Pediatric specialist Dr. Carla McKelvey, M.D., is now serving South Coast patients at Coast Community Health Center’s Bandon clinic. Dr. McKelvey has worked with children and teenagers as a primary care pediatrician for more than 20 years. Her communication with patients and families guides young patients toward good health with respect for each person’s knowledge and expertise.

“I’m a strong believer in team-based care. When we make health care decisions, or lifestyle decisions, it needs to be a group decision involving the provider, the parent and the patient,” said McKelvey.

Coast Community Health Center Executive Director Linda Maxon is pleased to welcome Dr. McKelvey to Bandon. The health center is a Federally Qualified Health Center where staff and board directors work to identify and address unmet medical needs of patients within their service area. For many years, families seeking pediatric specialists have traveled outside Bandon and North Curry County for medical care. The additional travel time and cost for routine pediatric care are a challenge for many families.

“We so fortunate to have Dr. McKelvey join our health center. And, we are very excited to bring pediatric services to the families in Southern Coos and Curry counties. We have been lacking pediatric care for years,” said Maxon.

In addition to serving young patients, Dr. McKelvey has also assumed the role of medical director for the health center. Dr. Hank Holmes, M.D., led the health team as medical director for three years. Dr. Holmes was instrumental in facilitating the health center’s transition from a Rural Health Center to FQHC and earn recognition as a Patient Centered Primary Care Home by the Oregon Health Authority. He continues to serve health center patients as a family physician.

“Our mission to expand access to health care services continues to increase with each new provider and service we bring to the community. Dr. McKelvey’s focus on public health will support our expansion of wellness programs throughout the region,” said Maxon.

Dr. McKelvey is an advocate for patients, providers and communities in rural regions. She is the regional associate dean for the Oregon Health and Science University Campus for Rural Health – South Coast. As a member of the Oregon Health Policy Board, she provides oversight for the Oregon Health Authority. Before joining Coast Community Health Center, Dr. McKelvey worked as a pediatrician with North Bend Medical Center. Dr. McKelvey is the recipient of the 2017 Coos County Friends of Public Health Super Star award.

Dr. McKelvey’s fascination with biology and medicine began in her youth, in doctor’s visits and in her classroom studies.

“I should have know I was going to be a doctor from a young age,” said McKelvey.

She is grateful to her husband Mark for his support of her desire to pursue an education and career in health care. Mark McKelvey is a GED instructor for the Coos Bay School District.

“One thing I’m very proud of is that I’ve been married more than 35 years. I could not have done what I’ve done without him.” she said.

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