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Coryell Health RehabLiving at The Meadows has been awarded a five-star rating—the highest possible—by the Centers for Medicare & Medicaid Services (CMS), a division of the U.S. Department of Health and Human Services (HHS).

This distinguished rating places RehabLiving at The Meadows among the nation’s top-performing skilled nursing facilities. CMS’s star rating system is designed to provide consumers with a clear, comparative snapshot of nursing home quality based on three critical areas:

• Health Inspections
• Staffing
• Quality Measures

Each of these categories is individually rated on a scale of 1 to 5 stars. The overall star rating, also on a 5-star scale, reflects a combined assessment of performance in all three categories. Facilities awarded a 5-star overall rating are considered to provide “much above average” quality of care.

“We are proud of our team at Coryell Health RehabLiving at The Meadows for their unwavering dedication to patient-centered care and continuous improvement,” said Maranda May, LNFA, Administrator of RehabLiving at The Meadows. “This five-star rating reflects not just the hard work of our staff, but also our deep commitment to creating a safe, compassionate, and supportive environment where residents feel valued and cared for like family.”

David Byrom, CEO of Coryell Health, added, “This recognition from CMS is a testament to the strength of our leadership, the excellence of our clinical staff, and our organizational commitment to quality at every level. We are honored to be a trusted provider for families seeking exceptional long-term and rehabilitative care in Central Texas.”

This recognition reinforces Coryell Health’s commitment to delivering high-quality, personalized care in a safe and supportive environment for the Gatesville community and surrounding areas.

RehabLiving at The Meadows

110 Chicktown Road
Gatesville, TX 76528
(254) 404-2500
Fax: (254) 404-2506
Email: rehabliving@coryellhealth.org

Now Offering In-Office Telehealth Appointments for Rheumatology & Neurology

In-office telehealth. While this may seem like a contradiction, it’s actually a game-changer. Through in-office telehealth from Coryell Health, you can now connect with a board certified rheumatologist and neurologist right here in Gatesville.

At an in-office telehealth appointment, your local Coryell Health team collaborates with a board certified specialist to make more informed and timely decisions surrounding your diagnosis and care.

Frequently Asked Questions

Q: What does in-office telehealth mean?

A: In-office telehealth combines the convenience of a virtual appointment with the support of an in-person clinic visit. Your local Coryell Health team and a specialist work together to help decide the best plan for your care.

Q: How is this different from a telehealth appointment from home?

A: With in-office telehealth, you don’t need to worry about connection issues or setting up technology. Our trained staff will handle all setup and help communicate your medical history and concerns to the specialist.

Q: What specialties are available through this program?

A: Coryell Health’s in-office telehealth services provide you with access to a board certified rheumatologist and neurologist.

You may want to ask your primary care physician about seeing a rheumatologist if you’re experiencing:

• The swelling of joints
• Fatigue
• A rash
• Anemia
• Unexplained weight loss

You may want to ask your primary care physician about seeing a neurologist if you’re experiencing:

• Chronic headaches
• Memory loss
• Imbalance
• Dizziness
• Numbness and pain

Q: Will my insurance cover this?

A: Please call (866) 333-8769 for any questions you may have about your insurance and in-office telehealth services. Coryell Health’s in-office telehealth services accept the following forms of insurance:

• Aetna
• Cigna
• UHC
• BCBS
• Medicare
• Medicaid (TMHP)
• Tricare
• ChampVA
• Humana
• Baylor Scott White/Firstcare/Rightcare
• Wellpoint
• Superior Health Plans/Wellcare
• Multiplan
• County Indigent
• Southern Health Partners

Q: How do I schedule an in-office telehealth appointment?

A: Please call (866) 333-8769 to schedule an in-office telehealth appointment at Coryell Health’s Gatesville clinic and discuss if you need a referral. Referrals may be faxed to (833) 428-2254.

Q: When are appointments available throughout the week?

