River Health is excited to welcome Bethany Staehnke, DPM, to its medical staff. Dr. Staehnke is a podiatrist with a practice at RiverView’s Specialty Clinic, Crookston, and RiverView Clinic East Grand Forks.
Dr. Staehnke received a Bachelor of Applied Science degree in Exercise Science from the University of Minnesota-Duluth and her Doctor of Podiatric Medicine from Des Moines University. She completed her residency at the University of Pittsburgh Medical Center.
A History with RiverView
A Crookston native, Dr. Staehnke already knows RiverView well, as she worked in positions in medical records, Home Care and as a medical intern during high school. While she knew at a young age that she wanted to work in the medical field, it was after her summer internship and spending time with longtime podiatrist Dr. David Peterson in the clinic and surgery settings at RiverView that Staehnke decided podiatry was a good fit. “I have been so fortunate to have Dr. Peterson as a great mentor,’’ she shared. “I spent internship time and breaks during school coming home to continue learning from him and seeing the wonderful practice he’s built continue to thrive and grow with each visit.’’
As Dr. Peterson works toward retirement and helping his former intern transition into her new role, Dr. Staehnke is building her practice with clinical interests in sports injuries, biomechanical pathology, arthritis injuries and flat foot deformities. She treats all ages and focuses on patient education. “I love everything podiatry has to offer, from the variety of pathology and patients, both clinical and surgical aspects, as well as the challenges,’’ she stated. “It feels absolutely incredible to be back at RiverView in this new capacity. There’s no place like home and both the Crookston and RiverView communities have been so warm and welcoming. We not only have our families close by now but both of these great communities supporting and welcoming us. We couldn’t feel luckier.’’
Local Ties
Speaking of family, Dr. Staehnke and husband Tommy, also a Crookston native, will soon begin another exciting chapter in their lives as they welcome their first child.
The daughter of Gene and Cindy Donarski, Dr. Staehnke now joins her mother and aunt Renae as a RiverView employee. Cindy Donarski has worked as a nurse and in Health Information Management for many years, while Renae Donarski is also a long-time nurse in Same Day Surgery. Tommy’s parents are Robert and Denise Staehnke. Denise was also employed at RiverView for many years.
To make an appointment with Dr. Staehnke, call the RiverView Specialty Clinic at 218-281-9553.
