Latest News

Valley County Health System has published their second annual report. This report is for the July 1, 2008 - June 30, 2009 fiscal year.  The report is an eight page, full color publication featuring sections titled CEO's Message, In Recognition, Small Steps-Giant Leaps - Breaking Ground on our New Healthcare Destination, Committed to Excellence, Giving Back and Financial Review.  This report is published annually as a method of communication with area residents about the services provided by Valley County Health System and the accomplishments of each year.

Nearly 7,000 copies of the report were mailed to addresses in Ord, Burwell, Taylor, Sargent, Comstock, Arcadia, Loup City, North Loup, Scotia, Greeley, Ericson and Cotesfield.  The annual report may also be viewed by clicking this link.

Valley County Health System's annual Celebrate Being a Woman event raised $840 in funds from the raffle of items that were donated by departments and individual employees.  The funds were used to purchase gift certificates for meat to the Ord Grocery Kart, Speed's Apple Market and Hruby's Market in Arcadia.  The certificates were then donated to Make Christmas Happen, a local project providing holiday assistance to families in Valley County.  The hospital worked with Make Christmas Happen organizer, Agnes Janda, to determine the number of gift certificates needed and to which grocery store, based on where the families live.  Twenty five dollar gift certificates were provided to large families and $10 certificates were provided to small families.

VCHS also sponsored their annual wreath auction on Friday, December 11th.  The auction generated $1,123 and these funds were also donated to Make Christmas Happen. The wreaths were donated by VCHS employees and displayed at the hospital.

In addition, the Home Health and Hospice Department held a bake sale on Dec. 18th.  The sale generated $430, all of which was donated to Make Christmas Happen.

Valley County Health System is pleased contribute to funds from these three events to Make Christmas Happen for the benefit of area families.

Pictured (l to r):  Darlene Bruha, Carol Thomsen, Pat Konkoleski, Rose Ella Sevenker, Doris David, Agnes Janda, Larry Schrage, Harlan Green and Lyle Sevenker.

Christy Peterson, Physical Therapist at Valley County Health System, has received Postural Restoration Certification (PRC) through the Postural Restoration Institute.  In 2004, the Institute established a certification process for physical therapists as a way to recognize and identify those individuals with advanced training, extraordinary interest and devotion to the science of postural adaptations, asymmetrical patterns and the influence of polyarticular chains of muscles on the human body as defined by the Postural Restoration Institute.

Certification is available to physical therapists, physical therapist assistants, and occupational therapists who have attended all PRI courses, demonstrated a thorough understanding of the science through completion of the PRC application, and successfully participate in both clinical and analytical testing.

Postural restoration allows effective treatment of any type of diagnosis, however, great improvements have been seen with many chronic pain conditions.  This program centers around restoring diaphragm and appropriate breathing function combined with repositioning and balancing the pelvis, hip, back and shoulder muscles to create a restored posture that moves and functions more normally. This approach may effectively treat many difficult entities including hip bursitis, sacroiliac and low back pain, leg and foot pain, headaches and cervical pain, as well as pain in the upper back and rib cage regions. Exercise as well as many manual techniques and breathing are utilized.

To date 45 Physical Therapists, 1 PT Assistant, and 2 Occupational Therapists worldwide have earned the designation of Postural Restoration Certified (PRC) under the direction of Ron Hruska.  Several therapists at Valley County Health System have training in Postural Restoration and will be seeking certification in the future.

Valley County Health System congratulates Christy on this outstanding achievement.

During the weeks of December 7 and 14, the contractors continued work on the new hospital.  Taping of the dry wall in the acute care department was completed as was dry wall installation in the surgery and emergency room departments.  Dry wall installation in the medical clinic and specialty clinic began as did taping dry wall in the surgery and emergency room departments.   Cable tray installation began in the acute care department and sprinkler piping rough in continued.

The roof flashing and gutter installation was started as the weather warmed up.  The roof on the entry canopy will begin next week.  Ceiling grid, installation of case work and painting will begin in the acute care department in January.   

For more information contact the Public Relations office at 728-4347.

ORD - The Valley County Health System will offer the American Lung Association's Freedom From Smoking® program beginning January 2010.

The program will begin on Wednesday, January 6 and will meet for seven classes; January 13, 15, 20, 27 and February 3 and 17.  All classes will be held from 7:00 p.m. to 8:00 p.m. at the Valley County Health System Education Building, 1617 M Street in downtown Ord.  

Freedom From Smoking® is a personalized program that works to identify specific smoking triggers for each participant which then helps to create a plan for quitting smoking. Positive behavioral changes, along with additional reinforcement tools, are used during this life-changing course.

The classes feature informal group discussions, which creates a supportive environment for participants to fully adopt step-by-step behavior modifications, encouraging long-term success.

Cost for the program is $50.00 which covers all materials.  Registration deadline is December 30, 2010.  For more information or to register, please call Sheri Schrage, Freedom From Smoking® Facilitator at 308-728-4312 or Lea Miller at 308-728-4299.

Ord - Valley County Health System will be offering three fitness classes for the public beginning January 4 and continuing through February 26. Johnathan Tomjack, Personal Trainer at VCHS will instruct a core conditioning and toning class.  The class consists of dynamic balance, strengthening and improved range of motion through weight training, kickboxing and use of an exercise ball.  This class will be offered Monday, Wednesday and Friday from 6:00 to 6:45 am at St. Mary's Gym in Ord.  Each participant will need a 65 cm exercise ball, 2 or 3 lb. hand weights and a yoga mat.

Sheri Schrage, Certified Health Fitness Instructor through the American College of Sports Medicine, will teach a low impact aerobics and toning class as well as a step and sculpt class.  The low impact aerobics class will be held on Mondays and Wednesdays from 5:30 to 6:30 pm at the VCHS Education Building, 1617 M Street in downtown Ord.  The step and sculpt class will be offered on Tuesdays and Thursdays from 5:30 to 6:30 pm at the VCHS Education Building.  This class will consist of aerobics performed by stepping up onto and down from a portable platform.  Participants in these classes will need to bring an exercise mat.

Registration is $40.00.  This fee allows the participant to attend any or all classes.

To register, call Johnathan Tomjack at 728-4257 or stop by the VCHS Rehabilitation Department.

ORD - The annual Valley County Health System Christmas Party was held Dec. 4 at the Ord Veterans Club.  More than 260 employees, spouses and board members attended the celebration. 

During the event, Karlie Koinzan, Danielle Proskocil and Marianne Stevens with the VCHS Human Resources department, presented employees with awards for their years of service to VCHS.

The twenty-one employees recognized at the event were: 35 years - Loretta Misko; 30 years - Emily Hayek; 20 years - Virginia Bures, Connie Fread, Sharon Murdock, Shannon Peterson; 15 years-Vicki Bredthauer, Jeanne Tinkham, Kristie Zulkoski; 10 years-Cathy Foster, Tammi Knutson, Jo Trofholz; 5 years-Becky Babb, Michaela Brown, Ashley Jeffres, Karla Kinney, Steve Kusek, Kathy Rowse, Kristen Ryschon, Evelyn Schaaf and Jackie Stepanek.

During the weeks of November 23 and 30, major progress was made on the new hospital construction project.  Taping of the dry wall in the acute care department was started and dry wall installation in the surgery and emergency room departments was completed.  The sidewalk at the main entry was poured as well as rough site grading.  Electrical and plumbing rough-ins began in the medical clinic and specialty clinic departments.

