CoxHealth Golden City Clinic: Bridging the Gap in Rural Health Care Access

In rural areas, accessing health care can be a significant challenge.  

The CoxHealth Golden City Clinic addresses this by providing residents with a convenient place to see a health care provider close to home.  

But the clinic is more than just a building—it's a lifeline that brings vital medical services to a rural population and a place that means so much to so many people.    

Dr. Joshua Etcheson and Nurse Practitioner Julie Turner help hundreds of patients manage acute and chronic conditions, such as diabetes and hypertension, and provide preventative care to patients of all ages.    

"We see a little bit of everything at this clinic," Dr. Etcheson says with a smile. "Just last week, a man walked in with a laceration, and we were able to stitch him up right away. We try to support as many people as we can!"    

Growing up in a nearby small town, Dr. Etcheson has always dreamed of being a doctor and returning home to take care of his community. He loves being right here, making a positive impact on his neighbors' lives.   

Troy, who received a kidney transplant in 2019, is one of the first patients at the clinic today. He is here to see his primary care physician, Dr. Etcheson. His drive to Golden City is a round trip of 40 miles. 

"I started coming to the CoxHealth Golden City Clinic as a patient last year," Troy explains. "It's much closer for me than driving to Springfield. I like this clinic so much that my wife has also switched to seeing a provider here."    

During Troy's appointment, Dr. Etcheson checked his vitals, reviewed his medications, and asked about any side effects.    

"Living with chronic conditions is tough, but I'm strong and determined to keep going," says Troy. "Plus, I have 11 very important reasons to live—my grandchildren."   

Turner finds that working in a rural clinic allows her to spend time with her patients, better understand their concerns, and get to know them personally. 

“Building rapport with patients is essential because they trust us with their care,” she explains. “I want our patients to know that we have a great team at CoxHealth. If I can’t resolve an issue at our little clinic, there are incredible specialists I can collaborate with to ensure they receive the best care possible.” 

Like his colleague, Dr. Etcheson also enjoys the slower pace of working in rural health care.     

"These are my people," he says. "This is what I have always wanted to do, and it's where I belong."    

For more information about the CoxHealth Golden City Clinic including hours and providers, please click here.