A: Rheumatology appointments are available from 9:30 a.m. to noon on Mondays, and neurology appointments are available from 9 a.m. to noon on Fridays.

Q: Where do I go for an in-office telehealth appointment?

A: Your in-office telehealth appointment will take place at Coryell Health’s Gatesville clinic in Building 1.

Meet the Doctors

Nilofar Syed, MD

Rheumatology

Dr. Nilofar Syed is a board certified rheumatologist who earned her medical degree at the Case Western Reserve School of Medicine in Cleveland, Ohio. She completed her internship and residency training in internal medicine at Brown University in Providence, Rhode Island, and received advanced training through the Cleveland Clinic’s fellowship program in rheumatology. Dr. Syed served as an assistant professor at UT Southwestern Medical Center from 2014 to 2024 and has actively participated in patient care and education of medical students, residents and fellows. She is certified by the American Board of Internal Medicine in Rheumatology and is an active member of the American College of Rheumatology (ACR) and the Association of Women in Rheumatology (AWIR).

Nawal Shaikh, MD

Neurology

Dr. Nawal Shaikh is a board certified neurologist who earned her medical degree at the Surat Municipal Institute of Medical Education and Research in India. Certified by the American Board of Psychiatry and Neurology and the United Council of Neurologic Subspecialties, she joined the UT Southwestern faculty in 2022. She previously served as an assistant professor in the University of Mississippi Medical Center’s neurology department, where she also worked as a neurologist and neuro-oncologist. A prolific researcher, Dr. Shaikh is the principal investigator for multiple studies on brain tumors. She has published articles in peer-reviewed journals related to her areas of interest, with her most recent contribution being to the Handbook of Brain Tumor Chemotherapy, Molecular Therapeutics and Immunotherapy. Outside of work, Dr. Shaikh enjoys traveling, playing tennis, swimming, trying different cuisines, watching movies and listening to all kinds of music.

Call (866) 333-8769 to ask about scheduling your in-office telehealth appointment at Coryell Health’s Gatesville clinic today.

The Texas Medical Association (TMA) has elected Bradford W. Holland, MD, as its new president-elect, placing the Central Texas-based otolaryngologist on course to become the association’s 161st president in May 2026. The election took place during TexMed, TMA’s annual conference, held this year in San Antonio. Dr. Holland is the first TMA president elected from Waco in more than five decades.

“I am so very honored and humbled to be given the opportunity of leading Texas physicians at a time of such importance,” said Dr. Holland. “TMA is the one organization that is standing up for patient care and protecting the practice of medicine. I vow to live up to the great task I have been assigned as president-elect to defend our victories and conquer our challenges.”

Dr. Holland practices at Coryell Health in Gatesville and Waco. His goal as TMA president-elect is to preserve the medical profession for future generations, a mission that originally inspired his involvement in advocacy. He encourages physicians to engage in policy efforts that safeguard the physician-patient relationship and strengthen the future of medicine.

“Physicians are on the ropes right now,” said Dr. Holland, citing major issues such as reduced reimbursements, increased prior authorization denials from insurers, and non-physicians seeking to practice medicine without attending medical school.

Dr. Holland has been a TMA member for more than 30 years, starting as a medical student at UT Southwestern. He is a graduate of the TMA Leadership College, served on the Council on Legislation, and was first elected vice speaker of the TMA House of Delegates in 2019. He led the House through the COVID-19 pandemic, later serving four terms as speaker. He also chaired TEXPAC, TMA’s political action committee.

In addition to his TMA leadership, Dr. Holland is a past president of both the McLennan County Medical Society and the Texas Association of Otolaryngology. He is board certified by the American Board of Otolaryngology and serves as adjunct faculty in Baylor University’s Department of Communication Sciences and Disorders.

“We are incredibly proud of Dr. Holland and his dedication to the medical community,” said David Byrom, CEO of Coryell Health. “His leadership at the state level reflects the same passion and commitment he brings to his patients here at Coryell. Texas physicians and patients alike will benefit from his vision and advocacy.”