The installation of the frames for the large window openings in the front lobby, chapel area, rehab and acute care were started.  These windows will be installed within the next few months.  The roof flashing and gutter installation and the roof on the entry canopy will begin next week.  Ceiling grid, installation of case work and painting will begin in the acute care department in January.   

For more information contact the Public Relations office at 728-4347.

Ord - Valley County Health System announces that they have received additional doses of both the seasonal flu and H1N1 vaccines.  Anyone interested in one or both of these vaccinations should make a nurse visit appointment at any one of the five Medical Clinics in Ord, Burwell, Loup City, North Loup or Ericson. 

The cost for the seasonal flu shot is $30.  For Medicare Part B patients, Medicare will be billed and must present their Medicare Part B card.  There is a $16.00 administration charge per person for the H1N1 vaccination.

The H1N1 vaccination will continue to be administered to those at high risk, which includes those age 6 months through 24 years, pregnant women, those ages 25 through 64 with chronic medical conditions, and all adults, children and teens who are household contacts or caregivers of infants younger than 6 months of age.  In addition to the high risk category, VCHS will also now begin administering the H1N1 vaccine to all other healthy adults ages 25 through 64 years.

For more information or to schedule an appointment, call Ord Family Health Center at 308-728-3606.

David Farrar, PA-C at Valley County Health System attended the Association of Family Practice Physician Assistants Annual Conference in Phoenix, AZ from Nov. 4-7.  The conference featured sessions regarding emergency medicine, pediatrics, rheumatology and women's health. 

For more information, or to schedule an appointment with Farrar, call the Ord Family Health Center at 308-728-3606.

Jennifer Bengston, MD at Valley County Health System attended training from November 13-15 in Las Vegas, NV.  The training was Clinical Endocrinology for Primary Care Physicians and was co-sponsored by Endocrine Society. The program provided primary care physicians, physician's assistants and nurses with an update on endocrine disorders, including osteoporosis and other calcium-related disorders, type I and II diabetes, cholesterol and lipid disorders, thyroid disorders and obesity.

For more information, or to schedule an appointment with Dr. Bengston, call the Ord Family Health Center at 308-728-3606.

Valley County Health System is pleased to announce that the Radiology Department recently passed their Mammography Quality Standards Act (MQSA) inspection.  The certification process was completed by Arlene Hughes, Mammography Technologist at VCHS.   

The MQSA requires that all mammography facilities across the nation meet uniform quality standard.  Congress passed the law in 1992 to assure high-quality mammography for early breast cancer detection.  Under this law all mammography facilities are required to be accredited by the Food and Drug Administration and undergo an annual MQSA inspection.

Standards that must be met during the inspection consist of documentation that verifies all physicians who interpret the mammograms and the technologists who perform the mammograms have had adequate training and experience. Each facility must have an effective quality control program and maintain the records. In addition all facilities must have a system for following up on mammograms that reveal problems, and for obtaining biopsy results.

To schedule a mammogram or to learn more, call Valley County Health System at (308) 728-3211.

Ord - Kara Fischer, Chair of the Board of Trustees of VCHS is pleased to announce that the Health System is taking steps to select a new logo identity that reflects its communities and its people.  To do this, VCHS is launching a logo design contest.

The following guidelines have been adopted for the Valley County Health System logo contest:

• The communities we serve, at large, including employees, will be allowed to submit new logo designs. 
• The following objectives should be considered when designing a logo.  An explanation of the logo and how it meets these objectives should be submitted with the entry.
  • Balance feelings of warmth and compassion, with a progressive approach to the future.
  • Respect the region's rural and agricultural roots.
  • Be manageable in a variety of print, web and video applications.
  • Avoid trendy approaches in order to remain fresh and appealing for many years to come.
• The logo design entered should be sketched in pencil.  Colors will be determined with the help of a professional marketing firm.
• Entries must be received by January 8, 2010 to be considered.
• All designs should be mailed to the VCHS Logo Contest Committee, P.O. Box 346, Ord, NE 68862.  The logo sketch, description, entrant's name, address and phone number must be included in the submission. 
• All entries will be kept anonymous until after the selection of the new logo.
• All entrants shall be notified that in the event their logo is selected, it may be modified slightly to meet graphics standards.
• A committee comprised of VCHS employees and community members will select the top three logo designs. 
• The services of a marketing firm will be utilized to finalize the logo selected and design the stationary package.
• The winner will receive $500.  First runner up will receive $250. Second runner up will receive $100.  These three people will be acknowledged with a picture and press release to local media.
• Once the committee has made their recommendation of the top three logo designs, the VCHS Senior Management Team and Board of Trustees will make the final selection of the new logo.  This selection process will include a legal review to ensure there are no copyright infringements. It is also understood that the person whose logo is selected will release all personal rights to their design with assignment to VCHS.

For more information, contact the Valley County Health System Public Relations Department at 308-728-4347.

During the weeks of November 9 and 16, the hospital construction project continued to remain ahead of schedule.  The drywall installation in the acute care department was nearly completed.  Taping and painting will begin soon.  The circle driveway at the main entry was poured.  Electrical, duct work and plumbing rough-ins in the acute care department were completed and well underway in the surgery, radiology, emergency room, maintenance and purchasing departments.

The frames for the large window openings in the front lobby, chapel area, rehab and acute care will be built and installed soon with the glass to arrive later this year.   The final paving to be completed soon consists of some sidewalk and the helicopter pad.  Also, the connecting drive between Valley View Living Center and the new hospital will be completed in the next week, weather permitting.

For more information contact the Public Relations office at 728-4347.

(ORD) - The Annual Valley County Health System Foundation Gala has been scheduled for Saturday, January 9, 2010, at the Ord Veteran's Club.  This evening is one of two annual fundraising events held each year by the Foundation.

The theme for this year's gala is "Denim and Diamonds" and entertainment will include  the Miss Red Hot Womanless Competition.   Attendees are encouraged to wear their finest denim or formal attire.  Social hour will begin at 6 pm with the meal, auction and entertainment to follow at 7 pm.

Tickets are available at local banks, from any Foundation Board member, the VCHS Admissions office and the Foundation office. Tickets are $40 each or $70 for a couple. Six exclusive tables seated for six can also be reserved on a first-come, first-serve basis for $350.   Raffle tickets are available for $10 each or 3 for $20.  For more information, contact Becky Ries at 728-3011.

The sounds of the 50's, 60's & 70's could be heard throughout the beautiful Valley Cinema Theater this past Sunday night, as the Revival Band, with special guests, Eldon Flodman, Pat Boilesen and Jerry Neeman performed.  Those in attendance were treated to some amazing music and vocals, and the group received a standing ovation at the conclusion of the concert. 

Pat (Leth) Boilesen, who is a graduate of North Loup, gave some wonderful performances, including a song she wrote about a friend of hers who was in the crowd, Peggy Jo.  Also, Elton Flodman, whose voice is just remarkable, sang several tunes, including a few Elvis songs; and, Jerry Neeman played his trumpet for two songs, including "Kansas City" which he also sang the vocals for. 

