Touching Lives - Spring 2023

In this issue of Touching Lives, meet our new President & CEO, learn more about the family of care at GlenFields, and hear about our upcoming plans for the Glencoe Days Fun Run and Walk.

I’m thrilled to be joining the team and community at Glencoe Regional Health.

During my interview process, I had the opportunity to meet with staff and observe some of the culture at the organization – I was impressed by the passion this group of people has for serving their community. There’s a commitment to high-quality, safe, and accessible care that I share, and I’m looking forward to helping this team in serving its mission.

As I look forward at the opportunities for GRH on the horizon, I reflect on something a mentor once told me: “Do the right thing, at the right time, for the right reason.”

To do the right thing, you take action based on the values you hold. You know you’re making the right decisions when they align with your values – and I think GRH’s values are lined up right where they need to be to do the right thing, at the right time, for the right reasons.

Our key values at GRH spell out exactly what this organization does: CARES.

C – Compassion. It’s important to not only be compassionate, but to provide compassionate care. All people coming into our organization deserve compassion.

A – Authenticity. This value is just being yourself. We should always be ourselves, and respect others for being themselves.

R – Respect. We show respect to those we serve by considering the dignity of all on our campus.

E – Excellence. This value is about quality, including personal and professional development. To demonstrate excellence is to continue moving forward and adapting to changes happening around you.

S – Safety. Providing an environment where people feel safe and can trust the professionals caring for them is key to the success of a patient’s outcomes and our ability to care for them. These values that GRH upholds are pivotal to our ability to serve our community, and to provide a supportive environment for the people who make up our team. I look forward to guiding GRH into the future, driven by these important values so that we can continue to do the right thing, at the right time, for the right reasons.

Sincerely,

Care & Services

MEDICAL SERVICES

Acute Care

Allergy Medicine

Anticoagulation Clinic

Audiology

Birth Center

Cardiac Rehabilitation

Cardiology

Diabetic Care & Education

Ear, Nose, & Throat

Emergency Department

Family Medicine

Hematology

Hospitalists

Infusion Services

Internal Medicine

Laboratory

Medical Imaging

Mental Health

Midwife

Nephrology

Neurology

OB/GYN

Occupational Therapy

Oncology

Orthopedics

Pain Management

Pediatrics

Physical Therapy

Podiatry

Preventive Health

Pulmonology

Respiratory Therapy

Sleep Medicine

Speech-Language Therapy

Surgery

Transitional Care

Urgent Care

Urology

Wound Care

SKILLED NURSING CARE

GlenFields Living with Care

SENIOR LIVING

Ben Davis, MBA, FACHE, RHCEOC President & CEO

Orchard Estates

JOIN A CULTURE THAT CARES!

Are you seeking a rewarding career where the work you do makes a difference? We want to meet you!

See page 15 for more information. Check out our current job openings: grhsonline.org/careers

Stay Connected

Get to know GRH! Follow us on social media and learn more about our organization. grhsonline.org/connect

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MEET HALEY JAEGER, PA-C

Our new internal medicine provider sees patients ages 18 years and older for a variety of medical concerns.

13

MEET

Our new family medicine provider sees patients in our clinic, residents at GlenFields, and patients in our hospital.

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Our new provider sees patients in our clinic, Urgent Care, and hospital settings. 16

FUN

Join us for another year of celebrating health and wellness!

Thank you

FOR MORE THAN 30 YEARS OF SERVICE, PATTY HENDERSON!

On May 4, the town center at GlenFields was abuzz – not with the usual chatter and conversation, but with heartfelt thank you’s and goodbyes. After over 30 years with Glencoe Regional Health, Patty Henderson, MBA, BSN, celebrated her retirement from her role as President & CEO with staff.

“I have been honored and humbled to work with this group of committed, resilient, and compassionate people.” Patty said. “I am very proud of the impact our organization makes in our community – each person has such a powerful hand in caring for the needs of our patients, residents, and tenants. I could not be more grateful to have had the opportunity to work in service alongside these amazing people.”

as an RN in a variety of departments around the organization, before becoming the Director of Social Services and Chief Nursing Officer. She was appointed Interim President & CEO in September 2019 until she officially became became President & CEO in January 2020.

An Unparalleled Impact

Patty has lent a compassionate hand to the organization, guiding it through historic, unprecedented challenges with a grace and sense of care that was crucial to the organization’s survival and success. Shortly after she began serving as President & CEO, we officially stood up our Incident Command in March 2020 to work together in the fight against COVID-19.

The pandemic offered intense challenges across the globe, and strong leadership teams were crucial to the survival and success of healthcare organizations and the communities they serve.

“The team at GRH has amazed me –their incredible tenacity and ability to pivot while faced with pressures and challenges brought forth by COVID-19 are incomparable,” said Patty. “Every decision was made with the heart and health of our community in mind – I’m so very proud of each member of our team.”

