Hagerman named director of nursing at Pawnee Valley Community Hospital

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When Kendra Hagerman learned about the open director-of-nursing position at Pawnee Valley Community Hospital (PVCH), the memories came flooding back.

Hagerman worked there for nine years in several capacities and was eager to return.

“I loved working here but I left in 2020 to fulfill my dream of being a flight nurse,” she noted. “Now, I am so pleased to be back in this atmosphere in which our amazing staff strives for excellence.

“They support patients and their families, as well as one another; the spirit of teamwork is contagious. I cannot imagine why anyone would not want to be a part of this team.”

Hagerman’s goal in her new position is to provide support and leadership to the nurses and other PVCH departments.

“I want to continue to build this great team, while providing skilled and compassionate care through evidence-based practices,” she commented. “I also will do my best to live up to the hospital’s values of accountability, innovation, integrity, service excellence, teamwork and stewardship.

“In addition, a strong work ethic and professional attitude are so important as we care for our patients’ physical and emotional well-being.”

Hagerman’s previous positions at PVCH were registered nurse, Emergency Department supervisor, director of nursing, and administrator.

Her professional background also includes instructor of nursing at Barton Community College; assistant director of nursing at Larned State Hospital’s Psychiatric Services Program; RN at The University of Kansas Health System – Great Bend Campus in the Post-Anesthesia Care Unit; and Critical Care Transport for EagleMed.

Melanie Urban, Administrator at PVCH, commended Hagerman’s qualifications, stating, “Mrs. Hagerman’s professional background and alignment with PVCH’s core values make her an excellent leader for our nursing team. Her commitment to healthcare excellence plays a crucial role in our ongoing mission to deliver outstanding patient care.”

Hagerman earned an associate’s degree in nursing at Trinidad State Junior College, Alamosa, Co., in 2010, and a master’s in nursing at Walden University in Minneapolis, Mn., in 2016.

“I will rely on this background at Pawnee Valley Community Hospital, which I consider to be my home,” she said. “There is not much better than serving the community you live in.”

HaysMed and PVCH Attend 2025 KHA Advocacy Day

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Developments from Topeka: KHA Advocacy Day

Last week, HaysMed and Pawnee Valley Community Hospital (PVCH) were honored to represent our region at the Kansas Hospital Association (KHA) 2025 Advocacy Day in Topeka. Alongside over 130 hospital leaders, HaysMed and PVCH leaders engaged with state officials to advocate for critical health care policies, underscoring our commitment to the health and economic prosperity of our Kansas communities.

The event highlighted speeches from prominent figures, including Kansas Insurance Commissioner Vicki Schmidt and other key state officials. These discussions centered on the critical role hospitals play in the health care and economic sectors, addressing vital issues such as financial stability, workforce development, access to care, and reducing administrative burdens from insurance companies.

The Advocacy Day also offered a chance for direct discussions with legislators. The KHA Board met to discuss state and federal advocacy efforts, and also reviewed a new economic impact study of health care in Kansas.

For further details on the KHA Advocacy Day, we encourage you to read KHA President Chad Austin’s insightful article, “President’s Perspective – KHA Members Gather in Topeka to Advocate on Health Care Policies.”

We extend our heartfelt gratitude to everyone involved for their efforts in amplifying our collective voice. Together, we continue to drive advancements in health care for all Kansans.

PVCH Associate of the Quarter award honors Judy Kallaus

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Pawnee Valley Community Hospital would like to recognize Judy Kallaus, Family Medicine Clinic Office Coordinator, as our Associate of the Quarter. There is not just one instance in which Judy has gone above and beyond. She does everything with a smile and a positive attitude. She always takes the time to help others. She is an outstanding Associate who is dedicated and cares about her patients and fellow Associates. We appreciate everything she does for PVCH to keep it running smoothly.
 
Each quarter, our Patient and Family Advisory Council (PFAC) determines the recipient based on the many amazing peer nominations received.
 
Left: Becky Webster, Deanna Carr, Judy Kallaus, John Haas, Mary Shelton,  Bert Schartz, Joan Bohart, and Shannon Slattery

Pawnee Valley Community Hospital Earns 2024 Performance Leadership Award

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Larned, KS, December 19, 2024 – Pawnee Valley Community Hospital today announced it has earned a 2024 Performance Leadership Award for excellence in Quality. Compiled by The Chartis Center for Rural Health, the Performance Leadership Award recognizes top quartile performance (i.e., 75th percentile or above) among rural hospitals in Quality.

“We are deeply honored to receive this quality recognition,” said Melanie Urban, Administrator at PVCH. “Being recognized for the fourth year in a row is a testament to our amazing team. They work tirelessly every day to provide access to consistent, quality healthcare for the communities we serve.”