Dr. Holland and his wife, Amanda Holland, director of advising for Baylor’s Robbins College of Health and Human Sciences, live in Waco and have four children. The couple enjoys attending concerts, serving in community arts leadership, and fly fishing in mountain trout streams.

Dr. Holland will serve a one-year term as president-elect before officially assuming the role of TMA president in May 2026.

TMA, the largest state medical society in the nation, represents more than 59,000 physician and medical student members and is dedicated to improving the health of all Texans.

In case you missed it, May was National Speech-Language and Hearing Month, with the goal of raising awareness about communication disorders and promotes services that support speech, language, and hearing health. Millions of Americans experience communication challenges, and early intervention by professionals like audiologists and speech-language pathologists can significantly improve outcomes across all ages.

In early childhood—especially infancy—auditory input is essential for speech and language development. Recent research has begun to explore how modern parenting tools, such as white noise machines, may impact infants’ auditory development.

A study published in JAMA Pediatrics, along with other follow-up research, has raised concerns about the risks of prolonged or improper use of infant sound machines. These devices, used to promote sleep, emit white noise or calming sounds that mask background noise. However, some machines produce sound levels exceeding safe decibel thresholds, potentially posing a risk of noise-induced hearing loss if placed too closely or used for extended durations.

The American Academy of Pediatrics and the American Speech-Language-Hearing Association recommend the following:

Recommendations for Safe Use of Sound Machines for Infants
1. Placement: Keep the device at least 7 feet away from the infant’s crib.
2. Volume: Set volume at the lowest effective level, ideally at or below 50 dB SPL A.
3. Duration: Use the machine only as long as needed, avoiding continuous overnight use. Utilize any built-in timer features.

Parents can use the NIOSH Sound Level Meter App for a more reliable and accessible way to measure sound levels when a specialist-calibrated meter isn’t available.

Dr. Ashley Brindley, Au.D., Audiologist at Coryell Health, shares:

“White noise machines can be helpful for soothing infants, but it’s important to use them responsibly. Early hearing experiences are foundational for speech and language development. By following safety guidelines, parents can protect their child’s hearing while still supporting healthy sleep habits.”

With proper use and guidance from audiology professionals, white noise machines can be a safe, effective sleep aid for infants—without compromising long-term hearing and communication outcomes.

Have questions or concerns about your child’s hearing?
Call Coryell Health Medical Clinic in Gatesville at (254) 865-2166 to schedule an appointment with Dr. Ashley Brindley, Au.d today.

Coryell Health, alongside the Copperas Cove Chamber of Commerce, proudly celebrated the grand opening of the Coryell Health Medical Clinic – Copperas Cove with a ribbon cutting ceremony.

Located at 1007 US-190 BUS, Suite A, Copperas Cove, TX, the new clinic expands Coryell Health’s commitment to accessible, patient-centered care across Central Texas.

“Our goal is to provide high-quality, compassionate care to families in the Copperas Cove area, and we’re thrilled to officially open our doors,” said Clint Black, Chief Operating Officer. “The warm welcome we received at the ribbon cutting reinforces our commitment to serving this community with excellence.”

The clinic offers a full spectrum of family medicine services for patients of all ages, including preventive care, wellness exams, management of chronic conditions, women’s health services, and same-day sick visits.

“We are incredibly grateful for the support of the Coryell County community,” added David Byrom, CEO of Coryell Health. “This clinic represents our ongoing mission to improve access to healthcare where it’s needed most.”

The Coryell Health Medical Clinic – Copperas Cove provides a wide range of services, including well-child visits, preventive screenings, and management of chronic conditions such as diabetes, hypertension, and heart disease. The dedicated care team is committed to delivering personalized, high-quality care, ensuring that families in Copperas Cove receive timely medical attention—without the long wait times.

Appointments can be scheduled by calling (254) 865-2166, and walk-ins are welcome for illness or injury care.

