Location(s): Centralia, Corning, Frankfort, Holton, Onaga, St. Marys, Westmoreland
Building Awareness. Supporting Youth. Strengthening Our Community.
At Community HealthCare System, we believe that strong mental health support starts early. Our Youth and Teen Mental Health First Aid programs give parents, teachers, school staff, and teens the tools to recognize, understand, and respond to mental health and substance use challenges—before they become crises.
Through evidence-based training, CHCS equips both adults and teens to start conversations, offer support, and connect those in need with professional care and local resources.
Youth Mental Health First Aid
For adults caring for youth ages 6–18
CHCS Youth Mental Health First Aid helps parents, educators, coaches, and other caring adults:
- Recognize early signs of mental health challenges in youth
- Approach and support a child or teen experiencing distress
- Listen with understanding and non-judgment
- Connect families with professional help and community resources
Classes combine interactive instruction, real-life scenarios, and practical strategies to prepare participants to take action with confidence.
Teen Mental Health First Aid
For students in grades 9–12
CHCS Teen Mental Health First Aid empowers teens to support themselves and their peers. Participants learn to:
- Identify signs of mental health challenges in friends
- Practice safe, supportive ways to listen and help
- Encourage help-seeking from trusted adults
- Build resilience and awareness within their peer groups
- Address stigma and explain that recovery is possible.
These classes are offered in local schools and youth organizations by CHCS-certified instructors, fostering a culture of care and support among teens.
Why CHCS Offers This Program
One in five youth experiences a mental health challenge each year—and many deal with or experience this in silence. By providing Youth and Teen Mental Health First Aid, CHCS strengthens our community through early intervention, awareness, and compassionate action.
Join a Class or Schedule Training
Bring Youth or Teen Mental Health First Aid to your school, organization, or community group with CHCS instructors. Flexible schedules, certified training, and supportive materials make it easy to participate.
CHCS—Caring for Our Community, One Youth at a Time.
Amanda Rempe, APRN
Family Medicine
Location: Centralia
Position: Advanced Practitioner
Medical Services: Diabetic Care, Family Medicine, Men's Health, Women's Health, Senior Care, Health Screenings, Youth Services
Amanda Rempe, APRN
Amanda Rempe has deep roots in the community she now serves as a family nurse practitioner. Born and raised in rural Kansas, Amanda has been connected to Community HealthCare System her entire life—as a patient, a nurse, and now as a provider. Amanda earned her Bachelor of Science in Nursing from Washburn University in 2015 and began her career in emergency medicine at Stormont Vail. She soon returned home to CHCS, where she spent six years caring for patients in the hospital setting. In 2021, she completed her Doctor of Nursing Practice at Washburn and transitioned to the role of APRN. For Amanda, healthcare is personal. “I became a nurse practitioner because I wanted to make a meaningful difference in the community where my friends and family live,” she says. “It’s an honor to walk alongside patients and help them make healthcare decisions that align with their goals.” Amanda is board-certified as a Family Nurse Practitioner (FNP-BC) and is passionate about improving quality of life through personalized, compassionate care. She values the strong relationships she builds with her patients and believes that investing in your health is one of the best decisions you can make. Outside of work, Amanda enjoys reading and spending time with her family. She and her high school sweetheart, Kyle, live outside of Frankfort with their five children—Josie, Kash, Colt, Elsie, and Banks. She’s proud to be raising her family in the same close-knit community that raised her—and just as proud to care for her neighbors at CHCS.
Andrew Barnes, APRN‐C
Family Medicine
Location: Onaga
Position: Advanced Practitioner
Medical Services: Diabetic Care, Family Medicine, Men's Health, Women's Health, Senior Care, Emergency Department, Youth Services
Andrew Barnes, APRN‐C
Andrew Barnes, APRN, holds a bachelor of science in nursing from Baker University and a master of science in nursing from Washburn University. He is certified by the American Academy of Nurse Practitioners and is a board-certified emergency nurse. He takes a special interest in emergency medicine, trauma, and acute care. Barnes was drawn to medicine through his father’s encounters with healthcare providers who always amazed him. He lives in Wheaton with his wife and three children, and he enjoys being outdoors with his family. They enjoy caring for cattle as well as dogs and barn cats.
