Alayna Ragain, CNM

Biography

Professional Statement:
For eight years, I've had the honor of caring for families from all walks of life as a nurse in Arizona. Now, as a certified nurse midwife, my aim is to empower and educate women to make informed decisions about their bodies and health in Iowa. Whether it's throughout your pregnancy, yearly women's visits or reproductive concerns, I'm thrilled to be your provider in the Cedar Valley. 

Why did you become a provider:
To bridge the gaps I witnessed as a nurse. I want women to be educated and empowered to advocate for themselves during their care.

Why did you decide to join UPH?
UnityPoint's goals for patient care, growth, diverse population, supportive team and their vision of "best outcome, every patient, every time" aligned with who I am as a provider. I was ready to move back to the midwest to join this team and care for this community.

Medical specialties or special interests:
Those struggling with mental health concerns and substance use disorder can feel safe knowing I'll meet them where they are and guide them every step of their journey at their own pace. Patients benefit from an empathetic provider seeking all resources so they feel seen and heard with no judgment.

Describe your average patient:
Any woman throughout her lifespan. If you need birth control options, natural family planning, annual women's visits, prenatal care, GYN concerns or menopause, I can care for you. 

What would your patients say about you?
Patients would say I'm empathetic, I actively listen and I care about them feeling educated and not dismissed when they have concerns. 

Most important thing to know about you:
I care deeply about you being heard and educated through evidence and informed consent. Even if I don't know the answer to your question or concern, I'll work to find the answer or right person for you to have the care you deserve.

Ideal provider/patient relationship:
The ideal relationship for a patient and provider consists of trust, shared-decision making and communication between both people.

What's most important for patients to know about medical philosophy?
Consent is the most important part of patient's feeling heard and in control during these vulnerable moments in health care. I believe in evidence-based practices and advocating for women's rights.

What do you like to do in your free time?
I enjoy spending time with my husband, our three dogs and three cats. I love bowling, hiking and playing games. I loved being a foster parent for the Humane Society. I continue to seek opportunities to learn new skills, crafts and connect with others.

Tell us about your family:
I've been with my husband for almost 10 years, we have a full animal house with three dogs and three cats, several of which we've fostered/adopted. I love spending time with my dad and step mom who live in Arizona. I'm an aunt to many kids who I love dearly and am excited to move to Iowa and be closer to my family.