Central Carolina Physician Practices

10/31/2025

Congratulations to Wanda Chester, RT, Radiology Technologist, who retired today after 30 years of dedicated service to Central Carolina Sandhills Family Care, the longtime practice of Dr. Robert McConville.

In recognition of her contributions to the practice, the radiology suite at the practice was named the Wanda Chester X-Ray Suite in her honor.

Wanda has been with the practice since it opened its doors, said Anne McConville, Dr. McConville’s wife.

She “opened the doors of that practice with us in 1996 and has been there every day since,” Anne said. “She saw the building being built, walked in, wanted to help design the X-ray suite, and has run it ever since.”

“You are truly the most efficient and fastest X-ray technician I know, and the most accurate as well,” Dr. McConville told Wanda at a retirement reception today. “We appreciate all the other things you’ve done in the practice to help us out, besides doing X-ray, and we will miss you tremendously.”

“Patients, staff and providers love her,” said Pam Blevins, Practice Manager. “She has helped with other duties throughout the years, and we will all miss her.”

After today, Wanda will have more time now for her two daughters and two grandchildren.

Congratulations, Wanda! Enjoy your well-earned retirement!

10/27/2025

Flu season is here! A flu shot is the best way to protect yourself and your loved ones. Get your flu vaccine and stay healthy this fall, and encourage your friends and family to do the same!

10/20/2025

During Health Literacy Month, we’re reminded that the best health outcomes happen when patients and providers work together. We are here to:

- Explain care in plain language
- Encourage your questions
- Ensure you feel confident about your health decisions

We’re here to support you every step of the way!

10/17/2025

It's national Breast Cancer Awareness Month, and we're rocking our pinkest pinks today at Central Carolina Sandhills Family Care!

Breast Cancer Awareness Month is held each October, offering a month-long opportunity to celebrate, honor and remember our current and former breast cancer patients --- including friends, family members and loved ones. It's also a great reminder to get your annual screening mammogram!

10/13/2025

In the fight against breast cancer, early detection can save lives. Knowledge is power and awareness leads to action. Take a few minutes to complete our Breast Health Risk Assessment and learn about your personal risk. https://centralcarolinaphysicians.com/health-risk-assessment/mg-breast-health?utm_source=facebook&utm_medium=organic&utm_campaign=16776MG_725M&utm_content=bhra

10/06/2025

Healthy kids today grow into healthy adults tomorrow! We’re here to help families support their children’s physical and mental well-being. Simple steps make a big difference, like scheduling regular checkups and vaccines, encouraging balanced meals, staying active, prioritizing sleep and talking openly about feelings.

Celebrate National Children’s Health Day by checking in on your child’s health and creating routines that support their growth, learning and happiness.

09/29/2025

On World Heart Day, we’re reminding you how important it is to know your heart health.
Take a moment to check in with your heart! Start with a quick Heart Health Risk Assessment and take the first step toward a healthier future and know we are here for you every step of the way! centralcarolinaphysicians.com/health-risk-assessment/mg-heart-health

09/15/2025

Ken-Shih Fan, DO, a family medicine physician, has joined Central Carolina Sandhills Family Care in Sanford effective Monday, Sept. 15.

A native of North Carolina, Dr. Fan received his bachelor’s degree in chemistry from the University of North Carolina at Chapel Hill in 2016. He received his doctor of osteopathic medicine degree from the Lake Erie College of Osteopathic Medicine in 2022. He completed his family medicine residency from 2022 to 2025 at Meadville Medical Center in Meadville, PA, where he also served as Chief Resident.

Dr. Fan will see patients of all ages at Sandhills Family Care, the long-time practice of Dr. Robert McConville. He specializes in all aspects of family medicine, including preventive care, chronic disease management, annual physical exams and health screenings. He will provide large joint injections, cryotherapy and minor laceration repairs.

Dr. Fan emphasizes his strong interpersonal skills in connecting with patients, families and colleagues, with a compassionate bedside manner. At the same time, he has strong hospital medicine experience from his residency and utilizes evidence-based medical practices.

“Sanford and Lee County have a significant need for additional primary care providers,” said Dave Santoemma, CEO of Central Carolina Hospital. “We are happy to welcome Dr. Fan to Central Carolina to help fulfill this community need and improve access to primary care.”

09/12/2025

Meet Dr. Saurav Pokharel, a specialist in pulmonary and critical care medicine with Central Carolina Pulmonary Care

Meet Saurav Pokharel, MD, specialist in pulmonary and critical care medicine with Central Carolina Pulmonary Care

09/08/2025

The Birth Center at Central Carolina Hospital welcomed Baby Boy Chance into the world on Thursday, Sept. 4, weighing in at a healthy 6 pounds, 4 ounces and measuring 19 inches long.

"My experience at CCH was great," said his Mom, Angel. "Thanks to all staff, and a special thank you to Dr. Eyra Agudu. And a special thanks to Dr. Hakeem Yusuf! You guys are awesome!"

We think so, too, Angel! Nearly 400 babies are born at CCH each year. We have made those deliveries special occasions for literally thousands of Lee County families, with memories that last a lifetime!

09/05/2025

Dr. Saurav Pokharel, a specialist in pulmonary and critical care medicine, has joined Central Carolina Pulmonary Care, a new practice located in the Medical Arts building at 1139 Carthage Street adjacent to Central Carolina Hospital, as of Sept. 2.

Dr. Pokharel has practiced previously at Frye Regional Medical Center in Hickory and the Heart & Lung Clinic at CHI St. Alexius Health in Bismarck, ND, where he also served as the Medical Director of the Pulmonary Function Testing laboratory.

He has also served previously as a preceptor for the Physician Assistant program at Lenior Rhyne University from 2019 to 2023. He served on Lenoir Rhyne’s PA Advisory Board and as a member of the Clinical Advisory Board at Athena Health from 2022 to 2023.

A native of Nepal, Dr. Pokharel received his Bachelor of Medicine and Bachelor of Surgery (MBBS) degree from the Institute of Medicine at Tribhuvan University in Kathmandu, Nepal, in 2004. He completed his internship and residency in internal medicine at Interfaith Medical Center in Brooklyn, NY, where he also served as Chief Resident in Internal Medicine.

He completed his pulmonary disease fellowship at Interfaith Medical Center, followed by a critical care medicine fellowship at the University of Cincinnati Medical Center in Cincinnati, OH. He is a member of the American College of Chest Physicians and the American Thoracic Society, and is board certified by the American Board of Internal Medicine.

Dr. Pokharel will treat adult patients of all ages. His areas of specialization include lung nodules and lung cancer, interstitial lung disease, pulmonary hypertension, Chronic Obstructive Pulmonary Disease (COPD) and asthma, chronic cough, hypoxemia and unexplained shortness of breath. He also has extensive experience in bronchoscopy and lung biopsy and plans to bring robotic and navigation bronchoscopy services to our area.

“Dr. Pokharel is a welcome addition to the medical staff at Central Carolina Hospital,” said Dave Santoemma, CEO of CCH. “His expertise in lung diseases and critical care medicine will be invaluable in the care of Sanford area patients.”

09/01/2025

Regular screenings can help catch prostate cancer early—when it's most treatable. If you're unsure whether it’s time for your exam, talk to your healthcare provider.

Early detection saves lives. Visit centralcarolinaphysicians.com to find a provider and learn more about your risks for prostate cancer and preventative steps you can take today.