The feeling has been mutual – during her tenure, Patty kept a stack of kind notes in her desk from GRH staff and community members, thanking her for her leadership throughout the challenges of the pandemic.

“While the COVID-19 pandemic has certainly challenged everyone, Patty served our community, patients, residents, tenants, and employees with the grace and compassion that was critically needed,” said GRH Board Chair Scott Kuehn. “We are the healthcare organization we are today because of the strong leaders at our helm.”

Expansion of Care

Patty’s time at GRH hasn’t only been spent in helping the organization navigate the pandemic. By working with the staff and leadership at GRH, positive change has transpired across the organization. New service lines such as on-site mental health care, a skin clinic, and pain management services have been important for our community members, in addition to expansions of allergy and sleep medicine, gastroesophageal reflux care, and orthopedic care.

New opportunities have woven themselves across our campus, like the addition of Prairie Trail, GRH’s new walking path, created with the support of the Glencoe Regional Health Foundation. Community partnerships with local organizations such as Glencoe in Motion, 2B CONTINUED, and Integrations Recovery have flourished.

“Being able to work alongside the dedicated team at GRH has been a privilege of my life,” said Patty. “GRH is an amazing place to work – when I hear the collegiality and passion our team has for this organization, I’m blown away. It’s a beautiful thing to see the care and compassion our staff and leaders have for this community.”

Next Chapter

Patty’s retirement comes in tandem with her husband, Curt, who has also decided to retire. The duo is excited to spend time with their children, grandchildren, and local loved ones. Patty also plans to spend time traveling and learning how to quilt.

“We’re looking forward to this next chapter of our lives, which we hope to fill with many afternoons spoiling our grandchildren, traveling to new destinations, and caring for our loved ones nearby,” Patty said.

Patty has spent time in her final days at GRH speaking with incoming President and CEO, Ben Davis, MBA, FACHE, RHCEOC, to share her insights from her years of experience at GRH (Meet Ben on page 4).

“I am certain that Ben will find Glencoe Regional Health to be just as much of a wonderful, fulfilling place to serve as I have,” said Patty. “The people who comprise this organization are a special, incredible group of people filled with passion and heart for their community. I will miss each and every one of them.”

“THE TEAM AT GRH HAS AMAZED ME – THEIR INCREDIBLE TENACITY AND ABILITY TO PIVOT WHILE FACED WITH PRESSURES AND CHALLENGES BROUGHT FORTH BY COVID-19 ARE INCOMPARABLE,” SAID PATTY.

Patty and her husband, Curt, look forward to traveling during their retirement.

Leading The Way Forward

New President & CEO Ben Davis, MBA, FACHE, RHCEOC, hails from Menahga, Minnesota, and is excited to return to his home state after serving as President & CEO of a regional health center in Iowa for the last six years.

With over 15 years of experience, Ben Davis, MBA, FACHE, RHCEOC, is no stranger to the world of healthcare. Fueled by his desire to help others, Ben’s career has focused on improving patient outcomes, strengthening supportive work environments for medical professionals, and bolstering community outreach initiatives, all of which he plans to continue at GRH.

Ben attributes his desire to care for others to his parents, in particular watching his father actively involved in the military, VFW, and other service programs.

“He always taught me to treat people with dignity and respect, and that’s where healthcare needs to be – treating people with dignity and respect,” said Ben. “A lot of times people are coming to you during the worst times of their lives, and they’re afraid or

scared. Creating an environment where they feel safe and can have a great experience is vital.”

Ben was drawn to GRH due to this alignment in his values and the organization’s values.

“I can tell that the staff at this organization truly care about their patients and community. Looking at GRH, this is an environment that I want to work in, and a community that I want my family to be a part of.”

INVESTMENTS IN COMMUNITY AND STAFF

During his tenure as President & CEO of Osceola Regional Health Center in Sibley, Iowa, Ben received the Iowa Hospital Association Young Executive Award in 2022, as well as the Inspiring CEO Pinnacle Award from the HealthCare Service Excellence Conference in 2021. After developing a new employee orientation initiative that increased first-year employee retention rates to 88 percent, well above the industry average of 63 percent, Ben was asked to present his case study at the 2022 HealthCare Service Excellence Conference. He plans to bring a similar philosophy to GRH.

“We have two goals at GRH: to be the provider of choice, and to be the employer of choice – but you can’t be the provider of choice if you’re not the employer of choice,” said Ben. “We have to invest in our staff and our people, so that they enjoy coming to work, feel respected, and thrive in an environment where they have the tools and support they need to be successful and take care of those we serve.”

During the interview process, Ben was impressed by the culture already established at GRH. Candidates had the opportunity to do a meet-and-greet with all GRH staff during the interview process, which allowed them to get to know our team and organization better. “It was really exciting to meet with staff during that process,” said Ben. “I really appreciate the culture, communication style, and transparency at GRH, all of which are very important to me. I’m a very collaborative leader, and I think it’s important to understand other peoples’ perspectives. I’m looking forward to spending time continuing to get to know the organization, and the people and culture that comprise it.”