The Performance Leadership Awards are based on the results of the Chartis Rural Hospital Performance INDEX®, a comprehensive and objective framework for assessing how rural hospitals are performing. INDEX benchmarks are relied upon by rural hospitals, health systems with rural footprints, hospital associations, and state offices of rural health to measure performance across multiple areas impacting hospital operations and finance.

“The Performance Leadership Awards capture the commitment, diligence, and innovation with which America’s rural hospitals approach the delivery of care within their communities,” said Troy Brown, Network Consultant, The Chartis Center for Rural Health. “It’s a tremendous honor to be able to recognize the efforts of this year’s award winners and celebrate their achievement as part of National Rural Health Day.”

Pawnee Valley Community Hospital is a 25-bed facility offering emergency care (24/7), surgery, high-tech imaging and laboratory tests, rehabilitation, and a sleep and diagnostic center, as well as acute, skilled, and specialized nursing, wound care, and more. Pawnee Valley Community Hospital Family Medicine provides a full range of primary care services for all ages, as well as women’s health services.

Julie Robben graduates from KHA Leadership Institute

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Julie Robben, Director of Imaging at Pawnee Valley Community Hospital (PVCH), recently graduated from the Kansas Hospital Association (KHA) Leadership Institute.

Melanie Urban, Administrator at PVCH, nominated Robben to be part of KHA’s select group of 32 Kansas hospital leaders.

“I was excited for the opportunity to enhance my skills so that I can lead my team effectively and efficiently, while always keeping high-quality care and treatment for our patients at the forefront,” Robben said.

Since communicating with colleagues, patients and families is an integral part of Robben’s job, she is glad she took advantage of the Institute’s curriculum.

“Our Imaging professionals interact with a variety of people, which entails the interpersonal skills necessary for excellent care,” Robben commented. “For example, good communication ensures procedures are done properly and in a timely manner.

“In addition, Imaging collaborates with other PVCH departments, as well as entities outside the hospital. I want to be available to all of them. Patient care is a team effort, which means I need to be proactive so that I can positively influence patient care and provide exceptional Imaging services.”

Course topics at the Institute included: Building a Foundation; Communicating Strategically; Growing an Effective Team; Resolving Conflict; and Leading into the Future.

“Each of these topics zeroed in on the many areas involved in my Imaging position,” Robben noted. “This is why I am so thankful that I was given this opportunity. Pawnee Valley Community Hospital invests in its staff to provide the best services possible.

“Many employers throw people into positions without the proper training. That doesn’t happen here. I have had excellent guidance and mentors, and am grateful for their belief in me and allowing me to grow in my role.”

Leadership Institute class sessions were presented in Salina and Overland Park from June through September. Robben attended the graduation ceremony at the KHA annual meeting.

Diabetes Solutions Classes, Pawnee Valley Community Hospital

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Diabetes Solutions is a comprehensive educational program accredited by the American Diabetes Association. The class content includes information about Diabetes, healthy eating, being active, monitoring blood sugars, Diabetes medications, reducing risks, and healthy coping. This comprehensive program consists of two five-hour sessions. Each session runs from 8:45 a.m. to 2:30 p.m. and includes lunch. You are not required to attend consecutive classes in the same month.

If you are interested in enrolling in the Diabetes Solutions Class ask your primary provider to fill out the referral form, sign it and fax it back to us at 785-623-5108.  Our staff will then contact you.

For more information about the class, visit our Diabetes Solutions page or contact the Education Department at 855-429-7633.

2025 Class Dates

Tuesday, January 7
Tuesday, January 14

Tuesday, March 4
Tuesday, March 11

Tuesday, May 6
Tuesday, May 13

Tuesday, July 1
Tuesday, July 8

Tuesday, September 9
Tuesday, September 16

Tuesday, November 4
Tuesday, November 11

 

Time
8:45 a.m. to 2:30 p.m.

Location
923 Carroll Ave, Larned KS 67550

PVCH Associate of the Quarter award honors Ellie Anspaugh

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Pawnee Valley Community Hospital would like to recognize Ellie Anspaugh, Patient Care Technician, as our Associate of the Quarter. Ellie has been with PVCH for a short time but has already shown outstanding commitment and care to patients. A patient nominated Ellie, saying, “Thank you so much for caring for me while I was at PVCH! Please know that it is very much appreciated”. Ellie always has a smile on her face and works hard with her team. PVCH is honored to have you, Ellie.

Each quarter, our Patient and Family Advisory Council (PFAC) determines the recipient based on the many amazing peer nominations received.

Jewel Davis promoted at Pawnee Valley Community Hospital

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A Larned native is the new Director of Clinic Operations at Pawnee Valley Community Hospital (PVCH) where she has strong ties professionally and personally.

