Edward Herrman among four U.S. hospital leaders selected to advise Secretary Kennedy on national health policy
HaysMed President and CEO Edward (Eddie) Herrman was recently selected as one of only four hospital executives nationwide to participate in a special healthcare policy roundtable with U.S. Secretary of Health and Human Services Robert F. Kennedy, Jr. in Washington, D.C.
The April 17 meeting, hosted at the HHS headquarters, brought together a select group of health system leaders to discuss the future of American healthcare with a focus on the ‘Making America Healthy Again’ (MAHA) initiative, rural access challenges, administrative burden reduction, and the use of digital health and AI.
“It was an incredible honor to represent not only HaysMed but also the entire rural health landscape in Kansas,” said Herrman. “Secretary Kennedy was engaged and direct. He not only wanted to hear our challenges; he asked for specifics and solutions.”
During the 75-minute session, Herrman highlighted the unique healthcare delivery challenges faced by providers in rural areas, including transportation barriers, food scarcity, lack of post-acute care options, and inequities in federal pilot programs.
HaysMed, a leading regional tertiary center in western Kansas, serves a vast geographic area stretching westward with no comparable providers until Denver. Herrman emphasized the importance of continued federal support for rural hospitals that act as lifelines for their communities.
He also brought forward key concerns around Medicare Advantage denials, excessive administrative and compliance requirements, and the discontinuation of preventative outreach programs due to funding limitations.
“Rural hospitals like HaysMed are doing everything we can to keep our communities healthy,” Herrman added. “But we need the federal government to recognize how different the rural reality is from urban America.”
According to Herrman, Secretary Kennedy requested a detailed list of regulatory burdens and associated costs to help guide forthcoming policy reform efforts.
“It’s a testament to the reputation our team has built at HaysMed,” said Herrman. “Our participation shows that rural voices matter and that we can help shape national policy for the better.”
https://www.haysmed.com/wp-content/uploads/2025/04/eddie-5.jpg14501920Leanna Swarthttps://www.haysmed.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/04/HM-Logo.svgLeanna Swart2025-04-21 14:13:072025-04-21 14:13:07HaysMed CEO Represents Rural Healthcare At HHS Meeting In Washington, D.C.
HaysMed is pleased to present a first look at the prestigious roundtable discussion attended by HaysMed President and CEO, Eddie Herrman. Invited by the U.S. Department of Health and Human Services, Herrman joined Secretary Robert F. Kennedy, Jr. on Thursday in Washington, D.C. to represent Hays and the broader rural healthcare sector of Kansas.
Eddie Herrman said, “It was an incredible honor to represent rural health and the state of Kansas at a national level. Being one of just four hospital executives invited to speak directly with U.S. Department of Health and Human Services Secretary Kennedy was a humbling and rewarding experience.”
Herrman continued, “Our message was clear: rural hospitals face unique challenges that require thoughtful policy and support if we’re going to keep communities healthy and healthcare accessible.”
Stay tuned as HaysMed continues to provide a deeper, inside look into this historic event. With Herrman serving as an advocate, rural hospitals will have a voice in shaping federal policy that better supports the delivery of healthcare in rural communities across the country.
https://www.haysmed.com/wp-content/uploads/2025/04/4.jpg444661Leanna Swarthttps://www.haysmed.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/04/HM-Logo.svgLeanna Swart2025-04-19 11:29:132025-04-21 08:45:47First Look – U.S. Department of Health and Human Services Roundtable with HaysMed CEO
HaysMed Leader Invited to Prestigious Roundtable with HHS Secretary Robert F. Kennedy, Jr.
HaysMed is proud to announce that Eddie Herrman, HaysMed President and CEO, has been invited by the U.S. Department of Health and Human Services (HHS) to participate in an exclusive in-person roundtable with Secretary Robert F. Kennedy, Jr. The event will take place at HHS headquarters in Washington, D.C. on Thursday, April 17, 2025.
This roundtable will provide a unique platform for hospital leaders to engage in meaningful discussions with Secretary Kennedy and HHS leadership. The focus will be on several critical topics that are vital to the healthcare community in Kansas, including strategies to reduce administrative burden, promoting continuity of care, and incentivizing coordination and innovation.
