Central Ozarks Medical Center (COMC) is implementing a patient access strategy designed to preserve timely access to care, strengthen continuity between patients and providers, and support the long-term sustainability of healthcare services across the communities we serve.

Beginning June 15, 2026, COMC Dental will schedule new patient appointments for:
• Established COMC patients who have been seen within the last three (3) years for any service line- medical, dental, behavioral health, or vision
• Medicare and Medicare Advantage patients
• Medicaid and Managed Medicaid patients
• Uninsured patients
• Self-pay and Sliding Fee Scale patients

As a Federally Qualified Health Center and safety-net provider, COMC remains committed to ensuring healthcare access for all individuals, regardless of ability to pay. This approach allows COMC to continue serving the patients who depend on us most while preserving appointment availability, strengthening provider continuity, and supporting long-term access to care.

“This decision supports our ability to provide high-quality, patient-centered care while ensuring patients can continue seeing the providers who know them best,” said COMC Chief Dental Officer, Dr. Susan Currey. “By managing growth intentionally, we are protecting access and maintaining the level of care our communities expect and deserve.”

One important exception to this transition is that COMC School-Based services delivered through our school sites, the Mobile Dental Unit (MDU), Treatment Court, and Medication-Assisted Treatment (MAT) programs will continue accepting all insurance types.

Patients with questions are encouraged to contact COMC by calling 877-406-2662.

About Central Ozarks Medical
COMC was founded in 1979 and is a Federally Qualified Health Center dedicated to delivering high-quality, compassionate care to individuals and families across Pulaski, Camden, Miller, Laclede, and Morgan Counties. COMC provides a wide range of services including family practice, OB/GYN, pediatrics, dental, vision, behavioral and mental health, substance use disorder treatment, as well as assistance with insurance and access to critical community resources such as housing, employment, food, and other supports that help reduce barriers to care.

[Richland, MO] – Central Ozarks Medical Center (COMC) is proud to announce the official opening of its Optometry service line, launching today and bringing high-quality, accessible vision care directly to communities across central Missouri.

Leading this new service is Dr. Haley McCreery, COMC’s dedicated optometrist, who brings over 10 years of experience in providing comprehensive eye care. Dr. McCreery is committed to helping patients of all ages maintain healthy vision through preventative care, early detection, and personalized treatment.

COMC’s Optometry services will be delivered through its state-of-the-art Mobile Optometry Unit—a fully equipped, modern clinic on wheels designed to increase access to care. The unit features advanced technology and a thoughtfully designed, welcoming interior, allowing patients to receive high-quality eye care in a comfortable and convenient setting.

“Access to vision care is essential to overall health, and we are proud to remove barriers by bringing these services directly to our communities,” said Kelly Miller, CEO. “With Dr. McCreery’s expertise and our innovative mobile unit, we are expanding care in a meaningful and impactful way.”

The Optometry service line will offer a full range of services, including routine eye exams, vision screenings, and the diagnosis and management of eye conditions. Patients can now schedule appointments by calling 877-406-2662, and new patients are welcome.

This launch reflects COMC’s continued commitment to delivering comprehensive, patient-centered care to everyone. By integrating Optometry into its medical, dental, and behavioral health services, COMC is further strengthening its mission to serve the whole health needs of the communities it supports.

About Central Ozarks Medical Center
Central Ozarks Medical Center (COMC) is a Federally Qualified Health Center dedicated to providing high-quality, affordable healthcare to the communities of central Missouri. COMC offers a wide range of services, including medical, dental, behavioral health, and now optometry, with a focus on improving the health and well-being of every patient it serves.

Crocker, MO (June 10, 2026)— Central Ozarks Medical Center (COMC) is proud to announce the continued expansion of services in Pulaski County with the ongoing growth and community impact of its Crocker Clinic, located at 101 E. 12th Street, Crocker, Missouri.

