Staff writer
Herington Municipal Hospital has opened a new clinic established on Main St. in Tampa. The clinic, open from 8 a.m. to noon every Tuesday, is serviced by physician’s assistant Nita Bittle and licensed practical nurses Jana Nordquist and Pam Holub.
Hospital manager Alan Meisingersaid the hospital was looking for more opportunities to serve the public, especially in smaller communities surrounding Herington, when he connected with pharmacist David Rziha of Tampa to establish the clinic.
“We’re thrilled about it,” Tampa State Bank president Chris Costello said. “We’re glad to see our refurbished buildings on Main Street being used, and anything that brings people to town is a bonus. It will save people a trip to another town.”
Dee Duggan, 81, was the first person to make an appointment.
“I’m its No. 1 fan,” she said. “Before, I had to go to Herington. My family has always doctored with Nita Bittle, so I was glad to hear she was coming to Tampa.”
Lucille Kerbs, 83, also doctors at Herington with another physician but is glad the clinic is in town.
“If it ever happens that I need it or when I can no longer drive, it will be wonderful,” she said.
Alisha Backhus, a young clerk at the bank, saw a big benefit for older people who have to find transportation to go out of town for medical care.
“It’s a pretty good deal,” mayor Tim Svoboda said. “It’s an asset to the community.”
The exam room is located in a back room of Tampa Trails Salon, with the next door meeting room serving as reception area. A back hallway connects the two rooms and gives access to restrooms.
“We’re hoping it will be more convenient for people in the wider area, including Durham,” Bittle said.
Tamps is within the boundaries of Marion County Hospital DIstrict No. 1, which operates St. Luke Hospital in Marion. No one on the district board could be reached for comment.