Ozarks Community Hospital

Springfield, Mo. – The Springfield Area Chamber of Commerce and Springfield Business Journal recognize OCH nurse practitioners Beverly Jo Gann and Leta Barnes as Health Care Champion honorees. Both will be celebrated at the Salute to Health Care banquet on Oct. 27 at 6 pm in Springfield.

Beverly Gann, WHNP has worked in the OCH women’s health clinic since 2002 and has more than 14 years experience working in women’s health. She received her education from the St. John’s School of Nursing and the University of Missouri at St. Louis, Barnes School of Nursing.

Beverly Gann, WHNP and patient Danielle. To hear to Danielle’s full patient testimonial click here.

“I have a lot of experience where professional people have discriminated against me because of my weight,” says patient Danielle. “But [Beverly] just sits down and talks to you. She even asks you about your day. It’s not just about the doctor… she asks you how you are doing and actually has a conversation with you. I think that’s important to have the connection between patients and doctors, because if you can’t be comfortable with your doctor, you’re not going to get very far with communication.”

Leta (Hohl) Barnes, PNP has worked at OCH since 2002. She has more than 20 years experience working as a pediatric nurse. She received her nursing degree from Southwest Baptist University and her Master of Science in nursing in 1998 at Missouri State University.

Leta (Hohl) Barnes, PNP caring for a child at Ozarks Community Hospital.

“When Leta joined the team at Ozarks Community Hospital, she jumped in with both feet and immediately found herself driven to help the children of families suffering from methamphetamine addictions and the struggles that come with it,” says friend, Melanie. “With Leta’s love for her community, deep compassion for children and even her hugs she has gained the trust of these children. This has allowed the children the ability to talk and share their stories and need with a care giver.”

Beverly and Leta were selected by an independent panel of judges: Dr. Nanette Crighton, Crighton Aesthetic Studio; Kevin Gipson, Springfield-Greene County Health Department; Stephen Hall, American Heart Association; Gordon Kinne, Med-Pay Inc,; and Robert Lunn, Ph.D., The Health Commission.

Ozarks Community Hospital is a 45-bed acute care provider-based facility located in Springfield, Missouri, just off Interstate 44 between North National Avenue and North Glenstone Avenue. In addition to a wide range of services, including a 24-Hour Emergency Room and variety of specialists, OCH operates another hospital in Northwest Arkansas and 14 clinics serving communities throughout the Ozarks. Visit OCH at www.OCHonline.com.

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