Kincart Physical Therapy Services Offers Lymphedema Treatment

Jacqueline Wells, DPT, CLT, Completes Lymphedema Certification

Bloomfield, Iowa— Jacqueline Wells, DPT, CLT, with Kincart Physical Therapy Services in Bloomfield completed a Lymphedema Certification through the Academy of Lymphatic Studies to become a Certified Lymphedema Therapist (CLT). Through this certification, Wells has a thorough understanding of all aspects of Complete Decongestive Therapy, which is considered the “Gold Standard” treatment for lymphedema. Wells can establish and execute a treatment plan for individuals in the various stages of lymphedema as well as patients with possible complications arising from this condition.

“After serving as a Physical Therapist at Kincart Physical Therapy Services for the past four years, it became clear to me the community and department would benefit greatly from a Certified Lymphedema Therapist,” said Jacqueline Wells, DPT, CLT. “I completed comprehensive training through the Academy of Lymphatic Studies and am eager to begin treatment.”

The Academy of Lymphatic Studies is the leading school in the United States providing comprehensive lymphedema training and certification of healthcare professionals in Lymphedema Management.

Kincart Physical Therapy Services is proud to offer high-quality care for those with musculoskeletal and neuromuscular conditions and diseases in Bloomfield, Davis County, and surrounding areas. Kincart Physical Therapy Services includes physical therapy, occupational therapy, speech therapy, direct access, aquatic therapy, inpatient and skilled rehab services. With a Certified Lymphedema Therapist we can expand upon these offerings and treat additional conditions including lymphedema, chronic venous insufficiency, lipedema and more.

Kincart Physical Therapy Services is located in Bloomfield within the Davis County Hospital & Clinics building. For more information or to schedule an appointment, please contact Kincart Physical Therapy Services at 641-664-7086.

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DCHC Named an Iowa Top Workplace 2021

DES MOINES REGISTER NAMES DAVIS COUNTY HOSPITAL & CLINICS A WINNER OF THE IOWA TOP WORKPLACES 2021 AWARD

BLOOMFIELD, Iowa, September 12, 2021 – Davis County Hospital & Clinics (DCHC) has been awarded a Top Workplaces 2021 honor by Iowa Top Workplaces. The list is based solely on employee feedback gathered through a third-party survey administered by employee engagement technology partner Energage LLC. The anonymous survey uniquely measures 15 culture drivers that are critical to the success of any organization: including alignment, execution, and connection, just to name a few.

“I am extremely proud of our DCHC team for being named a Top 150 Workplace in Iowa, for the fourth time in five years,” commented Veronica Fuhs, CEO at DCHC. “I am beyond proud of the dedication of every employee for their commitment, especially over the last year, to the high-quality care of our patients – moving our organization forward. DCHC is an amazing place to work, and a special place for our patients to receive care!”

“During this very challenging time, Top Workplaces has proven to be a beacon of light for organizations, as well as a sign of resiliency and strong business performance,” said Eric Rubino, Energage CEO. “When you give your employees a voice, you come together to navigate challenges and shape your path forward. Top Workplaces draw on real-time insights into what works best for their organization, so they can make informed decisions that have a positive impact on their people and their business.”

About Energage

Making the world a better place to work together.TM

Energage is a purpose-driven company that helps organizations turn employee feedback into useful business intelligence and credible employer recognition through Top Workplaces. Built on 14 years of culture research and the results from 23 million employees surveyed across more than 70,000 organizations,  Energage delivers the most accurate competitive benchmark available. With access to a unique combination of patented analytic tools and expert guidance, Energage customers lead the competition with an engaged workforce and an opportunity to gain recognition for their people-first approach to culture. For more information or to nominate your organization, visit energage.com or topworkplaces.com.

The Importance of Talking About Suicide

September is National Suicide Prevention and Awareness month and Davis County Hospital & Clinics (DCHC) Senior Life Solutions is working to raise awareness and educate the community on the risk factors and warning signs of suicide. Talk of suicide should never be dismissed. If you, or someone you know, are thinking of suicide call the National Suicide Prevention Lifeline at 1-800-273-8255.

