HaysMed Honored with the Champion of Sight Award by Saving Sight

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Hays, Kansas – HaysMed has been selected as a recipient of the prestigious Champion of Sight Award, an award given by Saving Sight to recognize outstanding dedication and advocacy in the field of eye donation. This award highlights HaysMed’s unwavering commitment to supporting the eye donation process and their extraordinary efforts to make the gift of sight possible for those in need.

Established in 2020, the Champion of Sight Award is Saving Sight’s way of acknowledging the compassion, resilience, and unwavering passion demonstrated by its partners in advocating for eye donation. It celebrates the  work carried out by organizations and individuals who go above and beyond in caring for donors, their families, and the ultimate recipients of the invaluable gift of sight.

Heidi Gohl, RN, who oversees HaysMed’s Organ Donation team, expressed her gratitude and pride in receiving this prestigious award. She stated, “We are honored to be recognized with the Champion of Sight Award. At HaysMed, we believe in the transformative power of eye donation, and we are deeply committed to supporting this cause. This award reinforces our dedication to the mission of Saving Sight and is a testament to the hard work and passion of our entire team.”

Over the last year donations from HaysMed have gone to help restore sight to 31 individuals.

Champions of Sight are champions of donation within their professions, and their efforts contribute to changing lives by saving sight. These individuals and organizations collaborate closely with Saving Sight to make eye donation a reality, and their unwavering support ensures that countless individuals can experience the world with clarity and vision.

To be eligible for the Champion of Sight Award, external partners from hospitals, funeral homes, as well as medical examiners and coroners who excel in aiding Saving Sight in the donation process are considered. The determination of Champions of Sight is a thorough and careful process, with nominations made by Saving Sight’s Hospital Development team, informed by feedback from the organization’s internal team and other external partners.

HaysMed is proud to join the ranks of distinguished recipients of the Champion of Sight Award and remains committed to its partnership with Saving Sight in promoting eye donation and restoring the gift of sight to those in need.

HaysMed Recognizes Forensic Nurses Week and Highlights the Importance of Forensic Nursing Services in Western Kansas

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Hays, Kansas  – November 5-11, 2023 marks Forensic Nurses Week, a dedicated time to honor the work of nurses practicing in the specialized field of forensic nursing. Established by the International Association of Forensic Nurses (IAFN), this week celebrates the exceptional contributions of forensic nurses who play a crucial role in ensuring that patients affected by violence receive the expert, compassionate, and comprehensive care they need.

Forensic nursing is a unique specialty that focuses on addressing the acute and long-term consequences of violence, ultimately improving patient recovery and reducing healthcare costs. HaysMed is committed to providing exceptional care to individuals affected by violence. Their Forensic Program is dedicated to offering prompt evaluation, coordinated care, and appropriate treatment for patients of all ages in the region.

Trisha Haskell, HaysMed Forensic Program Coordinator, emphasizes the significance of specialized care in a rural community like western Kansas. “In our rural community, it is important that we provide specialized care to patients spanning all ages,” she explains. “Collaborating with community partners, our goal is to ensure the health and safety of all people we encounter.”

HaysMed’s Forensic Program has proven to be an essential resource in the region, ensuring that those affected by violence receive the support they need. The program works in close collaboration with various community partners to provide comprehensive care, thereby making a positive impact on the well-being of the local population.

Forensic nursing plays a crucial role in addressing violence and its consequences, making Forensic Nurses Week an important occasion to recognize the dedication of these professionals. HaysMed encourages individuals to learn more about their Forensic Program and the services they offer by contacting Cammie Townley at cammie.townley@haysmed.com.

HaysMed Empowers Mothers with Comprehensive Pre/Peri/Post Natal Fitness Program

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HAYS, KS – HaysMed is excited to announce Moving Moms, an all-encompassing Pre/Peri/Post Natal Fitness Program, aimed at providing invaluable support and guidance to expectant and new mothers during their transformative journey into motherhood. This targeted program is designed to equip women with the tools and knowledge needed to navigate pregnancy, labor, and postpartum recovery with confidence and vitality.

 Class Information:

The Pre/Peri/Post Natal Fitness program is a carefully supervised exercise regimen meticulously designed to prepare women for the physiological changes that occur during pregnancy and post-partum. It focuses on building stamina and strength essential for labor and delivery while assisting in restoring muscle tone after childbirth. Participants will learn safe and effective exercise techniques, alleviate common pregnancy discomforts, and receive invaluable nutrition tips tailored to each trimester.

