Mason Kerian, Reflects on Her First Few Months of Medical Practice in Postville & Waukon Clinics, Back at Home
Veterans Memorial Hospital Waukon and Postville Clinics welcomed Mason (Hermeier) Kerian at the beginning of this year as a family medical provider. Mason has been caring for patients of all ages, spending a couple of days each week in both the Waukon and Postville Clinic locations, and enjoying watching her practice grow.
“My first few months at the clinic have been full of really grateful patients and the existing staff has been so helpful and supportive. Since I am new and am working to develop more long-term relationships with patients, my schedule has been more open for acute visits,” states Mason. “I have seen so many patients, young and old, who have upper respiratory illnesses plus plenty of influenza, RSV, and strep throat come through the clinic. I hope parents can come away from a visit with me feeling supported and reassured that although their kid is sick, we have a plan in place and know how to get them through it. Illness is going to happen no matter what, but I love getting to be a reassuring voice and helping moms and dads feel not so anxious.”
Mason is a 2017 graduate of Waukon High School and attended the University of Iowa in Iowa City as she worked on earning her nurse practitioner doctorate. Mason became a nurse practitioner because she saw how poor health outcomes often result from something as simple as miscommunication, a lack of trust or a missed connection between providers and their patients.
“Our nurses, medical assistants, and front desk staff helps do all the behind the scenes lifting that I could never do on my own like scheduling follow ups, taking calls, and working patients in,” explains Mason. “They are so knowledgeable and whenever I have a question I know several people I can go to who are happy to help me out along the way. I am so lucky to get to work where I do, and I hope it means years to come in the VMH clinics.”
Mason welcomes patients of all ages to see her at either the Waukon or Postville Clinic locations. She adds, “Before the busyness of summer takes over, I recommend to our patients who haven't seen a provider in a long time that they call and get an appointment set up.”
To make an appointment to meet with Mason at the Waukon Clinic, call 563-568-5530, or the Postville Clinic at 563-864-7221.