___________________________________________________________________________________________

Clinic Information
Address: 1007 US-190 BUS, Suite A, Copperas Cove, TX
Hours: Monday through Friday, 8:00 AM to 5:00 PM
Phone: (254) 865-2166
Website: www.coryellhealth.org

Coryell Health’s Ultimate Guide to Choosing the Right Running Shoes

Spring is here, and the weather is perfect for getting out and going on runs before the Texas heat truly kicks in. In a sea of neon colors and notable brand names fighting for your attention on the shelves, how do you know which pair of running shoes is right for you?

April is National Foot Health Awareness Month, and Coryell Health and Dr. Townson understand the importance of wearing the best shoes for foot health. Everyone’s feet are different, and it’s important to tailor your shoes to your feet’s unique needs. We’re here to help you choose the best running shoes for your feet, whether you have flat feet, medium arches or high arches.

Types of Feet

The words “low,” medium” and “high” can be relative. Some people may have an idea of what category their feet fall into, but if you don’t, here is a general guide to identifying different types of feet.

To determine what kind of arches you have, you can conduct an at-home “wet test.” Wet the soles of your feet in the shower and step onto a piece of paper or cardboard. Then, take a look at the imprint your feet made. To see what your results mean and learn more about different arch types, read about the three main categories below.  

Flat Feet

• The wet test will show a filled-in or mostly filled-in footprint.
• Having flat feet means having a low or nonexistent arch when standing with weight on both feet.
• When walking or running, your feet tend to naturally roll inward to help distribute impact (this is also called pronation).

Click here to see what to look for in a pair of running shoes for flat feet. 

Medium Arches

• The wet test will show that the middle part of your arch is about half-filled with a noticeable curved line along the arch.
• Your arch supports your body weight effectively.
• Your feet naturally roll in, or pronate, under a normal load.

Click here to see what to look for in a pair of running shoes for medium arches.

High Arches

• The wet test will show the ball and heel of your foot with little to no indentation in the middle.
• When walking or running, your feet tend to naturally roll outward to help distribute impact (this is also called supination).

Click here to see what to look for in a pair of running shoes for high arches.

What to Look For in a Running Shoe

According to a 2024 article published in the Journal of the Foot and Ankle, three key characteristics of a running shoe that may improve performance and decrease the risk of injury are shoe drop, cushioning and stiffness.

Shoe Drop

Shoe drop is how much of a heel a shoe has measured in millimeters. It’s the difference in height between the midsole and heel of a shoe. If you’re having trouble visualizing this, think about high heels and how they’re referred to as “3-inch heels” or “5-inch heels.” No agreed-upon “ideal” shoe drop exists, and your comfort is the most important factor when considering different shoe drops.

Lower-drop shoes (0-6 mm) tend to place more strain on the Achilles tendon, calf and ankle, while higher-drop shoes (7 mm or higher) tend to place more strain on the knees and hips. Keep this and your existing conditions in mind when browsing various shoe drops.

Cushioning

Cushioning refers to the padding in the midsole of a shoe to help absorb impact. Depending on your health conditions, more cushioning isn’t always necessarily a good thing.

If you have a limited range of motion in your ankles, knees or hip joints, more cushioning can help you stay balanced and upright. However, more cushioning tends to create a harder heel strike on the ground, so avoid lots of cushioning if you have heel pain.  

Stiffness

Stiffness refers to how flexible a shoe’s midsole is. Today, many brands use the terms “stability” and “motion control” to indicate how flexible or stiff a pair of running shoes is.

Stability running shoes are slightly more flexible compared to motion control shoes. They’re designed to support the arch of the foot and the midsole. Motion control shoes aim to limit excessive foot motion and tend to be more stiff compared to stability running shoes. 

With your type of arch and these factors in mind, Coryell Health recommends noting the following characteristics when shopping for your next pair of running shoes. 

