General Practitioners

• Osteoporosis
• Medical Weight Loss
  Dr. Pankratz is building his specialty clinic at Norton County Hospital. He can perform gynecological exams, an array of gynecological surgeries, prenatal and birthing services - including high-risk and multiple birth pregnancies, infertility treatment, medical weight loss and incontinence treatment. Dr. Pankratz plans to see patients every third Monday of the month at the Norton County Hospital. Learn more about Dr. Pankratz.
• Rheumatology
• Nutritional Counseling
  Cardiac rehab (cardiac rehabilitation) is a comprehensive therapy combining prescribed exercise training, cardiac risk factor modification, education on heart health, diet and nutrition counseling and psychosocial support that helps you recuperate, build confidence and get stronger after you’ve had surgery or medical treatment for a heart issue, such as a heart attack.
• Primary Care
  Both, Medicare and Medicaid patients with one or more chronic conditions qualify for Remote Patient Monitoring services. Remote patient monitoring includes free-of-charge delivery of devices such as cellular blood pressure monitors, cellular glucometers, pulse oximeters, and Bluetooth scales, based on medical need and physician recommendations, to track conditions like COPD, Long COVID, and Heart Failure. The Care Collaborative team monitors readings from these devices seven days a week from 8 am to 10 pm, with a 24/7 on-call nurse line available to address out-of-range vital signs at any time. Monthly vital sign reports are sent to the patient’s primary care physician, and any requested specialists.
• Family Practice
  Norton County Hospital would like to inform the public that Jeff McKinley, DO, will join the medical staff and begin seeing patients at Norton Medical Clinic on March 6, 2023. McKinley graduated from Wichita State University in 1993 with a Bachelor of Science degree in biology. From there, he went on to the College of Osteopathic Medicine, Kansas City University, where he graduated in 1997. He completed his family medicine residency in Topeka.
• Emergency Care
  Norton County Hospital has on average 1,800 emergency visits each year. Open 24/7, the Emergency department is equipped to handle any patient who comes through the door. The ED does not have a physician present 24 hours a day; however, the department is staffed 24 hours a day by registered nurses who have specialized training in emergent conditions and outpatient procedures needed for all types of medical problems. A physician is available at all times by phone.
• Electrocardiogram
  "Everyone was very kind. Knowledgeable, professional. Excellent! Everyone in the ER was super, super great. Krisin Vogel was exceptional! Ms. Ostmeyer who performed by EKG was wonderful! Sierra was wonderful! Thank you all so much!"
• Bronchitis
• Urinary Incontinence
  Pelvic Floor Strengthening - Our Physical Therapy Department offers specialized pelvic floor strengthening programs designed to improve muscle tone and function in the pelvic area. This therapy is beneficial for women experiencing issues such as urinary incontinence, pelvic pain, or postpartum recovery. By focusing on targeted exercises and education, our skilled therapists help enhance pelvic floor strength, leading to better bladder control, reduced discomfort, and improved overall health. Take charge of your wellness and schedule an appointment through the Norton Medical Clinic (785) 877-3305 to learn how pelvic floor therapy can make a difference for you!
• Diarrhea
• Pneumonia
• Immunizations
  Please note if you have any questions regarding the results, you will need to make an appointment with your medical provider to discuss. You can copy or download your Personal Health Record, including medical, social and family history, and immunizations.

Ophthalmologists

• Glaucoma
• Macular Degeneration
• Eye Exam
  Eye Exam -Keep your vision sharp and your eyes healthy with regular exams! Before age 40, get checked every 5 to 10 years. If you have vision issues, aim for every 2 years or as recommended. Diabetic? Don’t miss an annual retina exam. For comprehensive care, including tests for vision clarity, glaucoma, and macular degeneration, visit your trusted optometrist.

Gynecologists

• Gynecology
• Female Infertility
• Obstetrics
  The Norton Medical Clinic provides general family practice, in addition to seeing patients specifically for obstetrics and surgical procedures. The clinic is an entity of Norton County Hospital, although it has its own entrance and functions independently with its own staff. Our medical providers see patients both in the clinic and in the hospital.
• Pelvic Pain
• Pregnancy
• Labor and Delivery
  2019: The hospital announced it hired three new physicians to join the medical staff; they began employment in September 2020. They include Dr. Josh Gaede, Dr. Miranda McKellar and Dr. Theresia Neill. The hospital brought back its Labor & Delivery program with these new physicians on staff.

