The Core of What We Do: Marcia Keith is proud of Jennie Edmundson’s commitment to cardiovascular care in western Iowa

In “The Core of What We Do,” you’ll learn more about Methodist’s core service lines – primary care, oncology, cardiology, women’s health and orthopedics/surgical services – and the people whose dedication makes them so impactful for our communities. To explore career opportunities at Methodist, visit bestcare.org/jobs.

Marcia Keith, MS, BSRT (R)
Cardiovascular Service Line Leader
Methodist Jennie Edmundson Hospital 
 

Why is this service line so important? 

The cardiovascular service line provides high-quality cardiac and vascular care to meet the needs of the local community. Specifically at Methodist Jennie Edmundson Hospital, our expert care allows residents of Council Bluffs and the surrounding area to receive high-quality care without having to leave their local community. 

How does this service uniquely contribute to The Meaning of Care?

The true Meaning of Care is making sure our patients’ needs are being addressed and that we’re providing them with the highest level of care possible.  

What’s something surprising about this service line?

Many people aren’t aware that the cardiovascular service line includes procedures and tests beyond cardiac catheterizations. The service line also includes vascular angiograms, cardiac stress testing, vascular and cardiac ultrasound, EKG, EEG, and cardiac rehab, just to name a few. 

Tell us about your role/responsibilities?

I oversee the cardiovascular suite (cath labs), cardiovascular diagnostics and cardiopulmonary rehab. This includes managing 36 staff members with various backgrounds and degrees, including radiologic technologists, registered nurses, paramedics, EKG/EEG techs, cardiac and vascular sonographers, and exercise specialists. I’m responsible for making sure that staff members have the tools they need to complete procedures and testing, and helping to facilitate cohesiveness between the staff and physicians who provide care to our patients.
 

What do you enjoy most about your team/colleagues?

Teamwork. I have a great group of cardiac- and vascular-focused staff members, and watching them care for the patients from our community is very rewarding.

Any memorable moments that stick out?

The opening of the new cardiovascular suite in April 2024 stands out to me. It was a project that had been in the works for over four years, and it included a much-needed advancement in technology to provide a higher level of care in western Iowa. I was honored when I was asked to be the clinical advisor for this project, as I saw the need and wanted to help facilitate the planning and eventual opening of these two state-of-the-art labs.

Why did you come to Methodist, and why have you stayed?

I graduated from the radiology technology program at the Jennie Edmundson Hospital School of Radiology and was offered a job in the radiology department after graduation. I’m happy to say that Jennie has been my entire career, and I’m proud to call Jennie my second home. I love being a part of the Jennie family.

What’s the best thing about your role at Methodist?

It’s very rewarding to know that we can make such a huge impact in someone’s life.

What do you enjoy outside of your time at Methodist? 

I enjoy camping, traveling, cooking, grilling and spending time with family and friends.