Angie Sauvage, LMSW
Behavioral Health
Locations: Holton, Onaga
Positions: Counseling, Licensed Master Social Worker
Medical Services: Mental Health Services, Youth Services
Annie Crumbaker, PA‐C
Family Medicine
Location: Frankfort
Position: Advanced Practitioner
Medical Services: Diabetic Care, Family Medicine, Men's Health, Women's Health, Senior Care, Youth Services
Annie Crumbaker, PA‐C
Annie J. Crumbaker, PA-C, grew up in the Lillis area and attended Frankfort schools. She obtained a bachelor of science in biology at Kansas State University and a master’s degree in physician assistant studies at the University of Colorado Denver. She then gained experience at the University of Kansas Hospital and Children’s Mercy Hospital before moving back to her hometown to work in family practice with CHCS. Crumbaker and her husband, Kyle, live near Lillis with daughters Peyton and Emmy and sons Evan and Connor. They enjoy raising cattle and spending time on their farm, as well as attending and participating in sporting events. They enjoy raising cattle and spending time on their farm, as well as attending and participating in sporting events.
Ben Harstine, MD, FMOB
Family Medicine
Locations: Centralia, Corning, Onaga
Position: Physician
Medical Services: Birth Center, Diabetic Care, Family Medicine, Men's Health, Women's Health, Senior Care, Emergency Department, Youth Services
Ben Harstine, MD, FMOB
Dr. Harstine earned his bachelor of science in Public Health Nutrition from Kansas State University and attended medical school at the University of Kansas Medical Center. He completed his family medicine residency and family medicine obstetrics fellowship at Waco Family Medicine in Waco, Texas. He recently received both his family medicine and family medicine obstetrics board certifications. Dr. Harstine always knew he had a strong desire to teach. In the years after college, while working in Manhattan, he realized he also wanted “to be in the trenches with folks discussing the events and on-goings of their daily lives.” “Medicine became a place where I could use a natural interest in the sciences and human well-being to do a little bit of both. I want to be an active listener and teach my patients the benefits of daily exercise and movement to improve overall health." As a native Kansan, Dr. Harstine has always dreamed of living and serving a rural Kansas community. “I was fortunate to have the opportunity to work with CHCS as a medical student because my wife was from the area. I grew to love the hospital, staff, and community and I am glad to be joining an organization with such a long history of providing patient-centered care.” In his spare time, Dr. Harstine enjoys spending time with his wife Emily and their four children, working outside, exercising, reading and cooking. “Emily and I are excited to be back in rural Kansas, close to family, and are excited to make Onaga our home,” Dr. Harstine said.
Cassandra (Cassie) Gaddis, LSCSW, CST, CTF-CBT, LIMPH-NE, LMSW-NE
Behavioral Health
Locations: Onaga, St. Marys
Positions: Counseling, Specialty Clinic Provider
Medical Services: Specialty Clinics, Mental Health Services, Youth Services
Cassandra (Cassie) Gaddis, LSCSW, CST, CTF-CBT, LIMPH-NE, LMSW-NE
Cassandra (Cassie) Gaddis has extensive experience in the social work field including child welfare, implementation and supervision of clinical services, and medical social work. She earned both her Bachelor’s and Master's degrees in Social Work (MSW) from Washburn University. She has also achieved the highest level of social work licensure in Kansas; a licensed specialist clinical social worker (LSCSW) certification. A nationally certified Trauma Focused Cognitive Behavioral Therapist (TFCBT), she has experience serving children, adults, and families. Gaddis is also a certified sex therapist (CST) with specialized training and experience treating children and adolescents who demonstrate unsafe sexual behaviors or boundaries, treating survivors of sexual assault or other unhealthy sexual dynamics, couples struggling with intimacy in their relationships and other sexual health and mental health related concerns. Gaddis has 3 children as well as 3 dogs and 3 cats. She states she is a home body and could spend hours in her sewing room piecing together a quilt. She also enjoys camping, gardening, canning and food preservation, and anything that makes her feel more grounded and in touch with nature.