Internists

• Internal Medicine
  2021: The hospital announced it hired an internal medicine physician to join the medical staff; Dr. Dakota Dreher will begin employment in September 2022.
• Urology
  Dr. Faris Azzouni will no longer be having an outpatient clinic at NCH. Starting in January 2017, Dr. Darrell Werth will be coming as the urology specialist.
• Nephrology
  Norton County Hospital is pleased to announce a new specialty clinic will begin in January! Abhisekh Sinha Ray, MD, is a nephrology specialist and will be coming to Norton County Hospital the third Thursday of the month. His first clinic is scheduled for Jan. 18th. Dr. Ray is with Good Samaritan Medical Group in Kearney. Ask your primary care provider if you may need specialty care. Appointments may be made with Kayla Weigel at Norton County Hospital; call 785-877-3351 and press option 5 to be connected to Kayla.
• Ovarian Cancer
  Ovarian and Cervical Screenings - Cervical and ovarian cancer screenings are essential for early detection and prevention. Cervical cancer screenings, including Pap tests and HPV testing, help identify abnormal cell changes, allowing for timely intervention. For women aged 21 to 65, regular screenings significantly reduce the risk of cervical cancer. The Women's Preventive Services Initiative recommends a Pap test every 3 years for those aged 21 to 29, while women aged 30 to 65 should be screened every 5 years with both Pap and HPV testing or every 3 years with Pap alone. Ovarian cancer screenings are crucial for women with risk factors or family histories, as early detection through pelvic exams and imaging can improve outcomes. Prioritizing these screenings empowers you to manage your reproductive health proactively. Please check with your insurance provider, as coverage for cervical cancer screenings may vary. To schedule your screening call the Norton Medical Clinic (785) 877-3305.
• Cervical Cancer
  PAP Testing - PAP testing is essential for women’s health as it helps detect abnormal cell changes in the cervix that could lead to cervical cancer. Regular screenings can identify potential issues early, allowing for timely intervention and treatment. The American College of Obstetricians and Gynecologists recommends starting PAP tests at age 21 (or as soon as sexually active), with regular follow-ups based on individual risk factors. Schedule your PAP test today through the Norton Medical Clinic at (785) 877-3305.
• Colon Cancer
  Norton County Hospital wants to remind you that March is National Colon Cancer Awareness Month. The hospital has two doctors on staff who are available to perform colonoscopies. Learn more about colon cancer.
• Endoscopy
  Dr. Doolittle will be performing a variety of surgeries, including endoscopy procedures, in Norton for the convenience of patients. He is the third physician to offer endoscopy procedures at Norton County Hospital, with the other two physicians being Josh Gaede, MD, and Kelly Gabel, DO.
• Lung Cancer
  Under the direction of a Physician, Respiratory Therapy Practitioners are the health care specialists who evaluate, treat, educate and care for patients with breathing disorders. This includes chronic lung disorders such as asthma, bronchitis, COPD (Chronic Obstructive Pulmonary Disease) and emphysema. People with breathing problems also might include premature infants, accident victims, heart attack patients, and people with cystic fibrosis or lung cancer.

Neurologists

• Autism
  Speech-language pathologists (sometimes called speech therapists) assess, diagnose, treat, and help to prevent communication and swallowing disorders in patients of any age. Speech, language and swallowing disorders result from a variety of causes, such as a stroke, brain injury, hearing loss, developmental delay, Parkinson’s disease, a cleft palate or autism.

Psychiatrists

• Mental Health
  Ready to take charge of your health? Call us at (785) 877-3305 to schedule your appointment today! Discuss vital topics like mental health, diet, and exercise. Empower yourself—your health journey starts now!
• Behavioral Health
  Links and numbers that could help families during the COVID-19 pandemic are available on our website.

Endocrinologist

• Endocrinology
• Thyroid
  Hormone Panel - A hormone panel is a comprehensive blood test that measures various hormones in your body, including estrogen, testosterone, progesterone, and thyroid hormones. These panels are crucial for assessing hormonal balance, diagnosing conditions such as thyroid disorders, polycystic ovary syndrome (PCOS), and hormonal imbalances that can affect mood, energy levels, and reproductive health. By understanding your hormone levels, you and your healthcare provider can develop targeted treatment plans to improve your overall well-being and address specific health concerns. Schedule an appointment with your primary care provider at the Norton Medical Clinic (785) 877-3305 for a referral.

