Billing Update from Pawnee Valley Community Hospital

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Pawnee Valley Community Hospital recently introduced updates to our billing system as part of our ongoing commitment to better serve our patients and community. These improvements come with a few adjustments, and we truly appreciate your patience as we continue fine-tuning the process. Our teams are dedicated to ensuring the experience is straightforward, convenient, and supportive for everyone we serve. 

Our goal is to provide a more flexible, convenient billing experience. Patients now receive billing notifications through email, text, automated phone calls, or traditional paper statements. By default, you’ll get email and/or text alerts first. A paper statement will not be mailed if you log in to the online payment portal. You’ll continue to receive text/email reminders. A paper version will follow if you do not log in to the online payment portal within a few days. You can opt out of digital notifications anytime through your original text message, your online payment portal, or by calling us directly at 785-623-5100. By opting out, you will no longer receive digital billing notifications. 

Many patients have already shared positive feedback about the updated statement layout, which is easier to read, and the expanded website payment options, which make managing bills easier. However, we know change isn’t always easy, so we’re here to help. If you need assistance, prefer paper statements, or would like to receive an itemized bill, please use our Live Chat feature on the online payment portal or call 785-623-5100. Our team is dedicated to supporting you and ensuring you have a convenient experience. 

We’re grateful for your understanding as we introduce new ways to serve you, and we’re proud to serve this community. 

 

Frequently Asked Questions & Answers 

Q: Is the “Patient Portal” different from the “Online Payment Portal?” What do they do? 

 A: The Patient Portal (myhealth.haysmed.com) differs from the Online Payment Portal (pawneevalleyhospital.com/online-bill-pay/), and it’s important to use the correct one for your needs. 

The Patient Portal supports: 

  • Viewing upcoming appointments and test results 
  • Initial billing information prior to it flowing to the Online Payment Portal 
  • Pre-registering for upcoming appointments 
  • Accessing health records including immunizations and medication list 

The Online Payment Portal supports: 

  • Making a payment 
  • Updating notifications, including opting out of digital notifications 
  • Requesting an itemized statement via the Live Chat feature on online payment portal, weekdays 8-5 PM CST. 
  • Updating or creating payment plans 

 If you’re unsure which portal to use or need assistance, please call us at 785-623-5100– we’re here to help!  

 

Q: In our household, one guarantor pays the bills for both accounts, but only the non-paying guarantor receives the text notifications. How can we fix this? 

A: Billing notifications are automatically tied to the guarantor listed as responsible for the account. If one person in your household handles payments for multiple guarantors, you can update notification preferences, so that the paying guarantor receives the reminders. To do this, please call our billing team at 785-623-5100, and we’ll help adjust your settings. 

Q: How do I pay my bill online? 
A: If you’re trying to make a payment online, you’ll need: 

  • Your account or guarantor number (the guarantor is the person responsible for the bill, for example, a child’s parent/guardian) 
  • The guarantor’s date of birth 

Once you have that information, visit the Online Payment Portal (pawneevalleyhospital.com/online-bill-pay/), enter the details, and follow the on-screen instructions to complete your payment. 

 

Q: How do I request an itemized statement? 
A: Chat live with our billing team weekdays 8 AM–5 PM by logging into the online payment portal

pawneevalleyhospital.com/online-bill-pay/) and clicking the “Live Chat” icon in the bottom of your screen, or call us at 785-623-5100 to request an itemized statement. 

 

Q: I received a phone call about a new bill. How can I confirm it is legitimate? 
A: Because we are dedicated to keeping our patients informed and transparent in our communication, PVCH uses an automated call system to notify you of new bills and provide payment details. Our calls will always come from a designated hospital number. This is part of our effort to keep you informed quickly and securely. If you are unsure, hang up and call us at 785-623-5100 for assistance. 

  

Q: How do I opt out of digital billing notifications? 
A: By default, you’ll receive billing alerts via email and text. A paper statement will not be mailed if you log in to the online payment portal. You can opt out of digital notifications anytime through the online payment portal or by visiting pawneevalleyhospital.com/online-bill-pay/, or call 785-623-5100 for assistance. 

  

Q: What if my bill is delayed due to insurance processing? Will I still be responsible? 
A: Yes. Delays can happen due to insurance reviews, appeals, denials, itemized billing, or credentialing. While these factors may slow processing, patients are still responsible for payment once the bill is issued. 

