Ernie Diaz, MD, to Join Internal Medicine Team 

Dr. Ernie Diaz will be joining Newman Regional Health Medical Partners as an Internal Medicine provider in the Fall of 2025. Originally from Montclair, California, Dr. Diaz has strong ties to Kansas, having completed his undergraduate studies at the University of Kansas, followed by medical school and residency at the University of Kansas Medical Center. 

“After visiting and spending a few days, I fell in love with the charm of the city,” said Dr. Diaz. “I enjoyed spending time playing disc golf as well as eating and drinking on Commercial Street. Finally, after meeting the team at NRH and getting to hear about their mission to provide care to the residents of Emporia and Lyon County, I knew I had to be part of the team.” 

Dr. Diaz is passionate about providing comprehensive care for adults with chronic medical conditions. He is also fluent in Spanish, enhancing his ability to serve a diverse patient population. 

“I am excited to kick off my career in Emporia, and I look forward to helping you or your loved one with chronic medical conditions and getting to know the community more!” Dr. Diaz stated. 

Josh Beckler, DO, Joins Emergency Department 

Newman Regional Health is also thrilled to welcome Dr. Josh Beckler to the Emergency Department. A Wichita, Kansas native, Dr. Beckler brings a wealth of experience and specialized training to the community. He received his Bachelor’s degree in Chemistry from the University of Nebraska-Lincoln, a Master’s in Biomedical Science from Kansas City University, and his Doctorate of Osteopathic Medicine from KCU. He completed his residency in Emergency Medicine at the Medical University of South Carolina in Charleston, with an emphasis track on “point-of-care ultrasound in the ED.” 

“The interactions I’ve had with those involved with the hospital and the direction NRH is heading, along with our plenty of family ties to the city, made Emporia the clear choice,” said Dr. Beckler. 

Dr. Beckler is committed to providing exceptional emergency care for the residents of Emporia. 

Beckler joked as he shared a little about himself, “I tried the DK once, the Flint Hills won.” He went on to express his excitement about establishing his family in the area, “When I’m not working, I’m with my wife, Natalie, and our 6-year-old, Quinn, and our two pups. If you ever want to talk Formula 1 or cooking recipes – I’m your guy.” 

Newman Regional Health is delighted to welcome Dr. Diaz and Dr. Beckler to the community and looks forward to the positive impact they will have on the health and well-being of Emporia and the surrounding areas.