Looking ahead, Ben plans to lean on our mission, vision, and values, as well as data from our recently completed Community Health Needs Assessment (visit grhsonline.org/CHNA for more) to not only keep GRH the strong, independent healthcare organization it is today, but to lead us into the future.

“Understanding the needs of the community is a priority, and our core values and mission are also important to any future planning initiatives,” said Ben. “Understanding how your strategy connects to your mission, vision, and

values is important in finding your direction and determining where you want to be in five to ten years.”

With Ben at the helm, GRH is poised to continue serving its mission of providing high-quality, patient-centered care to our community.

“I’m excited to work collaboratively with the incredible team at GRH to further strengthen the organization, and to help us deliver on our mission to improve every life by offering high-quality, safe, and accessible healthcare,” said Ben.

BACK AT HOME FIELD

Ben is not only looking forward to joining the team at GRH, but the community in Glencoe. He and his family, including his wife, Ali, and their children, Graham (8), Mia (6), and Daxon (3), have plans to move to Glencoe.

school, and the City. It’s good to be involved in the community, to help move things forward and to be a positive voice.”

Outside of work, Ben enjoys spending time with his family, getting involved with his kids’ activities, rooting for the Vikings and Twins, golfing, and playing baseball.

“Minnesota has always been home,” said Ben. “I’m excited to return, and to have the opportunity to join an organization with such a deeply-rooted history of service and dedication to this community. I look forward to leading an organization with such an impressive reputation and dedicated team as GRH.”

El nuevo presidente y director ejecutivo de GRH, Ben Davis, MBA, FACHE, RHCEOC, está emocionado de volver a MN, y unirse a nuestra comunidad! A continuación, escuche unas palabras de su parte.

Me siento honrado de unirme a GRH y dirigir una organización con una reputación tan impresionante y un equipo tan dedicado como el de GRH. Una de mis prioridades es entender las necesidades de la comunidad, de modo que podamos unir nuestra capacidad de servicio con nuestra misión, nuestra visión y nuestros valores para proporcionarle la mejor y más compasiva atención posible a cada miembro de nuestra comunidad.

Deseo conocer, no solo a GRH como organización, sino también la comunidad a la que servimos. Para conocerme un poco mejor, escanee el código QR a continuación o visite nuestro sitio web para leer este número completo de Touching Lives (Tocando Vidas) en español: grhsonline.org/tocando-vidas

“I think it’s important to live in the community and to be engaged with all parts of it – not just GRH, but also church, the

Ben and his wife, Ali, and their children, Graham (8), Mia (6), and Daxon (3).

From left to right: Director of Laboratory Lynn Otto, Acute Care and Emergency Department RN Paul Schlagel, President & CEO Ben Davis, Facilities Director Mike Neyers, GlenFields Household Coordinator Rachel Strobel, Clinic LPN LuAnn Kalis.

GAME INJURY CHANGING

Glencoe-Silver Lake (GSL) High School sophomore Henry Becker hit a literal bump in the road on his way to football practice one morning in late August. As he was driving his moped, he hit a large chunk of dirt on the road, causing the moped to tip and sending Henry sliding across the road.

Henry’s mom, GRH Occupational Therapist Michelle Becker, and their neighbor, who is a pharmacist, initially cleaned and wrapped Henry’s wounds. Henry’s accident resulted in multiple large abrasions to his upper right arm, shoulder, chin, and right lower leg. The following day, Henry developed a fever and went to the GRH Emergency Room, where he was hospitalized overnight and treated for susceptibility to infection.

“The more surface area covered by abrasions, the more likely you are to develop an infection,” said Michelle. “We’re very lucky to have the Wound Center and hospital at GRH. A lot of his body was covered in abrasions, and they provided really great care for us.”

Right Place, Right Provider

Bryan Petersen, MD, happened to be the hospitalist working during Henry’s hospital stay – a convenience Michelle and Henry were grateful for, as Dr. Petersen also serves as the medical director at the Wound Center. After assessing Henry, our team recommended he receive follow-up care in our Wound Center, where Henry was able to continue seeing Dr. Petersen.

“It was an amazing, smooth transition for us to see Dr. Petersen from the start of Henry’s hospital stay to the end of his care in the Wound Center,” said Michelle. “The continuity of care between the hospital and Wound Center was excellent – everyone was very well-educated with a high-level understanding of their specialty. It was so helpful to have these services close to home.”

In the Wound Center, Dr. Petersen debrided Henry’s wounds and guided Henry and Michelle through the process of changing Henry’s dressings at home.

“At first it was painful, but as we moved on, it got better,” said Henry. “Everyone was extremely helpful. They told me exactly what was going to happen during my appointments, and they were very reassuring.”

Henry received care in the Wound Center for three months, initially coming in for appointments twice a week.

“We worked closely as a team to create a unique approach to treat Henry’s wounds,” said Morgan Schmidt, BSN, RN, CWON, who frequently cared for Henry during his appointments. “We monitored him closely, and continuously encouraged him that he was going to heal, letting him know we’d be right there with him to offer support during the process.”

