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Community Health

Hays Medical Center > Community Health
Jul20
00

HaysMed Welcomes “Hoss” the Pet Therapy Dog

By Gayla Wichman - Community Health,HaysMed News

HAYS, KS – A new volunteer began his duties last week at HaysMed.  Hoss, a husky/German shepherd mix, started his new job as a therapy dog.

Hoss made his first appearance on the Acute Care Unit, visiting with approved patients, as well as Associates. Hoss is 10 years old and belongs to Andrea Coover, APRN, who works in the Pulmonology Clinic. Andrea and Hoss are a certified Pet Therapy Team through the Alliance of Therapy Dogs.

Pet Therapy provides a positive social interaction between the pet and a patient, family, or staff member. Pet therapy sessions at the hospital are a great way to help patients feel happy. Handlers and their dogs make short visits to the rooms of patients to help relieve stress, depression, and anxiety. Pet therapy is known for lifting spirits and lowering blood pressure when patients interact with the dog.  Patients and children who engage in pet therapy find it provides a comforting source for healing.

Hoss and Andrea will visit patients and staff on Wednesday afternoons! The program is currently being piloted on the Acute Care Unit, but plans are to expand our program to other units soon. 

The pet therapy program at HaysMed is sponsored by the HaysMed Volunteers.  If you are interested in the pet therapy program, please contact Nikki Mihm at Nikki.mihm@haysmed.com or 785-623-5890.  Each of our Pet Therapy Teams are certified through a national pet therapy organization.

Sep14
00

Drive-Thru Flu Shots Available September 27 at HaysMed

By Gayla Wichman - Community Health,Emergency Department News,Family Medicine,HaysMed News,Pediatrics,The Center News

Hays KS – HaysMed’s annual drive-thru flu shot clinic has been scheduled for Sunday, September 27. The event, which will be from 9 a.m. to 2 p.m., will offer free flu shots for all residents older than 6 months.

For the safety of the public and also those working the flu drive, masks will be required for all people ages 2 years and up. In addition, physical distancing will be observed at all locations on campus.

It will be the 21st year the hospital has offered the community service, and approximately 3,500 people are expected to be vaccinated during the free clinic.

People age 10 and up can receive their free flu shot without leaving their vehicles. HaysMed volunteers will direct traffic during the event.

Children 6 months through 9 years of age will be vaccinated on the west side of the Center for Health Improvement. Adults attending with children can also receive their shots in the same location.

More than 100 volunteers will be on hand to help with the event. HaysMed partners with Fort Hays State University and North Central Kansas Vo-Tech as both facilities provide students to help with the shots.

There will be no nasal flu vaccine at the drive-thru flu shot clinic. There will be no egg free vaccines available at the drive-thru flu shot clinic. People with a severe egg allergy will need to contact their local healthcare provider for their flu vaccine.

The event is sponsored by the Hays Medical Center Foundation. While there is no cost for flu shots, participants are asked to bring a canned food item to benefit the Community Assistance Center.

The vaccine also is available at HaysMed clinics for patients who are unable to attend the drive-thru flu shot event. Charges will apply at regular clinic visits, though the vaccine is covered by most health insurance plans.

Sep20
00

Drive-Thru Flu Shots Available Oct 7 at HaysMed

By Gayla Wichman - Community Health,Family Medicine,HaysMed News,Pediatrics,The Center News,Upcoming Events

HaysMed’s annual drive-thru flu shot clinic has been scheduled for Sunday, Oct. 7. The event, which will be from 9 a.m. to 2 p.m., will offer free flu shots for all residents older than 6 months.

It will be the 19th year the hospital has offered the community service, and approximately 3,500 people are expected to be vaccinated during the free clinic.

Adults wanting to receive a free flu shot can get one without having to leave their vehicles. HaysMed volunteers will direct traffic during the event, and the maximum wait time is estimated at 15 minutes.

Children older than 6 months will be vaccinated inside the gym at the Center for Health Improvement (CHI). Adults attending with children also can receive their shots inside the waiting area of Hays Orthopedic Institute, located inside the CHI building.