Classes offered under this program adhere to the rigorous guidelines set by the American College of Obstetrics and Gynecology. They encompass a diverse range of activities, including low-impact aerobics, moderate strength training, water aerobics, core strengthening, stretching, and relaxation techniques.

 Course Instructors

Heather Ver Woer – Prenatal/Perinatal/Postnatal Instructor:
Credentials: B.S. Kinesiology, ACE Certified Personal Trainer, ACE Behavior Change Specialist, ACE Fitness Nutrition Specialist, ACE Weight Management Specialist, AFAA Perinatal Fitness Certified.

Kirsten Angell – Wellness Dietitian:
Credentials: B.S. in Dietetics – Kansas State University, Registered Dietitian (RD) – The Academy of Nutrition and Dietetics, Licensed Dietitian (LD) – State of Kansas, Certified Diabetes Care and Education Specialist (CDCES) – Certification Board for Diabetes Care and Education (CBDCE), Certified Insulin Pump Trainer, Group Fitness Instructor (GFI) – American Council on Exercise (ACE).

 Additional Services:

Screening and Consultation: For women seeking guidance on safe prenatal and postpartum workouts, one-on-one consultations are available. These sessions provide clarity in navigating the sea of prenatal fitness advice and help determine individualized fitness priorities.

 Wellness Coaching: Our dedicated wellness coach serves as supportive guides, helping clients set health goals, manage stress, and overcome daily challenges during all stages of pregnancy. They bridge the gap between traditional healthcare and sustainable positive lifestyle changes.

 Personal Training: Our accredited personal trainers tailor workouts to suit all fitness levels, providing guidance, motivation, support, and accountability to achieve desired results.

 Nutrition Coaching: A comprehensive assessment of nutrition habits is conducted, focusing on individual goals and needs. Clients receive personalized nutrition plans to support them during and after pregnancy.

 Pelvic Floor Physical Therapy: Aids in managing symptoms during pregnancy and postpartum. Hormonal changes and increased pressure during pregnancy can lead to various pelvic floor and back problems. Pelvic Floor Physical Therapy can improve quality of life by alleviating painful symptoms, strengthening the core, enhancing flexibility, and normalizing bowel and bladder functions. It addresses a range of issues, from sacroiliac joint instability to urinary incontinence.

There are many benefits of exercising during pregnancy including:

*Lower risk of gestational diabetes and hypertension.

*Reduced likelihood of preterm labor and birth.

*Increased fitness level for labor.

*Greater chance of avoiding cesarean section or other pregnancy interventions.

*Quicker recovery from childbirth.

*Alleviation of backaches, constipation, bloating, and swelling.

*Enhanced mood and energy levels.

*Prevention of excess weight gain and faster return to pre-pregnancy weight.

*Improved sleep quality.

*Promotion of muscle tone, strength, endurance, and flexibility.

*Immune system boost.

*Stress relief and improved mental health.

Pelvic Floor Physical Therapists associated with the program include Whitney Ford, PT, DPT, Janna Manning, PT and Amanda Nelson, PT, DPT.

“Exercise and good nutrition are so important for a healthy pregnancy and postpartum recovery. We know that moms who exercise will have lower rates of preeclampsia, gestational diabetes, and cesarean delivery, but also experience less constipation and musculoskeletal pain. A well-balanced diet is key for your baby’s development in utero and for a successful breastfeeding experience. As an added bonus, by taking care of your body with good nutrition and exercise, your mood is also improved!” – said Jenna Sloan, MD, Center for Women’s Health.

HaysMed is dedicated to supporting the health and well-being of expectant and new mothers, ensuring a smoother journey into motherhood and a brighter, healthier future for both moms and babies.

For more information on the Moving Moms program call 785-623-5900.

For more information about our Pelvic Floor Physical Therapy Program, please contact Outpatient Rehabilitation at 785-623-5691.

HaysMed Recognizes Stephanie Beougher as the 2023 Debra Boeken Customer Care Representative of the Year

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Hays, KS – Stephanie Beougher, a dedicated member of the HaysMed team, has been honored with the 2023 Debra Boeken Customer Care Representative (CCR) of the Year award. This recognition highlights her outstanding contributions to patient care and underscores the vital role of CCRs in ensuring the comfort and well-being of patients and their families.

A Customer Care Representative (CCR) plays a pivotal role within the patient care team, serving as a crucial support system for both healthcare professionals and patients alike. They are the compassionate bridge between the patient and the hospital environment, providing essential services to enhance the overall patient experience.

