Visiting Specialists at Beaver Island Rural Health Center

[Deb on Donegal]

From time to time, specialists from the mainland visit the Beaver Island Rural Health Center to see patients here, which saves Islanders the cost of transportation to mainland offices. The kind of doctors who visit is limited by their interest in coming here -- can procedures be safely done here, is necessary equipment portable enough to bring here, how many staff members are needed to provide care away from their home offices. And because winter travel can be problematic, specialists may be hesitant to schedule appointments then.
Dr. Murray Cotter, a dermatologist, has been coming to the island twice a year for several years. His existing patients often know when he is due to return and his schedule fills up very quickly. We are told he has no more appointments available for his May 15 visit. Dr. Jon VanWagnen, an optometrist, will return to see patients here for the second time, but his May 29 schedule is full also.
Chiropractor Dr. Meghan Costello sees patients here on a more regular basis. You can schedule appointments with her by calling her office at 231-922-0048.
Dr. Patrick Richmond, a podiatrist, has offered to see patients on the island if there is enough interest. If you would be interested, please contact BIRHC Managing Director Donna Kubic at 448-2275 during business hours.
Thank you to these health professionals who come to Beaver Island! If you have questions about these specialists or would like to suggest specialists who might be interested in traveling here, please call Donna Kubic.