More than 100 volunteers will be on hand to help with the event. HaysMed partners with Fort Hays State University and North Central Kansas Vo-Tech as both facilities provide students to help with the shots.

There will be no nasal flu vaccine at the drive-thru flu shot clinic.  There will be no egg free vaccines available at the drive-thru flu shot clinic. People with a severe egg allergy will need to contact their local healthcare provider for their flu vaccine.

The event is sponsored by the Hays Medical Center Foundation. While there is no cost for flu shots, participants are asked to bring a canned food item to benefit the Community Assistance Center.

The vaccine also is available at HaysMed clinics for patients who are unable to attend the drive-thru flu shot event. Charges will apply at regular clinic visits, though the vaccine is covered by most health insurance plans.

Feb7
00

HaysMed Implements Visitor Restrictions

By Gayla Wichman - Community Health,HaysMed News,The Center News

Hays, Kansas (Feb 7, 2018) –Effective today visitors at HaysMed will be restricted due to an increase in influenza and other respiratory illnesses.  Visitors who have symptoms of Influenza (fever, body aches, headache, severe weakness, cough, sore throat, runny or stuffy nose) or are 12 years of age or younger will not be allowed on patient floors.

This year’s flu season is one of the worst on recent records and HaysMed is taking these precautions in order to limit the spread of the flu and other respiratory illnesses.   Signs noting the restrictions are posted at the main entrances to alert visitors not to visit if they have symptoms of Influenza, respiratory illness,  or are 12 years of age or younger.

The flu can cause serious complications and even death, especially in the very young, the elderly, and those with existing medical conditions. These measures are being taken in an effort to protect patients, families, and hospital staff.   We appreciate the community’s understanding and cooperation.

It is not too late to receive a flu vaccination. CDC recommends getting a flu shot by the end of October if possible.  However, getting a vaccine later in the season is still beneficial.  HaysMed offers flu vaccines  through the end of March to anyone 6 months of age and older.

 

 

Feb7
00

Flu season increasing local physician visits, not hospitalizations

By Gayla Wichman - Community Health,HaysMed News,The Center News

By Kaley Conner – Hays Daily News
February 6, 2018

January often is considered a peak month for seasonal influenza illness, and while national reports indicate continued widespread flu activity in most states — including Kansas — local officials say the situation in Hays has not been as severe.

A Hays Medical Center official confirmed last week local physicians are seeing increased flu activity, though most patients seeing their doctor for illness are testing negative for influenza. There also has not been a significant increase in the number of residents hospitalized for flu, said Kimberly Koerner, infection prevention officer at HaysMed.

“This may in part be due to the free influenza vaccines HaysMed has offered the community for the past 16 years, which is sponsored by the HaysMed Foundation,” Koerner said. “Associates at HaysMed are also provided with a free influenza vaccination on an annual basis.”

The hospital was recognized by the Immunization Action Coalition in 2016 for its vaccination practices.

Health officials are saying it is not too late to get a flu shot, as the seasonal illness sometimes can linger until late March.

HaysMed’s Convenient Care Walk-In Clinic also has seen increased traffic from patients presenting with flu-like symptoms, though the majority of them are not testing positive for influenza, Koerner said.

Confirmed local cases of influenza have been mostly strains of Influenza A, with just a few cases of Influenza B reported, she said.

This year’s flu vaccine is not an exact match for a prevalent strain of virus, with effectiveness estimated at approximately 30 percent, Koerner said, noting a vaccine still is encouraged as it could help prevent potential complications.

Other prevention measures include frequent hand washing with soap or an alcohol-based hand rub and avoiding contact with people who are sick. Koerner also said it’s helpful to sanitize frequently used household objects, such as cellphones, television remotes and door knobs.

“Most people who get influenza will recover within a few days up to two weeks without medical care or antiviral medications,” Koerner said. “If you are sick, it is important to stay at home unless you need to seek medical attention. Wash your hands frequently, drink plenty of fluids and get lots of rest.”

