CRHC Honored for Rural Health Leadership & Community Impact

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.