The Revival Band consists of Tom Schroeder, Tommie Backus, Doris Winkler, Warren Pennell, and Jay Ferris.   Hopefully this group of incredible performers can return to this area again in the future, as they made the afternoon a memorable one.    

The concert was sponsored by Valley County Health System Foundation and the proceeds will be used to start a scholarship fund for students who enroll in accredited healthcare programs. Thanks to everyone who attended this concert.

ORD - The staff of the VCHS Heritage Program for Seniors raised the American Flag for the first time on Veteran's Day.  The project has been in process for almost a year. The flag is lit at night and looks very patriotic. U.S. Air Force Veteran, James Bartley, raised the flag, while other staff members observed.

The Heritage Program for Seniors is a behavioral health outpatient program offered by Valley County Health System.  The program offers group therapy for older adults who are experiencing loneliness, sadness, grief from loss of a loved one and/or major changes in their lives.,

The Heritage building is located along Hwy 11 and 70 in Ord.

During the past two weeks substantial progress was made on the new hospital facility. All of the exterior stone work was completed and the masons won't return until January to finish the interior stone work around the lobby fireplace and chapel.   Aluminum window framing was completed and windows were installed in the acute care, medical clinic, specialty clinic and emergency room departments.  The large windows in the front lobby, chapel area, rehab and acute care will be installed later this year.

Sheet rocking, duct work, medical gas, fire sprinkler, wood blocking and framing, electrical and plumbing rough-in work continued inside the building.  Paving of the north entrance circle drive should take place next week if weather cooperates.  Also, the south connecting driveway between the new facility and the nursing home will be completed this fall.

The project is nearly 50% complete.  For more information contact the Public Relations office at 728-4347.

November is National Hospice and Palliative Care Month and hospices across the country are reaching out to raise awareness about important care issues for people coping with life-limiting illness.

"Last year more than 6,500 Nebraskans received care from a hospice provider," said Patricia Snyder, executive director of the state's hospice association, the Nebraska Hospice and Palliative Care Partnership (NHPCP).  "These professionals are experts at providing a kind of care that provides pain management, symptom control, psychosocial support, and spiritual care to patients and their families."

"As hospice professionals, our mission is to serve patients and families, and we're committed to making sure they receive the care they need and want.  National Hospice and Palliative Care Month provides an opportunity to raise awareness of the options of care available," Carol Schroeder, Director of Valley County Health System Hospice, added.

To help people learn more about hospice and palliative care, Valley County Health System Hospice will host a Holiday Happenings Open House on Tuesday, November 17th, from 2-4 pm in the Home Health/Hospice office at 400 S. 23rd Street in Ord.  For more information, call 308-728-3114.

Information about hospice, palliative care and advance care planning is available at nehospice.org.  Valley County Health System Hospice is a member of NHPCP.

Nebraska farmers and ranchers can save significant taxes by contributing commodities such as corn or cattle to the Valley County Health System Foundation.

When an agricultural producer transfers legal ownership of a commodity to a charitable organization before the commodity is sold, the producer does not have taxable income from the sale and thus minimizes taxes. Depending on the specific circumstances, the producer may realize savings on federal and state income tax and self-employment tax. The producer can still deduct the costs of production.

The Valley County Health System Foundation is an affiliated fund of the Nebraska Community Foundation which processes these gifts on our behalf. Since specific procedures must be followed to obtain the desired tax treatment of a gift of grain or livestock, producers should notify the Nebraska Community Foundation before making a gift of commodities.

Producers should consult with their accountant or tax advisor to determine whether a contribution of commodities is appropriate to their tax situation.

For assistance with a gift of commodities contact Becky Ries at (308) 728-3011.

ORD - Joanie McIlravy has been named Employee of the Quarter at Valley County Health System.

In a letter nominating McIlravy for the honor, a co-worker wrote, "I could use a million words to describe this wonderful lady.  Everything about her is positive.   Every time I see her I always have a smile on my face because she makes people happy by always smiling at them first.  They way she stays so optimistic and always stays on task while working is so awesome.  She goes above and beyond with the great respect she has for each and every individual she comes face to face with."

McIlravy is a Materials Management Technician in the Materials Management Department.  She has worked at VCHS since November 1, 1978.

During the first three weeks of October, the brick work on the new building was finished and stone work continued on the pillars of the drive up canopy and chapel.  Most of the remaining concrete work at the front of the building was finished, leaving only small miscellaneous areas of concrete to be poured.  The installation of the six roof top HVAC units occurred on October 19th.  Flashing and gutter work on the roof will begin as soon as the weather cooperates.

Sheet rocking, duct work, medical gas, fire sprinkler, electrical and plumbing rough-in work continued inside the building. Window framing was completed in the acute care department and the medical clinics.  Window installation will begin next week. 

The project remains ahead of schedule and will be completed by September 2010.  For more information contact the Public Relations office at 728-4347.

Lincoln - Broc Dahlsten, Maintenance Technician at Valley County Health System, was honored at the Nebraska Hospital Association's Caring Kind Luncheon on October 16th.  The luncheon, held during the NHA Annual Convention was held at the Cornhusker Marriott in Lincoln with more than 500 people in attendance.

The NHA has 85 member hospitals and each year these hospitals recognize their finest employees at this annual celebration of caring. Each year, Valley County Health System nominates their Employee of the Year for this honor. 

The 2009 Celebrate Being a Woman drew a crowd of more than 275 women to the Ord Veteran's Club on Tuesday, October 13, despite the icy road conditions.  The event is sponsored annually by Valley County Health System and is held for women of all ages.

There were a total of 40 vendors that participated in this year's event.  Kara Fischer, chair of the VCHS Board of Trustees welcomed everyone to the event.  Katie Davis and Deb Grubl-Fuhrer with the North Loup Scotia Community Theater acted out an entertaining skit for the crowd while they finished their meal.  Jane Meyer, Nurse Practitioner at VCHS gave the group an update on H1N1.  Amy Vore, registered dietician at VCHS, provided a fun game show about nutrition.

The evening ended with drawings for the raffle and door prizes.  The raffle items included 16 items donated by VCHS departments and employees. The raffle generated $842, which will be used to buy grocery gift certificates from to be used for Christmas dinners for area families in need.  The forty vendors also provided door prizes.

The Board of Trustees for Valley County Health System has approved a construction and renovation plan for Valley View Living Center, the intermediate long term care facility.  This plan includes renovation of all common areas and resident rooms including new furniture and amenities.  The plan also includes convenient and expanded dining services for residents.

In addition, the Board will consider a proposal at their next board meeting to pave the parking lot adjacent Valley View Living Center which currently is a compacted rock surface.

The project cost is estimated at $750,000 and will be funded largely in part by the generous gift of the late Angelene Koelling as well as VCHS operational savings.

According to Larry Schrage, CEO of VCHS, "The action taken by the Board solidifies our commitment to the community to offer quality, convenient, accessible healthcare to the residents of this area that are in need of long term nursing care.  These renovations will provide an at-home atmosphere for the residents and their families.  It is our intention to not only modernize the existing long term care facility but to expand our capacity upon completion of the new hospital project in 2010."

Since the Valley County Health System Auxiliary opened the Second Hand Rose Thrift Shop in 2005, their contributions to VCHS have totaled $51,636!