Eddie Herrman’s participation in this roundtable is a testament to his expertise in the field of healthcare and is a remarkable opportunity for HaysMed to be represented at a national level, showcasing the hospital’s commitment to innovation in advanced rural healthcare.
While the economic contributions of hospitals are substantial, the healthcare sector faces challenges, including workforce shortages, evolving regulatory landscapes, and financial pressures from uncompensated care. HaysMed continues to adapt by investing in workforce development, embracing technological advancements, and collaborating with community partners to address social determinants of health.
HaysMed President and CEO Eddie Herrman, attending the Western Kansas Congressional Delegation from Hays and Ellis County, Kansas event on April 8, 2025.
https://www.haysmed.com/wp-content/uploads/2025/04/flags-zoomed-in.jpg421709Leanna Swarthttps://www.haysmed.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/04/HM-Logo.svgLeanna Swart2025-04-15 17:09:372025-04-15 17:10:57HaysMed to Participate in Roundtable in Washington, D.C.
At HaysMed Western Kansas Urological Associates, we are committed to providing the highest quality urologic care with our specialized training and state-of-the-art facilities, with many common procedures performed right in our office thanks to our onsite surgical facilities.
Our team specializes in a range of services and procedures for our urology patients. These include robotic surgery for kidney and prostate conditions, adult and pediatric urology, treatment of prostate diseases, laser surgery, lithotripsy for non-surgical treatment of kidney stones, and both surgical and non-surgical treatments for male and female incontinence.
For a comprehensive list of our services, please visit the Urology webpage.
In addition to our in-office services, HaysMed providers extend specialized care to various outreach locations, bringing our expertise closer to home.
Dr. Wally Walstrom, a sports medicine physician at HaysMed Orthopedic Institute, plays a pivotal role in the athletic community of western Kansas. Serving as the team doctor for Fort Hays State University (FHSU), Dr. Walstrom oversees the health and well-being of the university’s student athletes, who outnumber those at any other college in Kansas. His responsibilities extend to leading a team of 13 HaysMed athletic trainers from local high schools and FHSU, ensuring comprehensive care for athletes across the region.
Recently, Dr. Walstrom accepted the prestigious role of chair of the Sports Medicine Advisory Committee for the Kansas State High School Athletic Association (KSHSAA). This committee is instrumental in shaping policies and recommendations for high school athletics in Kansas. Under Dr. Walstrom’s leadership, the committee has tackled critical issues such as concussion protocols and over-training in youth sports.
Concussion protocols have become a focal point across all levels of sports, from professional leagues to youth athletics. Dr. Walstrom’s committee is dedicated to updating the Return to Play guidelines, ensuring that athletes recover safely and effectively. The committee comprises a diverse group of professionals, including athletic trainers, physicians, administrators, coaches, school nurses, and clinical psychologists, all working together to enhance athlete safety.
Over-training in youth sports has gained attention in recent years due to the increasing number of injuries among young athletes. Dr. Walstrom’s committee is addressing this issue by implementing new guidelines, which will be available in digital format in the spring and paper copies in the fall for all Kansas high schools. This initiative aims to provide accessible and practical resources to prevent over-training and promote healthy athletic development.
Another significant focus for Dr. Walstrom and his committee is the improvement of Pre-Participation Physical Examinations (PPEs), commonly known as sports physicals. Traditionally, these physicals are required to be completed between May 1st and the start of the school year in August, creating a time crunch for both providers and families. Dr. Walstrom is advocating for an extended timeframe to make the process more convenient and family-friendly while maintaining the highest standards of athlete safety.
Dr. Walstrom’s contributions to sports medicine extend beyond his clinical duties. His leadership and commitment to advancing health and safety protocols for athletes have made a lasting impact on the community. Through his work at HaysMed and his involvement with KSHSAA, Dr. Walstrom continues to champion the well-being of athletes, ensuring they receive the best possible care and support.
https://www.haysmed.com/wp-content/uploads/2025/04/20250404_205954730_iOS-scaled-e1744230080907.jpg12421920Leanna Swarthttps://www.haysmed.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/04/HM-Logo.svgLeanna Swart2025-04-09 15:40:152025-04-09 15:40:15Dr. Wally Walstrom: Championing Sports Medicine at HaysMed and Beyond
Cheers to 34 Years! Another year older, another year of incredible impact in Hays and our western Kansas region! Here’s to another year of making a difference—together!