The Suicide Prevention Lifeline states that knowing these warning signs may help determine if a loved one is at risk for suicide:

  • Talking about wanting to die or to kill themselves
  • Looking for a way to kill themselves, like searching online or buying a gun
  • Talking about feeling hopeless or having no reason to live
  • Talking about feeling trapped or in unbearable pain
  • Talking about being a burden to others
  • Increasing the use of alcohol or drugs
  • Acting anxious or agitated, behaving recklessly
  • Sleeping too little or too much
  • Withdrawing or isolating themselves
  • Showing rage or talking about seeking revenge
  • Extreme mood swings

Suicide prevention starts with recognizing these warning signs and taking them seriously. If you think someone you know may be feeling suicidal, the best thing to do is ask. These conversations may feel difficult and uncomfortable, which is entirely normal. If you are uncertain of how to be there for someone in need, here are five action steps you can take according to the National Institute of Mental Health:

  1.  ASK: “Are you thinking about killing yourself?” It’s not an easy question, but studies show that asking at-risk individuals if they are suicidal does not increase suicides or suicidal thoughts.
  2. KEEP THEM SAFE: Reducing a suicidal person’s access to highly lethal items or places is an important part of suicide prevention. While this is not always easy, asking if the at-risk person has a plan and removing or disabling the lethal means can make a difference.
  3. BE THERE: Listen carefully and learn what the individual is thinking and feeling. Research suggests acknowledging and talking about suicide may reduce rather than increase suicidal thoughts.
  4. HELP THEM CONNECT: Save the National Suicide Prevention Lifeline’s (1-800-273-TALK (8255)) and the Crisis Text Line’s number (741741) in your phone, so it’s there when you need it. You can also help make a connection with a trusted individual like a family member, friend, spiritual advisor, or mental health professional.
  5. STAY CONNECTED: Staying in touch after a crisis or after being discharged from care can make a difference. Studies have shown the number of suicide deaths goes down when someone follows up with the at-risk person.

The Suicide Prevention Lifeline reminds us that suicide is not inevitable for anyone. By starting the conversation, providing support, and directing help to those who need it, we can prevent suicides and save lives.

If you or someone you know is in an emergency, call 911 immediately.   If you are in crisis or are experiencing difficult or suicidal thoughts, call the National Suicide Hotline at 1-800-273 TALK (8255).

Davis County Hospital & Clinics’ Senior Life Solutions is an intensive outpatient group therapy program designed to meet the unique needs of older adults suffering from symptoms of anxiety and depression often related to aging.  For more information, or if you know an older loved one who needs help, contact us at 641-664-3851.

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Dr. Sarah Brewer

DCHC Welcomes New Internal Medicine Physician – Dr. Sarah Brewer

Davis County Hospital & Clinics (DCHC) is pleased to welcome Sarah Brewer, D.O. as an employed provider at DCHC. Dr. Brewer is board certified in Internal Medicine, and has a special interest in health and wellness. Dr. Brewer will be working in the DCHC Medical Associates primary care clinic, as well as the hospital side seeing Acute Care inpatients as needed.

“We are excited to welcome Dr. Brewer to our Davis County Medical Associates clinic provider team and the facility,” commented Veronica Fuhs, Chief Executive Officer at DCHC. “Dr. Brewer brings unique experience to our facility and will provide additional internal medicine expertise we need to continue to strive for better health in Davis County. Her commitment to illness prevention and wellness will bring great value to our organization and the customers we serve.”

Dr. Brewer has been practicing medicine for over 15 years. She completed her General Internal Medicine Residency at Northeast Regional Medical Center in Kirksville, followed by a Critical Care Medicine Fellowship at the University of Iowa Hospital and Clinics. She comes to DCHC from Northeast Regional Medical Center, where she was the Hospital Medicine Medical Director. Dr. Brewer recently received her certification in Obesity Medicine.