Contributions have been used to purchase new signage for the facility as well as provide equipment and furniture for multiple departments.    These contributions have included patio furniture, radio intercoms and a grill for the Valley View Living Center, signs for the hospital, Christmas decorations, fluidotherapy machine for Rehab department, NU Step Machine for cardiac rehab, lab equipment, refrigerator for Hospice room, community education provided by the Hospice Program, a meal delivery cart, patient recliners, GPS systems for transportation vans, television for wellness center, salt spreader for snow removal and opthalmoscopes and an otoscope for Ord Family Health Center, ice machine for Long Term Care, television for Long Term Care, CADD pump for Hospice, blood bank refrigerator for Lab, air splints for Emergency Room, total gym for Rehab Services, digital camera for Public Relations, catering dishes for Dietary, wireless headsets for Patient Financial Services, easy lift for Long Term Care and mobile blood pressure units with pulse oximeters for Medical Clinics.

The Auxiliary is an organization operated solely by volunteers.  The Second Hand Rose is open Tuesday through Friday each week from 9 am - 5 pm and Saturday 9 am - 3 pm.  It is located at 1537 M Street in Ord.

According to a survey of 3,307 adults, demand for psychiatric and mental health services nearly doubled in the first quarter of this year-from 4 percent in January to 7 percent in April.

Negative feelings are normal, appropriate, and even necessary during life's difficult moments, but when worry, anger, or stress prevent you from performing your daily activities or interacting with friends and loved ones, it might be time to seek help.

If you can't remember the last time you felt optimistic or hopeful, take advantage of Valley County C.A.R.E.'s National Depression Screening Day event on Tuesday, October 27, 2009.  As part of the program you will have the opportunity to complete a brief, written questionnaire; learn about the symptoms of depression, and how to help a friend or family member who may be at risk. You will also have the option of talking to a health care professional about any concerns you may have. Free screenings will be offered from 5 to 7 pm at the First United Methodist Church, 304 S. 16th in Ord.  All screenings will be anonymous.

Some facts about depression:

• Depressive disorders affect approximately 18.8 million American adults or about 9.5% of the U.S. population age 18 and older in a given year.
• Trauma, loss of a loved one, a difficult relationship, or any stressful situation may trigger a depressive episode. Subsequent depressive episodes may occur with or without an obvious trigger.
• Depressive disorders cost employers more than $51 billion per year in absenteeism and lost productivity, not including high medical and pharmaceutical bills.
• More than 80 percent of people with clinical depression can be successfully treated. With early recognition, intervention, and support, most individuals can lead productive lives.

Valley County C.A.R.E. (Community Advocates Reaching Everyone) is a newly formed group working together with area residents to identify current mental health/substance abuse needs and treatment in Valley County and initiate solutions to address these needs.  For more information, call 308-728-4312.

During the weeks of September 21 and 28, brick and stone work continued on the exterior of the building.  Interior stud work was finished in the administration, rehabilitation and dietary departments. The roof was completed and flashing and gutter work will begin soon.

Sheet rocking, duct work, medical gas, fire sprinkler, electrical and plumbing rough-in work continued inside the building.  The installation of the six roof top HVAC units will take place the week of October 5th.  Window installation will also begin within the next few weeks.  Paving at the front entrance to the building will take place this week.

The project remains ahead of schedule and will be completed by September 2010.  For more information contact the Public Relations office at 728-4347.

Tammi Knutson and Darcy Jeffres, paramedics at Valley County Health System, have successfully completed Critical Care Paramedic Certification (CCP-C) exam.  The exam is sponsored by the Board for Critical Care Transport Certification.

This certification process is focused on the knowledge level of accomplished, experienced paramedics currently associated with a Critical Care Transport Team. The questions on the exam are based in sound paramedicine.  The paramedic is expected to maintain a significant knowledge of current ACLS, PALS, NRP, & BTLS/PHTLS standards.

In addition, Tammi and Darcy must complete 36 hours of clinical experience in an Intensive Care Unit.  They are completing this requirement at the VCHS tertiary care partner, Good Samaritan Hospital in Kearney.

Valley County Health System takes a proactive approach in supporting a high standard for our paramedics.  Congratulations to Tammi and Darcy on this achievement!

Ord -  Valley County Health System announces that flu shot clinics in satellite communities have been suspended.  In a letter received from the supplier of the influenza vaccine, VCHS was notified that due to the challenge of producing both the seasonal influenza and H1N1 vaccines, the distribution of the seasonal influenza vaccine is being delayed while the H1N1 vaccine distribution takes priority.

Valley County Health System has only received 900 doses of the seasonal influenza vaccine and is expecting 600 more.  At this time, a vast majority of the 900 doses have been administered. 

Flu shots will still be available at any of the five Valley County Health System medical clinics in Ord, Burwell, North Loup, Ericson and Loup City, while supplies last.  No appointment is necessary.

The cost for the flu shot is $30.  For Medicare Part B patients, Medicare will be billed and must present their Medicare Part B card.

For information about the 2009 flu shot clinics call 308-728-3114.

At the annual meeting of the Valley County Health System Foundation Board Phyllis Edwards was elected as Chair.  Roger Lansman was elected Vice Chair, Danielle Proskocil as President and Diane Bundy as Vice President.  Other board members are Larry Schrage (ex-officio), Matt Alexander, Megan Cargill, Anne Clausen, Terry Cone, Bill Keyser, Steve Kusek, Adam Kunz, Kay Novotny, Dori Olson, Catina Psota, Mick Puckett, Marilys Sears, Curt Sikyta and Chuck Zangger.  Becky Ries, Foundation Administrator, serves as the Secretary/Treasurer of the organization.

Board members have a three year term.  The Valley County Health System Foundation is a non-profit, charitable organization. The Foundation's mission is to seek, receive and administer donations and gifts for the sole benefit of Valley County Health System.

Ord - The Hospice Department at Valley County Health System will be holding the third annual Celebration of Life memorial service on Sunday, November 1^st, from 2 pm to 4 pm, at the First Christian Church in Ord.

The third annual Celebration of Life will honor the memory of all loved ones who have passed away during the past year.  It will include a prayer, candle lighting ceremony and photo presentation.  The service will conclude with a balloon release and refreshments.

If you would like to include your loved one in the service, call Marilyn Winkelbauer at 308-728-4315.  To include your loved one in the photo presentation, bring a photo to the Hospice office at 400 South 23^rd Street or mail it to 217 Westridge Drive, Ord, NE 68862 by Wednesday, October 14^th.  All photos will be returned at the service or mailed at the sender's request.

Bob Reilly, PA-C at Valley County Health System attended training September 10 and 11 in South Sioux City, NE.  The training was titled 2009 Upper Midwest Pediatric Conference and was sponsored by Children's Hospital and Medical Center in Omaha.  Topics included orthopedics, autism, pneumococcal disease and antibiotic resistance, oncology, obesity, diabetes, ADHD, neurosurgery and pediatric emergencies and transports.

For more information, or to schedule an appointment with Reilly, call the Ord Family Health Center at 308-728-3606.

ORD- The Valley County Health System Child Development Committee is sponsoring preschool screenings for language, motor and cognitive skills as well as vision and hearing. 

These screenings are for children ages 3-5 and are offered at no cost.  The screenings will be held on Saturday, October 17 from 9 am to 3 pm at the VCHS Education Center, 1617 M Street, in Ord.   

