WEST DES MOINES, Iowa (March 19, 2024) — As part of Care Initiatives’ commitment to improving the health and quality of life for Iowans, the state’s largest non-profit operator of skilled nursing facilities has invested more than $200,000 to support the transportation needs of residents.

Northern Mahaska Specialty Care, which is owned by the non-profit Care Initiatives, received a new wheelchair-accessible van that will provide greater access to care, improve community engagement, and provide peace of mind for resident families. Oskaloosa is one of three Care Initiatives locations that received a van.

“The vans will fill a gap for residents who have appointments with specialists and other health care providers outside of our buildings and provide peace of mind for family or friends who otherwise would have made those travel arrangements,” said Jessica McDyer, Care Initiatives Vice President of Skilled Nursing Operations. “Plus, we’ll be able to arrange more engaging activities for our residents within their community and have a way to ensure they are safely transported.”

The Chrysler Voyager vans are equipped with a ramp for access by individuals who use a wheelchair or other walking device and provide necessary safety restraints for all passengers.

The three Care Initiatives locations receiving a new transport van include:
•       Panora Specialty Care
•       Northern Mahaska Specialty Care (Oskaloosa)
•       NorthCrest Specialty Care (Waterloo)