Pawnee Valley Community Hospital offers expanded Imaging hours

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Pawnee Valley Community Hospital (PVCH) is honoring the request of the local and area community for more convenient hours of operation in the Imaging Department.

“The majority of our imaging services are now available beginning at 7:30 a.m., depending on the test involved,” said Julie Robben, Director of Imaging. “Now they can schedule Imaging appointments for earlier in the morning before their workday begins.

“This is just one more example of how our hospital responds to the needs of the community whenever possible.”

While x-rays and CT scans are available 24/7 for emergencies, the regular weekday schedule offers x-ray, CT, dexa scans, nuclear medicine and mammography starting at 7:30 a.m. Ultrasound and MRI start at 8 a.m.

“We have been offering these expanded hours for only a short time but are already hearing good feedback from patients and families,” Robben commented.

She also noted that “Pawnee Valley Community Hospital prides itself on having state-of-the-art equipment that allows us to provide the same high quality imaging locally that you would receive at a larger facility.”

Because this high-tech equipment is available locally and patients don’t have to travel, physicians can offer a diagnosis in a timelier manner, Robben added.

“When you need an imaging service, you don’t need the added stress of having to travel,” Robben continued. “Pawnee Valley Community Hospital is so pleased to offer

our comprehensive list of Imaging services for residents of Pawnee and surrounding counties who can trust in our professional and compassionate Imaging staff.”

Pawnee Valley Megan Mawhirter Elected Director for State Association

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Megan Mawhirter has been involved in health-information management locally for more than a decade and now her reach extends to the state level.

Mawhirter is Director of Health Information Management & Admissions at Pawnee Valley Community Hospital (PVCH). She was recently elected to a director position at the Kansas Health Information Management Association (KHIMA).

“Every healthcare encounter involves health information,” Mawhirter said. “There are so many pieces involved.

“Health information entails everything from the moment you check-in to the final invoice being sent,” she explained. “It encompasses the record of why a patient is here. There are so many moving parts to a patient visit.

“This is why a hospital or other healthcare facility needs to have someone trained to oversee the process. We must ensure we comply with all state and federal regulations.”

Mawhirter also works with PVCH Admissions to ensure all records are up-to-date. Other responsibilities include auditing records, and collaborating with attorneys, insurance companies and patients.

“The billing office and our health-information-management staff work together to assure accurate assignment of billing codes,” she noted.

KHIMA members are nurses, medical coders, billers, privacy officers and data specialists – anyone involved in the medical field.

“Members include so many different people, with so many skills and specialties,” said Mawhirter, who joined KHIMA in 2008 as a student. “The knowledge I have gained as part of this organization is incredible and my new contacts around the state are instrumental in expanding my knowledge base.”

Mawhirter advises the board of directors, while serving as chair of the KHIMA Audit Subcommittee and liaison to the Information Integrity Committee.

“I plan to share the knowledge I gain with the staff at Pawnee Valley Community Hospital and other facilities,” Mawhirter commented. “The more information I have the better we can serve our patients and staff.

“Also, I encourage students and professionals to join this great statewide organization.”

Hospital Honors Jeannie Kolb With Daisy Award

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Jeannie Kolb “loves” having the opportunity to care for patients and believes the best place to share her passion for nursing is Pawnee Valley Community Hospital (PVCH).

Kolb recently was recognized for her nursing skills by earning the DAISY Award, which honors extraordinary nurses locally, nationally and internationally.

“I am in the right place because after every shift, I feel a sense of gratitude from my patients,” Kolb said. “I have a drive to improve a patient’s situation. Oftentimes, it is the little things that make a significant difference; a simple touch or smile means a lot.

“I love to see that our care here at the hospital can make a positive change in someone’s life. This is what keeps me going every day.”

Kolb, long-time Larned resident, has more than 25 years of nursing experience and cares for patients in Special Nursing Services. This includes treatments such as IV therapy, wound care, blood transfusions, catheter management and assessing central lines for blood draws.

When she is needed, Kolb also works in pre-op and fills in for the charge nurse, which involves Acute Care and the Emergency Department.

Kolb acknowledged she was surprised by the DAISY nomination, which came from a patient who was receiving long-term antibiotics and daily dressing changes for many weeks.