The mission of the VCHS Child Development Committee is to make a positive difference in the lives of young children in Valley County by providing education to parents about their child's growth and development.

To schedule a screening appointment, contact Becky Ries at 308-728-3011. 

During the weeks of September 7 and 14, the brick masons completed work on the exterior of the medical clinic, specialty clinic and radiology departments.  Stone work began on the exterior walls of the chapel.  Interior stud work was finished in the medical clinic, specialty clinic and radiology departments.  The roof was completed above all departments with the exception of rehabilitation services, dietary and administration.  The roof installation above these areas will begin next week.

Duct work, medical gas, fire sprinkler electrical and plumbing rough-in work continued inside the building.  Sheetrock and taping was completed in the maintenance department.  Painting of that department will begin shortly so that equipment pads will be able to be poured.  

Exterior windows and doors have been measured up and will be installed this fall.  The skylights will be installed this week.  The six roof top HVAC units will be delivered this week.  Paving at the front entrance to the building will take place this week.

The project remains ahead of schedule and will be completed by September 2010.  For more information contact the Public Relations office at 728-4347.

ORD- Valley County Health System recently unveiled a new website.  The new site was developed to provide easier navigation for the user to locate the services offered by the health system.  It can be viewed at www.valleycountyhealthsystem.org.  

The new site features the latest news releases and news archives from the facility as well as a construction zone for information about the new building project.  There is also an RSS feed on the news page from WebMD as well as links to newsletters and other publications.  The home page features a photo gallery, testimonials, calendar and event registration.  Anyone curious in finding what jobs are currently available can click on the Join Our Team link for a complete listing and online application form.

Along the top of the home page there are drop down menus containing information about medical services, community services, and general information for patients and visitors.  There is also an About Us drop down with a message from the CEO and information about the Board of Trustees, Medical Staff, facilities, Foundation, history and employee recognition.

For more information contact Public Relations at 308-728-4347.

Ord - Women of all ages are invited to attend Valley County Health System's annual Celebrate Being a Woman. It will be held on Tuesday, October 13, 2009 at 5:30 pm at the Ord Veteran's Club.  The event includes a meal, gifts, exhibits, speakers, raffle and door prizes. Last year's event drew more than 300 women and 34 exhibitors!

The registration deadline is Thursday, October 8^th and space is limited.  Click here to register or call 308-728-4347.

ORD-Valley County Health System's Durable Home Medical Equipment department has achieved the Award of Accreditation from the Healthcare Quality Association on Accreditation, based in Waterloo, Iowa. This award is achieved only when home medical equipment companies demonstrate a high level of quality practices in their business operations and patient care techniques.  VCHS earned the three-year accreditation after completing a comprehensive application that focuses on patient care, financial stability, and a commitment to quality operational practices and procedures. Accreditation by the Healthcare Quality Association on Accreditation assures Medicare and other payers that the highest levels of quality are practiced within all areas of the company. 

"We sought accreditation by the Healthcare Quality Association on Accreditation to demonstrate that our company is committed to providing excellent patient care and safety in a financially solvent environment," says Carol Schroeder, Director of Home Health, Hospice and DME. "This award also reinforces that our commitment to quality is ongoing."

Founded in 2005, the Healthcare Quality Association on Accreditation seeks to continuously set standards of the highest quality on behalf of the durable medical equipment industry and business owners.

ORD - A collaboration between the Ord Volunteer Fire Department, Cargill AgHorizons, Valley County Sheriff's Department, City of Ord Police Department and Valley County Health System resulted in a successful disaster drill on Thursday, September 10, 2009.

In the drill, the Ord Volunteer Fire Department was called into action to Cargill in Ord around 5 pm.  There were four injuries of Cargill employees as a result of a grain bin explosion.  The department triaged the injuries, rescued all four victims from the scene of the accident and transported them via ambulance to Valley County Health System Emergency Department where they were treated and released.  The VCHS paramedics intercepted at the scene and assisted in the transport of the patients to the emergency department.

Ord Fire Chief Larry Copp stated, "This drill was intended to prepare our firemen as well as other emergency personnel in the event a real disaster does happen in the future.  I would like to thank the employees at Cargill, local law enforcement and hospital providers, paramedics, nurses and other staff for their efforts with the drill." 

During the weeks of August 24 and 31, the roofers completed half of the roof installation.  In the next few weeks they will be finishing the roof and installing the flashing along the edges.  The six roof top HVAC units should be delivered within the next few weeks for installation.

The erection of the interior stud walls continued into the imaging and health information departments.  Miscellaneous paving was completed around the perimeter of the building and in the ambulance garage.  The brick masons continue work on the exterior of the building and should finish their work in the next month. Stone work will begin next week on the drive up canopy. 

Duct work, electrical and plumbing rough-in work continued inside the building.  Sheetrock was started in the maintenance, materials management, surgery and acute care departments. Exterior windows and doors will be installed yet this fall.

The project remains two weeks ahead of schedule and will be completed by September 2010.  For more information contact the Public Relations office at 728-4347.

Ord - Valley County Health System will once again be offering flu shot clinics in thirteen area communities.  This year the CDC is recommending that the seasonal flu vaccine be given early.  Therefore, the clinics begin September 16 and continue through November 13 and are available to everyone.

The communities in which the flu shot clinics will be held are Ansley, Arcadia, Ashton, Burwell, Comstock, Dannebrog, Litchfield, Loup City, North Loup, Ord, Sargent, Scotia and St. Paul.  Flu shots are also available at Valley County Health System's medical clinics in Ord, Burwell, Ericson, Loup City and North Loup.  No appointment is necessary.

The cost for the flu shot is $30.  For Medicare Part B patients, Medicare will be billed and must present their Medicare Part B card.  For those covered by Medicare Advantage, Railroad Medicare and private insurance, their insurance company will be billed only if they receive the vaccination at one Valley County Health System's five medical clinic locations.  Medicaid patients and children ages 19 and under must receive flu shot at any of the five VCHS medical clinic locations.

The seasonal flu shot will not protect you against the H1N1 strain of influenza.  The CDC is currently working on a vaccine for H1N1.

For information regarding the dates and locations of the 2009 flu shot clinics call
308-728-3114 or visit the Community Services page at valleycountyhealthsystem.org

Broc Dahlsten, Maintenance Technician has been named employee of the year at Valley County Health System. Broc was selected as Employee of the Quarter at Valley County Health System in January 2009 by fellow employees. He received the Employee of the Year award from among three other qualified candidates who were also named Employees of the Quarter during the year. Broc was also nominated for the Nebraska Hospital Association’s Caring Kind Award. He will be attending the Caring Kind Luncheon in Lincoln on October 16th.

When Dahlsten was named Employee of the Quarter in January, one of his co-workers had this to say about him, “Broc always asks if there is something he can do. He can be counted on, rain or shine.”

“Broc always has a smile on his face. He is soft-spoken as not to disrupt anyone and always says “thank you” – when it us who should be thanking him! He never complains, even when he is asked to wait because we are busy. He is one of the kindest people and we are blessed to have him visit our department daily.” another co-worker stated.

Valley County Health System has donated $1,000 to the City of Ord for the use of the swimming pool for their water aerobics class held this summer. Sheri Schrage, Certified Health Fitness Instructor through the American College of Sports Medicine, taught the class. There were a total of 55 people who participated in the class.