Eventually, Henry developed a keloid scar on one of his deeper wounds, which he received several injections for.

As he recovered from his wounds, Henry missed the entire season of football – though his injuries didn’t stop him from attending all of the practices and games. While he couldn’t initially participate in practice, toward the end of the season he was able to join in, as long as he wasn’t playing in contact with his team members.

“I’m really looking forward to next season,” said Henry. “I’m grateful the Wound Center was able to help me recover and get back to playing football with the rest of my team at GSL.”

To learn more about the Wound Center, visit grhsonline.org/wound-care

“They changed his treatment plan as the wound changed,” said Michelle. “They were very evidence-based when they would talk about what they were doing, and always explained the ‘why’ behind their approach.”

Henry Becker with Bryan Petersen, MD, and Morgan Schmidt, BSN, RN, CWON.

UN BACHE EN EL CAMINO

Una mañana de finales de agosto, Henry Becker, estudiante del segundo año de la escuela secundaria Glencoe-Silver Lake (GSL), se topó con un bache cuando iba en camino al entrenamiento de fútbol americano. Mientras conducía su ciclomotor, golpeó un trozo de tierra en la carretera, lo que hizo que el ciclomotor se volcara y él se deslizara por la carretera.

La madre de Henry, la terapeuta ocupacional de GRH Michelle Becker, y su vecino, que es farmacéutico, inicialmente limpiaron y vendaron sus heridas. El accidente le produjo múltiples abrasiones en la parte superior del brazo derecho, el hombro, la barbilla y la parte inferior de la pierna derecha. Al día siguiente, tuvo fiebre y acudió al servicio de urgencias del GRH, donde pasó la noche hospitalizado y recibió tratamiento por su propensión a las infecciones.

“Cuanta más superficie esté cubierta por abrasiones, más probabilidades hay de que se produzca una infección,” dijo Michelle. “Tenemos mucha suerte de contar con el Centro de Heridas y el hospital de GRH. Gran parte del cuerpo estaba cubierto de abrasiones, y le proporcionaron realmente una gran atención para nosotros.”

Lugar Adecuado, Proveedor Adecuado

El Dr. Bryan Petersen era el hospitalista que trabajaba durante la visita de Henry, algo que Michelle y Henry agradecieron, ya que el Dr. Petersen también es el director médico del Centro de Heridas. Tras evaluar a Henry, nuestro equipo recomendó que recibiera atención de seguimiento en nuestro Centro de Heridas, donde pudo seguir viendo al Dr. Petersen.

“Para nosotros fue una transición increíble y sin problemas ver al Dr. Petersen desde el inicio de la estancia de Henry en el hospital hasta el final de su atención en el Centro de Heridas,” dijo Michelle. “La continuidad de la atención entre el hospital y el Centro de Heridas fue excelente: todos estaban muy bien capacitados y conocían muy bien su especialidad. Fue muy útil tener estos servicios cerca de casa.”

En el Centro de Heridas, el Dr. Petersen desbridó las heridas de Henry y los guio a él y a Michelle en el proceso de cambio de apósitos en casa.

“Al principio fue doloroso, pero a medida que avanzábamos fue mejorando,” dijo Henry. “Todos fueron de gran ayuda. Me

dijeron exactamente lo que iba a pasar durante mis citas y me tranquilizaron mucho.”

Henry recibió atención en el Centro de Heridas durante tres meses, acudiendo inicialmente a las citas dos veces por semana. “Trabajamos estrechamente en equipo para crear un enfoque único para tratar las heridas de Henry,” dijo Morgan Schmidt, BSN, RN, CWON, que atendía con frecuencia a Henry durante sus citas. “Lo controlábamos de cerca y lo animábamos continuamente a que se curara, haciéndole saber que estaríamos a su lado para ofrecerle apoyo durante el proceso.”

Con el tiempo, Henry desarrolló una cicatriz queloide en una de sus heridas más profundas, para la que recibió varias inyecciones.

Mientras se recuperaba de sus heridas, Henry se perdió toda la temporada de fútbol americano, aunque sus lesiones no le impidieron asistir a todos los entrenamientos y partidos. Aunque al principio no podía participar en los entrenamientos, hacia el final de la temporada pudo hacerlo, siempre y cuando no estuviera jugando en contacto con los miembros de su equipo.

“Estoy deseando que llegue la próxima temporada,” dijo Henry. “Estoy agradecido de que el Centro de Heridas haya podido ayudarme a recuperarme y volver a jugar al fútbol americano con el resto de mi equipo en GSL.”

Para obtener más información sobre el Centro de Heridas, visite grhsonline.org/wound-care

We’re committed to serving the needs of our community by having two interpreters on site – visit our website to learn more: grhsonline.org/interpretive-services

Estamos comprometidos a satisfacer las necesidades de nuestra comunidad al tener dos intérpretes, obtenga más información en: grhsonline.org/interpretive-services

GO PANTHERS!

