Astera Health

02/20/2026

Mental health matters, and we’re here to support you.

We’re always looking for meaningful ways to care for our communities. That’s why we’re expanding our Bite Size Conversation series to include Your Mental Health to create more opportunities to connect, learn, and have open conversations in a welcoming space.

Join us for our first session: The Elephant on the Couch
Thursday, March 5
5:30 – 7 p.m.
The Depot, Wadena
Free to attend (RSVP required)

We’ll break down common questions about therapy styles, provider credentials, and medication support in a relaxed, welcoming setting. No pressure. Just honest conversation and helpful information.

Save your spot today: https://hubs.ly/Q043_7ND0

02/19/2026

"Small, satellite clinics play such an important role in health care. For some, it's just proximity, but for others, it's providing care in a trusted and comforting location. I appreciate the effort to keep them open for efficient, quality care, but also the comfort and accessibility for those who need it!"

We couldn't agree more with this patient, and that's exactly what our clinic locations are there for! We want to provide high-quality access to care to all our surrounding communities!

Did you know Shana Pazdernik-Hensch, PA-C sees patients at four of our locations? Whether you're seeking care in Henning, Ottertail, Sebeka, or Verndale, she's there when you need care.

Schedule your next appointment with Shana at https://hubs.la/Q043zjYx0

02/18/2026

It’s picture week at Astera!

Our team is looking sharp and camera-ready as we update staff photos across our organization. We’re proud of the people who care for our communities every day, and it’s fun to capture their smiles.

A special thank you to Impressions by Sarah LLC for partnering with us and taking these amazing photos. We’re grateful for the opportunity to work with a talented local business that helps us showcase the stars of Astera Health!

02/17/2026

There’s a lot of mixed information out there about menopause and HRT. Dr. Hala Madi, OB/GYN, is breaking down the facts so you can make informed decisions about your health.

Myths you may have heard:
❌ “HRT is unsafe for everyone.”
❌ “HRT always causes cancer.”
❌ “You just have to suffer through menopause.”

The truth? HRT is safe for many women when used correctly, the cancer risk is low for many patients, and help is available. It’s not just for hot flashes. HRT can also improve sleep, mood, vaginal health, and bone strength.

Menopause looks different for every woman. There’s no one-size-fits-all solution, and the best next step is an open conversation with your provider.

Ready to explore your options? Read the full blog from Dr. Madi here: https://hubs.la/Q0433bpT0

Learn the facts about hormone replacement therapy for menopause. Dr. Hala Madi explains benefits, risks, myths, and symptoms.

02/16/2026

Early Detection Saves Lives

If you’re 40 or older, it’s time to schedule your routine mammogram. Regular breast cancer screenings are recommended beginning at age 40, and even earlier if you have an increased risk, such as a family history of breast cancer.

Breast cancer often has no symptoms in its early stages. That’s why screening is so important. Early detection can make all the difference.

Take control of your health today. Learn more about our mammography services and schedule your screening: https://hubs.la/Q0432zt80

02/15/2026

We were excited to welcome students from Sebeka Public School PreK-12 for a shadowing experience at Astera Health last week! Students had the opportunity to see healthcare in action as they explore what they may want to pursue in their future careers.

They spent time learning from our Orthopedics, Sports Medicine, and Cancer Center teams, getting a firsthand look at the compassionate, high-quality care provided right here in our community.

We’re proud to partner with local schools and support students as they consider careers in healthcare.

Interested in a shadow opportunity with us? Send us a message to learn more!

02/14/2026

🌟 A Heartfelt Thank You to Emery and Mikayla 🌟

We are incredibly grateful to Emery and Mikayla, two students from Bertha-Hewitt School for organizing a Comfort Care Drive for cancer patients. As current nursing students and future healthcare leaders, their compassion truly shines.

Through their drive, they collected thoughtful items like socks, hats, scarves, books, lip balm, puzzle books, journals, neck pillows, games, and gift cards. These are all small comforts that can make a big difference during a difficult battle. The care bags were distributed to local cancer centers, including the Astera Health/CentraCare Coborn Cancer Center in Wadena.

In their drive statement, they shared: “We believe healthcare is about humanity as much as medicine.” We couldn’t agree more!

Please join us in thanking Emery and Mikayla for their generosity, leadership, and commitment to supporting patients in our community.

02/13/2026

After thoughtful feedback from our recent mental health events, our Foundation is launching a new sub series - Bite Size Conversation: Your Mental Health, featuring providers from our Behavioral Health team.

Our first session, “The Elephant on the Couch,” will help make sense of therapy, medication, and mental health credentials. We aim to have these discussions in a welcoming, easy-to-understand setting.

Join Dr. Alicia Elliott and our Behavioral Health team as we talk about:
• The different types of mental health providers
• What therapy really looks like
• How medication providers support care
• How to navigate your own mental health journey

-The Depot, Wadena
-Thursday, March 5
-5:30 p.m.

This free event is open to everyone, whether you're seeking care, supporting a loved one, or simply want to learn more.

Reserve your spot today:
https://hubs.la/Q0431GYR0

02/12/2026

When a local student-athlete faced a serious knee injury, our Orthopedics and Sports Medicine team was there every step of the way, from diagnosis and surgery to rehab and a safe return to the activities she loves. Stories like Arynn’s remind us why having expert orthopedic care and athletic training close to home matters so much for our students and families.

A special thank you to Anna and Lily, fellow Wadena-Deer Creek Public Schools seniors, for creating this video as part of a student project. We love partnering with our local schools!

Learn more or schedule an appointment with our Orthopedics team:
https://hubs.ly/Q0429MLP0

02/11/2026

Last chance to register!

Don’t miss our February Bite Size Conversation: Blood Pressure Matters – Small Steps, led by Dr. Shawn Stafki. Learn how simple lifestyle changes can have a lasting impact on your heart health.

Event: February 16
Location: Astera Health Main Campus
Free lunch included – but registration closes tomorrow at noon!

Save your spot now: https://hubs.la/Q04072QC0

02/10/2026

🚨 We’re Hiring an RN Nursing Supervisor – Hospital! 🚨

Looking for a meaningful leadership role in healthcare? At Astera Health, our RN Supervisors play a key role in coordinating care, supporting staff, and ensuring patients receive safe, high-quality treatment on our inpatient floor.

From mentoring fellow nurses to collaborating with physicians during rounds, your leadership can make a lasting difference, for patients, families, and your team.

If you’re ready to lead with compassion and purpose, we’d love to hear from you!

Learn more and apply: https://hubs.la/Q040wt_v0

02/09/2026

❤️ February is American Heart Month ❤️

As part of our monthly Lobby Learning, we’re sharing helpful resources to support heart health and raise awareness about heart attack warning signs.

Stop by the Wadena Clinic lobby this week to pick up educational materials on:

-Protecting your heart with healthy habits
-Understanding heart attack symptoms
-Other warning signs to watch for

While you’re there, be sure to fill out a door prize entry form for a chance to win!

Can’t make it in person? You can still take part!
All materials are available online, and you can enter the door prize by submitting the form digitally here: https://hubs.la/Q042kVdy0

Small steps, like learning the signs and making heart-healthy choices, can make a big difference.