Welcoming Pediatric Specialist Terri Sitzman to Decatur County Hospital

Welcoming Pediatric Specialist Terri Sitzman to Decatur County Hospital

Access to specialized care close to home matters, especially for families.

That’s why Decatur County Hospital is proud to welcome Terri Sitzman, a pediatric-focused provider bringing years of specialized experience caring for children and families to Southern Iowa.

With more than 15 years dedicated to pediatrics, Terri brings deep, specialized expertise in caring for children at every stage of development. Terri most recently spent time working at ChildServe, one of the Midwest’s most comprehensive pediatric healthcare organizations and home to Iowa’s only children’s specialty hospital. ChildServe partners with families across the state to support children and young adults with developmental delays, disabilities, injuries, and other special healthcare needs, delivering care through an integrated model that includes pediatric rehabilitation, complex medical care, autism and behavioral health services, and community-based programs.

Terri’s background also includes more than 13 years at Blank Children’s Hospital with nine years in the Blank Pediatric Clinic as a nurse practitioner.

A Specialist in Pediatric Care

Terri’s career has been deeply focused on pediatrics.

“I’ve always loved working with kids and caring for people,” she shared.

During her extensive career in pediatric care, Terri has worked with children and young adults facing a wide range of health needs, from routine wellness to complex conditions. Through every step her focus has remained the same: delivering thoughtful, compassionate care tailored specifically to kids.

Now, she brings that specialized experience to Decatur County Hospital, giving local families access to pediatric-centered care without having to travel far.

Expanding Care Close to Home

Originally from Osceola, Terri recently returned to Southern Iowa with a vision of serving the community that shaped her.

She had long dreamed of opening a clinic in the area, but when the opportunity to join DCH came along, it offered something even more impactful: the ability to bring specialized pediatric-focused care into an established, trusted healthcare system.

“This absolutely is like a dream come true.”

Her arrival marks an important expansion of services, ensuring families have access to a provider who truly understands the unique needs of children at every stage.

Care That Listens and Collaborates

Terri sees patients from newborns through college age, offering a full range of care.

But what truly sets her apart is how she approaches care.

“I want my patients to feel like they were heard. That’s huge for me,” she said.

She believes great care isn’t about quick answers, it’s about partnership.

“You know your kid better than anyone… I might not have the answers for everything, but I’m going to help guide you in the right direction so we can figure things out.”

Her goal is to ensure every family feels confident, informed, and supported, long after they leave the exam room.

Building Trust with Every Family

Families often describe Terri as easy to talk to and approachable, but her impact goes deeper than that.

She takes time to read each situation, connect with both parents and children, and create an environment where questions are always welcome.

“I don’t ever want patients to feel rushed or like they can’t ask more questions,” she said.

That level of attentiveness is what turns a visit into a relationship and helps build lasting trust.

A Passion for Kids and the Moments That Matter

Terri has a special place in her heart for babies and toddlers, where curiosity and personality shine.

“Watching kids grow and develop their own personalities is just so rewarding,” she said.

It’s those moments, big and small, that continue to fuel her passion for pediatric care.

A New Level of Care for Local Families

With the addition of Terri Sitzman, Decatur County Hospital is strengthening its commitment to providing specialized, high-quality care close to home.

Families no longer need to look far for pediatric-focused expertise, they can find it right here, delivered with compassion, experience, and a genuine commitment to listening.

Starting May 18^th, Terri will be available for appointments four days a week. Mondays, Tuesdays, Thursdays, and Fridays.

To schedule an appointment with Terri Sitzman, contact Decatur County Hospital today by calling 641-446-2285.