Stephanie’s dedication and commitment to her role on the Progressive Care Unit at HaysMed have made her a shining example of excellence in patient care. As a CCR, she goes above and beyond to ensure that patients and their families feel comfortable and supported during their hospital stay. Whether it’s providing necessary supplies, assisting the unit’s Charge Nurse, or handling various tasks to ensure a seamless shift, Stephanie exemplifies the qualities of a true healthcare professional.

“Our patients are at the heart of everything we do at HaysMed, and our Customer Care Representatives are instrumental in creating a positive and compassionate environment for them. Stephanie’s dedication and commitment to her role as a CCR have not only earned her this well-deserved recognition but have also set a standard of excellence for our entire team. Her unwavering commitment to patient comfort and support is truly commendable.” Said Terry Siek, Vice President for Patient Care Services and Chief Nursing Officer.

This award is not only a testament to Stephanie’s exceptional contributions but also a reminder of the crucial role played by CCRs in enhancing the patient experience. At HaysMed, we recognize that the work of individuals like Stephanie is integral to our mission of providing the highest quality healthcare with unwavering compassion.

HaysMed Associates Honored for Years of Service

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Hays, KS –HaysMed honored 174 Associates who have reached milestones in their service at HaysMed.

Those recognized were:

45 Year
Joyce Heffel
Paulette Kroeger
Debra Miller
Cynthia Robben
JoAnn Schauvliege
Stephanie Staab

40 Year
Kaylene Kruse
Debbie Linenberger
Susan Little

35 Year
Vicky Sauer
Terry Siek 

30 Year
Christine Augustine
Wanda  Augustine
Jamie Dinkel
Pamela  Mayers
JoDee McCarty
Shawn  Mulkey
Denise   Pfeifer
Melanie Urban

25 Year
Holly Bittel
Sarah Dreiling
Tanya Fross
Lesa Klozenbucher
Patricia  Lane
Patrica Larson
Constance Mermis
Amanda Meyers
Nikki Mihm
Stephanie Niblock
Leslie Olmstead
Chada Schleicher
Laura Schwindt
Mary Selensky
Courtney Smith
Christy  Stahl
Marsha Stremel
Carolyn Terry
Gayla Wichman

20 Year
Lindsy Allen
Steven Balthazor
Stephanie Banker
Kelly Brungardt
Ross Buckles, DO
Shanna Carrillo
LeAnn Dix
Sarah Fischer
Patrick Green
Heather Harris, DO
Traci Jacobs
Laura McCarter
Melanie McCoy
Cristina Meier
Kelly Myers
Tara Roa
Amanda Schmidt
Warren Smith

15 Year
Kirsten  Angell
Kimberly Befort
Kristina Befort
Brenda  Bryant
William Cadoret
Shawn  Clark
Roxanne Einsel
Tara Harding
Shauna Keil
Carmen Keller
Jessica   Kirwan
Dustin   Koster
Kalin Labarge
Lynn Leiker
Michelle Moeckel
Maggie Moeder
Laura Monroe
Andrea Paul
Brenda  Reiff
Kaitlin Robben
Jennifer Schmidt
Glenda  Schuetz
Tiffany Scott
Devere  Walker
Amy Wasinger
Mackenzie Waugh
Sharon  Wendell
Debra Wendland
Kimberly Wiles
Jennifer Williams

10 Year
Jennifer Anderson
Chelsea Angel
Camilla  Ballinger
Stephanie Beougher
Kylee Bombardier
Michelle Braun
Michelle Chittenden
Jeffrey Droegemeier
Lindsey Fox
Ashley Garcia
Kylie Geist
Elizabeth Goetz
Tonya Grogg
Mohammed Janif, MD
Shannon Kibel
Leroy Kleinsorge
Desirea Long
Nancy Luecke
Katie McQueen
Kelly Miller
Alison Nuttle
Catherine Robinson
Lesly Rupp
Travis Rupp
Meredith Sarver
Kelsey Schrant
Calie Sherman
Gwendolyn Sillmon
Abby Stenzel
Lisa Thummel
Kellie Werner
Molly Wilkens
Nicole Winstead 