Jewel Davis, who has been at PVCH for four years, served as Family Medicine Clinic Manager prior to her recent promotion.

Her responsibilities include a focus on the PVCH Specialty Clinics that offer many services close to home.

“Our specialty services are incredibly valuable for our community,” Davis said. “They allow patients and families to access expert care locally, without the need for long commutes to larger cities. They can receive high-quality care just down the street.

“This saves time and reduces the need for patients and caregivers to take extended time off work,” she added. “We strive to make healthcare more accessible and convenient for everyone.”

Specialty Clinics and their providers include: wound care, Heather Holaday, APRN; cardiology, Kaylan Wagle, MD, and Megan Homolka, APRN; pulmonology, Lesa Klozenbucher, APRN; urology, Ed Habash, PA; and sleep, Son Troung, MD.

In addition, Davis continues to manage the Family Medicine Clinic, which has expanded its obstetrics and prenatal-care services. Providers are: Arlo Reimer, MD/Medical Director; and Susan Aistrup, Kathryn Buchanan, Heather Holaday, and Marley Palmer, all APRNs.

Overall, Davis’s duties include providing administrative support; acting as a liaison between patients, families and staff; ensuring compliance with all state and federal laws; designing and implementing business strategies that help clinics meet organizational goals; and organizing potential new services and outreach providers.

She also serves on the hospital’s Administrative Team.

Personal side

“The hospital and its clinics have played a huge role in my family’s life for many years,” Davis commented. “This wonderful hospital cared for my husband, a cancer survivor. Without our local specialty services, we would have had to travel long distances.

“This journey played a huge role in my desire to serve other PVCH patients,” she continued. “I have the opportunity to give back to my community that willingly supported my family during a very challenging time. The care, love and support our providers and staff offered is unbelievable. I am proud and blessed to be part of this amazing team.”

Davis earned an associate’s degree in business management at Pratt Community College and has further education and experience in accounting. She graduated from the Kansas Hospital Association Leadership Institute in 2022 and the National Association of Rural Health Clinics Spring Institute the following year.

Her professional background includes positions as Controller/Corporate Office Manager at Straub International; Corporate Office Manager and Accountant for Francis Financial/Corrosion DC; and business manager at Dwight Shank Chevrolet, and Simmons and Simmons.

“I have worked in Larned for 26 years and held leadership positions for 24 of those years,” Davis noted.

Davis and her husband, Joel, have two sons, Wyatt and Wesley.

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Medicare Advantage or Original Medicare? Understanding the Differences Is Key for Kansas Senior

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As a physician serving our community, Arlo Reimer, M.D., understands the challenges seniors face when it comes to accessible, affordable health care. Choosing the right Medicare health plan helps overcome those challenges, but how do you know which plan is best when there are different cost and coverage options to choose from? During open enrollment (Oct. 5-Dec. 7), making the right choice for you starts with knowing the differences between Original Medicare and Medicare Advantage.
Original Medicare is a federally funded program that offers broad access to health care providers nationwide. Beneficiaries can see any doctor or visit any hospital that accepts Medicare, offering flexibility and peace of mind. Medicare Advantage plans (which are offered by private insurers) cover the same services as original Medicare, but do not offer that same flexibility and peace of mind as most services require prior authorization which many times limits access to services ordered by your provider.
While Advantage plans often include additional benefits (like discount drug programs, vision and dental coverage, and even healthy amenities like wellness plans or gym memberships) and often have lower premiums than Original Medicare, additional costs may arise, like copayments, coinsurance, and deductibles, which can vary significantly between plans.
Another consideration, specifically for seniors living in rural areas like Pawnee County, is that Medicare Advantage plans require beneficiaries to rely on in-network doctors and hospitals, which can be more convenient and affordable for some – but not all. For patients in medically underserved areas of Kansas, limited provider networks can be a significant barrier to care.
Medicare Advantage plans also negotiate reimbursement rates with providers and health systems, which are often lower than Original Medicare rates. That may not seem like a concern for patients, but there’s a hidden ripple effect: low reimbursements add to the financial strain that leads to service and facility closures, further impacting the availability of affordable, convenient, and quality health care. Please note that not all Medicare Advantage plans are currently accepted at Pawnee Valley Community Hospital, as some reimbursement rates do not align with our standards for providing quality care.
Choosing a Medicare plan requires careful consideration of your health needs and financial circumstances, especially for seniors with fixed incomes and increased health concerns. Remember, your health care providers are here to help and can answer questions, so discuss your Medicare options with them. Information is also available on our hospital’s website pawneevalleyhospital.com/ and Facebook page. You can also visit medicare.gov for more information or call 1-800-MEDICARE to speak with a knowledgeable Medicare representative about coverage options.

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923 Carroll Avenue
Larned, KS 67550

620-285-3161

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