Claire Blumer, PA-C
Family Medicine
Location: Centralia
Position: Advanced Practitioner
Medical Services: Diabetic Care, Family Medicine, Men's Health, Women's Health, Senior Care, Youth Services
Claire Blumer, PA-C
Claire Blumer, PA-C, is a passionate and patient-focused provider who brings energy and heart to her work in family medicine. Originally from Hanover, Kansas, she earned her degree in life sciences at Kansas State University and completed her physician assistant training at Wichita State University. Claire is especially interested in women’s and men’s health, youth services, and preventive care—and she’s committed to helping patients take charge of their health. She and her husband, Dave, have three daughters. Claire also enjoys running, reading, and cheering on her favorite sports teams.
Collin Connor, MD
Family Medicine
Locations: Holton, St. Marys
Position: Physician
Medical Services: Birth Center, Diabetic Care, Family Medicine, Men's Health, Women's Health, Senior Care, Emergency Department, Youth Services
Collin Connor, MD
Dr. Collin Connor didn’t always dream of becoming a doctor — but a year of service through AmeriCorps changed everything. While volunteering at a free medical clinic in Providence, Rhode Island, he discovered how deeply his strengths in listening, teamwork, and problem-solving could serve others through medicine. “That experience helped me realize I could combine my love for science and learning with my desire to help people,” he said. “It truly felt like a calling from God — everything just fell into place.” A native Kansan, Dr. Connor earned his biochemistry degree from Emporia State University, then went on to study at the University of Kansas Medical Center. He completed his family medicine residency at Ascension Via Christi in Wichita. Dr. Connor enjoys caring for patients of all ages and building long-term, trusted relationships with the families he serves. Outside of work, he stays active with his wife and three sons, listens to music and podcasts, plays or watches just about any sport, and spends time in the garden. He’s also looking forward to exploring more of the great outdoors — starting with an elk hunting trip next year. Dr. Connor and his family are excited to call Onaga home and are proud to be part of the CHCS community.
David Allen, MD
Family Medicine
Location: Holton
Position: Physician
Medical Services: Birth Center, Diabetic Care, Family Medicine, Men's Health, Medical & Surgical Care, Women's Health, Senior Care, Emergency Department, Youth Services
David Allen, MD
Friendly, thorough, and passionate about caring for families, Dr. David Allen brings decades of experience to Holton Family Health Center. He earned his medical degree from the University of Kansas School of Medicine after completing his undergraduate studies at Kansas State University, then trained in family medicine at Via Christi Regional Medical Center in Wichita. Dr. Allen provides comprehensive care for all ages, with special expertise in obstetrics (including C-sections), pediatric care, and gastrointestinal procedures.. Whether he's welcoming a new baby into the world or helping a patient manage chronic conditions, Dr. Allen is committed to building long-term relationships and improving lives through compassionate, whole-person care.
Debra Rezac, APRN‐C
Family Medicine
Location: Onaga
Position: Advanced Practitioner
Medical Services: Diabetic Care, Family Medicine, Men's Health, Women's Health, Senior Care, Emergency Department, Youth Services
Debra Rezac, APRN‐C
Debra Rezac is a skilled family nurse practitioner who has been caring for patients of all ages at CHCS since 2007. She holds nursing degrees from Washburn University and the University of Southern Indiana and is certified by the American Academy of Nurse Practitioners. With a background in ICU and pulmonary-critical care, Debra brings expertise in women’s health, preventive care, and cardiac and respiratory issues. She values the deep connections formed in rural healthcare, saying, “You get to walk with people through the best and worst times—and that’s something truly special.” Outside of work, Debra enjoys farm life south of Onaga, traveling with her husband Lance, and spending time with their grown children, grandchildren, and close friends.