“I’m thrilled to celebrate the grand opening of the COMC Crocker Clinic. For nearly 30 years, families in Crocker and the surrounding area have gone without local access to a doctor. Thanks to the dedication of Central Ozarks Medical Center, residents now have convenient access to quality primary care and dental services right here in our community. No longer will folks have to drive 14 miles or more for basic medical care. This new clinic is a game-changer for rural healthcare in the 124th District, and I’m proud to support COMC’s mission of compassionate, accessible care for all.” said Representative Don Mayhew, Missouri House District 124

The Crocker Clinic provides local access to high-quality, compassionate care for individuals and families in the Crocker community and surrounding areas. Services include primary medical care, dental services, and access to COMC’s community health resources.

As a Federally Qualified Health Center, COMC remains committed to its mission of ensuring healthcare is accessible, affordable, and available to all—regardless of insurance status or ability to pay. The Crocker location is part of COMC’s ongoing effort to expand rural healthcare access across Central Missouri.

DawnElyn Schneider, Interim CEO for COMC, shared “Healthcare access is about more than miles. It’s about time, convenience, and the ability to receive care without unnecessary barriers. Although our new Crocker clinic is only 15 minutes from Richland, it will reduce travel times for many patients from 30 minutes to 15, making care significantly more accessible. Our patients asked for services closer to home, and we listened. The Crocker clinic is another step in our mission to ensure access for all and build healthier communities.”

The Crocker Clinic offers convenient weekday hours, coordinated care, and seamless connection to COMC’s additional locations in surrounding areas like Richland and Waynesville. Patients also benefit from integrated services including preventive care, optometry services, OBGYN Care and MAT services.

For more information or to schedule an appointment, patients can contact COMC at 877-406-2662 or visit www.centralozarks.org.

Waynesville, Mo. — January 19, 2026 — Central Ozarks Medical Center (COMC) is proud to announce the re-grand opening of the COMC Waynesville School Clinic on January 5, marking an exciting new chapter in its continued partnership with the Waynesville R-VI School District. The clinic reopens with expanded services and the addition of a new provider, Jodi Juenger, MSN, FNP-BC, PMHNP-BC.

The school-based clinic serves students, staff, families, and the surrounding community by providing convenient access to high-quality healthcare directly within the school setting—helping reduce barriers to care and supporting student success.

“We are thrilled to reopen the Waynesville School Clinic and welcome Jodi Juenger to the COMC team,” said Kelly Miller, CEO of Central Ozarks Medical Center. “School-based clinics are an essential part of our mission to meet patients where they are. By providing care within the school environment, we help keep students healthy, engaged, and ready to learn while also supporting families and educators.”

In addition to medical and behavioral health services, dental care is available through COMC’s Mobile Dental Unit, further expanding access to essential healthcare services for students.

The COMC Waynesville School Clinic also utilizes telehealth services, allowing students and school staff to be seen virtually from any school within the district without needing to be physically present at Waynesville High School or East Elementary. This innovative approach ensures timely access to care while minimizing disruptions to the school day.

The clinic will operate Monday through Thursday with the following schedule:

• Waynesville High School: 7:30 a.m. – 11:30 a.m.
• Waynesville East Elementary: 1:30 p.m. – 4:00 p.m.
• Community Hours (East Elementary): Tuesdays from 4:00 p.m. – 6:00 p.m., open to the public

Services at the Waynesville School Clinic are available to eligible students, staff, and community members. The clinic accepts most private insurance plans, including TRICARE, as well as Medicaid, Medicare, and self-pay, ensuring care is accessible to families regardless of insurance status.

The re-grand opening of the Waynesville School Clinic reinforces COMC’s dedication to community-based care and its mission to provide accessible, compassionate healthcare throughout the region.

Richland, MO – January 5th – Central Ozarks Medical Center (COMC) is excited to announce the launch of the Wellness Wave Club, a fun and rewarding program designed to encourage children to stay on top of their health through regular medical and dental wellness visits.

The Wellness Wave Club uses a unique “Wellness Passport” system, where participating children receive a passport that is stamped after completing essential services, including their medical wellness exam and dental screening. Once all services are completed, children earn a “COMPLETE” passport, and a free ticket to SuperSplash USA for a fun-filled summer day.

“At COMC, we believe that healthy habits start young,” said Kelly Miller, CEO. “The Wellness Wave Club is a fun and engaging way to empower our kids and their families to stay proactive about their health—because when children thrive, our community thrives.”