Classes this Fall Ord – Valley County Health System will be offering three wellness classes this fall for the public. These classes will be held September 14 through November 24.

A Low Impact Aerobics & Toning class will be taught by Sheri Schrage, a Certified
Health Fitness Instructor through the American College of Sports Medicine. This class will offer continuous rhythmic activity in which at least one foot contacts the floor at all times. The class will be held from 5:30 – 6:30 pm Monday, Tuesday and Thursday at the VCHS Education Center in downtown Ord.

Sheri will also instruct a Movement Improvement Tai Chi class. Tai Chi is an exercise to enhance balance, flexibility, and wellbeing taught at a pace everyone can follow. It will be offered from 6:45 to 7:45 pm Monday, Tuesday and Thursday at the VCHS Education Center.

A Core Conditioning and Toning class will be taught by Johnathan Tomjack, Certified Personal Trainer/Advanced Program Design Specialist. This class will feature dynamic balance, strengthening and improved range of motion through weight training and use of an exercise ball. The class will be held Monday, Wednesday and Friday mornings at St. Mary’s Gym from 6:00 am to 6:45 am.

Registration is $40.00. This fee allows participants to attend any or all classes of their choosing. To register for any or all of the classes call Johnathan at 728-4257.

Week of August 17

During the weeks of August 10th and 17th, the erection of the interior stud walls was nearly completed in the acute care, materials management and mechanical departments.

The roofer continued installation of the roof and interior stud walls. The patient parking lot to the north of the building was paved. The loading dock and ramp was also paved as well as the rest of the south parking lot. Brick laying continues on the exterior of the building. The patient parking lot will be poured this week and the masons will continue the brick work on the outside of the building. Duct work and electrical rough-in work continued.

The project remains two weeks ahead of schedule and will be completed by September 2010. For more information about the project, contact the Public Relations office at 728-4347.

Becky Ries, Valley County Health System Foundation Administrator, is pleased to announce that the 2009 Golf Tournament netted a profit of $23,000. Of this amount, $5,000 will be placed in the Foundation endowment fund and the other $18,000 will be designated for use in the area(s) of the greatest need within Valley County Health System. Becky would also like to thank everyone who participated to make this year’s tournament such a success.

Be sure to mark your calendars for the 12th Annual Valley County Health System Foundation Golf Tournament & Auction scheduled for Friday, July 2, 2010.

The Valley County Health System Foundation is a non-profit, charitable organization. The Foundation’s mission is to seek, receive and administer donations and gifts for the sole benefit of Valley County Health System. The Foundation's number one priority is enhancing and sustaining high-quality healthcare in Central Nebraska.

Christina Pollard has been promoted to the position of Clinic Coordinator at Valley County Health System. She will be responsible for coordination of the medical clinic activities and coordination with other departments.

Christina has been an employee of Valley County Health System for 9 months.
Currently, Christina is Special Projects Coordinator for the facility. She and her husband, Caleb, live in Ord and have two children; Calen, 5 and Elijah, 2.

Week of August 3

During the weeks of July 27th and August 3rd, the brick masons worked on the acute care department. Work continued on the interior electrical and plumbing work. The erection of the interior stud walls has been completed in the acute care department and mechanical department. The black weatherproofing on the exterior of the building was finished. The roofer will begin work this week and interior stud walls will continue to be erected. The patient parking lot will be poured this week and the masons will continue the brick work on the outside of the building.

The project remains a few weeks ahead of schedule and will be completed by September 2010. For more information about the project, contact the Public Relations office at 728-4347.

Carollee Krahulik has been named Employee of the Quarter at Valley County Health System.

In a letter nominating Krahulik for the honor, a co-worker wrote that “Carollee is very polite and considerate with patients no matter what is going on in her life. She never gets rushed or impatient.” Another co-worker wrote “Carollee is a wonderful, compassionate and kind person.”

Krahulik is a Receptionist/Transcriptionist at the Loup City Family Health Center. She has worked at VCHS since August 2006.

Roy Farrens of Elyria has been hired as the Manager of Nutritional Services at Valley County Health System. He will be responsible for menu creation and overseeing meal preparation for the nursing home and acute wing as well as the cafeteria and on-site catering.

Roy is a Certified Executive Chef through the American Culinary Federation and has more than 25 years of experience in food management. He is married to Lisa. Together they own Elyria Canning Company and Elyria Gardens. Roy will begin working for Valley County Health System on August 3.

Week of July 20

During the weeks of July 13th and 20th, substantial progress on the hospital project was made. The ambulance garage was bricked as well as much of the surgery and maintenance departments. The front entry canopy frame was erected. Work has begun on the interior electrical and plumbing work. The erection of the interior stud walls has begun and will continue for several weeks.

The exterior wall studs and insulation sheeting will be completed this week. The roofer will be on site to begin and within a week the building should be protected from rain water leaking through the roof. Wood blocking around the exterior windows has begun and the aluminum frames will be ordered soon. The patient and visitor parking lot on the north side of the building will be graded and poured within the next few weeks.

The project is a few weeks ahead of schedule and will be completed by September 2010. For more information about the project, contact the Public Relations office at 728-4347.

Stacey Klimek of Burwell has been hired as the Operating Room Supervisor at Valley County Health System. She will be responsible for all operating room processes, including patient care from pre-op to post-op, scheduling and training of operating room personnel; and maintaining surgical instrumentation and equipment. Stacey is a registered nurse and has 17 years of acute care and operating room experience. She is married to Bill Klimek, owner of Don’s Auto Parts in Burwell. Stacey has four children and one grandchild. She will begin working for Valley County Health System on August 3.

Week of July 6

During the weeks of June 29th and July 6th, visible progress on the project was made. The employee parking lot was finished. Continuation of 27th Street to the employee parking lot at the south of the building was poured. The concrete floor was poured in acute care, specialty clinic, medical clinic, surgery, maintenance and materials management departments. Work began on sheeting of the exterior stud walls and roof decking continued. Work continues to be done on the exterior stud walls and interior stud framing will begin in the next few weeks.

In the near future, the front entry canopy will be erected. The exterior sheeting will soon be sprayed so that the brick layers can be started. The equipment and trailers along the highway will be moved to the employee parking lot so that the patient parking lot can be graded and poured.

The project is on schedule for completion in September 2010. For more information about the project, contact the Public Relations office at 728-4347.

4th and Final Issue Sold

On May 13, 2008 Valley County voters gave their approval to a $21.265 million dollar general obligation bond issue, proceeds to be applied toward the construction of a new hospital. Valley County Health System announced that on Thursday, June 25, 2009, the fourth and final issuance realized $6.035 million dollars in bond sales. The sales rate for this issue was 4.89%, which is favorable to original estimates.

Marc Munford, Assistant Vice President with Ameritas Investment Corporation, appeared before the Valley County Board of Supervisors on June 9 to announce the presale of the additional $6.035 million in bonds. The combined sales volume, with the $7.22 million sold in August, the $2.68 million sold in October and the $5.33 million in January now totals the full $21,265,000 approved by voters in 2008. This issue was sold once again to Nebraska area banks and investors. The aggregate sales rate for all bonds sold is 4.97%, which is still positive to original estimates.

The sequential sale of the four issues over a one year period of time will save the hospital more than $400,000 in interest and financing costs during the period of construction, compared to the original estimates.