Emma Beck, MD
Family Medicine
Locations: Holton, St. Marys
Position: Physician
Medical Services: Birth Center, Diabetic Care, Family Medicine, Men's Health, Women's Health, Senior Care, Health Screenings, Youth Services
Emma Beck, MD
Dr. Emma Beck earned her Bachelor of Science in Biology with a Minor in Spanish from Oklahoma Baptist University. She went on to complete her medical degree at the University of Kansas Medical School, followed by residency training at Via Christi Family Medicine, where she also completed the Osteopathic Recognition Track. She is currently eligible to sit for the Family Medicine-Obstetrics boards. Dr. Beck’s clinical interests include women’s health and obstetrics, international medicine, and point-of-care ultrasound. Her passion for medicine was sparked early in life, inspired by her mother’s example as a dedicated veterinarian serving their local community. That calling grew into a desire to serve vulnerable and underserved populations—both in rural areas and abroad—with a human-focused, hands-on approach (minus the paws). What Dr. Beck loves most about practicing medicine is getting to know each patient’s unique story. She values the opportunity to partner with individuals and families on their path to wellness, celebrating their milestones and helping them achieve health goals based on what matters most to them. She also appreciates the ever-changing nature of medicine and the learning that comes with every patient encounter. She is also bilingual in Spanish, which enhances her ability to care for diverse patient populations. Originally from Eudora, Kansas, Dr. Beck chose to stay in-state to give back to the place that played such a key role in her education and training. She now lives in Mayetta with her husband, four children, and their Husky, Tiggr. When not at work, you’ll likely find her outside—playing sports, taking walks, working in the yard, or relaxing in her hammock. She’s excited to be living closer to family and looks forward to many backyard gatherings and outdoor adventures. There may even be chickens in their future!
Jana Kramer, PA‐C
Family Medicine
Location: Holton
Position: Advanced Practitioner
Medical Services: Diabetic Care, Family Medicine, Men's Health, Women's Health, Senior Care, Youth Services
Jana Kramer, PA‐C
Friendly, grounded, and deeply committed to her community, Jana Kramer, PA-C has been serving patients across Community HealthCare System since 2001. Raised on a farm in northwest Kansas, she moved to the Seneca area 20 years ago with her husband, Joe, and has made northeast Kansas home ever since. Jana earned her Bachelor of Science from Kansas State University and graduated summa cum laude with her Physician Assistant degree from Wichita State University. She is board-certified by the National Commission on Certification of Physician Assistants and maintains certifications in Advanced Cardiac Life Support and Pediatric Advanced Life Support. Jana enjoys practicing family medicine because of the variety of patients and the relationships she builds across generations. Whether it’s helping a child through their first checkup or supporting adults as they work toward health goals, she takes pride in providing thorough, compassionate care. Outside of the clinic, Jana finds joy in spending time with her family and friends, playing piano, going to movies, and cheering at local sports events. She’s also been an active volunteer in her church, schools, and the Make-A-Wish Foundation. Jana and Joe have six children—Chase, Cole, Zachary, twins Cooper and Carter, and Kenly—and love being part of a vibrant rural community.
Julia Ingwerson, APRN‐C
Family Medicine
Location: St. Marys
Position: Advanced Practitioner
Medical Services: Diabetic Care, Family Medicine, Men's Health, Women's Health, Senior Care, Youth Services
Julia Ingwerson, APRN‐C
Julia A. Ingwerson, APRN-C, holds a bachelor of science in nursing degree from Washburn University and a master of science in nursing from Wichita State University. She is certified by the American Nurses Credentialing Center as a family nurse practitioner. Ingwerson takes a special interest in foot care and orthopedics. Ingwerson enjoys seeing patients at all different ages and stages of life. She lives in St. Marys. When not at work, Ingwerson enjoys crocheting and spinning.
