Hannibal cardiologist celebrating 30th year in practice

HANNIBAL, Mo. — Dr. Richard Valuck celebrated practicing invasive cardiology in Hannibal for 30 years on July 29.

Two things led him and his wife, Jenny, back to the community in July 1991. Dr. Valuck grew up in Kirksville, and Jenny is a native of Hannibal, so they knew they wanted to be close to family and friends. Dr. Valuck also was excited about the opportunity to partner with Hannibal Regional Hospital and launch the area’s first cardiology service line, which included a cardiac catheterization lab that provided Hannibal and surrounding areas with the most advanced technology in the diagnosis and treatment of heart disease.

Dr. Valuck became the first invasive cardiologist to perform a cardiac catheterization in Northeast Missouri in the fall of 1991.

When Dr. Valuck started his practice, he was self-employed in affiliation with Hannibal Regional Hospital. Around the mid-2000s, more physicians decided to close their private practice and work for the hospital. Dr. Valuck decided to be at the forefront of this trend in medicine. He became one of the first physicians to be employed by Hannibal Regional Medical Group, an affiliate of Hannibal Regional Hospital, in 2007.

“It wasn’t a hard decision to make, to go to work for HRMG,” he said. “I have always had tremendous respect for the leadership team and the advancements they’ve made to provide quality care in our community.”

Dr. Valuck attributes his success to love, community and leadership.

“It’s much easier to be successful when you love what you do for a living,” he said.

He still has a profound passion and love for helping his patients after 30 years.

“The most rewarding part of my job is seeing improvement in my patients’ health,” he said. “And I can’t stress how important it is to be active in your community and to give back to your community.”

Dr. Valuck’s leadership in 1991 helped transform cardiac care in this area. His continued advocacy for healthcare paved the way for the future.      

A pillar of the community in more than one way during the last 30 years, he has impacted the lives of many throughout northeast Missouri. His influence is far reaching, from the thousands of patients he has treated during his career, the fellow parishioners of Immanuel Baptist Church where he serves as a deacon or other civic leaders who have served on numerous boards with him.

One thing is for certain. Dr. Valuck is “The Heart of Hannibal.”  

Dr. Valuck is just as passionate about his work as he was on his first day. He is grateful for the opportunity to help so many.

“Thank you to all of my patients for trusting me with your care and the care provided by Hannibal Regional,” he said. “I love how the community has supported me and my family, and we love serving our community. I encourage everyone to live a healthy lifestyle.”

To schedule an appointment with Dr. Valuck, call (573) 629-3500.