“I am honored and grateful for the nomination and the award,” Kolb commented. “It is gratifying to know that our patient care is appreciated. It is what we do every day.

The whole nursing team deserves the DAISY Award. To work alongside these compassionate and professional nurses, doctors and other staff at PVCH is incredibly rewarding.

“As a team, we do make a difference and take pride in our patient-centered care,” she continued. “I love being part of this skilled team that has one goal in mind – to collaborate with one another to provide high-quality healthcare.”

The PVCH Family Advisory Council sponsors the DAISY Award each year.

Pawnee Valley Community Hospital Welcomes Local Providers to Emergency Department

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Pawnee Valley Community Hospital is thrilled to announce the latest additions to our esteemed Emergency Department team: Sarah Christopherson, APRN, and Peter Mick, APRN. Both providers bring a wealth of experience and knowledge that enhance the level of care we offer to our community.

Introducing Sarah Christopherson, APRN

Sarah Christopherson, APRN, brings her extensive expertise and compassionate care to our Emergency Department. She earned her Bachelor of Science in Nursing from Fort Hays State University and furthered her education by earning a Master of Science in Nurse Family Nurse Practitioner from Maryville University in St. Louis, MO. Her commitment to excellence was evident early in her career, and she quickly became known for her patient-centered approach and clinical acumen. Sarah’s dedication to continuous learning and her passion for providing high-quality care make her an invaluable addition to our team.

Introducing Peter Mick, APRN

Peter Mick, APRN, joins us with a distinguished medical career. He completed his Bachelors in Nursing at Wichita State University and his Masters in Science in Nursing at Georgetown University, Washington, D.C. His dedication to patient care and innovative approach to emergency medicine make him a valuable asset to Pawnee Valley Community Hospital.

A Warm Welcome

The addition of Peter Mick and Sarah Christopherson represents our ongoing commitment to expanding and enhancing our medical team to meet the growing needs of our patients. We are confident that their presence will further strengthen our Emergency Department and ensure our community receives the best possible care during their critical moments.

Pawnee Valley Community Hospital stands out among Critical Access Hospitals, boasting a remarkable advantage in emergency care. Our Emergency Department is overseen by a board-certified emergency department physician, Dr. Derek Yarmer, ensuring that every critical case is handled with the utmost expertise and care.

“We are incredibly honored to have Sarah and Peter join our Emergency Department. Their combined expertise and commitment to patient care align perfectly with our hospital’s mission to provide exceptional healthcare services to our community.” Dr. Derek Yarmer commented. Please join us in welcoming them to the Pawnee Valley Community Hospital family. We look forward to the positive impact they will have on our patients and the community as a whole.

PVCH Associate of the Quarter Award honors Marla “Jackie” Guzman

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Pawnee Valley Community Hospital would like to recognize Jackie Guzman, a Radiology Technologist, as our First Quarter 2024 Associate of the Quarter. Jackie was nominated for stepping up to help a Spanish-speaking patient once it was revealed that the patient had called the wrong doctor’s office. Jackie called the correct office on the patient’s behalf and assisted the patient until they received all the necessary information. PVCH is honored to have you, Jackie.

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

Beckwith performs PT clinicals at Pawnee Valley Community Hospital

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A native of the Larned area is performing his physical-therapy clinicals at Pawnee Valley Community Hospital (PVCH), while treating inpatients and outpatients throughout the facility.
Chaz Beckwith is working under the guidance of Jason Rath, who has earned his doctorate in physical therapy and been a PT at PVCH for 11 years now.
“I appreciate Pawnee Valley Community Hospital for affording me this invaluable opportunity to complete a clinical rotation at this valued institution,” Beckwith said. “I am continuously inspired by the dedication and expertise of the healthcare professionals here.”
Beckwith’s responsibilities include: completing evaluations and assessments; developing treatment plans; monitoring progress; educating patients; and collaborating with other healthcare providers.
“As a student, I am allowed to practice physical therapy with the supervision of a licensed therapist,” said Beckwith. “My goal is to earn my doctorate.
“I have consistently heard commendable reviews about this hospital and its rehabilitation facilities,” he elaborated. “Having now observed these services firsthand, I understand the reasons for such positive feedback. Our goal is to provide the best patient-centered care possible.”
Beckwith added that while he is interacting with his colleagues, “their commitment to excellence in patient care is obvious. This is a supportive and nurturing environment that has truly enriched my educational journey. I know I am being well-prepared for my career as a physical therapist.”
He has a bachelor of science degree from Kansas State University and an associate’s degree in applied science from Arkansas Tech University.
He is studying for his doctorate through Hawaii Pacific University.
Beckwith grew up in Jetmore; his parents, Kyle and Tamra, grew up in the Larned area and still live here.
During Beckwith’s clinical rotation, Rath has noted that “Chaz has a quality that makes him very well-equipped for this profession and, without a doubt, he will succeed. Chaz is knowledgeable and skillful, which leads to excellent patient care. At the same time, he is personable and respectful, which makes him great with customer service. We have enjoyed our experience with Chaz and I wish him the best of luck in the next chapter of his life.”