Julia Mueting, APRN-C
Family Medicine
Location: Westmoreland
Position: Advanced Practitioner
Medical Services: Diabetic Care, Family Medicine, Men's Health, Women's Health, Senior Care, Health Screenings, Youth Services
Julia Mueting, APRN-C
Julia Mueting, APRN-C, earned her Bachelor of Science in Nursing from the University of Kansas and went on to complete her Doctor of Nursing Practice (DNP) at Washburn University. She is board certified through the American Academy of Nurse Practitioners and holds additional certifications in Advanced Cardiac Life Support (ACLS), and Basic Life Support (BLS). Julia’s clinical interests include pediatrics, long-term contraception techniques, prenatal care, and lactation support. She finds great fulfillment in the variety that each day brings and values the opportunity to build meaningful relationships with her patients and their families. “I love the reward of helping someone feel better or become more empowered in their health,” she shares. Her best advice for patients? “Always be honest with your provider and ask all your questions. It’s hard to help someone reach their goals without the full picture—we want to be sure you have what you need to succeed at home.” Julia and her husband, Craig, recently built a home in Corning, Kansas, where they are raising their three children—Lexi, Collin, and Charlee. A Topeka native and proud Kansas Jayhawk alum, Julia is also a KC Royals fan. Outside of work, she enjoys spending time with her family, keeping up with her toddlers, and settling into their newly built home—a process she loved but jokes she hopes never to repeat!
Marcus Weiser, DO
Family Medicine
Location: Onaga
Position: Physician
Medical Services: Birth Center, Diabetic Care, Family Medicine, Men's Health, Medical & Surgical Care, Women's Health, Senior Care, Emergency Department, Youth Services
Marcus Weiser, DO
Dr. Marcus Weiser is passionate about the variety and connection that come with rural family medicine. A Bethany College graduate, he earned his medical degree from Kansas City University and completed his residency—serving as chief resident—at Via Christi in Wichita. Board-certified in family medicine, Dr. Weiser also performs C-sections, colonoscopies, EGDs, and obstetrics. He loves teaching future physicians and serves as a clinical assistant professor and preceptor for two medical schools. Originally from northwest Kansas, Dr. Weiser now lives in Onaga with his wife and five children. Outside of work, you’ll often find him with his family, coaching youth sports, or enjoying a round of golf.
Melissa Goulart, DO
Family Medicine
Location: St. Marys
Position: Physician
Medical Services: Diabetic Care, Family Medicine, Men's Health, Women's Health, Senior Care, Youth Services
Melissa Goulart, DO
Dr. Melissa Goulart holds a bachelor of science degree in biology from Truman State University in Kirksville, Missouri. She attended medical school at Des Moines University in Iowa and completed her residency in Waterloo, Iowa. She is board-certified in family medicine. Dr. Goulart lives in St. Marys with her husband, five children, and a Yorkie named Jack.
Merica Surdez, APRN‐C
Family Medicine
Medical Services: Diabetic Care, Men's Health, Family Medicine, Women's Health, Senior Care, Emergency Department, Youth Services
Merica Surdez, APRN‐C
Merica Surdez, APRN-C, holds a bachelor of science in nursing from the University of Kansas Medical Center and a master of science in nursing-family nurse practitioner degree from Fort Hays State University. She maintains board certification with the American Academy of Nurse Practitioners and is also certified in Advanced Cardiac Life Support, Pediatric Advanced Life Support, Advanced Trauma Life Support, and Neonatal Resuscitation. Surdez’s areas of clinical interest include women’s health, including contraception counseling; reproductive health; prenatal care; lactation support; and preventive care. Surdez enjoys helping others when they need it most, creating relationships, and watching families grow. When asked for advice to share with patients, she says, “We all take our health for granted. Sometimes it takes work to better yourself. Do it! You’ll never regret investing in your health.” Surdez was born and raised in Frankfort, Kansas, and lives there with her husband, Derek, plus their two sons, Bowen and Blake, and their daughter, Wren. Surdez does not like chocolate but does enjoy spending time with family and friends, creating memories with her children, playing volleyball, and membership in the Teams of Our Lady (TOOL) church group.
