Dr. Pfeifer new emergency director at Pawnee Valley Community Hospital

/in , /by

A Hays native is the new medical director of the Emergency Department at Pawnee Valley Community Hospital (PVCH) where he is collaborating “with a great team.”

Aaron Pfeifer, MD, became acquainted with the PVCH staff prior to serving in his new capacity because of the hospital’s relationship with HaysMed; he is also medical director of the Emergency Department at that facility.

“The current staff and former Emergency Department medical directors have done a great job caring for the community,” Dr. Pfeifer said. “I hope to reinforce that.

“The staff are knowledgeable and motivated to excel in meeting the community’s healthcare needs,” he continued. “The facilities and equipment at PVCH are top-notch too. I am excited to serve local and area residents in this modern facility.”

In his new role, Dr. Pfeifer’s responsibilities include: supervising healthcare providers; being available for consultation on complex cases; ensuring clinical guidelines and protocols remain up-to-date; and ensuring quality of care by analyzing data and identifying areas for improvement.

“My goal is to fulfill these responsibilities and further expand high-quality emergency care to our region,” Dr. Pfeifer commented. “Since I was born and raised in Hays, I understand that we are sometimes under-served in western Kansas and want to do my part to provide exceptional healthcare.”

Dr. Pfeifer earned his bachelor’s degree in chemistry in 2010 at Fort Hays State University; post-baccalaureate studies degree at The University of Kansas in 2011; and medical doctor degree in 2015 at the KU School of Medicine in Kansas City.

He performed his emergency medicine residency at Western Michigan Homer Stryker M.D. School of Medicine at Kalamazoo from 2015-18. Residency titles included chief resident; medical control physician/EMS provider; flight physician; medical simulations lab instructor; and clinical instructor.

From 2008-10, Dr. Pfeifer was an EMT at the Ellis County EMS.

In addition to his other duties at HaysMed, Dr. Pfeifer is the sexual assault nurse examiner medical director.

Dr. Pfeifer and his wife have a son and daughter. “We all enjoy outdoor activities including camping, athletic events, water and snow sports, mountain biking, hunting and fishing.”

Melanie Urban, PVCH administrator, said “Dr. Pfeifer’s extensive background in emergency medicine and leadership illustrates he is a perfect fit for the Emergency Department medical-director position here at Pawnee Valley Community Hospital.

“We are so fortunate that our partnership with HaysMed affords us the opportunity for Dr. Pfeifer to lead our professional and compassionate providers in offering excellent care and treatment in the Emergency Department.”

Introducing Convenient Billing Notifications for HaysMed and PVCH Patients

/in , /by

At HaysMed and PVCH, we’re dedicated to continually improving your patient experience through enhanced communication and service options. This month, we are pleased to introduce a new billing notification system designed to streamline how you receive and manage your billing information.

This system features an innovative call service that automatically contacts patients to notify them of new bills and provides essential payment details. Our goal is to offer timely, convenient access to your billing information, ensuring you’re always up to date.

Recognizing our patients’ diverse preferences, we’ve also expanded the methods through which you can receive these statement notifications. Beyond the traditional paper notices, you now have the option to get notifications via email or text messages. This digital approach not only speeds up the process but is also eco-friendly and enhances accessibility. You can update your preferences for receiving these notifications through your online payment webpage- haysmed.com/online-bill-pay/ or pawneevalleyhospital.com/online-bill-pay/.

This change allows you the flexibility to choose your preferred notification method, ensuring you receive your billing information in the way that works best for you. Initially, you will receive an email and text notification; if unopened after a few days, we will send a paper version. Upon receiving the first email, you will also have the option to opt out of digital communications if desired.

Please note that final statements are only issued through postal mail.

We believe these new features will significantly enhance your interaction with HaysMed and PVCH, making it easier to manage your billing needs. Thank you for trusting us with your healthcare and stay tuned for further updates.

For assistance, please get in touch with our support team at 785-623-5100. We are here to help!

Hospitals Strengthen Kansas Communities and Economy

/in , /by

(February 13, 2025) – A strong health care system is vital not only for community well-being but also for economic growth. Health-related sectors are among the fastest-growing in the economy, improving business productivity, attracting and retaining retirees, and creating jobs.

The February 2025 report, The Importance of the Health Care Sector to the Kansas Economy, highlights the health care sector’s significant impact. According to the Institute for Policy & Social Research at the University of Kansas, hospitals alone employ more than 74,000 Kansans and contribute over $7 billion in direct labor income. The sector has a large multiplier effect—every 100 hospital jobs support an additional 73 jobs in non-health care industries. For every $1,000 in hospital wages, another $450 flows into other sectors, including retail, utilities, and restaurants.

“Hospitals and health services are economic anchors in our state,” said Chad Austin, president and CEO of the Kansas Hospital Association (KHA). “This report shows the essential role hospitals play in local economies and quality of life.”

