News from Harlan County Health

Dr. Finkner is by no means a new face to the patients in Alma. He was in private practice in Alma from 1980-1988 and has in recent years been assisting with clinic and emergency room on-call duties. Much to the excitement and pleasure of the HCHS Board of Trustees and Administration Dr. Finkner has recently chosen to join HCHS as an employee. He will be available to see patients in the Alma clinic on Mondays, Tuesdays and Wednesdays starting in July.
When asked what prompted his decision to become an employee of Harlan County Health System, Dr. Finkner stated that he has always maintained a love for our community and feels a true calling to finish out the last 7-10 years of his medical practice here in Alma.
Dr. John Michael Finkner graduated with honors from University Of Nebraska College Of Medicine in 1975. He practiced in Alma from 1980 – 1988 and then became the Director of Emergency Physicians at Good Samaritan Hospital for the next 18 years. His extensive background in Family Practice and Emergency Medicine gives him a broad range of experience that he will continue to share with the patients of Harlan County Health System.
Originally from Minden, Dr. Finkner lives in Kearney with his wife Kathy. The couple has four adult children, and 14 grandchildren, all under the age of 10. Dr. Finkner enjoys competitive running, fishing, landscaping, shopping with his wife, traveling and visiting his grandchildren.
Dr. Finkner will be taking over duties of Dr. Michelle Durr, who will end her services with HCHS in July.

Dr. Cameron Knackstedt, D.O. at Harlan County Health System recently attended a meeting of the Kansas Association of Osteopathic Medicine Annual Convention. At the convention he was appointed to the position of President of the Kansas Osteopathic Foundation. In 2013 he was awarded a Fellow in the American College of Osteopathic Family Physicians. During the UCME program, Dr. Knackstedt (Dr. K) attended medical lectures on medical topics such as advanced heart failure and transplant, geriatrics, maternal fetal medicine, Association healthcare update, two lectures on diabetes, hematological malignancies and cellular therapeutics, inpatient rehab in rural areas, newer approaches to sleep apnea, Lewy Body Dementia, NASH fatty liver disease, and emerging flaviviral pathogens. During the convention he was also reacquainted with former medical students that are now physicians and other banquets at the convention.

Dr. Knackstedt has been employed as physician at Harlan County Health System since April 2011. He cares for patients at Heartland Family Medicine Clinic in Alma and Oxford, the Alma Hospital and the Alma Good Samaritan Society nursing home.

Funding Connects Rural Patients to Pharmacy Specialists

Patients of Harlan County Health System will benefit from the latest technological advances that expand patients’ access to quality pharmacy services, made possible through a grant from The Leona M. and Harry B. Helmsley Charitable Trust. The Leona M. and Harry B. Helmsley Charitable Trust has awarded Harlan County Health System $165,875 for ePharmacy, a program that gives physicians immediate access to pharmacists 24 hours a day. The grant will be used to purchase equipment that connects local physicians with pharmacists.

Harlan County Health System will receive equipment to implement ePharmacy. ePharmacy provides 24-hour access to hospital-trained pharmacists, making it possible for all prescriptions to be reviewed prior to the patient taking the medication, even when the on-staff pharmacists are not available.
“This incredible gift gives local physicians and health care workers an immediate connection to pharmacists even if they live in rural areas that have fewer physicians and health professionals,” says Manuela Wolf, RN, MHA, Chief Executive Officer. “This keeps patients close to home during treatment.”

The Harlan County Health System hospital is a 19-bed Critical Access Hospital providing emergency, outpatient, inpatient, specialty clinic and surgical services from a spacious, modern facility. Adjoining the hospital is Heartland Family Medicine, a professional medical clinic staffed by a physician and two physician assistants. Heartland provides day-to-day medical care for patients of all ages from throughout the area. Visiting specialists travel to the HCHS regularly to provide cardiology, orthopedic, pulmonology and podiatry services.

