CRHC Earns Prestigious 5-Star Rating from the NRRS

Clarinda Regional Health Center • November 8, 2024

CRHC was also named to the National Rural Honor Roll

Clarinda Regional Health Center, a committed healthcare provider in Southwest Iowa is proud to announce that it has been awarded a prestigious 5-star rating by the National Rural Rating System (NRRS), a program recognizing dedication and excellence in rural healthcare, as well as being named to the National Rural Honor Roll.

This esteemed designation is a testament to Clarinda Regional Health Center's dedication to delivering high-quality care and exceptional patient experiences. The NRRS evaluates hospitals based on rigorous standards, including patient satisfaction, quality of care, and overall hospital performance.

"I am incredibly proud to announce that Clarinda Regional Health Center has achieved the prestigious NRRS 5-Star rating. This accomplishment is a testament to the unwavering dedication and hard work of our entire team. Every day, our staff goes above and beyond to embody our commitment to Advancing Exceptional Care for our patients and community. This rating reflects not only the quality of care we provide but also the compassion, expertise, and relentless pursuit of excellence that our team brings to their work. Thank you to each and every staff member for making this achievement possible and for your steadfast dedication to the health and well-being of those we serve." -Chuck Nordyke, CEO

The 5-star rating reflects Clarinda Regional Health Center's ongoing commitment to meet the unique healthcare needs of the rural community it serves. This recognition highlights the hospital's success in providing outstanding medical services, despite the challenges often faced by rural healthcare facilities.

The 2025 National Rural Honor Roll honorees, announced each November, include rural hospitals that have met the highest standards for patient experience, based on cumulative ratings submitted by October 31, 2024. This annual recognition reinforces NRHA’s commitment to supporting and uplifting rural health care facilities as pillars of their communities.

“These awards really shine a spotlight on the heart and hard work that our rural hospitals bring to their communities,” says Brock Slabach, COO of the National Rural Health Association. “Rural healthcare comes with unique challenges, and reaching this level of excellence shows not only the clinical expertise but also the deep commitment these hospitals have to the people they serve. This recognition celebrates rural healthcare as a source of strength, compassion, and healing—right where it’s needed most.”

Clarinda Regional Health Center extends its heartfelt thanks to its dedicated team of healthcare professionals, whose tireless efforts and unwavering commitment to patient care have made this achievement possible.

Clarinda Regional Health Center (CRHC) is a 25-bed critical access hospital located in southwest Iowa, dedicated to providing exceptional, patient-centered care to the communities it serves. CRHC offers a wide range of healthcare services, from inpatient and outpatient care to specialty services, ensuring comprehensive care close to home. In addition to its main hospital in Clarinda, CRHC operates clinics in Clarinda, Villisca, and Bedford, Iowa, extending its commitment to high-quality healthcare across the region. With a focus on advancing health and wellness, CRHC combines modern medical practices with compassionate care to meet the diverse needs of southwest Iowa’s residents.

The 5 Star Rating System ranks rural and critical access hospitals – with five stars being the top ranking and one star being the lowest. The Star Ratings are like the CMS Stars, which allow hospitals/clinics to promote their success and are used as high-quality recognitions. Most small and rural hospitals (60%) do not qualify because of low number of qualifying inpatients for the CMS Rankings but are held to the same high patient satisfaction criteria. This program recognizes the hard work, and dedication rural and critical access hospitals provide across the country. The rankings will include overnight hospital stays (HCAHPS) and are based on data collected by certified CMS patient satisfaction vendors.

The National Rural Honor Roll was created to honor rural and critical access hospitals and clinics that consistently deliver exceptional healthcare, showcasing them as leaders in patient-centered care within their communities. Facilities included on the Honor Roll receive recognition for their dedication and excellence that sets them apart, demonstrating their commitment to patient well-being.

For more information visit RuralRatings.US.

