Orthopedics, pediatrics offered full-time
Little River Healthcare introduces two new doctors

 Little River Healthcare this week announced the addition of two full-time specialists. In addition to the 15 lines of specialty care currently available, Little River Healthcare System (LRHS) now offers full-time care in the areas of orthopedics and pediatrics.
 Mark D. Nordyke, M.D. is a native Texan who comes to us with a wealth of experience and knowledge in the area of orthopedics and orthopedic surgery. Dr. Nordyke was born and raised in Lubbock. He received both his Bachelor of Science and Master of Science degrees in Chemistry from Texas Tech University. Nordyke continued his education at the University of Texas Medical Branch where he earned his Doctor of Medicine, before returning to Texas Tech University Health Sciences Center to complete his orthopedic residency.
 Nordyke and his surgical team will offer a wide range of orthopedic services, including arthroscopic outpatient surgery, endoscopic carpal tunnel release, and arthroscopic rotator cuff repair. Arthroscopic surgeries provide the opportunity for outpatient surgery, decreased suffering and a quicker recovery, improved cosmetic results, and functional results equal to or better than traditional surgery.
 In addition, Dr. Nordyke will focus on sports medicine arthroscopy injuries, tendon and ligament repair, including ACL and meniscus repair, and simple fractures.
 In addition to his orthopedic practice, Dr. Nordyke enjoys working with local high schools and colleges as a team physician. He has served as team physician for numerous high schools and colleges.
 “I am excited to bring full-time orthopedics to Rockdale and the surrounding communities and I look forward to working with the local schools and employers to foster healthy work and recreational environments,” Nordyke said.
 “The beauty of the setup here at LRHS is that we are able to offer a very full line of orthopedic services and surgeries and coordinate a patient’s rehabilitation all under the same roof, said Melissa Tacket, LRHS spokesperson. “With these services available close to home, patients no longer have to drive an hour or more round trip to therapy and follow-up appointments.”
 Christy S. Easley, RN, CPNP, is now seeing pediatric patients in both the Rockdale and Cameron clinics. She received her Bachelor of Science in Nursing degree from Southeastern Louisiana University and immediately began working with children at North Oaks Hospital and North Oaks Pediatric Clinic in Hammond, Louisiana.
 Easley soon moved back to her home state of Texas earning a degree as a Certified Pediatric Nurse Practitioner through the University of South Alabama and University Pediatric Association in College Station. Easley treats all pediatric patients and for both well-child and sick visits and immunizations.
 “We are thrilled to bring such needed services to Milam County and provide healthy futures for our children and our communities. We are dedicated to continuing to bring essential services to our area and enable our community to be provided with quality health care, very close to home,” Jeremy Riney, LRHS CEO and administrator, said.

Little River, Blackhawk
 LRHS formed in November 2006 when Blackhawk Healthcare merged with Richards Memorial Hospital. It has five facilities in surrounding areas: Little River Medical Center, Family Care Center, Little River Medical Clinic in Rockdale, Little River Medical Clinic in Cameron, and Little River Medical Clinic in Hearne. Headquartered in Austin, Blackhawk Healthcare is an owner and operator of Critical Access Hospitals.