Ruffin Tchakounte, DO specializes in Internal Medicine as a Hospitalist. He earned his Doctor of Osteopathic Medicine and Master of Science in Anatomy from Des Moines University, and his Bachelor of Arts in Chemistry from the University of Iowa. Dr. Tchakounte completed his Internal Medicine Residency through the University of Iowa, in the UnityPoint Health Des Moines program, where he gained broad experience caring for patients in inpatient, outpatient, and critical care settings. He is fluent in English and French.
In addition to his clinical practice, Dr. Tchakounte has served as a Captain in the Iowa Army National Guard Medical Detachment, supporting soldier readiness and community health, and has taught as adjunct professor at Drake University and Des Moines Area Community College. Dr. Tchakounte has been recognized for his leadership and service with honors including the Des Moines Business Record’s “Forty Under 40” and the West Des Moines Chamber of Commerce Diversity, Equity, and Inclusion Award.
Wrestling at the University of Iowa brought Dr. Tchakounte to the state of Iowa in 2007. His wife and children have been the anchors to keep him local. Family, food, wrestling, and traveling all play a big part of his life outside of work.
Specialty
Hospitalist
Education
Doctor of Osteopathic Medicine
Des Moines University, Des Moines, IA
Residency
Resident Physician
University of Iowa – Unity Point Des Moines, Des Moines, IA
Professional Memberships
American College of Cardiology (ACC)
ACC IM Cardiology Program 2025 African American/Black Cohort
American Heart Association (AHA)
American College of Physicians (ACP)
Iowa Medical Society (IMS)
Student National Medical Association (SNMA)
To schedule with a Mahaska Health Specialist please call 641.672.3360