The project is still on schedule for completion in September 2010. For more information contact the Public Relations office at 308-728-4347.

Week of June 22

During the week of June 22nd, progress on the project was substantial. At the June VCHS Board meeting, TSP reported that 23% of the exterior portion of the project was complete. During the past week the front lobby, rehabilitation services and administration areas were framed in and the exterior stud walls were erected in several areas of the building. The main gas line was trenched into the new building and plumbing work continues to be completed throughout the building. The employee parking lot to the south of the building was graded and poured. Work will soon begin on the front drive up canopy, sheeting of the exterior stud walls and pouring the floors in the building. Despite the recent rains, the project is still on schedule for completion in September 2010.

For more information about the project, contact the Public Relations
office at 728-4347.

Week of June 8

During the week of June 8th, progress on the project was delayed due to the rainy weather. However, during the past week the lower floor for the therapy pool was poured and the parapet walls have been started. The block for the ambulance garage has been finished. The grading for the entry to the facility off of 27th Street is complete and the concrete will be poured once the rain stops. The final delivery of structural steel will be made during the week of June 15th. Work is also continuing on the installation of main utility service lines to the building.

The estimated completion date of the project is September 2010. For more information about the project, contact the Public Relations office at 728-4347.

Week of May 25

In an effort to keep area residents informed about the progress of the new Valley County Health System construction project, periodic updates and photos will be submitted to the media. This is the first of those updates.

During the week of May 25th noticeable progress was made on the project. The
foundation walls are near completion and the final work on the therapy pool foundation in Rehabilitation Services is underway. The underground plumbing lines continued to be installed and the masons began blocking the ambulance garage on the west side of the building. The delivery of the remainder of the steel and bar joists was completed and erection of the steel columns and joists continued. Work is also continuing on the installation of main utility service lines to the building.

The estimated completion date of the project is September 2010. For more information about the project, contact the Public Relations office at 728-4347.

The work of grieving is one of the hardest tasks an individual has to do. There is no adequate preparation for the loneliness and emptiness that must be confronted when we finally come to the realization that we will never again in this life see that one who is so precious to us. Grief is a necessary and natural process after a significant loss.

In learning to resolve grief we have to understand and work through difficult emotions. This may involve many things. It often helps just to talk with someone who can listen patiently and understandingly. A grief support group is a safe place to be able to talk about your grief. It’s an opportunity to find your own answers amid the support from others that are also experiencing the loss of a loved one. It makes us feel that we are not along – that the feelings and reactions we are experiencing are not so strange and isolating.

Valley County Hospice is sponsoring a Grief Support class for adults who have lost a loved one. These classes are free of charge and will meet six consecutive Tuesdays beginning June 16th and ending July 21st. The classes will be held at the Valley County Health System Home Health office at 400 S. 23rd Street in the lower level from 7 p.m. to 8:30 p.m. If you are interested in learning more about this group please contact Marilyn Winkelbauer at 308-728-4315.

Jane Meyer, Advanced Practice Registered Nurse (APRN), will join the VCHS medical staff on June 15. She will join other mid-level practitioners (PA-C’s) and will be seeing patients at Ord Family Health Center. Jane received her Master of Science in Nursing in May 2008 and then earned her APRN license. Most recently she was employed at Internal Medicine Associates in North Platte. She is proficient in the assessment, diagnosis, treatment, and management of common acute and chronic health conditions across the lifespan. Jane also has experience working in the emergency department and in critical access hospitals.

A nurse practitioner is a registered nurse who has completed advanced education and training in specialty areas and diagnosis and management of most common disorders. They can diagnose, treat and monitor most illnesses, injuries, infections and chronic diseases. Nurse practitioners can also take medical histories; perform physicals; order, interpret and report lab results, X-rays and EKGs and much more.

Jane and her husband, Brian, will move to Ord with their three sons: Kelen, 6; Hunter, 5; and Colt, 22 months.

A welcome reception for Jane and business after hours has been scheduled for Wednesday, June 24th from 5-6:30 pm at Ord Family Health Center.

To schedule an appointment with Jane, call Ord Family Health Center at (308) 728-3606 or 800-365-5247.

Valley County Health System will be offering a water aerobics class for the public through June and July. This class will be a total body workout that is easy on joints. Sheri Schrage, Certified Health Fitness Instructor through the American College of Sports Medicine, will teach this class. The class will be held on Monday, Tuesday and Thursday evenings beginning June 1 and ending July 30. Class time will be from 5:30 to 6:30 pm at the Ord Swimming Pool. Each participant will need to provide their own water noodle. Registration for this class is $35 for both months or $20 for one month. To register, call 728-4213.

At a special board meeting on March 26, 2009, the Valley County Health System (VCHS) Board of Trustees approved the Guaranteed Maximum Price (GMP) proposal from the Design/Builder, TSP, Inc. the firm providing planning, design and construction services for the project. This action authorized the award of the final 17 bid packages for the construction of the new 68,600 SF replacement hospital. Over 90 contractors vied for the 17 contracts and the competition resulted in very favorable bids which will keep the project well within budget. Last fall contracts had been awarded for site work, footing and foundation work and structural steel with the major earthwork being completed before winter set in. At this time the project is ahead of schedule with the footing and foundation work nearly complete and the steel structure being erected. The project is scheduled for completion by October 1, 2010.

For more information, contact the VCHS public relations office at 308-728-4347.

The 11th Annual Valley County Health System Foundation Golf Tournament will be held on Friday, July 3, 2009 at the Ord Golf Course. The tournament is a 4-person scramble and will begin at 8 am. Following the tournament an auction, which is open to the public, will be held at the Ord Veteran’s Club at approximately 4 pm.

The entry fee is $400 per team and includes green fees, lunch on the Golf Course, and hors d’oeuvres at the auction following the tournament at the Ord Veteran’s Club. Entries need to be submitted no later than Friday, June 19th and only the first 27 teams will be accepted. Registrations are available online at www.valleycountyhospital.org or at the Foundation office located at 400 South 23rd Street.

Proceeds from the 2009 tournament will benefit Valley County Health System Foundation in supporting the mission of Valley County Health System, with a total of $5,000 going to the endowment fund in order to provide future support of the care and services offered by VCHS.

The Valley County Health System Foundation is a non-profit, charitable organization. The Foundation’s mission is to seek, receive and administer donations and gifts for the sole benefit of Valley County Health System. The Foundation's number one priority is enhancing and sustaining high-quality healthcare in Central Nebraska.

For more information, visit www.valleycountyhospital.org or contact Becky Ries at 308-728-3011 or at foundation@valleycountyhospital.org.

Jennifer Bengston, MD and Jeff Breitkreutz, PA-C at Valley County Health System recently attended Advanced Trauma Life Support training. This course focused on the complete assessment of the trauma patient and is required to maintain certification as a Basic Level Trauma Center.

Objectives for the course included demonstration of concepts and principles of primary and secondary patient assessment; establishment of management priorities in a trauma situation; initiation of primary and secondary management necessary within the first hour of emergency care for acute life-threatening emergencies; demonstration of skills used in the initial assessment and management of patients with multiple injuries and preparation of the trauma patient for transfer.

For more information, or to schedule an appointment with Dr. Bengston of Jeff Breitkreutz, call the Ord Family Health Center at 308-728-3606.