The program is open to all COMC pediatric patients and allows year-round participation, giving families flexibility to join and complete the passport at any time. Parents can easily sign their children up during appointments using an electronic form via QR code or direct link, with printed forms also available for those who prefer them.

Dr. Haynie, COMC’s Chief Medical Officer, emphasized the importance of preventive care: “Regular wellness visits are essential for a child’s long-term health. The Wellness Wave Club makes completing these visits exciting and rewarding, helping families stay on track while reinforcing the importance of preventive care.”

The program also highlights dental health as a critical part of overall wellness. “A healthy smile is more than teeth — it’s the gateway to your overall health.” said Dr. Currey, Chief Dental Officer. “By combining medical and dental check-ups into the Wellness Wave Club, we’re giving kids a positive, encouraging experience that sets them up for lifelong healthy habits.”

COMC is committed to fostering healthy communities, and the Wellness Wave Club is the latest initiative in the organization’s ongoing efforts to make health care fun, accessible, and meaningful for families. For more information, visit centralozarks.org or ask your child’s provider at your next appointment.

Media Contact:

Bre Linch

Marketing Coordinator, Central Ozarks Medical Center

blinch@centralozarks.org

Central Ozarks Medical Center (COMC) is excited to announce that OB/GYN services will now be offered at its Camdenton clinic, expanding access to women’s healthcare in the community. Dr. Chisholm will begin seeing patients at the Camdenton location starting November 6th. Dr. Macias will continue traveling to the Richland clinic once a week, and both providers will maintain their schedules at the Osage Beach location.

“This expansion makes OB/GYN care more accessible across our region,” said Kelly Miller, CEO. “Dr. Chisholm will be available in Camdenton, Dr. Macias in Richland, and both will continue seeing patients at Osage Beach, in addition to delivering babies and performing surgeries at Lake Regional Hospital.”

COMC is especially excited about the addition of its Camdenton clinic, as this expansion—along with the Richland clinic—will also allow easier access for patients traveling from Laclede County and surrounding areas, ensuring more women can conveniently receive the care they need closer to home.

COMC’s OB/GYN services include:

Annual well-woman exams and preventive care, Prenatal and postpartum care, Family planning and reproductive health services, Menopause and hormone management, Screening and treatment for common gynecologic conditions

Appointments with Dr. Chisholm in Camdenton can be scheduled by calling 877-406-2662. Patients can also continue to see either provider at Osage Beach.

“Our goal is to provide women convenient access to the care they need, when they need it,” said Dr. Chisholm, D.O. FACOG. “We look forward to serving the Camdenton community and supporting women’s health at every stage of life.”

About Central Ozarks Medical Center

Central Ozarks Medical Center is a federally qualified health center (FQHC) providing comprehensive, affordable healthcare across Central Missouri. COMC offers primary care, dental care, behavioral health, OB/GYN, and specialty services.

When you meet Betty Ann Linton, one thing quickly becomes clear — her warmth and compassion are at the heart of everything she does. Born and raised in Macks Creek, Betty Ann has been married to her husband since 1999. Together, they have two daughters and two grandchildren who are the center of her world. When she’s not caring for patients or spending time with family, you might find her out cruising in her Dodge Challenger — proudly named Pearl.

Betty Ann recently joined COMC as a Nurse Case Manager for the PCHH program. “I feel honored to be here to help patients and families in our community,” she shares. But beyond her dedication as a nurse, Betty Ann’s story is one of incredible resilience, faith, and the life-saving power of early detection.

In early 2006, Betty Ann discovered a lump in her left breast during a routine shower. “At the beginning of 2006, I felt a lump on my left breast around the 6:00 position,” she recalls. That moment marked the beginning of a difficult journey — one that would test her strength and faith but ultimately inspire her calling to help others.

Throughout her treatment, Betty Ann leaned on her faith in God and the love of her family. “My mom took me to every chemotherapy appointment, held my hand, and told me I could do it every time,” she says. “When I was at my weakest, my family’s faith and strength lifted me up.” Her husband’s encouragement and her church community’s daily prayers carried her through even the hardest days.

