Community HealthCare System Welcomes Dr. Collin Connor

Community HealthCare System is pleased to announce that Dr. Collin Connor will join its medical staff in September.

Dr. Connor graduated from Emporia State University (ESU) with a Bachelor of Science degree in Biochemistry. He attended medical school at the University of Kansas Medical Center. He completed his family medicine residency at Ascension Via Christi in Wichita, Kansas.

Dr. Connor did not always know he wanted to be a physician. It wasn’t until after he spent a year working as an AmeriCorps volunteer at a free medical clinic in Providence, Rhode Island that he realized that’s what he wanted to be.

“After that experience, I knew I could use my gifts of teamwork, listening, and problem solving along with my love for learning and science to serve others. I also felt like it was a calling from God, especially how everything fell into place for me to apply and be accepted into medical school in just a few months. When I finally made the decision to apply for medical school I felt a lot of freedom. I had never been willing to attempt something so important or difficult if I knew that I may fail, but by entrusting the decision to God I felt at peace,” he said.

Merica Surdez, CHCS Chief of Provider and Clinic Operations, stated she is glad Dr. Connor found his calling and is excited to have him join the organization. He will work at our Holton and St. Marys locations and will also provide obstetrical and endoscopy services.

“Dr. Connor believes in a holistic approach to medicine and will strive to help his patients see the benefit of not only their physical health, but their spiritual and mental/emotional health. He has a strong desire to listen to his patients to help-better their lives,” Surdez said.

“We are excited to have Dr. Connor join our team. He passion for care and bringing a new life into the world aligns with our core values. Our community will be enriched with his addition,” said CHCS Chief Executive Officer, Kerry Herbine.

In his spare time, he enjoys spending time with his family, listening to music/podcasts, reading, playing or watching almost any sport, and gardening. He plans to learn more about hunting and fishing and will be going on an elk hunting trip next year.

Dr. Connor and his wife are both native Kansans and believe CHCS is a perfect fit. They will reside in Onaga with their three sons.