Finding convenient, quality healthcare can be a challenge in rural communities across our state. This is something Joyce Johnson has experienced first-hand. Johnson is a Blackwell resident who’s anemic and needs infusions to keep living.
“There’s been a dramatic difference in my health since I started the infusions,” Johnson said. “I have to get them every 28 days because my body can’t produce red blood cells. If I stopped getting them, I would die.”
She is unable to receive these infusions in Blackwell, so every month, Johnson travels to Perry. She has experience going elsewhere but prefers the environment and personalized care she receives at Stillwater Medical Perry.
“My experience there is much better than any other place I’ve been. My nurse gets right with the program and quickly takes care of anything I need. I’m able to get in and out of there fast. It fits my needs perfectly,” Johnson said.
Stillwater Medical Perry offers a full range of infusion therapy. From antibiotic therapy and blood product administration to complex specialty and biologic therapy, their staff can fulfill your prescribed therapy needs with personalized care and compassion. They work with patients managing a variety of conditions including arthritis, Crohn’s disease, ulcerative colitis, vitamin deficiency and anemia.
In addition to infusions, the hospital provides cardiopulmonary testing; radiological services including CT, MRI and ultrasound studies; lab tests; outpatient physical therapy; observation for acutely ill patients; and emergency care.
Chrystal Pace is the director of nursing at Stillwater Medical Perry. For over 17 years, she’s made the commute from Waukomis to Perry so she can use her skills and talents to bring healthcare to the community. She has seen many changes in the delivery of healthcare since she started her career in nursing and has adapted to these changes alongside her coworkers.
“We know what it’s like to live in a town without an ER,” Pace said. “So we make a concerted effort every day to care for this community. We know it’s worth it because we have patients whose lives are saved here. We are committed to Perry and being here so we can do what’s best for our patients.”
If you or someone you know has questions about the infusion clinic or other services provided, call 580-336-3541 to learn more.
“I have been in a lot of hospitals and there’s a difference here,” Johnson said. “I know they’re busy but they aren’t afraid to visit with me and answer my questions. My children come with me and even they can notice the difference in care here. They have the space they need to sit with me throughout my treatment.”