  

Q: I have a current payment plan, but my new account was sent to collections. Why? 
A: New accounts are not automatically added to existing payment plans. Patients must add new encounters to their existing plan to keep all accounts current and avoid collections. To do so, patients can log in to the online payment portal at pawneevalleyhospital.com/online-bill-pay/ or call 785-623-5100 for assistance. 

  

Q: If I miss a payment on my payment plan, will I be sent to collections? 
A: Yes. If a payment is missed, the account will be sent to collections, and PVCH will not send additional reminders. Please stay current or contact us for support. We can set up automated payments on a monthly schedule that works for you. If you anticipate difficulty making a payment, contact us in advance so we can review your options and help you stay on track. 

  

Q: How do I apply for a payment plan or financial assistance? 
A: Patients can set up a payment plan directly through our secure online payment portal. If you need help or have questions, please call our Patient Financial Services team at 785-623-5100—we are happy to assist you. Applications for financial assistance are available on our website (pawneevalleyhospital.com/billing/#/financial-assistance-policy) or can be picked up directly from the PVCH Admissions Department. Completed forms can be mailed in or delivered in person to PVCH. 

 

Q: Is there someone I can talk to directly? 
A: Yes! Use our Live Chat feature in the online payment portal and click the “Live Chat” icon on the bottom of your screen during business hours (8:00 A.M. – 5:00 P.M. CT) to get real-time help from our friendly billing team. You can also call us at 785-623-5100 for assistance. 

Medicare Event Helps Community Gain Clarity on Coverage Options

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Pawnee Valley Community Hospital recently hosted a successful community event, “Original Medicare vs. Medicare Advantage,” on October 6 at the Larned Community Center. The evening brought together local residents eager to learn more about their Medicare options, and we were thrilled to see such a great turnout.

A representative from the Senior Health Insurance Counseling for Kansas (SHICK), the Kansas Hospital Association (KHA), and Reed Pharmacy provided valuable insights on the differences between Original Medicare and Medicare Advantage, helping attendees understand what each plan covers and how to choose the option that best fits their needs.

We hope everyone who attended left with their questions answered and a clearer understanding of their Medicare choices. Pawnee Valley Community Hospital extends our appreciation to SHICK for their partnership and expertise — and we’re pleased to share that the SHICK representative will return in the future to continue assisting community members who need additional guidance.

Thank you to everyone who joined us for this informative and engaging event. We look forward to continuing to support our community in making confident healthcare decisions.

Medicare Open Enrollment: What You Need to Know at Pawnee Valley Community Hospital

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At Pawnee Valley Community Hospital, we care about more than just your health—we care about helping you make the best choices for your future. One of the biggest decisions many of our patients face is choosing the right Medicare coverage. With the Medicare Open Enrollment period coming up (October 15 – December 7), now is the perfect time to take a closer look at your options.

Why This Matters for You
We want you to know that PVCH is not contracted with most Medicare Advantage plans. This means that if you have one of these plans, our hospital and providers may be considered out-of-network, which could mean higher costs for your care.

That’s why it’s so important to review your Medicare plan now—so you can make sure it works for your health needs and your budget.

Medicare Advantage vs. Original Medicare: What’s the Difference?

  • Medicare Advantage plans are run by private insurance companies. They cover the basics of Medicare but often add extras like dental, vision, or wellness programs. Some even include perks like gym memberships. But there are trade-offs—these plans usually limit you to a smaller network of doctors and hospitals, and sometimes require approval before you can get certain services. In rural communities like ours, this can make it harder to get the care you need when you need it.
  • Original Medicare is run by the federal government and gives you much more flexibility. You can see any doctor or hospital in the country that accepts Medicare, which means fewer delays and more options for your care.

Looking Beyond the Price Tag
It’s easy to be drawn to the lower monthly premiums of some Medicare Advantage plans. But keep in mind—those lower premiums don’t always mean lower costs overall. Things like copayments, coinsurance, and deductibles can add up quickly. In fact, studies show that many people with Medicare Advantage actually end up paying more for hospital stays than those on Original Medicare.