The Helmsley Charitable Trust

The Rural Healthcare Program of The Leona M. and Harry B. Helmsley Charitable Trust began awarding grants in 2009. The Helmsley Trust has awarded more than $298 million in grants to nonprofit organizations in the region through the Rural Healthcare Program. The Helmsley Charitable Trust, established in 1999, supports a diverse range of organizations with a major focus on health and medical research, human services, education, and conservation. To date,  The Helmsley Trust has announced more than $1.7 billion in grants to charitable organizations since 2008.

Marisa Gulizia, PT, CSCS, RYT200

Many who attend sports events or watch them on TV have heard this phrase quite frequently and know what it means.  BUT, did you know there are several people trained in concussion testing located at Harlan County Therapy Center at Harlan County Health System (HCHS) and that HCHS actually sponsors the testing for both Alma Public Schools and Southern Valley Schools?  Drs. Finkner and Durr; PAs Stemper and Taylor; plus, Marisa Gulizia are certified by the IMPACT program.

Let me introduce Marisa, PT, DPT, CSCS, Rehabilitation Director for New West Inspire Therapy located at HCHS.  Marisa, her husband, Tony, and two children, Kortlyn and Kensley, reside in Alma.  Marisa has extensive training in concussions.  She attended the following training sessions:  Advanced Vestibular Course (University of Pittsburgh, PA); IMPACT Testing; Sport Concussion Institute Training in Atlanta, GA; Spearheaded Concussion Focus Website and Lead Concussion Focus Team of Physicians, Athletic Trainers, Physical Therapists, and Sport Medicine Directors in Omaha, NE for three years; and was a guest speaker at the “Managing Concussions . . . a Team Approach” seminar hosted by UNMC in 2014.

Concussions are very serious and if not treated properly or gone undetected can result in other major medical issues down the road.  Solid links have been made between concussions and mental illnesses, which lead to severe depression and higher suicide rates.  A concussion is a type of brain injury that can damage both physical and mental wellbeing.  Although concussions usually are caused by a hit to the head, they can also occur when the head and upper body are violently shaken, as well as a fall or a blow to the body.  The bump, blow, or jolt to the head can change the way the brain normally works, due to the impact causing the head and brain to move quickly back and forth.

Sports related concussions are most common in football and girls’ soccer.  Common signs of a concussion are:  Headaches, Decreased Cognitive Function, Lack of Coordination, Pupil Dilation, Nausea, Blurred Vision, Bruising, Emotional Outbursts, Slurred Speech, and Disrupted Sleep Patterns.  Due to the traumatic impact concussions have had on many notable athletes, concussion testing is mandatory for players to return to the game.

Marisa noted most athletes are IMPACT tested their freshman and junior years at their respective high school to have a baseline for each student if a concussion should occur.  The concussion testing process would then follow:

• Immediate Sideline Assessment by Athletic Trainer/Coach or other Medical Staff.
• Evaluation by the Athlete’s Family Physician.
• IMPACT Neuromuscular Retest.
• If concussion symptoms persist – evaluation and treatment by a Physical Therapist (PT).
• PT will assess symptoms, ocular motor system, vestibular system, balance, and reaction/coordination.
• Athletic Trainer/Coach/PT will use a “return to sport” protocol for concussions, which measures heart rate as athletes increase their activity level to ensure no return of symptoms with a heart rate that he/she would reach in practice or a game.
• Athletes can’t return to sports until released by a healthcare provider.

