MRHS Announces Two New Providers

Mena Regional Health System has welcomed two new providers to the Medical Staff Team at Mena Medical Associates and the Walk-In Care Center.

Chip Koppein, DNP, FNP-C, received his Doctor of Nursing Practice from Concordia University of Wisconsin, Mequon, WI.  He began his nursing career in 2001 and became a nurse practitioner in 2007.  Throughout his years of patient care, Chip brings extensive experience in cardiac care, internal medicine, sports injuries and pediatrics.  In addition to his Family Practice at Mena Medical Associates, Chip will also be providing care at the Walk- In Care Center on a part time basis.   Koppein said, “I am excited to have found a position that will take advantage of my varied background and leadership skills to improve patient care, outcomes and satisfaction through collaboration with my staff.”

Chip and his wife Jodi, an Occupational Therapist, have two children ages 6 and 8 years.  The family enjoys sports, camping, hiking and going to the movies. In addition to Family Practice, Chip also has a love for pediatrics.

Fanae Watson, FNP-C, received her Masters of Nursing degree from South University, Savannah, Georgia.  She has been involved in patient care for over 24 years and brings extensive experience in ICU, CCU, Emergency Care and Treatment for Diabetes.

Before joining MRHS, Fanae served patients all over the country as a traveling nurse in a variety of hospital departments, clinics, offices and health facilities.  Her experiences have provided her with great knowledge in evaluating, assessing and documenting the total medical process.  As she begins her career as a Nurse Practitioner, she believes in the holistic approach to healthcare, constantly anticipating the needs of every patient. “Compassion and a positive bedside manner are extremely important when caring for patient needs.  Patient respect, advocacy, honesty and privacy are four issues that any patient deserves,” stated Mrs. Watson.

Fanae and her husband Anthony, master carpenter, have one grown son and a grandson.  The couple enjoys fishing, camping, dining out and are avid NASCAR fans.  In addition to Family Practice, Fanae also desires to care for patients dealing with diabetes.

Chip and Fanae join Dr. Forrest, Dr. Webb, Dr. Luker and Eric Webb, PA at Mena Medical Associates, located at 1103 College Drive.  Mena Medical Associates also houses the Walk- In Care Center, Hot Springs Cardiology Group, Urology and a Hepatitis C clinic. Additionally, the clinic now has a Full Service laboratory.  The hours of the clinic are Monday-Friday 8:00-5:00.  The Walk- In Care Center hours are Monday-Friday 8:30-5:30, Saturday and Sunday 9:00-4:00.

“I am looking forward to the patient-centered care contributions from our new providers.  They both bring a variety of experience that will certainly be a positive addition to the professionalism of the existing medical staff at Mena Medical Associates.  Mena Regional Health System offers a variety of inpatient and outpatient services to the community.  Our vision is to continue to be recognized as a leading model for regional healthcare by expanding our services and partnering with others to ensure we exceed the expectations of our patients,” Jay Quebedeaux.

For more information or to schedule an appointment, contact Mena Medical Associates at 479-394-1414.

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Jeri Pearson

Jeri is the News Director for Pulse Multi-Media and Editor of The Polk County Pulse. She has 10 years of experience in community focused journalism and has won multiple press association awards.

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