We’re Here to Help You Decide
Choosing a plan can feel overwhelming, but you don’t have to do it alone. Helpful resources are available to guide you:

  • Senior Health Insurance Counseling for Kansas (SHICK): Free, unbiased advice to help you understand your Medicare options.
  • Your insurance agent: A trusted local resource who can walk you through the details.
  • Medicare.gov or 1-800-MEDICARE: Official tools to compare plans and get answers.

At Pawnee Valley Community Hospital, our goal is to keep you healthy and make sure you feel confident about your coverage. Take time this fall to review your options, ask questions, and choose the plan that works best for you and your family.

If you need assistance, please call Senior Health Insurance Counseling for Kansas (SHICK) at 620-225-8230 or attend the free community event on October 6 at 6:30 PM at the Larned Community Center, which will explain the differences between Original Medicare and Medicare Advantage.

Your health matters—and we’re here to support you every step of the way.

Before You Sign Up: Key Questions About Medicare Advantage

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Choosing a Medicare Advantage plan is not just about comparing premiums—it requires a closer look at networks, coverage, and long-term consequences. Experts recommend that seniors ask tough questions before enrolling.

For Pawnee County seniors, the following checklist is vital. With only a limited number of local physicians and one hospital serving the community, choosing a plan with narrow provider networks could leave residents with few options. Travel distances, prior approval requirements, and surprise costs can all be especially burdensome in a rural setting. Consulting with local providers before enrolling ensures that residents get the coverage that truly meets their needs—without unexpected hurdles when care is needed most.

First, beneficiaries should assess their current coverage and health needs. Do they travel often? Do they require specific medications or specialists? Would lower premiums offset potentially higher out-of-pocket costs if major procedures—like knee replacements or dialysis—are needed?

Understanding the network is crucial. Medicare Advantage plans often limit access to certain hospitals and physicians. Seniors should call their providers directly to confirm participation. Additionally, many Advantage plans require insurer approval for specialist visits, hospital admissions, or treatments, which can delay or restrict care.

Financially, Medicare Advantage may appear cheaper, but surprise costs can arise. Original Medicare combined with a Medigap plan often offers greater stability. Importantly, while Medigap policies must be offered without medical screening at age 65, individuals applying later can be denied coverage or charged more due to pre-existing conditions.

Again, please note: Consulting with local providers before enrollment ensures that residents receive coverage that truly meets their needs—without unexpected hurdles when care is needed most. 

If you need assistance, please call Senior Health Insurance Counseling for Kansas (SHICK) at 620-225-8230 or attend the free community event on October 6 at 630 PM at the Larned Community Center, which will explain the differences between Original Medicare and Medicare Advantage.

Medicare Advantage: Lower Premiums, Limited Choices

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Medicare Advantage, also called Part C, is a private insurance alternative to Original Medicare. While marketed as cost-saving, Medicare Advantage plans come with tradeoffs that beneficiaries should weigh carefully.

When individuals enroll in Medicare Advantage, they give up their Original Medicare Part A (hospital insurance) and Part B (medical insurance). While many Advantage plans boast zero or low premiums, added benefits, and set out-of-pocket maximums, the reality is more complex. Plans often restrict members to narrow physician networks—one 2017 study found that, on average, these plans included only half of U.S. physicians.

Approval hurdles are another drawback. Medicare Advantage members frequently must seek prior authorization for treatments, hospital stays, prescription drugs, and even diagnostic tests. Without approval, care may be denied. This restriction has raised concerns about access, particularly for those managing chronic illnesses.

Financially, Medicare Advantage has not proven cheaper overall. In 2023, Medicare paid $454 billion to private insurers for Advantage plans—54% of total Medicare spending, up from 27% in 2015. Studies indicate that Medicare Advantage costs the government 6% more per enrollee compared to Original Medicare.

For Pawnee County residents, these details matter. With a smaller healthcare network locally available, many Advantage plan enrollees may find themselves forced to seek care outside the area or travel long distances for specialists. Delays caused by prior authorizations could further complicate treatment for chronic conditions common among older Kansans. While Medicare Advantage may appeal with its upfront savings, residents should consider whether the convenience of bundled coverage outweighs the risks of limited access in a rural community.

Medicare Advantage: Savings or Hidden Risks for Seniors?

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As Medicare open enrollment approaches (Oct. 15 – Dec. 7), seniors face an important decision: stick with Original Medicare or switch to a Medicare Advantage plan. At first glance, the savings and added perks of Medicare Advantage, also known as Part C, may look appealing. These private plans often combine Parts A, B, and D into one package, offering lower copays and sometimes extras like dental, vision, or fitness benefits.