Marisa’s training in concussion testing will help athletes determine when it is safe to return to the game. So, “When In Doubt, Sit Them Out!”  Protect your children from the long range consequences a concussion may have on them.  One game is not worth the effect a concussion could have on the rest of their life.  For more information, please refer to the following websites:  www.nebsportsconcussion.org and/or http://concussionfocus.org

          Tora Knaus, PTA at HCHS Rehabilitation

Running is one of the easiest and most convenient forms of exercise as no expensive equipment or gym membership is necessary to begin to improve your health.  It is also the 2^nd most effective exercise in terms of calories burned per minute!  Which means…..more benefits in less time!  And those benefits are impressive including…

                *Increases lung function

                *Boosts the immune system

                *Decreases your blood pressure             

                *Increases your metabolism and aides with weight control

                *Improves your mental health by decreasing stress and boosting your confidence

                *Strengthens joints and improves bone density

                This all sounds great, but how do you begin to avoid injuries and be successful?  Here are a few tips to help you get started on the right path.

1. Invest in a good pair of running shoes.  You do not need the most expensive shoes on the market but you do need the appropriate size and support for your foot type.  Visit a running store and have a qualified person match to you the right shoe is very beneficial.  Running shoes need to be replaced every 300-600 miles.
2. Start with a run/walk program. Build your running intensity and distance gradually.  According to the Journal of Orthopaedic & Sports Physical Therapy in October 2014, it is recommended to not increase your distance by more than 10% per week to avoid some common leg injuries.
3. Warm up and cool down. You should prepare your body to run, even if it is just a brisk walk. After your run, a cool down walk and stretching can help reduce muscle pain and decrease your recovery time.
4. Cross training and days of rest. Incorporate other forms of exercise into your workout plan.  Your body will need days of rest from the pounding forces of running.  Running muscles will get a break; but, you will still obtain the health benefits of a workout by including other options such as walking, biking, swimming, elliptical, etc. to your exercise plan. 
5. Eat a nutritious diet. Eating a well-balanced diet will ensure your body has the energy it needs during your physically demanding workout.  Be sure this diet includes good hydration.  Drink your water!!
6. Listen to your body. Running through pain, other than regular workout-related muscle soreness, is never a good idea.  Take time off to rest and gradually ease back into running, should you experience pain with your running activities.  Consult a physician if your symptoms do not diminish. 

These tips will help you get a good start on your way to a healthier you!

  Mindy DeJonge, OTR/L, LSVT BIG

When we hear the term “therapy”, most of us think of an injury and utilizing therapy to get rehabilitated from that injury.  Therapy is being utilized for many illnesses as well, including Parkinson’s Disease (PD).  Studies have proven that Physical, Occupational, and Speech Therapy can greatly help/improve functions for those who are suffering from PD.  Parkinson’s Disease is a chronic and progressive neurological disorder affecting nearly one million people in the United States.  Symptoms impacting motor skills include impaired balance and coordination, tremors, stiffness, and decreased speed of movement.  People living with PD are at risk for increased falls and may find it difficult to complete daily tasks.  Although there is no known cure, LSVT BIG is a form of evidence-based therapy that has been shown to slow motor deterioration and improve quality of life for those living with PD.  LSVT BIG Programs were developed based on the effective speech treatment program LSVT (Lee Silverman Voice Treatment) LOUD.

LSVT BIG is a standardized form of therapy delivered only by occupational therapists and physical therapists certified in this method.  Harlan County Therapy Center located at Harlan County Health System is fortunate enough to have Mindy DeJonge, certified therapist for LSVT Big.  Mindy attended classes and completed her certification in Denver, Colorado in July 2016.  Mindy is originally from Macon, Nebraska and graduated from Creighton University with an Occupational Therapy Doctorate degree in 2010.  Prior to moving back closer to home, Mindy worked at The Nebraska Medical Center in Omaha, NE and has now been at Harlan County Health Systems for almost four years.

LSVT BIG treatment consists of 16 one hour long sessions, 4 consecutive days a week for 4 weeks.  Daily homework and carryover exercises are to be completed by the patient outside of therapy.  Treatments focus on amplitude or “bigness” of movement with high effort and intensity.  The protocol is customized to address the unique goals and needs of each patient.  Mindy is able to assist patients in any stage of the disease, across a wide range of disease severity and impairments.