Best Running Shoes for Flat Feet

To help absorb impact, reduce pressure on your feet and counteract pronation, look for running shoes with:

• Extra arch support
• A firm yet cushioned insole
• A thicker sole

Best Running Shoes for Medium Arches

For less restriction, a comfortable fit and support that fits your arch, look for running shoes with:

• Balanced cushioning
• A flexible midsole
• A heel drop that matches your running style

Best Running Shoes for High Arches

To allow your feet to roll slightly inward as you run and prevent discomfort and potential injuries, look for running shoes with:

• Neutral arch support
• Lots of cushioning
• A firm midsole

Coryell Health recommends the following guides to help determine which specific pair of running shoes is right for you:

• The 6 Best Running Shoes of 2025 from Wirecutter
• What Running Shoes Should I Buy? from Runner’s World

When it comes to protecting your feet from discomfort, pain and injuries, choosing the right shoes for every activity is essential. Dr. James Townson Jr. emphasizes that improper footwear can lead to serious foot problems over time.

“Your feet are the foundation of your body. Wearing the wrong shoes, even for a short period, can cause pain and long-term damage. Choosing footwear designed for your specific activity can help prevent injuries and keep you moving comfortably.” – Dr. James Townson Jr.

Choosing the right pair of running shoes for your feet can help improve performance and reduce the risk of injury and long-term foot and ankle issues. As Coryell County’s only board-certified podiatrist for reconstructive rearfoot and ankle surgery, Dr. Townson understands the impact of proper footwear on long-term foot health.

He is currently accepting new patients in Gatesville, Goldthwaite and Temple. Starting in May, he will also have open appointments at Coryell Health Medical Clinic – Waco. If you have or are concerned about developing foot or ankle problems, call (254) 865-2166 to schedule an appointment with Dr. Townson.

Meet the Doctor

Dr. James Townson Jr earned his bachelor’s degree in biomedical science from Texas A&M University and his doctorate in podiatric medicine from Samuel Merritt University. He then completed his foot and ankle reconstructive surgical residency at the Raymond G. Murphy VA Medical Center in Albuquerque, New Mexico. A podiatric surgery specialist with over 10 years of experience in the medical field, Dr. Townson is board certified in reconstructive rearfoot and ankle surgery by the American Board of Foot and Ankle Surgery and is a fellow of the American College of Foot and Ankle Surgery. He’s also a member of the American Podiatric Medical Association and the Texas Podiatric Medical Association.

Coryell Health recently celebrated the remarkable career of Dr. Stephen Norris at a special retirement reception, honoring his 45 years of dedicated service to the community. Employees, colleagues, and community members gathered to express their gratitude and wish him well. Dr. Norris has been a pillar of the medical community and a dedicated volunteer. Since being recruited to Gatesville in 1980, Dr. Norris has been a dedicated leader in healthcare, making countless contributions to the health and well-being of his patients.

“Dr. Norris has been an invaluable part of Coryell Health, not only as a physician but as a mentor, leader, and friend,” said Coryell Health CEO David Byrom. “His unwavering dedication to patient care and community health has left a lasting impact, and we are deeply grateful for his years of service. He will be greatly missed, but his legacy will continue to inspire us all.”

As Dr. Norris embarks on his well-earned retirement, Coryell Health extends its heartfelt thanks and best wishes for the next chapter of his journey.

About Dr. Stephen Norris

Dr. Stephen Norris was raised in Comanche, Texas, and graduated from Comanche High School in 1967. He earned his undergraduate degree magna cum laude from Baylor University in 1971 before attending the University of Texas Southwestern Medical School in Dallas. Following medical school, he completed a five-year general surgery residency, preparing him for a career in small-town medicine.

For the past 40 years, Dr. Norris and his family have called Gatesville home. He was the town’s only general surgeon until 2016, when Dr. John Bawduniak joined the team. Beyond his medical contributions, Dr. Norris dedicated himself to community service, serving on the GISD school board for 33 years and remaining active in the First Baptist Church.

Dr. Norris has also participated in four medical mission trips—one to Ghana, West Africa, and three to Honduras—further demonstrating his commitment to healthcare and service.

