BANDON – Southern Coos Hospital & Health Center (SCHHC) is thrilled to announce the arrival of Dr. Veronica Simmonds, DO, FACOG, to its Multi-Specialty Clinic. Dr. Simmonds will expand the clinic’s offerings by providing comprehensive gynecology services, including both inpatient and outpatient procedures, significantly enhancing women’s healthcare options in the region.
Dr. Simmonds’ journey to medicine is as unique as her dedication to patient care. Growing up in the tiny town of Lubec, Maine, she discovered her passion for healing early, tending to her brothers’ childhood injuries—a necessity given her mother’s aversion to blood.
“I’d call the town doctor for advice, and he’d jokingly predict I’d soon be his competition,” Dr. Simmonds recalls.
Her determination propelled her to obtain her assistant nursing certification at 15, and by 17 she was working at a critical access hospital and a nursing home. Following high school, she pursued a biology degree at Wellesley College. After a decade of diverse experiences, including waitressing, driving for UPS, and commercial fishing, which honed her ability to connect with people from all walks of life, she pursued her dream of becoming a physician. At 32, she entered a Doctor of Osteopathic Medicine program, specializing in OB-GYN.
Having called the South Coast home for five years, Dr. Simmonds is deeply invested in the community. Her experience includes serving at Bay Area Hospital and Coquille Valley Hospital, and she now brings her expertise to SCHHC.
“I’m excited to join Southern Coos Hospital & Health Center and am committed to serving women of all ages,” she said.
Dr. Simmonds specializes in gynecology, addressing conditions like prolapse and incontinence, and also provides adolescent gynecology care. A skilled laparoscopic surgeon, she offers a range of procedures, including diagnostic laparoscopy and hysterectomies.
Her personal experience with breast cancer has fueled her passion for supporting women facing similar challenges, and she hopes to establish a local support group.
Beyond her medical expertise, Dr. Simmonds enjoys traveling, reading, and fly fishing. She is known for her down-to-earth approach and her ability to put patients at ease.
Dr. Simmonds is now accepting new patients. For appointments or more information, please contact the SCHHC Multi-Specialty Clinic at 541-329-0154.