However, experts caution that Medicare Advantage carries hidden risks, particularly for those with ongoing health needs. Unlike Original Medicare, which allows patients to see almost any doctor who accepts Medicare, Medicare Advantage typically requires members to use a limited provider network. In most cases, patients also need prior authorization from the insurance company to see specialists, undergo procedures, or access certain medications and therapies.

A study in the Annals of Internal Medicine found that vulnerable populations, including low-income seniors, often face increased financial burdens under Medicare Advantage. Rural residents are especially at risk: a 2021 study revealed that rural enrollees were nearly twice as likely as their urban peers to switch back to Original Medicare due to narrow provider networks.

Original Medicare may be the safer choice for those with known health issues, a greater need for specialists, or a desire for more predictable costs. On the other hand, Medicare Advantage may suit healthier adults who are comfortable with managed care limitations and want lower premiums. Local providers encourage seniors to review their options carefully before making a decision.

This reality is particularly important for Pawnee County residents. Living in a rural area often means fewer specialists and hospitals within driving distance, which makes network restrictions even more challenging. If a needed doctor or hospital is considered “out of network,” patients may have to travel farther or pay more out of pocket. Original Medicare may provide more reliable access to care through local providers, ensuring that residents can stay closer to home when they need medical attention.

If you are in need of assistance, please call the Senior Health Insurance Counseling for Kansas (SHICK) at 620-225-8230

Hormone treatments among many women’s services at Pawnee Valley Community Hospital

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Healthcare providers at Pawnee Valley Community Hospital (PVCH) Family Medicine want to remind the community about the many FDA-approved hormone replacement therapy options they offer.

As women enter their thirties and forties, many begin to experience hormonal imbalances that can affect their quality of life. Hormone therapy has emerged as a pivotal treatment to manage symptoms related to pre-menopause, menopause, and other hormonal issues.

“We provide pre- and post-menopausal hormonal treatments in our Family Medicine practice,” said Susan Aistrup, nurse practitioner. “Sometimes this involves estrogen or progestogen, or a combination of both. This could be in the form of oral medication, patches, gels or injections.

“Compounded bioidentical therapy also is an option,” she added. “Other considerations are lifestyle changes or hormone-replacement therapy.”

Common symptoms that may lead a woman to seek advice about these treatment options are hot flashes and night sweats; weight gain; constipation; numbness and tingling in the hands; and vaginal dryness.

“Since hormone imbalances may be related to various underlying conditions, a visit to a healthcare professional for proper diagnosis and treatment is crucial,” Aistrup noted. “Our family medicine providers look at the patient’s overall health, ensuring that all aspects of well-being are considered during treatment.”

Hormones are a chemical produced by the endocrine system that regulate many bodily functions.

“An imbalance can affect metabolism and energy levels, which can lead to weight changes, and affect blood sugar, blood pressure, and fluid- and body- temperature regulation,” Aistrup said. “There also could be issues with muscle mass and bone density, which can lead to an increased risk of osteoporosis.”

In addition to the physical concerns of a hormonal imbalance, a woman’s mental health may be affected.

These imbalances can cause anxiety, depression, hair loss, sleep disturbances, digestive problems, change in libido, fatigue, skin problems, sensitivity to heat or cold, menstrual irregularities and mood swings.

Those who are considering over-the-counter “natural remedies” should discuss this topic with their healthcare provider, cautioned Jewel Davis, director of clinic operations.

“Family and patient history should be reviewed before using preparations that are not FDA-approved,” she said.

Davis added that hormone replacement therapy is an area of interest for all our Family Medicine providers. “Two hormone treatments patients can receive right here in our office with an injection are Depo-Testosterone and Depo-Provera,” she said.

Other women’s health services offered at PVCH include preventive screenings; annual well-woman exams (with or without a Pap smear); breast exams; birth control and contraceptive care; pregnancy testing; hormone injections administered by a nurse who monitors levels; obstetrics and prenatal care; healthy weight-loss support; mammograms; DEXA scans; and sonograms.

For more information or to schedule a consultation, contact PVCH Family Medicine at 620-804-6007

Medical student receives real-life education at Pawnee Valley Community Hospital

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As a third-year medical student, London Keller cared for patients at Pawnee Valley Community Hospital (PVCH) for only a few weeks but came away with new insights and experiences.