Pawnee Valley Community Hospital: A Local Economic Driver

In Pawnee County, Pawnee Valley Community Hospital (PVCH) in Larned plays a crucial role in both health care and the local economy. As a critical access hospital, PVCH ensures rural residents receive essential services, including emergency care, acute care, family medicine services, rehabilitation, and specialty services. Additionally, PVCH, like other Kansas hospitals, is a major local employer, with expenditures on wages, supplies, and services fueling economic activity. These investments help sustain local businesses and contribute to tax revenue, benefiting education, infrastructure, and community services.

The October 2023 report, The Importance of the Health Care Sector to the Pawnee County Economy, underscores the sector’s economic role. The health care industry in Pawnee County directly employs 936 individuals—23.1% of the county’s total workforce—and generates nearly $54.8 million in labor income, or 25.7% of the county’s total. When factoring in ripple effects, the sector supports 1,135 jobs and $62.1 million in labor income countywide.

Statewide Economic Impact

Beyond job creation, hospitals drive business activity by purchasing goods and services. The health care sector generates over $296 million in sales tax annually, with state and local governments collecting $2 billion in tax revenue from health care-related activities. These funds help support essential public programs across Kansas.

Overall, the health sector directly and indirectly supports more than 325,000 jobs and contributes nearly $23 billion in labor income to the Kansas economy.

The Future of Kansas Health Care

As health care continues to evolve, its economic contributions remain vital. Hospitals like PVCH are not only medical lifelines but also key economic pillars that sustain jobs, businesses, and community growth. “Fostering economic security and improving the health and well-being of those we serve, is necessary for a stable, thriving community,” said Melanie Urban, Administrator of PVCH. “PVCH is committed to making a positive impact in Pawnee County.”

The full statewide report and county-specific data are available on the Kansas Hospital Association website.

The Kansas Hospital Association represents 238 health care facilities, including 121 community hospitals. Since 1910, KHA has been a leading advocate for Kansas hospitals, promoting the vision of “Optimal Health for Kansans and Kansas Hospitals.”

Homolka shares cardiac information during American Heart Month

/in , /by

When Megan Homolka, nurse practitioner, visits Pawnee Valley Community Hospital (PVCH) twice each month, she not only cares for patients, she also educates them about heart conditions and diseases.

            In observance of American Heart Month in February, Homolka wanted to take it a step further and share information about her PVCH visits and heart disease with the whole community.

            “I am here to meet with new patients for consultations, as well as follow-up visits for people with cardiac conditions,” said Homolka who is based at HaysMed. “I work closely with our physicians to ensure we provide the highest quality of care.”

            During this special heart-related month, Homolka has a message for the public.

            “If you experience chest pain, increased shortness of breath or irregular heartbeats, please do not hesitate to contact your local doctor or call DeBakey Heart Clinic at HaysMed for a self-referral,” she emphasized. “You should also watch for sudden weight gain, swelling and fatigue.”

            One big risk factor for cardiac disease is family history. “Unfortunately, we can’t change our genetics but we can take measures to reduce risk,” the advanced practice registered nurse said. “This includes lifestyle modifications, blood-pressure management, lipid control and other factors.”

            Homolka noted that residents of Larned and the surrounding area are fortunate to have the local resources of PVCH and its association with HaysMed.

            “Providing services locally allows patients to receive care close to home,” she explained. “By expanding access to care, we can save and enhance more lives. Since hypertension, coronary artery disease, atrial fibrillation and valvular heart disease are all-too common, PVCH is providing a valuable service through its Specialty Clinics.”

            Homolka added that PVCH offers high-quality imaging, which includes CT scans, stress tests, echocardiograms and vascular ultrasounds. “Our technicians are experienced in getting top-notch imaging, allowing for more streamlined cardiac care.”

            Homolka earned a bachelor’s degree in general studies from the University of Kansas; bachelor’s in nursing from Chamberlain University in Arlington; Va.; and master’s in nursing-family nurse practitioner from the University of Texas, Arlington.

            Jewel Davis, PVCH director of clinic operations, noted that Kalyan Wagle, MD, of the DeBakey Heart Institute, also travels to Larned twice a month.

            “Our Specialty Clinic option is so important because these professional providers can see patients right here at home, with access to all HaysMed resources,” Davis said. “If this access wasn’t available, local residents may choose not to see a cardiologist because they are unable to travel.

            “We are so fortunate that Megan Homolka is here regularly,” she added. “She sees a high volume of patients and is truly amazing in the care she provides.”

Hagerman named director of nursing at Pawnee Valley Community Hospital

/in , /by

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

/in , /by

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

/in , /by
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

/in , /by

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

/in , /by

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

/in , /by

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

ADDRESS

923 Carroll Avenue
Larned, KS 67550

620-285-3161

Company

About Us
Careers
Contact Us