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Clarinda Regional Health Center Receives National PRC Excellence in Healthcare Award

By Clarinda Regional Health Center • March 10, 2026

Clarinda Regional Health Center (CRHC) has been recognized with a 2026 PRC Excellence in Healthcare Award, earning a 4-Star rating for Inpatient Services Overall Hospital Rating. This distinction places CRHC among the top 25 percent of hospitals nationwide, based on results from the 2025 Inpatient Services Normative Database. The Excellence in Healthcare Awards are presented annually by PRC, a leader in healthcare experience management, to recognize organizations that demonstrate exceptional performance in areas such as patient experience, employee engagement, and physician alignment through patient feedback and survey data. “This recognition reflects the dedication and commitment of our entire Clarinda Regional Health team,” said Chuck Nordyke, CEO of Clarinda Regional Health Center. “Our staff works hard every day to provide compassionate, high-quality care for the patients and families we serve while continually advancing exceptional care in our community. Being recognized nationally and ranking in the top 25 percent of hospitals is a testament to their commitment to creating an exceptional experience for every patient who walks through our doors.” This award highlights CRHC’s ongoing commitment to delivering high-quality inpatient care while maintaining a strong focus on patient safety and satisfaction. By continually listening to patient feedback and improving care processes, CRHC strives to ensure every patient receives excellent care close to home.

Dr. Bryon Schaeffer Named to Becker's "Hospital & Health System Chief Medical Officers to Know" List for 2026

By Clarinda Regional Health Center • March 4, 2026

Bryon Schaeffer, MD, Chief Medical Officer of Clarinda Regional Health Center, has been recognized by Becker's Healthcare as one of its “ Hospital and Health System Chief Medical Officers to Know in 2026 .” The national recognition highlights physician leaders who are advancing clinical quality, strengthening care teams, and shaping the future of healthcare. Since assuming the CMO role in 2018, Dr. Schaeffer has provided leadership and oversight for CRHC’s physicians, advanced practice providers, nursing leaders, and clinical departments. He has implemented and refined medical staff policies to ensure consistent, high-quality care, support accreditation standards, and promote a culture centered on patient safety and accountability. His collaborative leadership style emphasizes communication, mentorship, and professional development, helping build strong, engaged clinical teams across the organization. “In rural healthcare, our strength is our people,” said Dr. Schaeffer. “This recognition reflects the dedication of our physicians, providers, nurses, and staff who work every day to deliver safe, compassionate, and high-quality care to our community. I’m proud to serve alongside such an outstanding team.” In addition to his executive responsibilities, Dr. Schaeffer remains actively involved in patient care, continuing to see patients and perform cardiac stress testing. He first joined Clarinda Medical Associates in 2014 and has played an integral role in advancing clinical excellence while supporting the dedicated healthcare professionals who serve the Clarinda community. For more information about Clarinda Regional Health Center, visit www.ClarindaHealth.com .

CRHC President & CEO Chuck Nordyke Named to Becker's CEO to Know 2025

By Clarinda Regional Health Center • February 23, 2026

Under the leadership of President and CEO Chuck Nordyke, Clarinda Regional Health Center (CRHC) has been recognized nationally through Becker’s CEO to Know 2025 , a list highlighting healthcare leaders and organizations advancing innovation, financial stewardship, and patient care across the country. “While the recognition carries the CEO title, it reflects the collective efforts of CRHC’s providers, nurses, staff, board members, and community partners who serve Southwest Iowa each day”, according to Nordyke. In recent years, CRHC has expanded services and strengthened access to care through initiatives including the upcoming launch of a community pharmacy, a new, expanded, dedicated mental health clinic (a generous donation from Azria Health Clarinda), construction of a new Rehabilitation & Sports Medicine Center, expansion of the Specialty Clinic, and enhancements to the Infusion and Surgery Centers. These investments have improved access to specialty and outpatient care close to home and supported long-term sustainability in rural healthcare. CRHC has also earned significant recognition for quality and performance, including designation as a 2025 Community Star by the National Organization of State Offices of Rural Health, a 5-star rating from the National Rural Rating System (2024), and a 4-star rating from the Centers for Medicare & Medicaid Services (2023). “This recognition represents the work of an exceptional team committed to serving our community,” said Nordyke. “Rural healthcare requires both patient-centered care and strong operational discipline. Our team delivers both every day.” For more information about Clarinda Regional Health Center and its services, visit www.clarindahealth.com

CRHC Shares Information for Spring Wellness Lab Draw Opportunities

By Clarinda Regional Health Center • February 3, 2026

Wellness Lab Draws start in March, register now!