5 Year

Anthony Accurso, MD
Kelsey Accurso
Oluwaseun Akinbo, MD
Darlene Arnhold
Kendra  Barnes
Nancy Bergman
Garrah  Birdsall
Jensen Boys
Christine Burgardt
Patricia Crawley, MD
Max DeCarvalho, MD
Victoria Donnelly
Cesar Garcia II
Lauren Gerard
Mackenzie Gianacopolos
Stephen Giebler
Malea Gilman
Paul Gosselin
Tamra Hajny
Emily Hallam
Vicki Hawthorne
Amy Herl
Carrie Hines
Megan Homolka
Pramod Janga, MD
Kristen  Jones
Janie Klein
Miran Krannawitter
Loan Lam
Shaila Leach
Lesa Lowry
Bailey McCain
Karissa Nelson
Lauren Pallister
Suzanna Paneno
Molly Paul
Aaron Pfeifer, MD
Sarah Powers
Kaitlyn Richmeier
Tiffany Robben
Alice Rohr
Subrahmanyeswara Samavedi, MD
Ashley Schmidt
Sheena Sexson
Dustin Smith
Kara Snook-Hatch
Lindsey Stephenson
Megan Stouffer
Kathleen Thompson
Carol Vajnar
Steven Waring, MD
Marlee William
Sarah Worcester
Cindy Zadina

HaysMed’s Hunter Bell Graduates from the Kansas Hospital Association (KHA) Leadership Institute

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Hays, KS – Hunter Bell, Manager of Respiratory Therapy at HaysMed, recently graduated from the Kansas Hospital Association (KHA) Leadership Institute. The Kansas Hospital Association Leadership Institute graduated its 21st class of 30 students on Sept. 7, at the KHA Annual Convention and Trade Show in Wichita, Kansas. Students were nominated by their hospital’s CEO to be part of this select group. They represent the future leaders of Kansas hospitals.

Helping to build future health care leaders is important to the Kansas Hospital Association. “We are committed to strengthening and promoting the leadership capacity of hospital employees in Kansas,” said Chad Austin, president and CEO, Kansas Hospital Association. The KHA Leadership Institute was established to help hospitals provide professional development opportunities that accentuate the personal skills and abilities needed to facilitate positive change and innovation in Kansas hospitals.

The 2023 Leadership Institute class was diverse. They represented a wide geographic distribution of Kansas hospitals from St. Francis to Dighton and Pittsburg to Leavenworth – there was representation from all parts of the state. Students had experience in health care from as little as a year to more than 20 years. Several students have been in management positions, while others were new managers. Some students also supervise other staff, from a few to more than 50 employees.

It is important to note the students nominated to participate in this program were not selected because they needed to learn “management skills.” They were nominated because their CEO recognized their potential to be future leaders and wanted to help cultivate that development. Each one of these students made a personal and professional commitment to expand their skills by attending all six courses of the Leadership Institute.

The curriculum was structured to enhance each student’s leadership abilities. Course #1 focused on explaining the difference between leadership and management, identifying organizational values and creating a positive organizational climate. Course #2 focused on enhancing communication skills and grassroots advocacy. Course #3 focused on team building – including how to lead a team and how to be part of a team and Course # 4 examined conflict and conflict management. Courses #5 was at the KHA Annual Convention and Trade Show. Students learned about the challenges facing health care.

HaysMed Recognizes October as Domestic Violence Awareness and Prevention Month

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Hays, Kansas – HaysMed proudly joins the nation in recognizing October as Domestic Violence Awareness and Prevention Month. This month serves as a critical reminder of our collective responsibility to raise awareness about relationship abuse and support those impacted by it. President Joseph Biden’s proclamation of October as Domestic Violence Awareness Month underscores the importance of this issue, emphasizing that everyone deserves a healthy relationship and there are people who can help.

At HaysMed, we believe in the power of education and specialized care to combat the effects of domestic violence. To this end, we are pleased to highlight our team of specially trained forensic nurses who play a vital role in addressing this pressing issue. These dedicated professionals possess the knowledge and expertise necessary to decrease the healthcare consequences of violence, improve patient recovery, and lower healthcare costs.

The Forensic Program at HaysMed is a resource for individuals and families impacted by violence in Ellis County and surrounding communities. By offering specialized care and support, our team ensures that survivors receive the compassionate and comprehensive attention they deserve. This commitment to quality care sets HaysMed apart as a trusted resource in the fight against domestic violence.

One of the key advantages of HaysMed is the accessibility of our specially trained forensic nurses. They provide critical care without the need for survivors to travel long distances for the services they require. This accessibility ensures that individuals affected by domestic violence can access the help they need right here in our community.

HaysMed recognizes that prevention through coordinated response and accountability is essential in our communities. We are firmly committed to supporting survivors and fostering an environment where everyone feels safe. In line with our dedication to education, we encourage individuals to learn more about domestic violence by visiting https://www.thehotline.org/.

HaysMed Childcare Center Opens Its Doors, Providing Critical Support for Healthcare Professionals and Families

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HAYS, KS – HaysMed is proud to announce the opening of its much-anticipated onsite childcare center, a collaborative effort with Bright Minds Academy, LLC. Bright Minds Academy, a childcare provider with a nearby facility, will oversee the management of the newly inaugurated HaysMed Childcare Center, offering vital support to healthcare professionals and families in the community.

