Celebrating American Heart Month – February 2026
Time: 6:30 a.m. – 10:00 a.m.
Location: 2220 Canterbury Drive – Entrance B, Hays, KS
2026 Volunteer Community Blood Screening Dates:
This engaging, clinically relevant event will dive into timely and important topics, including:
Stay tuned for the opportunity to sign up to attend the 2026 Diabetes Symposium.
More about the HaysMed Diabetes Solutions Classes:
Managing diabetes can feel overwhelming, but the right education and support can make all the difference. That’s why HaysMed offers Diabetes Solutions, a comprehensive, ADA‑accredited program designed to empower individuals with the knowledge and tools they need to live healthier, more confident lives. Whether you are newly diagnosed or looking to improve your current diabetes management, this program provides clear, practical guidance in a supportive learning environment.
Diabetes Solutions covers the full spectrum of diabetes self‑management, including understanding the disease process, healthy eating strategies, the role of physical activity, blood sugar monitoring, medication management, reducing health risks, and developing healthy coping skills.
This in‑depth program consists of two five‑hour sessions, each held from 8:45 a.m. to 2:30 p.m., and includes lunch. You are not required to attend the sessions consecutively or within the same month, allowing you to choose what works best for your schedule.
If you are interested in enrolling in the Diabetes Solutions class, simply ask your primary care provider to complete the referral form, sign it, and fax it to 785‑623‑5108. Once your referral is received, our staff will contact you with next steps.
For additional details, visit our Diabetes Solutions page or contact the Education Department at 855‑429‑7633.
HaysMed’s Birth Center is offering a variety of in-person and virtual classes designed to support expecting and new families across western Kansas. Whether you’re welcoming your first baby or brushing up on the basics, our classes provide expert guidance and practical tips for every step of the journey.
All in-person classes are offered free of charge and are led by experienced HaysMed OB nurses and lactation consultants ensuring you feel informed, confident, and ready to welcome your new arrival.
Upcoming In-Person Classes:
Understanding Breastfeeding Class
February 11, 2026
May 13, 2026
August 19, 2026
November 18, 2026
Childbirth Talk and Tour
March 10, 2026
May 12, 2026
July 21, 2026
September 29, 2026
November 12, 2026
Understanding Newborn Care
February 16, 2026
May TBD
August TBD
November TBD
Virtual Options Available
Can’t attend in person? We offer comprehensive virtual classes so families across western Kansas can access the same great support from home.
Ready to feel confident and prepared?
To register, please call The Center for Women’s Health at 785-623-5806. Our team is available Monday through Thursday, 8:00 a.m. to 5:00 p.m., and Friday, 8:00 a.m. to 12:00 p.m.
At HaysMed, we’re proud to celebrate Kansas Day with you again this January 29, honoring the moment our great state became the 34th star on the flag back in 1861. Each year, this day reminds us how grateful we are to serve the people and communities of Kansas.
To add a little extra fun to your celebration, enjoy a new, free printable coloring page at the link below. Take a moment to get creative and show your Kansas pride!
HaysMed is proud to announce Chad Burgardt, Customer Care Representative, as the latest recipient of the BEE (Being Excellent Every Day) Award, which recognizes outstanding non‑nursing team members whose dedication helps nurses provide exceptional patient care.
Just as a DAISY cannot thrive without a BEE, our nurses depend on the vital support of colleagues like Chad. Customer Care Representatives (CCRs) play a crucial role in the patient experience, they respond to call lights, assist nurses and providers, support families, manage phone communications, and help ensure departments stay connected and functioning smoothly. Their work keeps the hospital moving and directly impacts the quality of care patients receive.
Chad exemplifies this spirit of service. Known for consistently going above and beyond, he is celebrated by his coworkers for his teamwork, kindness, and willingness to step in wherever needed. His acts of support and his genuine care for both patients and colleagues reflect the very essence of the BEE Award.
Patients, families, and Associates are encouraged to nominate outstanding non‑nursing team members who demonstrate extraordinary dedication. Award recipients receive a BEE Award pin, certificate of excellence, and a special recognition package.
If you know a non‑nursing Associate who exemplifies exceptional service, please fill out the BEE Award nomination form to honor their impact.
Photo features from left to right: Joben Rieth, Vice President of Patient Care Services and Chief Nursing Officer, Chad Burgardt, CCR and BEE Award Recipient, and Janine Kisner, Nursing Services Supervisor.
HaysMed is pleased to formally introduce its laborist team, a group of highly trained OB/GYN physicians committed to providing comprehensive labor and delivery coverage and gynecological care for our patients. This specialized team will oversee deliveries and inpatient obstetrical care during weekends and at times when Dr. Timothy Hoskins is unavailable, ensuring continuous, high‑quality maternity services.
The laborist team is composed of board‑certified OB/GYNs whom Dr. Hoskins knows personally and professionally, including a majority for more than 15 years. The physicians include Dr. Jordan Meyer, Dr. Mike Wolfe, Dr. Thalia Lopez, Dr. Deborah Taylor, and Dr. Dawne Jabben.