“I am eager to join the provider team at DCHC and to meet community members,” commented Dr. Brewer. “I pride myself on establishing long-lasting relationships with my patients and am dedicated to ensuring their well-being. My focus is not only on treating a current illness, but to lend support and most importantly to try and prevent illnesses from ever occurring.”

Dr. Brewer and her family live in Kirksville, Missouri. In her spare time, she enjoys gardening, cooking with whole foods, kayaking, paddle boarding, spending time outdoors, and encouraging others to do the same.

Dr. Brewer will begin to see patients within the Davis County Medical Associates Clinic on September 15th.. To schedule an appointment with Dr. Sarah Brewer, please call the Davis County Medical Associates clinic at 641-664-3832 or go online to the MyDCHC patient portal at www.DCHC.org.

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2022 Davis County Community Health Needs Assessment

Davis County Hospital & Clinics and Davis County Public Health are working together to complete the 2022 Community Health Needs Assessment (CHNA).

Completing a Community Health Needs Assessment (CHNA) is a federal requirement for non-profit hospitals and must be completed at least every three years with input from the broader community, including public health. Data from this CHNA survey will help health care providers and community organizations improve the overall health and wellness of our community, and identify community needs, establish priorities for programs and services, and inform strategies to address gaps between critical needs and services.

All Davis County, Iowa residents and business leaders are encouraged to participate. Included in the 2022 CHNA surveys are questions dealing with community health regarding service delivery, fitness, nutrition, and access to care. All survey responses are anonymous and completing the survey takes less than 10 minutes.

If you would like to participate in the survey, please go to https://forms.office.com/r/G0f224hncV.  You may also fill out the survey in paper form by contacting Davis County Hospital & Clinics at 641-664-7093. All surveys must be received by August 6th, 2021.

Thank you in advance for your help in completing this confidential, important survey.

If you have any questions about the survey or survey process, please call Devyn Pitlick at Davis County Hospital & Clinics, 641-664-2145.

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Nikki Thordarson, CNO

DCHC Names New Chief Nursing Officer

Davis County Hospital & Clinics (DCHC) is pleased to announce that Nikki Thordarson, MSN, RN, EMT-P has joined their leadership team as their new Chief Nursing Officer.

In her new role, Nikki will lead the overall clinical and administrative operations and strategy for patient cares services. Thordarson joins DCHC from the Education, Infection Prevention & Wellness Coordinator role at DCHC.

“We are excited to welcome Nikki to the DCHC leadership team,” said Veronica Fuhs, Chief Executive Officer at DCHC. “Her kind, visible leadership style, as well as her ability to foster strong communication and collaboration across all interdisciplinary teams including nurses and physicians, will be a great asset in achieving our vision to provide dedicated, compassion healthcare to our community.”

“I’m looking forward to working with the team on further developing the hospital’s excellent, and compassionate culture,” said Thordarson. “My approach is to consistently find ways for team members to support each other in pursuing our goals. The role of nursing is critical in providing excellence in patient care and significantly impacts hospitals operations.”

Nikki and her husband, Nathan, have lived in Bloomfield for 14 years. Nathan, originally from Bloomfield, also serves on the historical commission for Davis County. Nikki and Nathan have three children, Taylor (17), Brandon (15), and Harper (7).

Thordarson has a wide breadth of clinical experience in rural and tertiary healthcare care facilities. She brings a wealth of knowledge on education and experience for health care workers, and we are thrilled to have her on our team,” said Fuhs.

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Robin Ehrenhard, RN Receives DCHCS’ 2021 DAISY Award

Robin Ehrenhard, RN has been named Davis County Hospital & Clinics’ 2021 DAISY Award recipient.