With the HaysMed Childcare Center now open, Shae Veach, VP for Regional Operations at HaysMed, expressed the significance of this milestone: “The opening of our childcare facility marks a transformative moment for our organization and the community we serve. We can finally offer our Associates and other families a childcare solution right here on our campus.”

This state-of-the-art childcare center can accommodate up to 77 children, spanning ages from 2 weeks to 6 years old.  Conveniently situated on the east side of The Center for Health Improvement, the facility offers a safe and enriching environment for young learners.

Nick and Andrea Felder, owners of Bright Minds Academy, shared their enthusiasm for the center’s opening: “Bright Minds Academy is happy to collaborate with HaysMed to introduce this much-needed childcare option. As we open our doors, we look forward to nurturing and educating even more children, contributing to the growth and well-being of our community.”

The HaysMed Childcare Center features three dedicated play areas, ensuring a holistic developmental experience for the children it serves. In inclement weather, the fitness center gym will be utilized to provide a comfortable and active play space.

The establishment of this childcare center was made possible through the generous contributions of more than $1.5 million from the HaysMed Foundation, the Hadley Foundation, and the Dane G. Hansen Foundation. In addition to this support, Nex-Tech has established an endowed fund with the HaysMed Foundation to address the facility’s future needs.

Veach concluded, “The HaysMed Childcare Center is a game-changer for our healthcare providers and the entire Ellis County community. It’s a testament to our commitment to our Associates and our dedication to ensuring a brighter, more accessible future for childcare in our region.”

A public ribbon-cutting ceremony to celebrate the opening will be held at a later date.

Drive Thru Flu Shots Available September 24 at HaysMed

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Hays KS – HaysMed’s annual drive-thru flu shot clinic has been scheduled for Sunday, September 24. The event will offer free flu shots for all residents older than 6 months. The event will be held from 9 a.m. to 1 p.m.

It will be the 24th year the hospital has offered the community service, and approximately 3,500 people are expected to be vaccinated during the free clinic. 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.

People age 10 and up can receive their free flu shot without leaving their vehicles.  HaysMed volunteers will direct traffic during the event.  If you want to fill out the forms and bring them with you.  Please go to haysmedfoundation.org/flu and make copies to complete.

  • 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.
  • High-dose flu vaccine will not be available for 65 and over. The CDC has not expressed a preference for any flu vaccine indicated for people 65 years and older. It’s most important for everyone to get the annual seasonal flu vaccine, whether it’s a standard-dose or high-dose flu vaccine.
  • 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.
  • No COVID vaccine available at the drive thru. The flu vaccine will contain no COVID booster.

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

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.

HaysMed OB Nurse Receives National Certification

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Hays, KS – Kalin LaBarge, BSN, RNC-OB, has recently achieved a significant professional milestone by earning her certification from the National Certification Corporation (NCC) in inpatient obstetric nursing. This esteemed credential recognizes her exemplary knowledge, skills, and expertise in providing exceptional care to expectant mothers and their newborns.

To obtain the inpatient obstetric nursing certification, LaBarge underwent a rigorous examination process administered by the NCC. The examination evaluated her proficiency across various essential areas of obstetric nursing practice, including fetal monitoring, maternal complications, intrapartum and postpartum care, high-risk obstetrics, and newborn assessment and care. This comprehensive assessment ensures that certified inpatient obstetric nurses possess the necessary knowledge and competence to deliver specialized care throughout the entire perinatal period.

The NCC credential signifies her dedication to staying updated with the latest evidence-based practices and the highest standards of care in the field. This achievement highlights her strong clinical expertise, critical thinking skills, and passion for providing optimal care to women and their infants during one of life’s most pivotal moments.

In addition to their technical skills, certified inpatient obstetric nurses like LaBarge are skilled in fostering effective communication, empathy, and compassion to create a positive birthing experience. They work collaboratively with the healthcare team to identify and address any potential complications that may arise during labor and delivery. These nurses are also knowledgeable about breastfeeding support, postpartum care, and newborn care, ensuring a smooth transition into the postpartum period.

ADDRESS

2220 Canterbury
Hays, KS 67601

855-429-7633

CONVENIENT CARE

3216 Vine, Suite 20
Hays, KS 67601

785-261-7065

NURSE HOTLINE

M-F 4:30PM – 8AM
Weekends & Holidays 24 hrs

1-855-Haysmed

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