Keller, a Hays native, is a student at the Kansas College of Osteopathic Medicine (KansasCOM) in Wichita.

While at PVCH, he worked alongside Arlo Reimer, MD, and other staff members at the Family Medicine Clinic.

“My biggest impression of PVCH is how kind and inviting the staff is,” Keller said. “Honestly, I think I was welcomed by every staff member in the hospital. In addition, I was impressed by the vast number of services offered to patients in Larned and the surrounding communities.

“Overall, PVCH embodies the idea of rural healthcare, while maintaining a high standard of care for each and every patient.”

In his family-medicine rotation, Keller met with patients; became acquainted with their histories; performed focused physical exams; and reported information to a provider.

“We then talked about a treatment plan and discussed this with the patient,” Keller noted. “This experience at PVCH allowed me to truly have the rural family-medicine experience. I was able to see the importance of knowing your patients on a more personal level than just what is on their chart.

“In turn, this allows for a more complete care plan for each patient, which improves patient satisfaction and outcomes.”

Keller is grateful to the PVCH staff because “they taught me so much from their years of clinical experience. They made it easy to learn, challenged my clinical decision-making and improved my comfort level with patients.”

He also noted that he lived in a hospital room during his stay in Larned. “This was a good learning experience that will help me better relate to my future patients.”

While he is currently unsure about his plans, Keller’s goal is to practice medicine in rural Kansas after his residency.

After graduating from Hays High School in 2018, Keller earned a degree in human biology from The University of Kansas in 2023. He then began medical school at KansasCOM and will graduate in 2027.

 

KansasCOM comment

Dasa Gangadhar, MD, senior associate dean at KansasCOM, said “London has been deeply moved by the strong personal relationships Dr. Reimer shares with his patients. The warm welcome from the hospital staff and the broader community has made a lasting impression.

“For London, this rotation has been a superb introduction to clinical medicine and the meaningful role physicians play in rural communities. It is exactly this type of student, in exactly this type of clinical setting, who will be inspired to return and practice in rural America, fulfilling the mission of our school.”

PVCH Associate of the Quarter award honors Sheila Andersen.

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Congratulations to Sheila Andersen on being named Associate of the Quarter! Sheila’s dedication and hard work on the BEE Award process have been nothing short of outstanding. Her commitment to recognizing excellence, paired with her leadership and positive presence in the department, truly sets her apart. We are grateful for her efforts and proud to celebrate her well-deserved recognition. PVCH is honored to have you, Sheila.

 

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

PVCH would like to congratulate its new Healthcare Stars!

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Pawnee Valley Community Hospital (PVCH) congratulates Jaqueline Clark, RN, Joey Benish, RN, and Angela Beck, APRN, on being recognized as PVCH Foundation Healthcare Stars by John and Caroline Haas.

The PVCH Foundation Healthcare Stars program was created to recognize those healthcare professionals who have provided exceptional patient care. In doing so, nominators are encouraged to give a gift to honor the individual or group nominated. These gifts to the PVCH Foundation directly support the care PVCH healthcare professionals provide by purchasing new equipment and technology to improve and expand hospital services. The Healthcare Stars program serves as an encouragement to the healthcare professionals at PVCH while also recognizing their outstanding dedication to patient care. Everyone nominated receives a certificate with the patient’s comments, their name is placed on the Healthcare Star plaque, and a special Healthcare Stars pin that symbolizes their exceptional commitment to patient care. 

Caroline Haas stated, “I had to visit the ER, and the staff quickly realized it was my 85th birthday. They were very attentive to my issues and even called my eye doctor. The issues seemed to be the result of a recent eye surgery. Angela even talked to my eye doctor. She was very receptive to his guidance. During the evening, they knew that I had completely missed my birthday party with my family. Before they dismissed us, these three came into the room singing Happy Birthday and carrying a Rice Krispies treat birthday cake. These three caring individuals brought us joy and laughter during a stressful situation!” 

Their story is a shining example of the compassion and excellence that define the PVCH team. PVCH is honored to celebrate Jackie, Joey, and Angela for their clinical expertise and the heartfelt care they bring to every patient interaction. Congratulations again on this well-deserved recognition!

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Larned, KS 67550

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