Henry Becker (far right) plays tackle for the GSL Panthers, and is looking forward to playing with his team after recovering with the GRH Wound Center.

“Cambiaron su plan de tratamiento a medida que cambiaba la herida,” dice Michelle. Cuando hablaban de lo que hacían, se basaban mucho en pruebas y siempre explicaban el ‘porqué’ de su enfoque.”

TEAMING UP AGAINST PAIN

“There’s often a misunderstanding that orthopedics is always about surgery,” said orthopedic surgeon Tilok Ghose, MD “You always want to try the nonoperative treatment first before recommending a patient undergoes surgery.”

While our orthopedic providers at GRH are also skilled surgeons, about 80 percent of patients who seek orthopedic care for pain or mobility issues don’t need an operation.

PAIN MANAGEMENT

needs, whether or not those patients require surgery.

“When providers with expertise in orthopedic surgery and therapy collaborate, a patient will get the best care possible. Patients can be confident in the recovery plan that will give them the best chance to obtain their goals,” said Rehabilitation Services Director Clark Christianson, PT, ScD, COMT “We’re able to provide care right here in Glencoe for a wide variety of orthopedic conditions that may involve surgical or non-surgical treatment options.”

When patients visit our orthopedic providers, they’ll be assessed so the provider can discern the best possible treatment plans, which they’ll discuss with each patient. When a patient is referred to physical therapy, they’ll receive a personalized treatment plan designed specifically to help with each condition, including manual therapy, muscle control exercises, balance training, stretching,

muscle retraining, strengthening exercises, and body posture education.

“It’s great to have the ability to send a referral in-house,” said Dr. Copple. “It’s wonderful for people in the community to be able to stay here for their care. Our rehab staff are just on-the-ball, all the time. We have a really great rehabilitation services program here – the department is full of people who know what they’re doing and are passionate about their work.”

Even when surgery is required for a patient, our orthopedic surgeons make sure they loop in our rehabilitation services staff, so patients can ensure they receive therapy to help them recover after their procedure.

“We have a close relationship with our orthopedic providers,” said Clark. “We frequently collaborate and discuss challenging cases to determine the best treatment plan. We respect each others’ opinions while valuing the clinical skills of each provider.”

“We always work with our patients to make sure we’ve done what we can to alleviate their pain or mobility issues without surgery – we prefer they don’t do surgery as their first option,” said orthopedic surgeon Matthew Copple, DO. “Our rehabilitation services and pain management partners collaborate with us to provide the best care possible for our patients.”

At GRH, not only do we have a knowledgeable team of orthopedic providers, but we have a group of experienced, passionate rehabilitation therapists and pain management specialist who each help patients with orthopedic

REHABILITATION SERVICES

Clark Christianson, PT, ScD, COMT, leads the team of therapists who offer care for patients close to home.

Our orthopedic providers also refer patients to pain management specialist Joslin Thiemann, APRN, CRNA, NSPM-C.

Our orthopedic providers partner with our expert team of rehabilitation therapists and pain management specialist so our patients have the best outcomes.

Collaboration Is Key

Our orthopedic surgeons make sure they keep an open line of communication with our rehabilitation services staff, to ensure continuity of care for each of our patients.

“Every week I meet with the rehabilitation services department, including physical and occupational therapy,” said Dr. Ghose. “We sit down and go over our patients one-by-one to discuss the best treatment plan for each patient. It’s a great way to get an idea of patients’ progress.”

From a sports medicine perspective, orthopedic surgeon Amanda J. Schroeder, MD, appreciates the collaboration between orthopedics and rehabilitation services.

“A lot of sports medicine conditions can be treated effectively or improved with therapy,” said Dr. Schroeder. “It’s really important for sports medicine to have that collaboration, because if we have a patient who’s not improving and who may need surgery, the rehabilitation services staff can let me know sooner than the timing of a follow-up appointment would typically allow.”

Having rehabilitation services in-house is helpful for her sports medicine practice, in keeping patients’ progress clear between each care provider.

“We have a really dedicated and resourceful rehabilitation services team,” said Dr. Schroeder. “They’re great communicators – I often get updates from them on how our patients are doing, and insight into the changes and improvements our patients have made, which is great for me as a provider.”

Not only do they collaborate well with rehabilitation services, but our orthopedic

services team works with one another as a team.

“We treat a large variety of orthopedic concerns as a team, which is convenient for patients who don’t have to travel to the metro for high-quality orthopedic care,” said Terese Haasken, MPAS, PA-C

ORTHOPEDICS

“We work well together and discuss difficult or complex cases together,” agreed Dr. Ghose. “The orthopedic department at GRH is a knowledgeable team that works together to provide great care tailored to each patient.”

Amanda J. Schroeder, MD

Terese Haasken, MPAS, PA-C

Tilok Ghose, MD

Matthew Copple, DO

OUR FAMILY FOR CARING YOURS

Family members who work together at GlenFields help create a homelike environment for our residents.

