On September 4, 2025, HaysMed and Fort Hays State University (FHSU) welcomed high school students from area high schools including Russell, Colby, and Scott City to campus for this year’s Nightingale Experience, a hands-on event designed to spark interest in nursing careers and provide a behind-the-scenes look at healthcare in action.

Named after Florence Nightingale, the founder of modern nursing, the experience offers students a unique opportunity to explore both the academic and clinical sides of the profession. The day began at HaysMed, where students participated in immersive rotations through key departments including Labor & Delivery, the Cath Lab, Critical Care Progressive Unit (CPCU), Intensive Care Unit (ICU), Operating Room (OR), Special Nurse Services, Emergency Room (ER), Medical Oncology, and Acute Care.

Throughout the day, students shadow nurses, providers, and physicians to ask questions, and gain real-world insight into the diverse roles nurses play in patient care. From high-tech procedures to compassionate bedside care, the experience showcases the depth and impact of the nursing profession. The day ended at FHSU, where students tour classrooms and simulation labs, meet nursing faculty, and learn about the educational path to becoming a nurse.

Special thanks to the FHSU nursing faculty, the HaysMed education team, and all the clinical units who generously shared their time and expertise. Their dedication helps inspire the next generation of healthcare professionals.

The Nightingale Experience continues to be a powerful way to connect students with the heart of healthcare, and to show them that a career in nursing is not only possible, but deeply rewarding.

At HaysMed, we’re committed to helping our patients make informed healthcare decisions. We want to share that HaysMed is not contracted with most Medicare Advantage plans. This means our providers and services would be considered out-of-network, resulting in higher costs for you.

To ensure you have the coverage that best supports your care, we encourage you to connect with the Northwest Kansas Area Agency on Aging in Hays or speak with your insurance agent. They can offer personalized guidance and help you explore options that align with your healthcare needs.

Kansas Hospital Association

Navigating Medicare Options for Kansas Seniors and Caregivers

As the Medicare open enrollment period approaches (Oct. 15-Dec. 7), now is the time for Kansas seniors and their families/caregivers to compare the benefits of Original Medicare plans versus Medicare Advantage. Accurate, helpful information is key to making the best choice about which Medicare option makes the most sense for you or your loved ones.

Medicare Advantage plans – which are privately insured alternatives to Original Medicare – cover all traditional Medicare health services. In addition, they usually include other benefits like vision, dental, and wellness programs. Some plans may offer free or discounted gym memberships or coverage for prescription drugs not included in Original Medicare. However, Medicare Advantage plans are typically limited to a narrower network of doctors and hospitals – and they require pre-authorization for certain services and medications – all of which can delay care, especially in rural areas with fewer in-network provider options.

By contrast, Original Medicare is federally funded and offers extensive access to providers nationwide. Beneficiaries can visit any doctor or hospital that accepts Medicare, which helps ensure access to timely care even in small communities.

Many will notice that Medicare Advantage plans often have lower premiums, but it’s important to realize that doesn’t account for other costs – such as copayments, coinsurance, and deductibles. While the lower premiums may be appealing, the out-of-pocket expenses can add up quickly. A recent Kaiser study found that about half of all Medicare Advantage enrollees pay more for a seven-day hospital stay than those in Original Medicare.

By understanding the differences and considering all costs and requirements, people who are eligible for Medicare can make informed decisions that best suit their health care needs. If this topic applies to you or someone you care for, resources are readily available to assist you: Visit medicare.gov or call 1-800- MEDICARE to speak to a Medicare representative who can help you understand and compare plan options. Empower yourself with the right information – and the right health plan – for good health.