In rare cases, the flu can cause secondary complications such as bacterial infection. Patients should contact a doctor immediately if an illness seems to be getting worse instead of better or causes symptoms such as confusion, shortness of breath, fast heart rate, fever or extreme pain.

Sep17
00

Drive-Thru Flu Shots Available Oct 1 at HaysMed

By Gayla Wichman - Community Health,Family Medicine,HaysMed News,Pediatrics,senior health

HaysMed’s annual drive-thru flu shot clinic has been scheduled for Sunday, Oct. 1. The event, which will be from 9 a.m. to 2 p.m., will offer free flu shots for all residents older than 6 months.

It will be the 18th year the hospital has offered the community service, and approximately 3,500 people are expected to be vaccinated during the free clinic.

Adults wanting to receive a free flu shot can get one without having to leave their vehicles. HaysMed volunteers will direct traffic during the event, and the maximum wait time is estimated at 15 minutes.

Children older than 6 months will be vaccinated inside the gym at the Center for Health Improvement (CHI). Adults attending with children also can receive their shots inside the waiting area of Hays Orthopedic Institute, located inside the CHI building.

More than 100 volunteers will be on hand to help with the event. HaysMed partners with Fort Hays State University and North Central Kansas Vo-Tech as both facilities provide students to help with the shots.

There will be no nasal flu vaccine at the drive-thru flu shot clinic due to uncertainties regarding its effectiveness.  There will be no egg free vaccines available at the drive-thru flu shot clinic. People with a severe egg allergy will need to contact their local healthcare provider for their flu vaccine.

The event is sponsored by the Hays Medical Center Foundation. While there is no cost for flu shots, participants are asked to bring a canned food item to benefit the Community Assistance Center.

The vaccine also is available at HaysMed clinics for patients who are unable to attend the drive-thru flu shot event. Charges will apply at regular clinic visits, though the vaccine is covered by most health insurance plans.

Jul17
00

HaysMed Recognizes First Quarter Patient Satisfaction Award Winners

By Gayla Wichman - Community Health

Hays, Kansas (July 17, 2017)—The Intensive Care Unit (ICU), Special Nursing Service (SNS), the Breast Care Center and Communications Center were recently named the patient satisfaction award winners for the first quarter of 2017 at HaysMed.

Each quarter HaysMed recognizes the patient satisfaction award winners based on results from CAHPS (Consumer Assessment of Healthcare Providers and Systems) surveys administrated by HealthStream.  HealthStream is the research firm HaysMed contracts with to conduct the government required Consumer Assessment of Healthcare Providers and Systems (CAHPS) hospital surveys on patient experience.  The CAHPS survey is the first national, standardized, publicly reported survey of patients’ perspectives of hospital care. The CAHPS Hospital Survey is a survey instrument and data collection methodology for measuring patients’ perceptions of their hospital experience.   Four areas are recognized every quarter including an inpatient department, an outpatient department, a clinic and a non-clinical area.

The inpatient ICU Department was recognized for having had a score of 100% putting them at the 99th percentile for overall courtesy and respect.  The ICU is a 12 bed unit and they have 20 full time Associates.

The SNS, an outpatient department, also received a unit score of 100% putting them at the 99th percentile for patient courtesy and respect.  The unit has six treatment rooms and is open 7 am – 7 pm seven days a week.

Garnering the clinic award was the Breast Care Center (BCC).  They scored a 97.4% putting them at the 97th percentile for courtesy and respect.  The BCC provides comprehensive diagnostic, prevention and survivorship services for those who have a need for specialized breast care.  They have 10 full time Associates.

The Communication Center received the Customer Service Award for their courtesy and respect in helping HaysMed be successful.  The department consists of eight Associates and they answer an average of 18,000 phone calls a month.

Each area honored displays a patient satisfaction award winner banner in their department.