Pawnee Valley Community Hospital sleep lab earns re-accreditation

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Those who offer sleep tests at Pawnee Valley Community Hospital (PVCH) recently passed a test of their own.

As a result, the PVCH Sleep & Diagnostic Center has earned re-accreditation for another five years from the American Academy of Sleep Medicine.

“We follow very strict guidelines that continue to be the gold standard in sleep medicine,” said Megan Donecker, sleep lab director. “This plays a significant role in advancing the field of sleep medicine, improving patient care and promoting the importance of healthy sleep.

“When you have quality sleep it enhances your quality of life,” she added. “We also can help prevent medical issues such as high blood pressure, diabetes, strokes and heart attacks, to name a few examples.”

With the support of Medical Director Son Truong, MD, Wichita, and Manmohan Biring, MD, HaysMed Pulmonology, the sleep lab staff offers a wide range of services.

These include in-lab sleep tests such as positive airway pressure titrations; home-sleep tests; multiple sleep latency tests; maintenance of wakefulness tests; and implant fine-tune tests.

Patients need a referral from their physician for sleep-lab services.

Adults who struggle with apnea or other issues are encouraged to consider a sleep test, Donecker noted.

Symptoms include: daytime fatigue; unusual breathing patterns; unpleasant urges to move while falling asleep; unusual movement during sleep; changes in sleep/wake schedule; irritability or anxiety; impaired performance at work or school; lack of concentration; weight gain; and depression.

Donecker assured prospective patients that they can count on comfort and support during an overnight stay.

“We have two large rooms that are set up like hotel suites and offer many comforts of home,” Donecker explained. “We have purchased new queen-sized beds that are adjustable, with 45 levels of soft/firm comfort settings.”

Other amenities are a large recliner chair, large bathroom with a spacious shower, television and safe for personal belongings.

The American Academy of Sleep Medicine ensures sleep-medicine providers offer high-quality health care, while raising awareness about the importance of sleep for health, public safety and quality of life, Donecker added.

“We truly appreciate the re-accreditation; it illustrates we are dedicated to the advancement of sleep medicine,” she commented.

The sleep lab has been accredited since it opened in May of 2014.

PVCH Family Medicine gives books to families at Well Child visits

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While the Family Medicine Clinic at Pawnee Valley Community Hospital (PVCH) provides high-quality treatment for children’s physical health, the staff goes a step further for the little ones, said Jewel Davis, clinic manager.

Since the clinic cares for the whole child, it participates in the Turn a Page – Touch a Mind (TAP-TAM) literacy program. This entails offering a free book at every Well Child appointment for newborns to age 5.

“Early-childhood literacy improves children’s lives by helping them prepare for school and then excel when classes begin,” Davis said. “This is another example of how PVCH Family Medicine identifies patients’ needs and strives to improve lives.”

TAP-TAM’s mission is “to make literacy promotion a standard part of pediatric primary care so that children grow up with books and a love of reading.”

The feedback from parents indicates the program is meeting that goal, Davis commented.

“This has inspired some parents to go to the library to find more books to read to their babies and toddlers,” Davis explained. “Some have indicated they love story time as much as their children do. They also say that reading has really helped with their child’s comprehension.”

Davis noted she is not surprised by this feedback because of personal experiences with her own children.

“The time I spent reading to my kids helped build their literacy and expand their imaginations,” she recalled. “Reading also helped create healthy habits that have lasted into adulthood.

“Reading sessions created a time we all looked forward to every day, while strengthening our relationships as a family.”

