
Family Medicine
What is Family Medicine?
Family medicine, formerly referred to as family practice, is a medical specialty devoted to comprehensive health care for people of all ages.
Is Family Medicine right for me?
The specialty of family medicine according to American Academy of Family Physicians is unlike other specialties that are limited to a particular organ or disease, family medicine providers are the only specialist qualified to treat most ailments and provide comprehensive health care for people of all ages-from newborns to seniors. This looks like this:
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Caring for patients regardless of age or health condition, sustaining an enduring and trusting relationship
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Understanding community-level and social determinants of health
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Serving as a patient's first contact for health concerns
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Navigating the health care system with patients, including specialists and hospital care coordination and follow-up
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Using data and technology to coordinate services and enhance care
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Considering the impact of health on a patient's family
The American Academy of Family Physicians continues to state its a combination of passion for the patients and a depth of knowledge of the human body that makes family medicine such a unique, effective specialty. Access to a regular family medicine provider has been linked too:
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Lower infant mortality
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Higher birth weights
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Immunization rates above national standards
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Lower overall health care costs
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Longer, healthier lives
Our Providers
Kristin Bolinger, DO
James Gerdes, DO
Karen Krogstad, MD
Carly Parker, ARNP
Emily Turner, FNP
Liz Hensley, ARNP
Contact Us
Primary Care Clinic
Second Floor Medical Arts Plaza
1700 W. Townline St
Creston, IA 50801
Hours
Monday-Friday
8 a.m.- 5 p.m.
Why Greater Regional Family Medicine?
Having a wide variety of providers to choose from to find the provider with the right philosophy is important. That is why Greater Regional has many different providers, so you have the choice. Along with a choice of providers, Greater Regional gives you access to care right here in Creston. No need to drive hours to have a well child appointment or check on an ear infection or scratchy throat. Our providers are close to home, to give you the care you expect.
Meet Our Providers

Kristin Bolinger,
DO
"Caring for the entire family makes for a special relationship and opportunity to provide comprehensive care."

James Gerdes,
DO
"I offer my patients the opportunity to be involved in their personal care."

Karen Krogstad,
MD

Carly Parker,
ARNP
"I believe I can make a positive impact through compassionate care. Treating my patients with dignity and respect"

Emily Turner,
FNP
"I treat all patients as individuals and make sure they receive the best care."

Liz Hensley,
ARNP
"I believe in getting to know my patients and treating them as I would my own family."