She also remembers the care she received throughout her treatment as life-changing. “God used that time in my life to show me that I wanted to become a nurse. I needed to show others the same empathy, compassion, and care that had been shown to me.”

Now, 19 years later — and approaching her 20th anniversary of being cancer-free on February 21, 2026 — Betty Ann reflects on how her experience shaped her life. “When you face something that threatens to take your life, you realize how much you’ve taken for granted,” she says. After earning her BSN from Cox Nursing School with Cum Laude honors, she fulfilled her dream of helping others — first at the Cancer Center and later as a hospice nurse, guiding families through some of life’s hardest moments, before joining the COMC team earlier this year.

To Betty Ann, being a survivor means gratitude and purpose. “It means more time with the ones I love, more birthdays, and the chance to inspire others by showing compassion and empathy,” she says.

Her advice to others facing a breast cancer diagnosis is simple but powerful: never lose hope — and never put off your screenings. “You know your body better than anyone. If something doesn’t feel right, don’t ignore it. Get it checked out,” she urges. Betty Ann also encourages regular mammograms and annual checkups, noting that early detection saves lives.

“Many people are scared or don’t have insurance,” she adds. “But there are so many resources, like Show-Me Women and mobile mammogram buses, that can help. Don’t let fear or cost keep you from care — it can make all the difference.”

“Genetic testing and technology have come so far,” Betty Ann says. “I feel so blessed to be here — to live my life with my family, and now to care for others as part of COMC. This is where I’m meant to be.”

Osage Beach, MO — Central Ozarks Medical Center (COMC) is proud to announce Dr. Holland Haynie as its new Chief Medical Officer (CMO). A dedicated Family Medicine and Urgent Care physician, Dr. Haynie has been a valued member of the Osage Beach medical community. He brings a wealth of experience and a steadfast commitment to enhancing the health and well-being of the individuals and families he serves.

Dr. Haynie’s journey in medicine began with a Bachelor of Science in Biology from Georgia State University, where he graduated Magna Cum Laude. He earned his medical degree from the prestigious University of Pittsburgh School of Medicine. After completing an internship in pediatrics at Cincinnati Children’s Hospital Medical Center, Dr. Haynie pursued a three-year residency in Rural & Frontier Family Medicine at Oregon Health & Science University. His extensive training and expertise uniquely position him to lead COMC’s medical team and further its mission of providing high-quality, compassionate care to the community.

In addition to his professional accomplishments, Dr. Haynie enjoys fishing, camping, and spending time outdoors with his wife, Katie, and their four children. His passion for rural medicine and patient-centered care makes him an exceptional fit for this leadership role at COMC.

“I am honored to serve as Chief Medical Officer at Central Ozarks Medical Center,” said Dr. Haynie. “COMC’s commitment to delivering accessible, high-quality healthcare aligns perfectly with my own dedication to caring for families and individuals. I look forward to collaborating with our talented team to make a positive impact in our community.”

COMC CEO Kelly Miller also shared her enthusiasm for Dr. Haynie’s new role. “We are thrilled to welcome Dr. Haynie as our Chief Medical Officer. His exceptional medical expertise and dedication to patient care, combined with his understanding of rural health challenges, will undoubtedly elevate our services and strengthen our mission to serve our communities.”

As COMC welcomes Dr. Haynie, the organization also extends its deepest gratitude to Dr. Daniel Schmidt for his remarkable leadership and over a decade of service as Chief Medical Officer. Dr. Schmidt has been instrumental in shaping the growth and success of COMC’s medical programs. While stepping down from his role as CMO, Dr. Schmidt will continue to provide exceptional medical care at COMC’s Richland clinic.

“Dr. Schmidt’s contributions to COMC have been invaluable,” added Miller. “We are excited that he will continue to bring his expertise and compassion to our patients in Richland.”

With Dr. Haynie’s leadership and the ongoing dedication of COMC’s outstanding medical professionals, the organization is poised to continue its legacy of excellence in community healthcare.

For more information about Central Ozarks Medical Center and its services, visit www.centralozarks.org or call (573) 346-4446.