radiology. “My first […]

Although Minnesota is widely known for its cold winters, extreme summer heat can also have a serious impact on our health. Hot and humid days can lead to dangerous heat conditions that range from mild discomfort to life-threatening emergencies. Heat-related illness occurs when the body is unable to get rid of excess heat and maintain […]

Water activities on area lakes or rivers are a favorite pastime for many, especially during the summer. However, water safety is critical. Drowning remains a leading cause of accidental death, particularly among young children. With awareness and proper precautions, these tragedies are often preventable. Preventing drowning starts with supervision. Constant, undistracted supervision is the most […]