Ozarks Healthcare has announced the expansion of its nutrition services intended to better serve the community's healthcare needs. With a focus on preventive care and disease management, said officials, Ozarks Healthcare's nutrition services team is committed to enhancing overall health and wellness through personalized dietary guidance and support.
Landon Rodgers, registered dietitian (RD) and a native of Willow Springs, brings a wealth of knowledge and experience to Ozarks Healthcare's nutrition services team. He holds a Bachelor of Science in Nutrition and Dietetics from Missouri State University and completed his Dietetics Graduate Program at the Medical University of South Carolina, specializing in critical care medical nutrition therapy. With a passion for serving underserved rural communities, Rodgers is dedicated to providing accessible and comprehensive nutrition care to patients, said officials.
“Through proper nutrition, not only can we actually prevent chronic diseases, but also manage and prevent disease progression, reduce symptom burden and, when appropriate, disease reversal,” Rodgers said. “Nutrition is also vital in acute illness and injuries, as nutrition support provides patients with the energy and nutrients needed to help heal and stay strong. Research continually shows that nutrition therapy/support improves patient outcomes and reduces complications and is just as important as other modalities of care in the treatment of many diseases. With this being said, nutrition should be an integral part of healthcare.”
Lisa Gill, RD, brings over three decades of experience in public health and nutrition to Ozarks Healthcare. With a Bachelor of Arts in Health and Psychology from the University of Richmond and a Master of Public Health in Nutrition and Public Health from the University of North Carolina Chapel Hill, Gill is dedicated to empowering individuals to make informed dietary choices for optimal health.
"Enjoying food, learning moderation and managing foods that impact disease states are all about choice and knowledge and planning — we can help with that,” Gill said.
Ozarks Healthcare's nutrition services fall under a wide range of outpatient services, including medical nutrition therapy for diabetes, heart disease, weight management, kidney disease, eating disorders, cancer and gastrointestinal disorders.
Patients interested in receiving nutrition services at Ozarks Healthcare must obtain a physician referral. Medicaid/Medicare policy owners may have coverage for specific conditions, while third-party/private insurances may offer broader coverage. For uninsured patients or those paying out of pocket, services are available.
To contact Ozarks Healthcare’s registered dietitians directly, call 417-256-9111 ext. 6265 to reach Gill or ext. 6266 to reach Rodgers.