30+ outreach locations – Expanding care, strengthening communities.
149 physicians and providers, 1,255 Associates – A dedicated team, delivering exceptional care.
553 OB deliveries – Welcoming new beginnings, one baby at a time.
12,197 Emergency Room visits – Here when you need us most.
152,859 clinic visits – Providing care, one visit at a time.
182,777 outpatient visits – Keeping health on track, every step of the way
https://www.haysmed.com/wp-content/uploads/2025/04/HaysMed-Celebating-34-Years-of-Service-WS.jpg320560Leanna Swarthttps://www.haysmed.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/04/HM-Logo.svgLeanna Swart2025-04-08 08:35:592025-04-08 08:37:30HaysMed Celebrating 34 Years of Service
HaysMed is honored to collaborate with Midwest Transplant Network and Saving Sight to save and improve lives through organ, eye, and tissue donation. We are excited to celebrate #NationalDonateLifeMonth throughout April.
To learn more about this event and National Donate Life Month, please click here.
Many HaysMed departments play a vital role in the organ and tissue donation process. To show our appreciation, our team delivered freshly baked cookies throughout the hospital today! Featured in photos:
https://www.haysmed.com/wp-content/uploads/2025/04/Capture.jpg738740Leanna Swarthttps://www.haysmed.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/04/HM-Logo.svgLeanna Swart2025-04-04 16:44:562025-04-04 16:45:33HaysMed Honors National Donate Life Month During April 2025
The Dreiling/Schmidt Cancer Institute is dedicated to providing comprehensive cancer treatment services all in one convenient location, close to home.
At HaysMed, our team of board-certified and fellowship-trained medical oncologists are complemented by advanced practice providers, including physician assistants specializing in medical and radiation oncology. According to American Cancer Society, “Board certification means that a doctor has had special training in a certain area, passed the required exams, and has continued their education in the specialty area.”
Our highly skilled oncology team at the Dreiling/Schmidt Cancer Institute adopts an all-encompassing approach, collaborating closely with you to develop a treatment plan that instills confidence and ensures you understand every detail, every step of the way. Our facility includes infusion bays, a laboratory, radiology suite, and pharmacy to deliver a wide range of care and services.
Recognizing the challenges of battling cancer, we aim to make the experience as comfortable as possible by offering expert guidance, reassurance, and hope, all while enhancing your quality of life close to home.
https://www.haysmed.com/wp-content/uploads/2025/04/Meet-the-Oncology-Providers-WS.jpg320560Leanna Swarthttps://www.haysmed.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/04/HM-Logo.svgLeanna Swart2025-04-03 16:33:382025-04-03 16:35:52HaysMed Oncology – Strong, Steady, and Always Here for You
HaysMed is setting a new standard in cardiac care with the opening of its Hybrid Operating Room (OR), which blends the capabilities of a cardiac catheterization lab (Cath Lab) and a traditional OR to address conditions previously treatable only with open-heart surgery. The Hybrid OR combines a cardiac surgical operating room with an advanced diagnostic imaging suite. This state-of-the-art facility is the first of its kind in Kansas, including Kansas City, Topeka, and Wichita, featuring X-ray equipment with advanced capabilities, including one-slice CT imaging.
Eddie Herrman, President and CEO of HaysMed, expressed his pride in this significant achievement: “We are incredibly proud to be the first in the state of Kansas to establish a Hybrid OR with such advanced technology and C-arm imaging capability. This groundbreaking facility represents a major milestone in our commitment to providing the highest quality of cardiac care. It allows us to offer innovative procedures with greater precision and efficiency, ultimately enhancing patient outcomes and setting a new standard for healthcare in our region.”
Dr. Niranjan Seshadri, one of HaysMed’s esteemed cardiologists, provided a tour of the state-of-the-art OR, stating, “This Hybrid OR represents a monumental leap in our ability to provide comprehensive cardiac care. The integration of advanced imaging and surgical capabilities in one room allows us to perform complex procedures with greater precision and efficiency, ultimately improving patient outcomes.”
