News Releases

August 11, 2010

Media Contacts:

Amy Fleming
President, Cerro Gordo County Free Health Care Clinic Board of Directors
(641) 424-1097

The Cerro Gordo County Free Health Care Clinic Names New Clinic Manager, and Introduces Medical Director

Karen Slife will take over the Clinic Manager duties starting September 1, 2010. Karen is already very familiar with the Free Clinic, working as a volunteer nurse. She takes over for Allison Beattie, who helped get the Free Clinic going last year. Allison is a Nursing Supervisor at St. Mary's Free Clinics in the Twin Cities area, and has been a wealth of knowledge for the Free Clinic in Mason City.

"We would not be where we are today without Allison. The Board of Directors can't thank her enough for all of the work she's put into the Free Clinic over the past year, she's done a great job," says Amy Fleming, Board President.

Karen has an extensive nursing background, graduating from the University of Dubuque with her Bachelor of Science degree in nursing.

Karen worked for Mercy Medical Center-North Iowa for 34 years. She served a number of roles, including head nurse of the Emergency Center and director of nursing. She was instrumental as the director in growing Mercy Home Care from 1986-2005.

In recent years, Karen has been a Clinical Instructor of Nursing for Kaplan University.

"Karen's already been a super volunteer for the Free Clinic. She'll transition perfectly into the role of Clinic Manager," says Fleming.

In addition to this change, the Free Clinic is happy to announce Amy Tesar, D.O., as Medical Director. She's been serving as the Free Clinic's Medical Director since April.

The clinic is located at Lindstrom Family Practice, 1327 6th St. SW in Mason City, and is open Saturday mornings from 9:00am-Noon. Appointments can be made by calling 888-669-4662. Walk-ins are always welcome.