Davis pointed to a study called Million-Word Gap, which illustrates the importance of reading.

When parents read one picture book a day to children during the five years before kindergarten, “it is estimated they hear approximately 1.4 million more words than children who are never read to,” Davis reported.

Last year, PVCH Family Medicine gave approximately 130 books to families. Davis expects that number to rise this year because of an increase in Well Child visits with the addition of new healthcare providers to the staff.

This staff includes Dr. Arlo Reimer; and Susan Aistrup, Kathryn Buchanan and Marley Palmer, all nurse practitioners. “Each of these providers demonstrates a real passion for pediatrics. They love the kiddos and want to help them nurture their bodies and minds,” Davis commented.

As the local TAP-TAM coordinator, Davis conducts inventories, compiles reports and places orders; TAP-TAM pays for the books. She and the medical director, Dr. Reimer, also participate in an annual training to stay current with the program.

The Kansas Pediatric Foundation supports TAP-TAM, which involves about 125 reading sites throughout the state, according to the website of the Kansas Chapter of the American Academy of Pediatrics.

Heather Holaday’s Dedication to Wound Care Shines on “Doctors on Call”

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Heather Holaday, an Advanced Practice Registered Nurse and devoted wound care specialist at Pawnee Valley Community Hospital was invited to share her expertise on “Doctors on Call,” a popular medical TV show on Smoky Hills PBS. Known for her innovative approaches to treating wounds, Heather eagerly accepted the opportunity to raise awareness about wound care and the exceptional services she provides.

The Doctors on Call program offers a wealth of medical knowledge on diverse subjects. Healthcare experts share insights and address questions from the audience each week.

This episode will air on Tuesday, April 23, at 7 p.m. You can also stream each episode LIVE on the Smoky Hills PBS YouTube channel.

Viewers can email doctors@shptv.org to submit questions electronically. Questions must be received by noon on the day of the show. During the program, viewers can call I-800-337-4788.

Please call Pawnee Valley Community Hospital at 620-285-8870 for more information or to schedule an appointment with our Wound Care Clinic.

Palmer joins Pawnee Valley Community Hospital Family Medicine Clinic

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In 2022, Marley Palmer returned to her hometown of Larned to perform her nurse-practitioner clinicals at Pawnee Valley Community Hospital’s (PVCH) Family Medicine Clinic.

Today, she is the new addition to the full-time staff at the clinic where she is seeing patients of all ages.

“Larned is home to me,” Palmer said. “I wanted to come back and take care of my hometown people. I pride myself on caring for my patients as if they were my own family.”

Palmer’s family-medicine practice entails chronic-care management, women’s health, preventive healthcare and acute care.

“While I enjoy all these areas of family medicine, my specialty is well-child/pediatric care,” Palmer commented.

She noted that her previous experience at the PVCH Family Medicine Clinic played an instrumental role in her education.

“My clinicals here helped prepare me for the care and treatment of patients from birth on up,” she explained. “The experience also allowed me to become confident in my clinical decision-making, while treating a wide variety of health conditions.

“Family-practice clinicals allow you to use your knowledge and a variety of skills to provide the best treatment possible. I was fortunate to pursue my training with professionals at our Family Medicine Clinic.”

Palmer’s previous work experience includes progressive, acute and skilled care, along with pediatrics.

She earned her bachelor’s degree in nursing at Fort Hays State University in 2019. In May of last year, Palmer graduated from the FHSU Doctor of Nursing Practice Family Nurse Practitioner program.

After receiving her bachelor’s, Palmer worked as an RN at Kearney (Ne.) Regional Medical Center on the Progressive Unit for more than two years.

“Then I moved home to Larned and worked as an RN at Pawnee Valley Community Hospital and in the Family Medicine Clinic,” she recalled.

Palmer is board certified through the American Academy of Nurse Practitioners.

During her leisure time, Palmer enjoys spending time with family and friends, going to the lake and concerts, reading “and just living life in a small town.”

Melanie Urban, administrator at PVCH, expressed her enthusiasm about Palmer joining the Pawnee Valley team.

“Family-medicine providers play a crucial role in delivering comprehensive healthcare to our community,” Urban said. “Marley’s pediatric experience and community passion make her a great addition to our team.”

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Larned, KS 67550

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