UNC Health Blue Ridge

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Morganton, NC
UNC Health Blue Ridge

On October 1, 2021, we became UNC Health Blue Ridge and joined the UNC Health family.

Blue Ridge includes hospitals in Morganton and Valdese, Phifer Wellness Center, Grace Ridge Retirement Community, and the Blue Ridge Medical Group of physician practices.

09/04/2026

Need care after hours? You may have a lower-cost option! When your primary care office is closed, McDowell Express Care is here for you.

Many patients can use their primary care copay for an Express Care visit, making it a convenient and affordable option for after-hours care.

Learn more or schedule your appointment at: https://bit.ly/McDowellExpressCare

09/03/2026

Your health is our priority, that's why we provide care that fits your life, close to home. With multiple primary care locations across our region, we've made it easier to get the care you need when you need it!

▪Same-day appointments available
▪Scheduling that works for you
▪Now accepting new patients of all ages

Whether you need a routine checkup, preventive care, or help managing a chronic condition, our primary care providers are here for you and your family. Find a location near you and schedule your appointment today: www.uncbr.org/care/.

09/02/2026

Wrap Our Community in Love!

Each year, our Spiritual Care team shares handmade blankets with patients in need of warmth and encouragement. This Spiritual Care Week, help us create one giant community blanket that will be transformed into blankets for patients throughout the year.

How to Participate:
• Create a 12” x 12” square or 36” x 48” lap blanket
• Use your own pattern or request one of ours
• Return completed items by October 8, 2026

Made with Love group sessions will also be held in the UNC Health Blue Ridge Lower Atrium on the following dates:
• 9/1 - 2 p.m. to 3p.m.
• 9/8 - 2 p.m. to 3p.m.
• 9/15 - 2 p.m. to 3p.m.
• 9/22 - 2 p.m. to 3p.m.

Return your completed square to the Morganton Gift Shop or Main Lobby Information Desk by October 8, 2026. Complete a donation tag with your name, email, and a blessing for the patient who receives your gift. Email [email protected] for instructions or additional information.

09/01/2026

Join us in welcoming Jesus Avila Vega, MD, to the staff of Blue
Ridge Cardiology!

Dr. Vega is dedicated to helping patients improve their heart health through prevention, education, and personalized care. His clinical interests include preventive cardiology, non-invasive cardiovascular imaging, coronary artery disease, and valvular heart disease.

“I chose medicine because it combines science, problem-solving, and the opportunity to build meaningful relationships with patients,” said Dr. Vega. “My philosophy of care begins with listening to patients and understanding their individual goals and concerns. I believe in clear communication and shared decision-making, ensuring patients understand their options so they can make informed decisions that align with their goals and values. I also place a strong emphasis on prevention and building long-term relationships with my patients.”

In his spare time, Dr. Vega enjoys spending time with family and staying active. He recently took up running and enjoys exploring the many running paths throughout the Hickory and Morganton area.

08/31/2026

If you're looking for a fun way to help others in our community, we've got a great opportunity for you! Join us for the 2027 Paddling for the Pink Lake James Dragon Boat Festival at Lake James State Park Paddy's Creek Area on May 1st, 2027.

UNC Health Blue Ridge is excited to be the presenting sponsor and to work in partnership with the Healing Dragons of Lake James. The sponsorship funds for this race will help the under-insured and uninsured in our community receive free screening mammograms.

For more info and to sign up, visit: www.uncbr.org/paddlingforpink.

08/28/2026

We're excited to announce that Blue Ridge Endocrinology will be opening soon, bringing specialized endocrine care closer to home!

Patients in our community will soon have access to expert care for diabetes, thyroid disorders, hormone imbalances, osteoporosis, and other endocrine conditions. Stay tuned for more details, including provider information, location, and scheduling opportunities.

08/27/2026

Join us for a 6-week journey reading Trusting God with Cancer by Rob Raban—a husband, father, and survivor of Stage 4 lymphoma who shares how faith and medicine saw him through. This group offers patients and caregivers a supportive space to connect, share, and find strength together.

Cost: FREE (Books are a complimentary gift from the Blue Ridge HealthCare Foundation!)
Time: 9:00 AM – 10:00 AM (In-Person & Virtual options available)
Dates: Wednesdays (Sept. 23, Sept. 30, Oct. 7, Oct. 14, Oct. 21, Oct. 28)
Location: Owl Hollow, Valdese Cancer Center (720 Malcolm Blvd., Valdese, NC)

Ready to join? Contact 828-580-7745 to reserve your spot and claim your free book! Books will be distributed at our first meeting.

08/26/2026

We are looking for an outstanding Medical Assistant to join our team at McDowell Medical Associates in Marion!

As a Medical Assistant, you will be responsible for providing high-quality care to our patients. You will assist in the examination and treatment of patients, perform administrative and clerical duties, and help maintain a safe and clean environment. You will also assist with patient scheduling, patient documentation, and patient
interaction.

If you are a compassionate, organized, and detail-oriented professional with a passion for helping others, we would love to hear from you! To learn more and apply, visit: https://pm.healthcaresource.com/cs/blueridge_i #/job/14964

08/25/2026

Join us in welcoming Sarah Visneski, DO, to the staff of UNC Health Blue Ridge Hospitalists!

Sarah is a graduate of Lincoln Memorial University-DeBusk College of Osteopathic Medicine, Harrogate, TN, and completed her internal medicine residency at UNC Health Blue Ridge.

Dr. Visneski says, “I want to work using evidence-based medicine to improve the quality of life of my patients.” She looks forward to working with her patients to achieve their health goals.

When not working, Dr. Visneski enjoys camping and hiking with her dogs, Casserole and Tugboat.

08/24/2026

You deserve access to advanced treatment options close to home.

At UNC Health Blue Ridge Cancer Center, we offer Superficial Radiation Therapy (SRT), a gentle, effective alternative to surgery for certain skin cancers. Combining leading-edge technology with compassionate care right here in Valdese, SRT is one more way we make your health our priority, our passion, and our privilege.

Address

2201 S Sterling St
Morganton, NC
28655

Telephone

+18285805000

Website

https://www.unchealthblueridge.org/

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