Deb Jeffres has been named Employee of the Quarter at Valley County Health System.

In a letter nominating Jeffres for the honor, a co-worker wrote that “Deb is more than willing to help anyone at any time. Whenever you need her she is there with a smile on her face and a big hearty laugh. Deb knows most patients and is therefore able to distract and reassure patients and their families.”

Jeffres is a Registered Nurse in the Specialty Clinic. She has worked at VCHS since October 1998.

Area optometrists and Valley County Health System welcome Dr. Julie Janky to the Ord community. Dr. Janky (second from right) is pictured with Drs. Mindy Dorsey, Brandon Blair and Roger McCartney. Also pictured is Hospital CEO, Larry Schrage. Dr. Janky, a board certified ophthalmologist will see patients beginning May 14th. Schrage said "We are very pleased that total eye care service can be enhanced in Ord and the surrounding region through this referral network of quality professional providers which will offer convenient and accessible surgical eyecare to all our area residents."

The annual Department of Health and Human Services (DHHS) survey was completed at Valley View Living Center on April 14, 2009. The surveyors spent several days inspecting patient care standards, records, reporting, nutritional, and regulatory, compliance criteria and other areas.

During the nursing home inspection, the State looked at many aspects of quality. The inspection team observed resident care processes, staff/resident interaction, dietary and environment. The surveyors interviewed a sample of residents and family members about their life within the nursing home, as well as caregivers and administrative staff.

In their exit interview, the state surveyors were very complimentary of the entire continuum of care given to our residents. Valley View Living Center’s evaluation was completed and continues to meet all standards of DHHS.

Valley View Living Center is committed to providing our residents with the highest quality of life by encouraging independence while providing dignity and respect in a caring atmosphere.

Dale Karre, volunteer for Valley County Hospice, was honored as Ord’s outstanding volunteer at the Nebraska Hospice and Palliative Care Partnership's (NHPCP) annual awards banquet on April 8th in Lincoln. The banquet was part of the 2009 conference, “Living a Good Life…at the End of Life.” Each Hospice program in the state can nominate an outstanding volunteer to be recognized and honored at the banquet.

Dale and his late wife, Shirley, began as Hospice volunteers in Ord when it was still a satellite program of Good Samaritan Hospice. Dale has continued volunteering with Valley County’s Hospice program, which began in the fall of 2006. Dale brings compassion, caring and a special understanding to the Hospice patients and their families.

Picture: NHPCP’s Education and Outreach Worker, Jennifer Eurek (left) and NHPCP
Executive Director, Pat Snyder (right) present Dale Karre with a certificate honoring him as Valley County Hospice’s outstanding volunteer.

Valley County Health System Home Health completed a federal Medicare Recertification survey on March 20th. The surveyor spent four days reviewing patient and employee files and visiting patients’ homes with nurses, aides, and physical and occupational therapists.

The final survey report showed VCHS Home Health to be deficiency free and indicated compliance with the Medicare Conditions of Participation for Home Health Agencies. Based on the reviews, the survey summary indicated that VCHS Home Health provides care that promotes a high potential for reaching the highest attainable levels of functioning for its patients. There was no evidence of need for a follow-up.

Valley County Health System Home Health is committed to providing the highest quality home health care services possible to an eight county area including Custer, Garfield, Greeley, Howard, Loup, Sherman, Valley and Wheeler counties.

The main attraction for Valley County Health System’s 1st Annual Health Fair will be blood chemistries, blood pressure checks and a free will donation breakfast. The Health Fair will focus on health education and the promotion of wellness within our service area. In addition, health related vendors will have displays available to provide educational information to those who attend.

The Health Fair will be held on Wednesday, June 17, 2009 from 6-10 am at St. Mary’s Gym in Ord.

The lab tests offered during the Health Fair are a Health Screen and PSA test.
Health Screen:

• Comprehensive Metabolic Panel: Kidney & Liver Function, Electrolytes
• Complete Blood Count
• Thyroid: TSH
• Cholesterol & Triglycerides

PSA: Prostate cancer screening recommended for males over the age of 50.

A fee of $35 for the Health Screen and $15 for the PSA will be charged to cover the cost of supplies for each person screened. Those who participate in the blood chemistry draw will be mailed their results and will be responsible for contacting their medical provider if they have values outside the normal range.

Fasting is necessary prior to the blood chemistry draw, including consumption of caffeine or decaf coffee. A free will donation breakfast will be served so you may eat after your blood is drawn.

Pre-registration is available by going online to valleycountyhospital.org or by picking up a preregistration form at the hospital admissions desk, Ord Family Health Center, or at any of the banks in Ord, Arcadia or North Loup. Pre-registration is recommended for anyone wishing to have a blood chemistry drawn.

For more information, contact the Public Relations office at 308-728-4347.

The main attraction for Valley County Health System’s 1st Annual Health Fair will be blood chemistries, blood pressure checks and a free will donation breakfast. The Health Fair will focus on health education and the promotion of wellness within our service area. In addition, health related vendors will have displays available to provide educational information to those who attend.

The Health Fair will be held on Wednesday, June 17, 2009 from 6-10 am at St. Mary’s Gym in Ord.

The lab tests offered during the Health Fair are a Health Screen and PSA test.
Health Screen:

• Comprehensive Metabolic Panel: Kidney & Liver Function, Electrolytes
• Complete Blood Count
• Thyroid: TSH
• Cholesterol & Triglycerides

PSA: Prostate cancer screening recommended for males over the age of 50.

A fee of $35 for the Health Screen and $15 for the PSA will be charged to cover the cost of supplies for each person screened. Those who participate in the blood chemistry draw will be mailed their results and will be responsible for contacting their medical provider if they have values outside the normal range.

Fasting is necessary prior to the blood chemistry draw, including consumption of caffeine or decaf coffee. A free will donation breakfast will be served so you may eat after your blood is drawn.

Pre-registration is available by going online to valleycountyhospital.org or by picking up a preregistration form at the hospital admissions desk, Ord Family Health Center, or at any of the banks in Ord, Arcadia or North Loup. Pre-registration is recommended for anyone wishing to have a blood chemistry drawn.

For more information, contact the Public Relations office at 308-728-4347.

Bond Sales for New Hospital Going According to Plan – 3rd Issue Sold

On May 13th Valley County voters gave their approval to a $21.265 million dollar general obligation bond issue, proceeds to be applied toward the construction of a new hospital. Valley County Health System announced that on Wednesday, January 21, the third of several issuances realized $5.33 million dollars in bond sales. The sales rate for this issue was 4.86%, which is favorable to original estimates.

Marc Munford, Assistant Vice President with Ameritas Investment Corporation,
appeared before the Valley County Board of Supervisors on January 13 to announce the presale of the additional $5.33 million in bonds. The combined sales volume, with the $7.22 million sold in August and the $2.68 million sold in October, now totals $15,230,000. This issue was sold once again to Nebraska area banks and investors. The aggregate sales rate for all bonds sold is 5.07%, which is still positive to original estimates.

Conditions of the bond sale to build the new replacement hospital require that only a maximum of $10 million dollars can be sold each calendar year in order to stay bank qualified. The $6,035,000 balance of the bonds remaining to be issued will be marketed either partially in 2009 and 2010 or completely in 2010, depending on market conditions.