BUSINESS NEWS
Rheumatic diseases affect over 25% of the U.S. population, both young and old, who commonly live with joint and muscle pain associated with musculoskeletal and autoimmune disorders. Even with the prevalence of these conditions, rheumatology specialists are hard to come by in Kansas, especially in its rural communities. Clara Barton Hospital and Clinics strive to provide quality healthcare close to home and are pleased to announce the addition of Rheumatology to its clinical services, as Dr. Ken Baxa joins the Clara Barton medical team.
A Kansas native, Baxa grew up in Salina and attended undergraduate school at Fort Hays State University and then Kansas Wesleyan. After obtaining his undergrad, he attended medical school at the University of Pikeville Kentucky College of Osteopathic Medicine, graduating at the top of his class. Baxa then completed his Internal Medicine, Neuromuscular Medicine and Osteopathic Manipulation residency at Northeast Regional Medical Center in Kirksville, Missouri. After recently completing his fellowship in Rheumatology at Bayonet Point Regional Medical Center in Hudson, Florida, Baxa and his family wanted to return to Kansas and give back to the communities that helped raise him.
Although he grew up in Salina, Baxa is no stranger to Clara Barton Hospital and Clinics. After completing his undergraduate degree, he worked in the Radiology Department at Clara Barton Hospital while finishing pre-med classes and coursework.
“During my time as a radiologic technician at Clara Barton Hospital I gained excellent clinical experience in multiple aspects of medicine,” said Dr. Baxa. “I had such a great experience while working at Clara Barton and I am thrilled to have the opportunity to return and give back to a community that has helped foster my development.”
Baxa’s primary goal is to help his patients achieve a better state of health. He is very passionate about the musculoskeletal system and uses a multi-faceted approach to treat such disorders. Rheumatologists, like Dr. Baxa, diagnose and treat a variety of disorders affecting the joints, muscles, ligaments and autoimmune system, such as: inflammatory disorders, fibromyalgia, osteoporosis, arthritis, lupus, gout, tendinitis, and vasculitis.
“I have the unique and humbling opportunity to improve the health and well-being of my patients, and I couldn’t be happier to do so at Clara Barton,” said Dr. Baxa. “Hoisington and Central Kansas is not only a great place to practice medicine but is also the perfect place to raise my family.”
Outside of work, Baxa enjoys spending time outdoors and with his wife of ten years and their three children.
“Ken comes to us with a remarkable set us skills and experience and will be a wonderful addition to our medical staff,” said Jim Blackwell, Clara Barton Hospital President/CEO. “We are extremely excited to bring this much-needed service to our community, giving our patients access to the care they need close to home.”
Dr. Baxa is now accepting new patients at Clara Barton Medical Clinic, located at 250 W. 9th Street in Hoisington. To make an appointment, please call 620-653-2386.