A member of several esteemed professional organizations, Dr. Norris holds certifications from the American Board of Surgeons and is affiliated with the American Medical Association, Texas Medical Association, Society of Baylor Surgeons, Texas Surgical Society, and the American College of Surgeons.

In his free time, Dr. Norris enjoys teaching Sunday School, cycling, singing in a gospel quartet, raising tropical fish and various birds, and flying kites whenever he has the chance. While his primary specialty was general surgery, he also lent his expertise to the Coryell Health Advanced Wound Center, where he cared for patients with hard-to-heal wounds.

Dr. Norris’s dedication, compassion, and expertise have left a lasting impact on the Gatesville community, and his presence will be greatly missed.

Coryell Health proudly marked a significant milestone with the grand opening of our McGregor Clinic, celebrating alongside the McGregor Chamber of Commerce and members of the community during a special ribbon-cutting ceremony. This event symbolizes our commitment to expanding access to quality healthcare and strengthening our ties with the McGregor community.

The ceremony brought together local leaders, Coryell Health healthcare professionals—including clinic Medical Director Dr. Colby Cessnun—and community members, all sharing in the excitement of this new chapter for Coryell Health.

“We are thrilled to bring Coryell Health’s compassionate, patient-centered care model to McGregor,” said David Byrom, CEO of Coryell Health. “Our mission has always been to provide accessible, high-quality healthcare close to home, and this clinic represents another step in fulfilling that promise. We look forward to serving the people of McGregor and becoming an integral part of the community.”

Coryell Health Medical Clinic- McGregor offers a range of family medicine services, including well-child visits, preventive care, and the management of chronic conditions such as diabetes, hypertension, and heart disease. Our dedicated healthcare team is committed to delivering personalized, high-quality care for patients of all ages, ensuring that families in McGregor have access to the medical services they need to live healthier lives.

The clinic is open Monday through Friday from 8:00 AM to 5:00 PM. Appointments can be scheduled by calling (254) 865-2166, and walk-ins are welcome for illness or injury care.

As we open our doors in McGregor, we look forward to building lasting relationships with our patients and continuing to support the health and well-being of this wonderful community.

Today, we celebrate the dedication, compassion, and expertise of doctors everywhere. From long hours to life-changing decisions, their commitment to patient care makes a meaningful impact—not just on individual patients, but on the entire communities we serve.

To mark the occasion, we’re sharing special moments of our Coryell Health physicians and practitioners with red carnations—the official flower of Doctor’s Day. 🌺

To all the doctors who heal, comfort, and inspire—thank you for your unwavering service! Your hard work and dedication do not go unnoticed. 💙

Tag or mention a doctor you appreciate! Bonus points for sharing a story of how they’ve made a difference in your life! 💬👇

“Our doctors are the heart of Coryell Health. Their dedication, expertise, and compassion define the high-quality care we provide every day. We are deeply grateful for their unwavering commitment to our patients and our community.” –Dr. Jeff Bates, MD, Coryell Health Chief Medical Officer.

Congratulations to the Coryell Health Advanced Wound Center for receiving Clinical Distinction Award for the evaluation period of July-December of 2024!

RestorixHealth’s Center of Excellence Recognition Program distinguishes centers across the nation that have demonstrated exceptional success by meeting or exceeding clinical and operational benchmarks in six different categories (including days to heal, healing percent, accurate HBO and wound care documentation, and survey readiness) over a six-month period.

Earning this recognition once again is a true testament to the unwavering dedication of the Coryell Health Advanced Wound Center team in providing exceptional patient care and improving outcomes in our community.

“This award reflects our team’s relentless commitment to excellence in wound care. Every day, our staff goes above and beyond to ensure the best possible outcomes for our patients. We are proud to be recognized for the high standards we uphold in clinical care.” – David Byrom, CEO of Coryell Health.

Congratulations to the entire team for this well-deserved honor!