CRHC Honored for Rural Health Leadership & Community Impact

By Clarinda Regional Health Center • November 21, 2025

In celebration of National Rural Health Day, Clarinda Regional Health Center (CRHC) has been recognized as a 2025 Community Star by the National Organization of State Offices of Rural Health (NOSORH). The award honors individuals and organizations that make extraordinary contributions to rural health nationwide, and CRHC is proud to be among this year’s forty-seven statewide honorees, exemplifying innovation, compassion, and collaboration. Clarinda Regional Health Center, a Critical Access Hospital and cornerstone of care in southwest Iowa, also earned multiple accolades in 2025, including Becker’s 150 Top Places to Work in Healthcare and Best of Midwest awards in Mental Health Services, Assisted Living, and Orthopedic Surgery. “CRHC’s commitment to Advancing Exceptional Care is rooted in our responsibility to serve, support, and uplift the people of southwest Iowa,” said Chuck Nordyke, CEO of Clarinda Regional Health Center. “Our team works every day to ensure rural patients have access to outstanding care close to home. The strength of our organization comes from our people, our partnerships, and the community we are proud to serve.” Impactful Programs, Real Results CRHC goes beyond hospital walls with programs that enhance safety, wellness, and opportunity in the community: Guardian Helmet & Concussion Sensor Program – Protecting youth athletes with advanced technology. Community School Nurse Program – Bringing healthcare and education directly to schools. Wellness Roots Garden – Hands-on nutrition education for all ages. Backpack & Fresh Eats Programs – Providing meals for students and families in need. Little Food Pantry – 24/7 discreet access to food for the community. Investing in Workforce & Rural Excellence As Clarinda’s largest employer, CRHC leads with its Employee Wellness Program, twice named Iowa’s Healthiest State Small Workplace . The program tackles burnout and promotes well-being through fitness challenges, mental health resources, and nutrition education. Power of Rural CRHC exemplifies the Power of Rural: neighbors caring for neighbors, delivering high-quality care with trust, accountability, and innovation—even in remote communities. Partnerships with the Iowa State Office of Rural Health further strengthen telehealth, hospitalist programs, and statewide performance standards. CRHC’s recognition as a Community Star and multiple awards highlight a simple truth: exceptional rural healthcare is possible, right here in southwest Iowa.

Dr. Amy Bingaman Joins Clarinda Regional Health Center's Specialty Clinic

By Clarinda Regional Health Center • November 17, 2025

Clarinda Regional Health Center (CRHC) is pleased to announce that Amy Bingaman, MD, OB/GYN, will begin seeing patients in the CRHC Specialty Clinic beginning December 4, 2025. “We are honored to welcome Dr. Bingaman to our Specialty Clinic,” said Amy Roop, Chief Clinics Officer at CRHC. “She brings exceptional clinical expertise, a patient-centered philosophy, and a strong commitment to women’s health. Her addition expands access to high-quality gynecology services close to home, and we are proud to offer this level of care to our region.” Dr. Bingaman joins CRHC with extensive experience in women’s health across diverse settings. Originally from the Chicago area, she has lived in six states but proudly considers Iowa home. She earned her undergraduate degree from Drake University and her Doctor of Medicine from the University of Iowa. Following medical school, Dr. Bingaman served 8.5 years in the United States Navy, completing her internship and residency in obstetrics and gynecology before continuing her service for an additional 4.5 years at the Naval Medical Center in Portsmouth, Virginia. For the last 15 years, she has practiced full-spectrum OB/GYN care across Iowa, serving women at every stage of life. Her clinical areas of focus include adolescent gynecology, perimenopausal and menopausal care, and LGBTQ+ health. In addition to providing outpatient consultations, Dr. Bingaman will perform gynecologic surgeries at CRHC. Outside of her clinical work, Dr. Bingaman is devoted to family and community. She and her husband, a 50/50 farmer, are proud parents of four children. She enjoys cooking, gardening, reading, traveling, and running. CRHC is proud to expand women's health services with Dr. Bingaman’s arrival and looks forward to the positive and lasting impact she will have on patients and families in the region. To schedule an appointment with Dr. Bingaman, call 712-542-8232 or visit clarindahealth.com to request an appointment.