HaysMed interventional cardiologist, Dr. Niranjan Seshadri, provided a tour of the state-of-the-art Hybrid OR.
State-of-the-Art Facility
Over 4,400 square feet were renovated inside the DeBakey Heart Institute at HaysMed to create this Hybrid OR space. For reference, a basketball court is 4,700 square feet. Spaces moved or renovated include relocating and updating the HaysMed Echocardiogram, EKG, and Nuclear Medicine offices and clinic, Hybrid OR control room, locker room and lounges for Cath Lab and surgery teams.
The Hybrid OR is a significant investment toward ensuring HaysMed continues offering innovative tools and procedures. This achievement is made possible by generous financial support from local and regional donors dedicated to advancing local healthcare.
The process began in 2018, with the HaysMed Foundation implementing plans to supplement the cost of the project. However, the COVID-19 pandemic caused a significant increase in construction material and labor costs, temporarily halting the project. Upon resumption, it has taken approximately 12 months of dedicated work to reach the current stage. Notably, the roof had to be removed, and a special crane was utilized to deliver the truss and framework for the X-ray equipment and booms. The room also features lead-lined walls to help absorb the imaging scans for precise scanning during the cases.
HaysMed is the only hospital in the state of Kansas to have this updated technology, including the Philips Azurion image-guided therapy table and cutting-edge X-ray equipment that produces instantaneous images during the procedure. Using this state-of-the-art equipment, HaysMed providers are able to use less contrast while imaging, a benefit for patients with kidney issues.
Community Impact and Support
Jeff Brull, HaysMed Foundation Executive Director, recognized the pivotal role of major contributors: “These investments from the Bickle Family Foundation, Dennis and Patricia Norris Family, J.E. And L.E. Mabee Foundation, Schmidt Foundation, Hadley Foundation, Verlin and Elaine Pfannenstiel, High Plains Farm Credit, and dozens of other contributors represent approximately $4.2M, about half of the total project cost. We’re excited about the expanded services this project represents to the entire region. It benefits our neighbors and friends and it was built by our neighbors and friends right here in rural Kansas.”
Also announced during the ribbon cutting was an endowed memorial gift of $250,000 from the Hadley Foundation in honor of Dr. Paul McRae for the future benefit of cardiac health at the DeBakey Heart Institute. McRae served on the Hadley Regional Medical Center and Hadley Foundation Boards of Directors for a combined 52 years prior to his passing last September.
Eddie Herrman, HaysMed President and CEO at the Hybrid Operating Room grand opening.
Comprehensive Cardiac Care
HaysMed provides comprehensive cardiac care to patients across Kansas, Colorado, Nebraska, and Oklahoma. With the introduction of new technology, the hospital can now enable real-time collaboration, significantly reducing both short and long-term complications. In 2024 alone, our Cath Lab performed over 1,600 procedures. This advancement will further enhance the capabilities of our cardiac and Cath Lab teams, including cardiologists, surgeons, nurses, radiologists, perfusionist, and other specialists.
The HaysMed Hybrid OR’s versatility allows for better surgical planning, reduced patient transfers, and improved outcomes by integrating real-time imaging with complex procedures. Common services performed in a Hybrid OR include a wide range of cardiovascular and endovascular procedures. These services include Transcatheter Aortic Valve Replacement (TAVR/TAVI), Hybrid Coronary Artery Bypass Grafting (CABG), and coronary angioplasty and stenting. The Hybrid OR also facilitates minimally invasive valve replacement, heart valve replacement and repair, watchman, lead extraction, and Ventricular Assist Device (VAD) insertion. Advanced procedures like cardiac and thoracic surgeries, aortic aneurysm repair, and carotid endarterectomy are performed here. Furthermore, combined cases involving the Cath Lab, Electrophysiology Lab, and interventional radiology are seamlessly integrated within this state-of-the-art facility.
Dr. Travis Haneke, HaysMed interventional cardiologist, shared his excitement: ” The new Hybrid OR is a transformative development for our patients in western Kansas and surrounding areas. This advanced facility enables us to perform complex procedures with enhanced precision and safety and improving overall outcomes. Hays Med’s commitment to providing such cutting-edge technology to utilize in patient care was a significant factor in my decision to join HaysMed.”