Michele Reisinger, DNP, APRN, FNP-BC, PMHNP-BC
Family Medicine, Psychiatry
Locations: Onaga, St. Marys
Position: Advanced Practitioner
Medical Services: Diabetic Care, Family Medicine, Wound Care, Women's Health, Senior Care, Mental Health Services, Youth Services
Michele Reisinger, DNP, APRN, FNP-BC, PMHNP-BC
Michele is a dedicated family nurse practitioner with more than 25 years of experience serving her hometown of Onaga, Kansas. A strong advocate for rural healthcare, Michele holds advanced nursing degrees from Washburn University and the University of Kansas and is dual certified in family medicine and mental health. In addition to caring for patients across the lifespan at CHCS clinics in Onaga, she is the Director of the Family Nurse Practitioner program at Washburn. Michele is active in both local, regional, and national health organizations and brings special expertise in preventive care, chronic disease management, wound care, and children with developmental disabilities. Her deep community roots and passion for rural health make her a trusted voice and valued leader in both practice and education.
Nancy Bosse, APRN‐C
Family Medicine
Locations: Onaga, Westmoreland
Position: Advanced Practitioner
Medical Services: Diabetic Care, Family Medicine, Men's Health, Women's Health, Senior Care, Emergency Department, Youth Services
Nancy Bosse, APRN‐C
Nancy Bosse, APRN-C, holds a bachelor of science degree in nursing from Washburn University and a master of science in nursing-family nurse practitioner degree from the University of Missouri-Kansas City. Bosse worked in critical care, neurology, trauma, and general surgery for 20 years at Saint Luke’s Hospital in Kansas City. Her areas of clinical interest are women’s health, pediatrics, and geriatrics, and she loves family practice because it allows her to help patients while getting to know them and their entire family. Bosse says the most important thing patients can do is to “let us know if you are not getting better. Follow up so we can help you!” Bosse grew up in Onaga and now resides in Wamego with her husband and two children. When not at work, she enjoys attending kids’ activities, being outside, gardening, and helping at the farm.
Nancy J. Zidek, MD
Family Medicine
Locations: Frankfort, Onaga, Holton
Position: Physician
Medical Services: Birth Center, Diabetic Care, Family Medicine, Men's Health, Women's Health, Senior Care, Emergency Department, Youth Services
Nancy J. Zidek, MD
Compassionate, steady, and deeply rooted in Kansas, Dr. Nancy Zidek brings decades of experience and a personal touch to family medicine. A graduate of the University of Kansas with degrees in microbiology and medicine, she completed her residency at Wesley Family Practice in Wichita. As a second-generation physician, Dr. Zidek was inspired early on by her father’s 40-year career in rural medicine. She carries that same passion into her own work—especially in women’s health. Dr. Zidek loves getting to know families over time and finds great joy in watching her youngest patients grow up under her care. She and her husband, Paul and enjoy traveling when they can. Their daughter, Bethany, is following in her footsteps and currently completing her family medicine residency at Ascension Via Christi in Wichita. Their son, Elijah, is working in Kansas City. When she’s not in clinic, Dr. Zidek can often be found tending to her hummingbird feeders, doting on her two spoiled rescue dogs, or planning their next getaway.
Nicholas Cahoj, MD
Family Medicine
Locations: Frankfort, Westmoreland
Position: Physician
Medical Services: Diabetic Care, Family Medicine, Men's Health, Women's Health, Senior Care, Youth Services
Nicholas Cahoj, MD
Dr. Nicholas Cahoj graduated from Kansas State University and the University of Kansas School of Medicine. He completed his residency at Via Christi Family Medicine in Wichita. Dr. Cahoj grew up in Atwood, Kansas. He appreciates family practice. "I enjoy the relationships that I get to build with patients and their families. I also enjoy the broad array of conditions that I see and treat," he said. He performs esophagogastroduodenoscopies (EGDs) and colonoscopies. He enjoys teaching students and is a clinical assistant professor for the University of Kansas School of Medicine- Wichita. Dr. Cahoj and his wife, Alyssa, have three daughters who they enjoy helping in their sports and activities. He also likes watching sports, hunting/shooting, and playing golf. .