When Pat Schilling, TMA, NAR, was 17 years old, she began working at Glenhaven, the original nursing home at GRH before GlenFields was created.

“When you look back at it all now, there are so many memories,” said Pat. “We did things so differently then – there have been a lot of good changes and remodels.”

One such change has been the implementation of the household model of care, which means residents live in “households,” or living units made up of 18 private rooms, and shared community spaces such as a kitchen and dining room, living room, and sunrooms. The household model of care is geared to help GlenFields create a true homelike feeling for our residents.

This is easy to do when many of your staff are actually family!

Pat’s daughter, Sam Thompson, RN, grew up watching her mother work at GlenFields, eventually deciding to pursue a career in healthcare herself.

“I always felt a pull in that direction,” said Sam. “Nothing else felt right – it just felt like nursing was meant to be.”

Sam began working as a CNA before becoming an RN in 2016. She went on to get her BSN, and began working as an RN Care Coordinator at GlenFields in 2018. Pat and Sam both worked together in the same household for a year and a half during the pandemic.

“It was nice because we’re on the same brain wave,” said Sam. “We’re just in tune with one another, which makes problemsolving even easier.”

Now, Pat primarily works in our short-stay household in GlenFields, Fair Winds, but sometimes covers shifts in other households, where she and Sam get to work together.

makes coming to work

more fun,” said Pat. “Knowing that you’re

Pat and Sam aren’t the only motherdaughter duo at GlenFields – and they’re not even the only mother-daughter duo in their family! Pat’s mother, Phyllis, once worked at our nursing home and is now a resident with us. Pat and Sam don’t often work in the household Phyllis lives in, but know that she s being cared for like family.

PART OF THE HOUSEHOLD

In the household model of care, employees typically work in the same household each shift, which allows them to develop closer bonds with the residents who live there.

“You form closer relationships with people, from the residents to the staff,” said Sam. “You’re also able to pick up on the little things even more – you can tell when a resident’s mood is off one day, which can make it even easier to tell when they’re not feeling well or something is bothering them.”

For Pat, the best part about working at GlenFields is that connection to the residents and other staff.

“We have such a good group here,” said Pat. “The whole community at GRH is so friendly.”

“It

a little

going to bump into each other is always something to look forward to.”

From left to right: Phyllis Lemke; Sam Thompson, RN; Pat Schilling, TMA, NAR.

Phyllis Lemke, GlenFields resident, once worked for our nursing home.

Pat and GlenFields resident Rosie play a word search game together.

As an RN Care Coordinator, Sam oversees the day-to-day clinical care for residents.

“Everyone is supportive of each other here,” Sam agreed. “The GlenFields team is exactly that – a team. We’re all each others’ cheerleaders. It’s a great place for our residents to live and our staff to work.”

ALL IN THE FAMILY

Pat and Sam aren’t the only family who work at GlenFields – among many other family duos, Melissa Sanchez, RN, and her niece, Bianca Espinoza, CNA, also work at GlenFields. Melissa has been with GlenFields for 9 years, and Bianca recently went through our Nursing Assistant Training program (learn more at

grhsonline.org/nar-training) and began working at GlenFields in December.

“Seeing Melissa go through her schooling and begin working at GlenFields sparked my interest in healthcare,” said Bianca. “She was really my inspiration.”

Both Melissa and Bianca enjoy the opportunity to help others and get to know our residents.

“It’s a very comforting environment,” Bianca agreed. “It’s always so warm and inviting, and the household coordinators decorate for every season in each household.”

Bianca and Melissa noted that staff involve residents during their holiday celebration planning.

While Melissa and Bianca work in different households, both agree that having dedicated households helps build a warmer environment for residents.

“With the household model of care, the residents are able to direct their own lives. This enables staff to learn their routines, habits, and interests, which really aid in getting to know them on a deeper level. Quality of life is so important at GlenFields, and we want to make sure that every aspect of their lives is met safely so they can feel their best,” said Melissa.

“For example, during Halloween, the community is invited to GlenFields. The residents are able to hand out candy and see everyone in their cute costumes," said Melissa. "Seeing how this excites the residents and how it’s talked about in the following days is truly so amazing - an event like that can really make their day.”

The duo agreed that as much as GlenFields is a warm environment for the residents, it’s just as welcoming for our staff.

“It’s been a great experience working at GlenFields,” said Bianca. “There’s great teamwork here. If anyone is feeling behind, other people pitch in to help them out. Everyone is so welcoming, and we all do whatever we can to support one another, just like a family does.”

“It’s rewarding getting to know our residents in every aspect. We not only know them as a whole, but what molded them into the person they are today,” said Melissa.

“These aren’t just our residents, they’re also our family.”

Melissa Sanchez, RN, and Bianca Espinoza, CNA

Bianca walks with GlenFields resident, Minh.

Melissa enjoys the close bonds that GlenFields staff form with residents through the household model of care.

