National Nurse Practitioner’s Week will be observed November 9-15, 2025, highlighting the critical role nurse practitioners play in healthcare. This year’s theme, “NPs: Trusted Voices, Proven Care,” draws attention to their commitment to both acute and chronic care, as well as disease prevention and patient education. RaeAnn Tucker from the Henry and Stark County Health Department emphasizes that local clinics in Kewanee and Toulon provide medical and mental health services. The clinics offer low-cost options, accept most insurances, and serve non-residents. For appointments, call 309-852-5272 for Kewanee or 309-852-3115 for Toulon.
RaeAnn Tucker, Director of Health Promotion with the Health Department and First Choice Healthcare states, “Nurse Practitioners (NPs) serve as trusted frontline health care providers for patients in our community, state, and nation. In addition to diagnosing and treating acute and chronic conditions, Nurse Practitioners focus on health promotion, disease prevention and health education and counseling, guiding patients to make smarter health and lifestyle choices.”
Tucker adds, “During National Nurse Practitioner’s Week we celebrate and remind area residents of our clinic & psychiatric mental health Family Nurse Practitioners at our First Choice Healthcare Clinics in Kewanee and Toulon. During the cold and flu season many of us may need to seek medical attention for sick appointments. Our clinics are a great option for those without a regular health care provider, or for someone who may not be able to get into their provider in a timely manner. An acute ill visit may include such ailments as sore throats, earaches, and urinary tract infections. Our psychiatric mental health practitioner sees patients needing help with such things as depression, anxiety, stress, behavioral issues, trauma and loss.”
Tucker concludes, “Many people do not realize that the array of Clinical and Behavioral/Mental Health Services we offer. Because many of our programs receive federal and state funding, savings can be passed on. Our clinic services can offer access to low-cost healthcare to those without health insurance or those who have a high insurance deductible. You do not have to be a resident of Henry or Stark County to access many services. We accept most insurances. Call our offices to see if your insurance is one of them.
Additional details about services, hours, and health programs are available on their website, www.henrystarkhealth.com. Updates and health tips can also be found by connecting with Henry and Stark County Health Departments on Facebook, X (Twitter), and Instagram. The clinics remain dedicated to serving patients with a range of healthcare needs and providing resources for healthier living in the region.