“This team exemplifies the values and standards that define obstetrical care at HaysMed,” said Dr. Hoskins. “I have complete confidence in this team and would send my own family members to each of these physicians without hesitation. They share our values, they’ve embraced Hays, and practice medicine the way we do in Western Kansas, with skill, heart, and integrity. With this incredible team of laborists on the floor, I know every patient’s birth experience is in the hands of experts whose entire focus is labor and delivery. This model strengthens care for our families and creates a better balance for physicians because when we work together, everyone benefits.”
This experienced team reflects HaysMed’s long‑standing commitment to providing exceptional, compassionate maternity care close to home. Their expertise and dedication will enhance the patient experience and further strengthen the high standards of our obstetrical and gynecological services, joining the skilled providers already serving our community, Dr. Hoskins, Paula Bitter, APRN, and Anne Marie Hager, APRN.
For more information, please visit the Center for Women’s Health or the Birth Center.
Relevant articles:
NICU Awareness Month: A Closer Look at HaysMed’s Neonatal Care Services
Advancing Women’s Health in Western Kansas – Dr. Hoskins and the Power of Robotic Surgery
Empowering Mothers Through Breastfeeding Support at HaysMed
HaysMed Earns Gold Level Recognition for Excellence in Fourth Trimester Initiative
HaysMed Birth Center Enhances Maternal Healthcare in Western Kansas
HaysMed is commemorating National Human Trafficking Awareness Month by reinforcing its commitment to protecting vulnerable individuals and supporting the health and safety of the region. Human trafficking remains a complex and often unseen threat, impacting people of every age, background, and community, including rural areas.
As part of its ongoing efforts, HaysMed is expanding education and awareness initiatives to help Associates and community members better understand the indicators of trafficking and how to respond appropriately. These efforts include enhanced training opportunities, collaboration with regional partners, and sharing resources that empower individuals to take action when they see potential signs of exploitation.
HaysMed recognizes that healthcare providers play a vital role in identifying victims and connecting them to critical services. By strengthening awareness and response strategies, the organization continues its mission to not only provide exceptional medical care, but also address issues that influence overall community well‑being.
For those seeking support or looking for ways to get involved locally, Options Domestic and Sexual Violence Services remains a key resource in Hays. Assistance is available by calling 800‑794‑4624, texting HOPE to 847411, or visiting www.help4abuse.org.
HaysMed and The Center for Health Improvement (CHI) are proud to partner with the Hays Senior Center at the new Bob & Pat Schmidt Community Center to support the health and wellness of seniors in our community. Through this collaboration, seniors can enjoy free programs and resources designed to encourage active living, preventive care, and long-term well‑being.
As part of this partnership, CHI offers a variety of free, weekly fitness classes tailored to help seniors stay strong, mobile, and independent. Class schedules are available on the Hays Senior Center Facebook page. Current offerings include:
“HaysMed and The Center for Health Improvement are thrilled to support the new Hays Senior Center by providing educational resources and wellness programs. Our goal is to empower seniors with knowledge and tools that promote healthy, active living and improve overall quality of life,” said Stephanie Howie, Director of The Center for Health Improvement.
Heather Ver Woert, CHI group fitness instructor, health coach, and personal trainer, guides participants through the Senior Strength wellness class at the new Hays Senior Center.
Monthly “A Healthy Conversation” Presentations by HaysMed
Along with the weekly fitness classes, HaysMed is launching a series of 30‑minute monthly educational sessions at the Senior Center, each focused on a key health topic relevant to older adults. The series began in January with a presentation from the HaysMed Human Trafficking Committee member, Jaylea Black, which provided valuable information on recognizing the signs of human trafficking and understanding its impact within our community.
Upcoming topics include:
A Commitment to Community
“Supporting the health and well-being of our community is at the heart of everything we do,” said Eddie Herrman, President and CEO of HaysMed. “Partnering with the Hays Senior Center allows us to bring valuable education and resources directly to seniors, helping them live healthier, more active lives.”
HaysMed is proud to support the senior community by providing education, resources, and opportunities to stay healthy and engaged. Together, we’re building a stronger, healthier future for seniors in Hays!

Left photo: Stephanie Howie, Director of The Center for Health Improvement, kicks off the debut of the new education series, “A Healthy Conversation.”
Right photo: HaysMed’s Jaylea Black, LSCSW and Case Manager, presents on human trafficking awareness and warning signs.
Waiting for a loved one during surgery can be stressful. Now, family members and guests can take a moment for themselves with our Chair Massage Service, available every Wednesday from 10:00 AM to 12:00 PM (noon) in the Surgical Waiting Room, located in Entrance B Miller Medical Pavilion.
What to Expect
Please note: This service is exclusively for family and guests of the hospital. It is not available for patients.
How to Book
Online scheduling is coming soon! For now, simply stop by the Surgical Waiting Room to reserve your spot. Credit card only accepted.
Why Massage Therapy?
Massage therapy helps you relax, realign, and rejuvenate. Regular massage offers many benefits, including:
Meet our experienced therapists:
Learn more about massage therapy and its benefits at The Center for Health Improvement.