Welcome Internal Medicine Provider HALEY JAEGER, PA-C!

Haley Jaeger, PA-C, is joining our expert team of providers at our Glencoe Clinic, where she will see patients ages 18 and older for a variety of medical concerns and routine preventive care.

Haley sees patients for minor injuries, acute illnesses, postER or post-surgery check-ups, minor office procedures, and re-checks after medication changes or management of chronic conditions. She has a special interest in both preventive medicine and women’s health.

Haley was inspired to pursue a career in the medical field from a young age. She watched her grandmother battle debilitating medical conditions, and throughout that process felt drawn to help others in the way so many had helped her grandmother.

“I felt it was my calling to assist others through difficult health concerns, and support not only them, but the people who care about them,” said Haley.

“There’s something to be said about small-town communities – relationships and connections are valued at a level that you may not always be able to reach while working in a large city,” said Haley. “GRH is the epitome of those values, and sets high standards in terms of quality, responsibility, and passion for the care of its patients. These are characteristics that I share within my own practice. I hope to be part of this community for years to come, and to build connections with the people I work with and the people I get the privilege to see in my practice.”

In her free time, Haley enjoys reading, watching sports, and spending time outdoors.

After hours

Haley and her fiancé, Michael, grew up in Saint Peter, where they currently live with their two cats. They enjoy living in rural communities, and are excited to be returning to the area.

“One of the wonderful parts about living in Minnesota is the changing seasons,” said Haley. “In the summer, I like to go for runs, bike, fish, and play golf. In the winter, I love to snowshoe, go on snowmobile rides with the family, or occasionally hit the slopes for some skiing.”

Learn more about Haley by visiting grhsonline.org/jaeger, or make an appointment by calling 320-864-7816.

“What I love most about getting to practice medicine is the opportunity to witness patients achieve the best outcomes and accomplish their own personal health goals.”

Family Medicine Provider CONNOR HEDSTROM, DO Joins Our Team!

We’re excited to welcome Connor Hedstrom, DO, to our team of family medicine providers. Beginning in July 2023, Dr. Hedstrom will see patients in our Glencoe Clinic, join our hospitalist rotation, and see our residents in GlenFields.

As a family medicine provider, Dr. Hedstrom will see patients of all ages, but he has a special interest in musculoskeletal disorders, whether they be acute sports injuries or chronic issues, such as arthritis or back pain.

“Being a family medicine provider in a rural area allows you a lot of variety in your practice, which is something that I really enjoy,” said Dr. Hedstrom. “My goal is for each of my patients to be able to experience their life how they envision it. I see my job as taking the goals of my patients and working with them to make sure they are healthy enough to be able to achieve as many of those goals as possible.”

Since he was young, Dr. Hedstrom’s dream has been to work in the medical field, and he’s excited to be living out his lifelong goal.

“I was really sick as a child, and was constantly in and out of the hospital,” said Dr. Hedstrom. “Helping others through medicine in the way others helped me when I was sick has become my passion. After growing up in a rural community, my goal has been to do my part in bringing comprehensive, high-quality medical care to a community.”

After hours

Dr. Hedstrom and his wife, Laurel, are excited to be joining the community in Glencoe.

“I’ve always envisioned myself practicing medicine in a place exactly like Glencoe,” said Dr. Hedstrom. “My wife and I are very excited to get involved with the community in Glencoe. We both grew up in small towns in Minnesota with parents who were very active in their communities, and we hope to carry on with their tradition.”

Outside of his medical practice, Dr. Hedstrom enjoys hiking, golfing, going on long walks with his wife and their dogs, watching Minnesota sports, gardening with his wife, and spending time with his family.

Learn more about Dr. Hedstrom by visiting grhsonline.org/hedstrom

KELLY TAYLOR, CNP

Joins Our Team Of Providers

Kelly Taylor, CNP, has joined our team to provide coverage in our hospital, Urgent Care, and clinic settings. Kelly has special interests in cardiovascular disease, smoking cessation, and men’s health, but is dedicated to helping patients through a variety of concerns and challenges.

“I enjoy seeing patients for any health concern,” said Kelly. “I want to see patients get better, and to help them advocate for their health.”

Kelly enjoys practicing in rural communities, and particularly enjoys the interpersonal relationships that come with working in a small, tight-knit community.

“I really enjoy helping people, and I strive to provide a safe space for patients to be open and honest,” said Kelly. “I want patients to understand that I will not pass judgement, and that I will take the time to listen to them and help guide them.”

After hours

Kelly lives in Minnetrista with his partner and their four children. When not caring for patients, Kelly enjoys photography, throwing pottery, riding his bicycle, playing dodgeball and kickball, and spending time with his family.

“We love to visit different parks together, and spend time outdoors with one another,” said Kelly.

Learn more about Kelly by visiting grhsonline.org/taylor, or make a same-day appointment by calling 320-864-7816.

