For 50 years now, James Bertsch, DO, has been caring for families, nearly all that time in his hometown of Cambridge City. But his original intention was to serve a very different kind of patient.
When he left Wayne County to attend college in Vincennes, the plan was to become a veterinarian, but he was inspired to go in a different direction by his own family doctor, Richard Keys.
"What we found was he was the busiest guy in town, but when you got in there, he didn't rush through. If you needed two minutes or 22 minutes, that's what you got," Dr. Bertsch said.
An internship took him to the Dayton, Ohio, area where Dr. Bertsch eventually practiced for a short time before he returned to Cambridge City and set up his practice there.
"Taking care of the people who take care of you. What more can you ask for?" he said. "Home is home. I wouldn't change a thing."
Dr. Bertsch recently was honored by the Indiana State Medical Association (ISMA) for his 50 years of service "in recognition of unselfish devotion to patients and loyalty to the medical profession."
"Your unwavering dedication to the health and well-being of Hoosiers continues to elevate our profession and inspire pride among your colleagues," read a letter signed by William Pond, MD, ISMA President, and Julie Reed, JD, ISMA Executive Vice President.
"I feel so privileged to have been able to care for my family, my community, and my profession," Dr. Bertsch said. "I believe in positive thought and believe all things are possible."
Dr. Bertsch joined Reid Health in 2013 and now is part of Reid Primary & Specialty Care - Cambridge City at 1154 S. State Road 1.
"As a primary care physician with 50 years of experience, Dr. Bertsch has served multiple generations within the same families, building trust and lifelong relationships. His guidance has contributed to healthier communities and improved quality of life, while serving as a role model and mentor to other healthcare professionals," said Billie Kester, Vice President/Ambulatory Care & Services Lines for Reid Health.
"Over the years, he has seen dramatic advances in technology, treatments, and healthcare delivery that requires adaptability and demonstrates a commitment to continuous learning. These years of practice have required long hours and personal sacrifices, which are testaments not only to his endurance but also his willingness to always put his patients first."
A 1966 graduate of Lincoln High School, Dr. Bertsch grew up on a local farm. In addition to his medical practice, he and his wife, Norma, operated a prize-winning dairy farm for 40 years and they've been involved in historic preservation efforts in Cambridge City. They also own and operate the Building 125 antique store there.
"At Reid, we're people taking care of people, and Dr. Bertsch is a shining example of that. There's a special connection between him and his hometown," said Ben Wells, Reid Health President/CEO. "Serving the community you love and have invested so much into for 50 years is an incredible accomplishment."
