Princeton Community Hospital opens new endocrinology clinic

PRINCETON, W.Va. (WVVA) — A new clinic in Princeton is expanding access to specialty care for people living with diabetes, thyroid disorders, and other hormone-related conditions across southern West Virginia.

Princeton Community Hospital (PCH) has officially opened its new endocrinology clinic off New Hope Road.

The clinic was created in response to health data showing high rates of diabetes in the region.

Karen Bowling, CEO and President of WVU Medicine Princeton Community Hospital, says the goal is to help patients manage their condition sooner — and prevent long-term complications.

“The sooner we can get you in to be managed appropriately, the more likely it is that you won’t get these very long-term bad side effects that are out there for diabetic patients. So, I think it can transform someone’s life. I mean, I think the reality is that the quality of their life can improve if their diabetes is managed,” Bowling said.

The clinic functions as a specialty service, with patients referred by their primary care providers.

It also connects local patients directly to endocrinologists in Morgantown through virtual visits, allowing them to receive advanced care without the long drive north.

“There’s a relationship where the patient who comes in not only sees the physician assistant but also sees one of our advanced endocrinology specialists from Morgantown. And so, you’re getting the same care as if you would have driven all the way to Morgantown to see an endocrinologist. You’re seeing them, but you’re seeing them across the screen,” Bowling explained.

Physician Assistant Stephanie Hamilton, who has four years of experience in endocrinology, performs in-person assessments before patients meet virtually with Morgantown specialists.

She says the new clinic is a major step forward for local healthcare access.

“I am excited about this because there are so many endocrine related issues and everyone is having to travel to other areas far away for this care. And now we can offer this with the best of the best specialists in Morgantown,” Hamilton said.

The new endocrinology clinic is part of Princeton Community Hospital’s continued effort to bring specialized medical services closer to home for area residents.

The clinic is located at 608 New Hope Road, Suite 1, in Princeton. It’s open Monday through Friday, 8 a.m. to 4 p.m.

To schedule an appointment, call 304-327-1195.

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