Nominations for Davis County Hospital & Clinics’ (DCHC) DAISY Award were submitted by patients and their families, colleagues, managers, physicians and community members, and then a small committee of DCHC front line team members chose this year’s honoree through a blinded nomination process. There were 14 DCHC nurses nominated this year: Paige Helton, RN, Melissa Frederick, LPN, Brooklyn Smith, LPN, Julie Baker, RN, Amy Marlow, RN, Rachel Lames, RN, Carrie Berry, RN, Megan Whisler, PNP, Sue Fox, LPN, Tara Porter, RN, Robin Ehrenhard, RN, Sydney Thordarson, RN, Jana Gooden, RN, and Khelcie Ruth, LPN.

Robin is a Registered Nurse (RN) in the Acute Care Inpatient department Davis County Hospital & Clinics. Robin was nominated by a peer, “Robin demonstrates care for the whole person with each patient and family she is a nurse for during an ER visit or as patient on the acute care floor.  She has the ability to assess and respond to the overall health and wellness of the individual.  I have seen her give time to patients who benefit from just them telling others what is bothering them with their physical or mental health needs. Robin educates patients on what to expect especially at discharge and what the next steps are for the patient.  Robin learns much from her conversation with patients to identify and recommend ways to enhance their treatment here and at home and shares with providers and other team members things she has learned from the patient.  When she has downtime, she keeps herself productive with projects and also doing things with patients. Robin is also involved in caring for others outside of her job with local ministries in their outreach programs.”

“Robin is incredibly deserving of this year’s 2021 DAISY Award,” commented Amy Marlow, Patient Services Manager at Davis County Hospital & Clinics. “She is truly dedicated to her patients, and it shows through her care. We are proud to have Robin on the DCHC inpatient care team!”

A signature program of the DAISY Foundation, the DAISY Award for Extraordinary Nurses recognizes individual nurses throughout the year for their extraordinary, compassionate care. More than 3,600 health care facilities and nursing schools across the US and in 21 other countries participate every year.

About the DAISY Award

“The DAISY Awards were created to express gratitude to nurses around the world for their compassion,” said Bonnie Barnes, FAAN, Co-Founder and CEO of the DAISY Foundation. “This year’s honorees exemplify the professionalism and humanity that are hallmarks of outstanding nursing care.”

DAISY is an acronym for Diseases Attacking the Immune System. The DAISY Award was established by the DAISY Foundation in memory of J. Patrick Barnes who died at 33 of Idiopathic Thrombocytopenia Purpura (ITP), an auto-immune disease. The Barnes Family was awestruck by the clinical skills, caring and compassion of the nurses who cared for Barnes, so they created this international award to say thank you to nurses everywhere.

For more information about the DAISY Award and Foundation, visit www.daisyfoundation.org

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About Davis County Hospital & Clinics
Davis County Hospital & Clinics is a 25-bed, critical access hospital located in Bloomfield, Iowa, committed to providing dedicated, compassionate, health care to the community. In addition, the Davis County Hospital Medical Associates Clinic provides care for the entire family and is located at Davis County Hospital & Clinics. For more information about Davis County Hospital, please visit www.DCHC.org.

Practical Tools to Improve Mental Health and Cope with Challenges from COVID-19

May is Mental Health Awareness Month

This past year presented many different challenges and obstacles that tested our strength and resiliency. The global pandemic forced us to cope with situations never before imagined, and many of us struggled with our mental health as a result. The good news is that there are tools and resources available that can support the well-being of individuals and communities.

May is Mental Health Month was started 72 years ago by national organization, Mental Health America (MHA). Now, more than ever, we need to combat the stigma surrounding mental health concerns. That’s why this Mental Health Month Davis County Hospital & Clinics’ (DCHC) Senior Life Solutions program is highlighting #Tools2Thrive – what individuals can do throughout their daily lives to prioritize mental health, build resiliency, and continue to cope with the obstacles of COVID-19.

Throughout the pandemic, many people found themselves struggling with mental health challenges for the first time. During the month of May, we are focusing on tools that can help us process the events of the past year and the feelings that surround them, while also building up skills and supports that extend beyond COVID-19.

“This past year forced many to accept tough situations that they had little to no control over.” Said Rhonda Roberts, Director of DCHC’s Senior Life Solutions. “If you found that it impacted your mental health, you aren’t alone.”