Research about LSVT BIG has been conducted over the past 25 years with funding from the National Institutes of Health.  Results of these studies have indicated LSVT BIG patients have demonstrated improved balance, increased trunk rotation, increased walking speed with larger steps, and improvements in activities of daily living.  Currently, LSVT BIG is being delivered in almost 40 countries by over 10,000 certified clinicians.   For more information about LSVT BIG, visit www.LSVTGlobal.com or contact Mindy at 308-928-3002.  And remember to THINK BIG!

References

Ebersbach, G., Ebersbach, A., Edler, D., Kaufhold, O., Kusch, M., Kupsch, A., & Wissel, J. (2010).

Comparing exercise in Parkinson’s disease – the Berlin LSVT BIG study.  Movement

Disorders, 25, 2478.

Fox, C., Eversbach, G., Ramig, L., & Sapir, S. (2012). LSVT LOUD and LSVT BIG:  Behavioral

treatment programs for speech and body movement in Parkinson’s disease.  Parkinson’s

Disease, 2012, Article ID 391946, 12 pgs.

Janssens J., Malforid K., Nuffeler T., Bohlhaler S., Vanbellingen T. Application of LSVT BIG

Intervention to Address Gait, Balance, Bed Mobility, and Dexterity in People with

Parkinson’s Disease:  A Case Series.  Phys Ther. 2014 Feb 20.

LSVT Global, Inc. (2016).  LSVT BIG Training and Certification Workshop Binder. LSVT BIG

Training and Certification Workshop held July 15-16, 2016 in Denver, CO.

LSVT Global, Inc. (2016).  Retrieved October 2, 2016 from http://www.lsvtglobal.com/

Parkinson’s Disease Foundation, Inc. (2016).  Retrieved October 2, 2016, from

http://www.pdf.org/

Each year, health care professionals from across Nebraska come together for the Nebraska Hospital Association (NHA) Leadership Institute, a 10-month program designed to instruct, inspire and invigorate. Participants establish peer-to-peer connections and lifelong bonds with classmates and faculty in this program that has been developed by the Nebraska Hospital Association in 2004. Graduates from the program exhibit exceptional leadership skills and are dedicated to influencing others toward service excellence in their roles as health care leaders.

Kendra Graf, Foundation Director attended Class XIII and graduated from the Leadership Institute in October of 2016. Kendra was the fourth HCHS employee that participated in the Leadership Institute, following Manny Wolf who graduated in 2010, Suzanne Lans (2011) and Katie Fleischmann (2014). Kendra is the Director of the Harlan County Health System Foundation. The Foundation is a private, nonprofit, tax-exempt organization, whose purpose is to raise philanthropic support for capital and endowment needs of Harlan County Health System. The Foundation is committed to the wellness of the entire region. It seeks to develop lasting relationships with individuals, families and businesses who also value quality health care close to home. Under the leadership of Kendra and the Foundation Board,  the Foundation is currently conducting a Capital Campaign to raise funds for a new medical clinic in Alma. This vital and badly needed Clinic renewal project will be paid for through the proceeds of the “Quality Care… Building on Excellence” Campaign.

Instruction for the Leadership Program was provided by experts from diverse departments of Bellevue University including management, leadership development, business administration and health care administration and included Executive Leadership Coaching, a 360° Assessment, Individual Development Plans, 10 Core Courses in addition to online offerings. Participation in the institute provides the individual with skills needed for creative and innovative problem solving, ability to work with a diverse clientele, fosters motivation for continuous learning, heightens visibility of leadership positions/styles, and enhances the participant’s career both personally and professionally. In addition there are many benefits for the organization from having a well trained leadership staff, these include, improved recruiting and retention of staff, increased employee motivation, greater team building with reduced internal conflict and  a potential for enhanced employee performance.

Harlan County Health System is proud to have four members of the organizational leadership staff that have completed this prestigious program, learning many of the necessary skills to be exceptional leaders.