JOIN A CULTURE THAT CARES

We know that engaged, happy employees provide the best care, which is why we offer employee recognition programs and events for our team throughout the year.

and beyond, scoring 26 points higher than the national average. When surveyed, 95 percent of our employees said their work gives them a feeling of accomplishment, and they’re proud of how GRH gives back to our community.

Our CARES Team organizes employee celebrations to recognize our team for their hard work and service to our community. We also offer a Gratitude Grows employee recognition program, which allows all staff to recognize their fellow employees with a kind note and an opportunity to enter our monthly prize drawing for employees.

Compared to the national average for healthcare employee surveys, our engagement score is above

We encourage a spirit of service and compassion for all who step onto our campus, and we care for our community like family. Our mission is to improve every life by offering high-quality, safe, and accessible healthcare. Our family of care includes a 25-bed critical access hospital, senior living, and three primary-care clinics. Join a team that’s compassionate, caring, and has fun together! Learn more about our open positions and apply today: grhsonline.org/careers

At GRH, the work you do makes a difference. If you’re seeking a career where you can make a positive impact in the lives of others, we want to meet you today!

DAYS 2023

FUN RUN WALK AND GLENCOE

Lace up your sneakers and swing by during the Glencoe Days Fun Run and Walk! This year’s event will once again be taking place at GRH on our walking path, Prairie Trail. The route will be approximately 2.37 miles for runners and walkers.

Saturday, June 24, 2023

Start times: Run - 8:30 a.m. | Walk - 9 a.m.

There is no entry fee or pre-registration required, though you may consider making a donation to Prairie Trail at: grhsonline.org/prairie-trail

GLENCOE DAYS FUN RUN AND WALK Coloring Contest!

All participants of the Fun Run and Walk will receive a free t-shirt, while supplies last. We hope to see you at this year’s event!

Get creative and bring our Fun Run and Walk themed coloring page to life! Color this page before the Fun Run and Walk, and bring the completed page to the event. You can use it as a scavenger hunt during the walk before dropping it into our coloring contest submission box. Our GlenFields residents will judge the coloring pages after the event and select our top three winners!

Scavenger Hunt While participating in the walk portion of our event, keep an eye out for the following elements along the route!

 Acorn

 Dog

 Bird

 Oak leaf

 Butterfly

 Bench

 Helping Hands Garden

Glencoe Regional Health

1805 Hennepin Ave. N.

Glencoe, MN 55336-1416

SANKEN-HATZ SCHOLARSHIP

CONGRATULATIONS TO THE 2023 WINNERS!

“ I am sincerely grateful to have been awarded this scholarship. After graduating from UWEC, I began working on the Medical/Surgical floor at the Mayo Clinic in Eau Claire. After a few years working on the floor, I plan to specialize in oncology, a passion which was ignited during my internship in that unit. Through the Foundation’s kindness, I finished out my senior year strong and will make my aspirations a reality! ”

Sanken-Hatz scholarships are awarded annually to encourage and support students pursuing healthcare careers. The Glencoe Regional Health Foundation awarded scholarships to 60 deserving applicants who are studying for careers in healthcare.

Pursuing a career in healthcare?

The scholarship application opens again on January 1, 2024. Learn more and apply: grhsonline.org/scholarships

GRADUATING HIGH SCHOOL SENIORS

Glencoe-Silver Lake

Lester Prairie High School

Brooke Albers

Jasmine Haugen

Allyson Markgraf

Allison Milbrandt

Central High School

Mitchell Druley

Nolan Glander

Gibbon-FairfaxWinthrop High School

Brynn Busse

Kayln Hellendrung

Jacqueline Lemke

Alyssa Radke

Jenna Trippel

Howard Lake-WaverlyWinsted High School

Kayla Alguire

Rylie Klemz

Madisen Stillwell

Hutchinson High School

Madison Witte

POST-SECONDARY STUDENTS

Elizabeth Anderson

Riley Borka

Grace Daak

Emma Fury

Alisia Geottl

Emma Gepson

Jayda Goldschmidt

Kendall Guerrero

Teagan Hansch

Taylor Hatlestad

Jenna Heimerl

Brody Hentges

Kendra Klobe

Anna Meeker

Malayh Metcalf

Majkya Metcalf

GRADUATE STUDENTS

Alexis Fronk

Abbie Hatlestad

Rhyan Herrmann

Paige Litzau

Frankie Mackenthun

Anna Mackenthun

Leah Nemec

Jessica Novotny

Emma Peirce

Kennedy Pexa

Kaitlyn Popp

Margaret Schuft

Erin Schultz

Brooke Heimerl

Josilynn Tonn

Mayer Lutheran High School

Jordyn Kubasch

Kimberly Novotny

Rachael Popp

Brittney Richter

Audrey Seifert

Kyla Struck

Connor Sturges

Rachel Trebesch

Taylor Walters

Mikayla Witte

Emily Thalmann

Jaci Tourtellott

LEAH BETTCHER Past Sanken-Hatz Scholarship Awardee