HaysMed cardiologist and electrophysiologist Dr. Jacob Morgan echoed this sentiment: “The organization clearly has an eye on the future of heart health. The Hays community is incredibly fortunate to have this facility in their backyard. It’s an honor to be part of a team that is dedicated to bringing the latest advancements in cardiac care to our region.”
Left to right: Dr. Travis Haneke, HaysMed interventional cardiologist and HaysMed cardiologist and electrophysiologist, Dr. Jacob Morgan featured inside the new Hybrid Operating Room
The entire journey patients take to get to the Hybrid OR is appreciated, including the dedicated efforts of the DeBakey Heart Institute clinic staff, nurses, advanced practice providers, cardiologists, and cardiovascular surgeons.
With this groundbreaking facility, HaysMed is setting a new standard in cardiac and surgical care—bringing the future of medicine to the community and western Kansas today.
https://www.haysmed.com/wp-content/uploads/2025/04/IMG_9007-scaled.jpg17072560Leanna Swarthttps://www.haysmed.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/04/HM-Logo.svgLeanna Swart2025-04-03 16:27:472025-04-07 08:44:52HaysMed Opens Kansas’ First Hybrid Operating Room with Advanced Imaging
A robust healthcare system is vital not only for the well-being of individuals, but also for the economic prosperity of communities. A new report from the Kansas Hospital Association (KHA) underscores the significant economic contributions of healthcare institutions across the state. This analysis highlights the pivotal role that hospitals like HaysMed play in bolstering local economies.
At the heart of the KHA report is a recent study conducted by the Institute for Policy & Social Research at the University of Kansas. The study found that health-related sectors are among the economy’s fastest growing, with a growth trajectory that’s likely to continue. In fact, the healthcare sector in Kansas contributes more than 325,000 jobs and nearly $23 billion in labor income to our state’s economy. When spent, this substantial economic activity generates over $700 million in sales tax revenue, underscoring healthcare’s integral role in the state’s fiscal health.
HaysMed: An Economic Engine & Employment Multiplier in Western Kansas
As the region’s leading healthcare provider, HaysMed ensures that residents have access to essential medical services, ranging from emergency and primary care to highly specialized technology and treatments.
“HaysMed has always stood together with our western Kansas communities as a cornerstone of both healthcare delivery and economic vitality,” according to Shae Veach, Vice President Regional Operations at HaysMed. “Beyond its critical healthcare mission, HaysMed significantly impacts the local economy through employment, wages, and the procurement of essential goods and services.”
Hospitals like HaysMed are large employers, often among the largest in their communities. The KHA report indicates that hospitals in Kansas directly employ nearly 74,000 individuals, with a direct labor income of almost $7 billion.
The economic influence of hospitals extends beyond direct employment. For every 100 hospital jobs, an additional 73 jobs are supported in non-healthcare sectors due to multiplier effects. Similarly, every $1,000 in hospital wages sustains an additional $450 in income for employees in various industries, including retail, utilities, and services utilized by hospitals and staff.
Community Impact and Quality of Life
The presence of a robust hospital like HaysMed enhances the quality of life in our western Kansas region. Access to comprehensive healthcare services attracts new residents and businesses, fosters a healthier workforce, and is key to attracting and retaining retirees who prioritize high quality, dependable medical care. Moreover, HaysMed’s commitment to community health initiatives contributes to the overall well-being and resilience of the region.
While the economic contributions of hospitals are substantial, our healthcare sector faces challenges, including workforce shortages, evolving regulatory landscapes, and financial pressures from uncompensated care. HaysMed continues to adapt by investing in workforce development, embracing technological advancements, and collaborating with community partners to address social determinants of health. We are strongly committed to doing all this and more. Why? Because we believe in always advancing rural health – locally, regionally and across the state.
https://www.haysmed.com/wp-content/uploads/2025/04/Kansas-Healthcare_jobsreport_blog-300x533-1.jpg300533Jade Lemmonhttps://www.haysmed.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/04/HM-Logo.svgJade Lemmon2025-04-03 11:01:312025-04-03 11:01:31Healthcare: A Pillar of Our Kansas Economy