Radiologist

• Ultrasound
  "*Patient* had an Ultrasound this morning and let me just say the tech was amazing!! What an asset to the NCH!! So kind and personable!! NCH she is definitely a keeper...You are blessed to have her on your team!"
• MRI
• Radiology
  If you have a pre-appointment Lab or Radiology visit scheduled, arrive 30 minutes early to ensure everything is set before your visit.
• X-Rays
• Nuclear Medicine
  In addition to Jay, Travis Nykamp works in the Outpatient Clinic as a nurse. He joined NCH in 2014 and has worked as an RN at NCH since 2016. Prior to working in the infusion and wound care department, he worked in the Emergency department, on the Med-Surg hospital floor, in Cardiac Rehab and assisted with Nuclear Medicine procedures. He is able to provide ultrasound guided venous access for lab draws, IV catheter placement, and PICC line insertion and is also experienced in wound care and specialty medication administration.
• Mammography
  Mammography - We offer mammograms to help with early detection of breast cancer. Regular mammograms are recommended for women starting at age 40, with annual screenings suggested thereafter. If you have a family history of breast cancer or other risk factors, earlier or more frequent screenings may be advised. Early detection is key to effective treatment and improving outcomes. To get started, please schedule an appointment with one of our providers at Norton Medical Clinic, who will provide the necessary orders for your mammography.
• Computed Tomography
  Computed Tomography (CT) scans allow hospitals to explore inside the human body, which could include the brain, spine, chest, abdomen, pelvis and other organs to help determine the location, type, and extent of a disease or injury. These scans can be life-saving in chronic and emergent situations.
• Chemotherapy
  During winter, we know travel at times could be difficult. It's important for patients to be aware of services offered locally at Norton County Hospital. One of those is chemotherapy, along with education while undergoing treatment of an intravenous chemotherapy infusion. Many chemotherapy agents are managed at NCH. Ask your oncologist about a referral for chemotherapy at NCH, or if you have any questions, contact Deb Bowen, RN, at 785-877-3351. More information about chemotherapy is available.

Surgeons

• General Surgery
  The Norton County Hospital Board of Trustees and administration has announced that the planned infrastructural expansion and renovation project has been indefinitely suspended. Immediate changes have been made to phase out some surgical services and discontinue providing meals for the local Meals on Wheels program, due to recent financial losses the hospital has faced. Read more in a news release.
• Arthroscopy
  Norton County Hospital works to keep up to date with the latest technologies and equipment for patient care. According to Dr. Greg Sarin, orthopedic specialist, Norton County Hospital has new, state-of-the-art arthroscopy equipment. Dr. Sarin visits Norton twice per month for clinic and to perform some surgeries. In addition to Dr. Sarin, some surgeries by other visiting specialists are also available. Those specialists include Dr. Todd Pankratz, OBGYN specialist, and Dr. Robert Hinze, podiatrist. These specialties and more that are provided at Norton County Hospital can be found online. See some of our surgery equipment by going to the Surgery page.
• Wound Care
  Norton County Hospital works to keep care close to home for its patients, by offering a wide variety of outpatient services under the care of our skilled RNs. To check in for infusion and wound care services, please park in the hospital's main lot adjacent to Highway 36, and look for the Outpatient and Specialty Clinic sign (entrance is west of Emergency).
• Hand Surgery
  Dr. Doolittle is also available for many other general surgeries, including but not limited to laparoscopic surgery, appendix and gall bladder removal, wound care and debridement, hernia repair, hand surgery, amputation and trauma repairs. His added presence will enable the hospital to take care of more emergent surgical cases, which were formerly transferred to other hospitals. Read more.
• Neurosurgery
• Arthroscopy

Plastic Surgeons

• Laparoscopic Surgery

Dermatologists

• Skin Cancer
  Skin Exam -Annual skin exams are crucial for women’s health as they play a key role in the early detection of skin cancer, the most common cancer in the U.S. Early detection leads to better treatment outcomes and increased survival rates. Regular skin exams by a dermatologist can catch precancerous lesions before they become cancerous, monitor changes in your skin that reflect overall health, and address the increased risk associated with aging skin, sun exposure, and family history. Melanoma, in particular, can be life-threatening if not treated early, often appearing in hard-to-see areas like the back or legs. At Norton Medical Clinic, our providers can assess any concerns during your wellness visit, and we have a dermatologist who visits our Specialty Clinic monthly for more in-depth evaluations.
• Dermatology
• Lesions

Physical Therapists

• Sports Medicine
  Norton Medical Clinic has offered free sports physicals to student athletes as a service to the community for many years. Earlier in the spring, sports physical dates were canceled due to the COVID-19 pandemic, but the medical providers have been working on a plan to provide alternative methods for young athletes to get their sports physicals.
• Physical Therapy
  Physical Therapy provides health care services to patients of all ages and health conditions. The overall goal of Physical Therapy is to achieve the highest level of function and independence.
• Occupational Therapy
  Occupational Therapy services help increase a person’s participation and independence in daily activities within their environment and community. An occupational therapist can assist people of all ages to engage in daily activities and address physical and cognitive function through the engagement of occupations.
• Manual Therapy
  Patients are seen for evaluation and establishment of a plan of care. Treatment can include exercise programs for post-surgical, muscle weakness and other upper extremity injuries. Treatment can also include modalities for pain control and manual therapy for soft- tissue mobilization. Other areas that occupational therapy can address are fine motor coordination skills, pediatric therapy, fall prevention and home modification education, and wheelchair evaluations. The NCH occupational therapist can create custom orthotic splints for hand and wrist injuries.

Podiatrists

• General Podiatry
  The Foundation Board voted to approve the purchase of a second set of surgical instruments primarily used for podiatry procedures. That approval was made at the November 2018 meeting. Read more about this purchase.