 -30-

May22
00

HaysMed Convenient Care Sports Physicals Schedule

By Gayla Wichman - Community Health,HaysMed News,Orthopedic Institute News

(Hays, KS – May 22, 2017) – HaysMed Convenient Care Walk In Clinic will offer school sports physicals on June 5, 9, 12, 16, 19, 23, 26, 30, July 3, 7, 10, 14, 17, 21, 24, 28, 31, Aug 4, 7 and 11..  The physicals will be conducted during regular hours on those days.  Hours for the clinic are Monday through Friday 8:00 am – 7:30 pm, Saturdays 9:00 am – 4:30 pm and Sundays
11:00 am –4:00 pm.

Children must be accompanied by a parent/guardian to sign the consent for treatment form.  Please bring the school sports physical form with you with your portion completed and also the child’s immunization record.  Parents are reminded that the school sports physical is not a well child check.  The fee of $35 will be payable at the time of service and will not be sent into your insurance company.  There is a $15 fee for each additional camp or second form that is completed.

Nov4
00

DeBakey Heart Institute Sponsors Coffee and Conversation on November 11

By Gayla Wichman - Community Health,DeBakey Heart Institute News,HaysMed News

Hays, Kansas (Nov 4, 2015) – The next session of Coffee and Conversation will be held Wednesday, November 11, at the Hays Orthopedic Lobby, 2500 Canterbury Drive, Hays Kansas. Participants are asked to use the West Entrance.

The program will feature a presentation and roundtable discussion with Dr. Arbin Katwal, MD, Cardiologist and Andrea Harmoney, MS, RD, LD. Topic for the discussion is “Nutrition for the Heart”

The program begins at 5:30 pm with healthy snacks followed by the discussion from 6:00 pm – 7:00 pm. The program is designed for those who have had Open Heart Surgery, Stents (PTCA), Congestive Heart Failure (CHF) or a Health Attack (MI) and the people who care about them.

Registration is FREE but please RSVP by November 9 to 785-623-5500 or online at

https://aceweb.haysmed.com/wconnect/CourseStatus.awp?&course=15COFFEE04

Oct27
00

Hays Medical Center Foundation Completes Another Successful Drive Thru Flu Vaccination

By Gayla Wichman - Community Health,HaysMed News

Copy of 20151025_073342The Hays Medical Center Foundation drive thru flu shots were once again an overwhelming success. On Sunday 3493 people were given free flu immunizations. This was the 16th year the foundation has sponsored this event and underwritten the costs of the vaccine.

“It is a privilege to be able to support this effort in the community,” Said Ruth Heffel, Hays Medical Center Foundation Director. “Getting a flu shot is one of the easiest things people can do to take good care of their health and we are pleased to be a part of this community program.”

Copy of 20151025_085909The success of the event hinges on the volunteers who give their time to make it all possible. Fort Hays State University faculty and nursing students were there early drawing up doses and giving shots during the event. Along with them were over 50 HaysMed Associates who set up, gave shots, directed traffic, provided meals and generally did anything that needed to be done to make the flu drive run smoothly.

“Our volunteers are the best!” said Kim Koerner, RN, Associate Health nurse at HaysMed and event organizer. “We love working with FHSU and our own HaysMed Associates never fail to give generously of their time so we can provide this much needed free service.”

Copy of 20151025_075601The food drive for the Community Assistance Center is also something that the community rallies around. This year the drive raised 2,140 pounds of food and $100.00 in cash. The food donation has been a part of the drive thru flu every year and is coordinated by the HaysMed Information Technology department.

According to Scott Rohleder, Director of Information Technology at HaysMed, “It’s a great opportunity for our department to give back to the community. Many of our Associates bring their family to spend the day and help out .”

After 16 years the process has been honed and the event usually goes like clockwork. The only item that really changes is the cost of the vaccine. While the exact cost of this year’s vaccine is not available the figures from past years show that in 2000 the cost for 2300 doses was $4,823.10 and last year, 2014, the cost was $37,148.94 for 3,385 doses.

Copy of 20151025_083809Contributions to the HaysMed Foundation for activities such as this and other hospital programs can be made by calling the Foundation Office at 785-623-2350, or visiting www.haysmedfoundation.org

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