Pictured: Laura  Redoutey, President Nebraska Hospital Association and Kendra Graf, HCHS Foundation Director

A local resident, who wishes to remain anonymous, has chosen to donate $75,000 to the Capital Campaign for the proposed new medical clinic. Asked what prompted this generous gift, the donor responded with a two-part answer. One factor was the individual's desire to see Alma grow in the future; not just maintain, but grow! They feel that a modern medical facility is an important part of a thriving community. Related to that was the feeling that this entire community had been good to the donor, and it was an appropriate way to give something back. Noting that it can be difficult to write one large check, the donor found a unique method to be both generous and practical. Purchasing a pre-paid life insurance policy and designating the Capital Campaign as beneficiary fit this giver's personal circumstances.

In addition to the large donations that I have been writing about, I want to let everyone know how much I appreciate the individual contributions that we are receiving from our employees and community members. We have also been receiving individual donations and pledges from many community members and I am very thankful for all the work that is being done both by the Foundation Board, by Kendra, by our employees and volunteers to convince community members that a new clinic for Alma is a worthwhile cause. Currently the total of pledges and donations is $ 527,124.

Left to right: Foundation Board Members Shannon Lynch, Pastor Paul Ferrarone, Jon Davis, Becky McKenzie, Bob Taylor and Foundation Director Kendra Graf. Not pictured are Board members Patrick Calkins, Jennifer Luther, Mildred Calkins and  Jaclyn Daake.

Jane Robison, CNA and Ward Clerk at Harlan County Health System has been chosen by her co-workers to receive the 2016 Nebraska Hospital Association Caring Kind Award. Katie Fleischmann, Director of Nursing at Harlan County Health System stated: “Jane is well deserving of this award. She exemplifies the meaning of caring and kindness. We are so fortunate to have her as a member of our team.” Jane has been a member of the HCHS family since November of 2008.

Here is an example of what her co-workers had to say about Jane:

Jane goes above the call of duty without being asked.  She takes time out of her day to bring flowers to patients or gifts to patients on Christmas and tells them it’s from all of the HCHS Staff.  Jane is the type of person who lights the room up with her smile.  She comes to work with a smile on her face and she is always willing to help others, Rather that person is a co-worker or a patient. Jane goes out of her way to purchase personal supplies for patients who may not have such items at their own home.  To nominate Jane is an easy decision as she is one of the most kindhearted, selfless, and giving.  It’s a joy working with her as she makes every day that much better.  She has helped multiple areas of our facility, including nursing staff, office staff, outpatient, and in the kitchen.  She is vital employee and truly one of the most compassionate employees at HCHS.

For more than 30 years, the Nebraska Hospital Association has been honored to bestow awards to Nebraska health care employees that have risen to the top by providing service excellence and dedication to their profession with the caring kind award. These award recipients commit themselves to the betterment of their hospitals and health systems, their customers, their coworkers and their communities. The Caring Kind Awards Luncheon was held on Friday, October 23, at the Embassy Suites Conference Center in La Vista during the NHA Conference

Congratulations to Jane on this very prestigious award.

Past Recipients of the Caring Kind Award

2015 – Candy Bell, 2014 – Karen Wright, RN, 2013 – Judy Mintzmyer, 2012 – Natalie Dietz, 2011 - Theresa Metzger, 2010 - Craig Farlee, 2009 – Sam Dietz, 2008 – Michelle Cole, 2007 – Tonda Ross, 2006 – Rita Stapel, RN, 2005 – Gwen Westerbeck, 2004 – Tereasa Lennemann, RN, 2003 - Janeice Imm, LPN, 2002 - Jana Cochran, CNA, 2001 - Sharee Ring, RN, 2000 - JoAnn Goings, LPN, 1998 - Julie Kresser, 1997 - Ronda Noren, 1996 - Pat Hanson, 1995 - Lynda Lubeck, RN, 1994 - Nursing Assistants and LPNs