Fortunately, there are practical tools that can help improve your mental health. Our program is focused on managing anger and frustration, recognizing when trauma may be affecting your mental health, challenging negative thinking patterns, and making time to take care of yourself.

Ultimately, during this month of May, DCHC Senior Life Solutions wants to remind everyone that mental illness is real, and recovery is possible. By developing your own #Tools2Thrive, it is possible to find balance between life’s ups and downs and continue to cope with the challenges brought on by the pandemic.

“With this, it’s important to remember that working on your mental health and finding tools that help you thrive takes time,” concluded Roberts. “Change won’t happen overnight. Instead, by focusing on small changes, you can move through the stressors of the past year and develop long-term strategies to support yourself on an ongoing basis.”

For more information, visit www.mhanational.org/may. or call Davis County Hospital & Clinic’s Senior Life Solutions program at 641-664-3851.

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ABOUT SENIOR LIFE SOLUTIONS
Senior Life Solutions is managed in partnership by Psychiatric Medical Care (PMC), a leading behavioral healthcare management company. Focused on addressing the needs of rural and underserved communities, PMC manages inpatient behavioral health units, intensive outpatient programs, and telehealth services in more than 25 states. The company’s services provide evaluation and treatment for patients suffering from depression, anxiety, mood disorders, memory problems, post-traumatic stress disorder, and other behavioral health problems. For more information, visit www.psychmc.com/seniorlifesolutions.

 

Dr. Robert Remis

DCHC Welcomes Dr. Robert Remis, Urologist to the Specialty Clinic Team

Davis County Hospital & Clinics (DCHC) is pleased to welcome Dr. Robert Remis, Urologist, to the DCHC Specialty Clinic provider group. Dr. Remis specializes in kidney stones, symptoms of enlarged prostates, an overactive bladder, bladder cancer, and vasectomies.

Dr. Remis will be available to see patients the second and fourth Thursday of every month at Davis County Hospital & Clinics. He is a Urology Consultant with Premier Specialty Network, with over thirty years of experience in general urology, and has performed numerous urological surgeries. Dr. Remis is a member of the American Urological Association, board certified and re-certified by the American Board of Urology, and a Fellow of the American College of Surgeons.

Dr. Remis is a graduate of the University of Oklahoma in Norman, Oklahoma. He obtained his medical degree at the University of Oklahoma Health Sciences Center in Oklahoma City. His residency was at the University of Oklahoma Health Sciences Center affiliated hospitals in Oklahoma City.

“We are excited to add Dr. Remis to the Specialty Clinic provider team here at Davis County Hospital & Clinics,” said DCHC Chief Executive Officer, Veronica Fuhs. “Expanding our Specialty Clinic providers is a large part of our future strategies in meeting our customers’ needs. Dr. Remis will help us not only accomplish that goal but will also be a critical part of us keeping quality care close to home in Davis County.”

Dr. Remis will begin seeing patients at DCHC on Thursday, March 25th. To schedule an appointment with Dr. Remis in Bloomfield, call 641-664-7091.

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Davis County Public Health Launches Online Scheduling for COVID-19 Vaccine

Davis County Public Health is excited to share the launch of a new, easy-to-use online scheduling tool that allows eligible community members to schedule an appointment for their first dose of COVID-19 Vaccine.

Now Available for Sign-Up: 120 appointments for next Wednesday, March 17th. First come, first serve. Davis County Public Health will add new appointment times/clinics weekly. If you don’t see any available appointment times on March 17th, all spots are currently full.

Schedule your 1st dose COVID-19 Vaccine appointment here: https://outlook.office365.com/owa/calendar/DavisCountyPublicHealth@dchc.org/bookings/

**This scheduling tool is to be utilized for individuals interested in receiving their FIRST DOSE of the COVID-19 Vaccine with Davis County Public Health in Bloomfield, IA. Please only schedule an appointment if you haven’t received a COVID-19 vaccine yet and are eligible to receive a vaccine.

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