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Meeting Patients Where They Are: Why Farmworker Outreach Matters
It was a rainy Tuesday evening when our Farmworker Health team arrived at a small home tucked along a quiet rural road. White work vans lined the driveway—a familiar sign that farmworkers had returned home after a long day in the fields. Inside, men who had spent the day working hard to help provide food and agricultural products for our communities were just beginning to prepare dinner. They were exhausted, but they welcomed us with kindness and gratitude. They had been wait
5 days ago2 min read


From an Idea to a Community of Care: Celebrating the History of HCCH
Every health center has a story. Ours began with an idea, a need, and a commitment to the people of the High Country. As we celebrate National Health Center Week, we’re looking back at where High Country Community Health began, how we’ve grown, and the communities that have made that growth possible. It Started with an Idea In 2010, the idea for what would become High Country Community Health began to take shape. Local healthcare leaders saw a need for greater access to affor
Aug 32 min read


World Hepatitis Day: Prevention, Screening & Hope
Every year on July 28, World Hepatitis Day raises awareness about viral hepatitis and reminds us that early detection and treatment can save lives. Many people living with hepatitis don't realize they have it because symptoms may not appear for years. That's why screening and preventive care are so important. Hepatitis B: Protection Starts with Prevention Hepatitis B is a virus that affects the liver and can be spread through contact with infected blood or certain body fluids
Jul 272 min read


Back-to-School Physicals: Setting Your Child Up for a Healthy School Year
As summer comes to a close, families are busy shopping for school supplies, planning schedules, and getting ready for the excitement of a new school year. One of the most important items to add to your back-to-school checklist is your child's annual wellness exam. A yearly back-to-school physical is about much more than checking a box for school requirements. It is an opportunity to make sure your child is growing and developing well, staying up to date on recommended vaccine
Jul 202 min read


Thank you, Chuck Harris
07/14/2026 Dear High Country Community Health Patients, We are writing to let you know that Charles ("Chuck") Harris, FNP-C, will be leaving High Country Community Health, with his last day of patient care being August 14, 2026. Chuck has been an exceptional provider, caring for his patients with compassion, dedication, and professionalism. He has made a lasting impact on our patients, staff, and community, and he will be greatly missed. While we are sad to see him go, we are
Jul 141 min read


Minority Mental Health Awareness Month: Creating a Community Where Everyone Feels Heard
Every person deserves the opportunity to thrive—both physically and mentally. During Minority Mental Health Awareness Month this July, we recognize the unique mental health experiences faced by many racial and ethnic minority communities and reaffirm our commitment to making compassionate, accessible care available to everyone. Mental health challenges can affect anyone, regardless of age, race, or background. However, many individuals in minority communities face additional
Jul 132 min read


In Loving Memory Of Dr. David Cline
High Country Community Health is deeply saddened by the passing of Dr. David Cline, who faithfully served our patients and our community for many years. Dr. Cline was a man of integrity, kindness, faith, and compassion. He cared deeply for his patients and was admired and loved by both those he served and his colleagues. We are grateful for his dedicated service and the lasting impact he made on our community. Thank you, Dr. Cline. You will be greatly missed and never forgott
Jul 91 min read


Shopping Smart at Farmers Markets: In-Season Fruits & Vegetables Made Easy Fresh, Local, and Full of Flavor
Farmers markets are a great way to enjoy fresh fruits and vegetables while supporting local growers. Shopping for in-season produce often means better taste, lower cost, and foods that are picked closer to peak ripeness. Why Buy In-Season Produce? Picked at peak ripeness for better flavor. Travels shorter distances, ensuring freshness. More affordable and nutrient-rich. Tips for Shopping at Farmers Markets Go early or late for best deals Early = best selection Late = vendors
Jul 61 min read


Thank you, Miranda Ramsey
May 7, 2026 Dear High Country Community Health Patients: We are writing to inform you that Miranda Ramsey, Women’s Health Nurse Practitioner, is leaving High Country Community Health effective today to prioritize her health. Miranda would like to express her sincere gratitude for the trust you have placed in her over the past six years while providing care at HCCH. We are deeply grateful for the compassionate care Miranda has provided to our patients and community through
May 71 min read


Thank You, Jesse Illich
March 12, 2026 Dear High Country Community Health Patients: We are writing this letter to inform you that Jesse Illich, PA is leaving High Country Community Health as of April 30, 2026. We are grateful for the care that Jesse has provided at High Country Community Health over the last several years and we wish him well in this new chapter of his career. Thank you for trusting us with your care, it is very important to us. Your primary care and your child’s pediatric
Mar 121 min read


Exciting News For Avery County Patients!
We are thrilled to announce that one of our most beloved providers is returning to serve our community! Bill McGuire, FNP-BC , who...
Aug 11, 20251 min read


Congratulations To Our Vice Board Chair, Tina Houston!
We are thrilled to announce that Tina Houston, Vice Board Chair of High Country Community Health, has been honored with the prestigious...
Aug 29, 20242 min read


High Country Community Health Introduces Examination Spaces at Hospitality House Northwest!
High Country Community Health is excited to expand upon its partner- ship with Hospitality House of Northwest North Carolina. High...
May 6, 20241 min read


Sexual Assault Awareness Month
Skyler Taracido & Kim Lugo Sexual Assault Awareness Month serves as an opportunity to raise awareness, empower survivors, and educate the...
Apr 8, 20241 min read


HCCH Supports Self-Measured Blood Pressure with New Program and Resources.
Nearly 1 in 2 adults have high blood pressure (called hypertension), and in many cases, do not realize this chronic disease is not under...
Oct 27, 20232 min read


May Is Women's Health Month!
Preventative testing may seem like a hassle, but it is essential to keeping your body healthy. In previous years, cervical cancer was one...
May 2, 20232 min read


Food Resources In The High Country
Recently, we talked about sustainable food practices and addressing food insecurity. At High Country Community Health, we have many...
Apr 13, 20232 min read


National Nutrition Month at High Country Community Health
Welcome to the High Country Community Health online blog! There are a number of services offered at HCCH and we are excited to be able to...
Mar 8, 20232 min read
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