Connecting with the Community
The ongoing national nursing shortage continues to present significant challenges, but we remain committed to providing exceptional care to our community. As we navigate the respiratory season, delays in the Emergency Department and Walk-In Clinic may lead to extended wait times To protect the health of our patients, visitors, and staff, we kindly encourage visitors
Bertha Higbee, CNO
experiencing respiratory symptoms to wear a mask while in our facility. Despite these challenges, we are proud to highlight our 5-Star Nursing Home, a shining example of the dedication and expertise of our exceptional nursing teams The 5-star rating reflects outstanding performance in critical areas like patient safety, outcomes, staffing levels, and regulatory compliance. Additionally, we continue to invest in the future of healthcare through our partnership with Great Basin College. This partnership supports aspiring medical professionals meaningful shadowing opportunities, also our nursing apprenticeship program offers hands-on experience in a supportive learning environment. We appreciate your understanding and support as we work together to deliver the high-quality care you deserve. ~Bertha
CHIEFEXECUTIVEOFFICER
RobynDunckhorst
CHIEFFINANCIALOFFICER
KimPlummer
CHIEFNURSINGOFFICER
BerthaHigbee
CHIEFHUMANRESOURCES
OFFICER
AngelaGiese
CHIEFINFORMATION
OFFICER
JackieWilson
CHIEF,EMSANDRESCUE
AndrewLoveless
MARKETING&OUTREACH
DIRECTOR
JoAnnCasalez
Humboldt General Hospital (HGH) is a County Hospital District, meaning it is a community-focused healthcare facility established and governed under Nevada Revised Statutes (NRS 450).
HGH is overseen by an elected board of trustees, who are responsible for ensuring that the hospital operates in the best interests of the community. As a County Hospital District funded in part by tax dollars, HGH is committed to being fiscally responsible with public funds, ensuring that every dollar is spent wisely to benefit the health and well-being of our community.
Humboldt General Hospital Celebrates Successful Partnership with Western Surgical Group
HGH takes immense pride in its partnership with Western Surgical Group (WSG), the premier mainstay of surgical services in Nevada Since October 1, 2023, this collaboration has brought advanced, high-quality surgical care to Winnemucca and surrounding communities, reflecting a shared commitment to providing exceptional healthcare in ruralNevada.
HGH deliberately chose Western Surgical Group over a national surgical provider to ensure that patients receive the personalized, community-focused care they deserve. WSG's deep roots in Nevada and reputation for surgical excellencemakethemtheidealpartner.
AdvancedSurgicalCareinRuralNevada
In 2024, HGH performed over 60 surgeries, allowing patients to receive expert care without leaving their community. From fellowship-trained surgeons to cutting-edge techniques, Western Surgical Group has elevated HGH’s surgical offerings. When patients require surgery in Reno, they can continue their follow-up care convenientlywithWSGsurgeonsatHGH,emphasizingourcommitmenttokeepingcareclosetohome.
WhyWesternSurgicalGroup?
HGH’s decision to partner with Western Surgical Group reflects a commitment to bringing the best of Nevada’s surgical expertise to rural areas. Unlike national surgical groups, WSG understands the unique needs of our community,prioritizingpatient-centeredcareandbuildinglastingrelationshipswithourregion’sresidents.
BenefitsofthePartnership
TheHGH-WSGpartnershipdeliversnumerousadvantagestoHumboldtCountyresidents:
Convenience:Patientscanaccesscomprehensivesurgicalcareandfollow-upappointmentslocally,reducingthe needforstressfultravel
Expertise:Western Surgical Group’s highly skilled, fellowship-trained surgeons provide advanced care, ensuring optimaloutcomes
Advanced Technology: The partnership enables the use of state-of-the-art equipment and innovative surgical techniques.
Community-Focused Care: Both organizations are dedicated to delivering care tailored to the unique needs of ruralcommunities.
ASharedCommitmenttoExcellence
RobynDunckhorst,CEOofHGH,reflectsonthepartnership’simpact:
“We’re proud to bring Nevada’s premier surgical group to rural communities. Over the past year, this partnership has significantly enhanced the surgical care available in Winnemucca. Our collaboration with Western Surgical Group ensures patients receive top-tier treatment while staying close to home.”
MovingForward
As HGH and Western Surgical Group continue their successful partnership, their mission remains clear: delivering exceptionalsurgicalcaretothepeopleofruralNevada.Together,theyensurethatlocalpatientshaveaccesstothe same high-quality surgical services found in larger cities, making Humboldt General Hospital a leader in rural healthcare.
Formoreinformationaboutoursurgicalservices, visitwww.hghospital.organdwww.westernsurgical.com
Internet Safety: What to Look Out For
By: Chris Vertrees, Network Systems Analyst
With security, an ounce of prevention is worth a pound of cure, and one of the best ways to stay protected is by preparing for common threats. Scammers are constantly evolving their tactics, and it’s important to stay vigilant. Here are some of the most common scams to be aware of:
Travel Scams
While most people's getaways may be over for now, when it comes time to plan your next trip, be cautious of travel scams that target eager travelers. Scammers often advertise unbelievable deals on flights, hotels, and vacation packages. If something seems too good to be true, it probably is. To avoid falling victim, always book your travel through trusted platforms and official travel websites.
Impersonation Scams Related to Tax Filing Season
With tax season approaching, scammers may pose as IRS agents, requesting personal information or even payments to clear supposed tax debts. Always ensure you’re dealing with official agencies and never share personal details over the phone with anyone who calls unexpectedly.
Dating Scams
Scammers often target individuals looking for relationships, building trust to later ask for money or sensitive information. Be cautious and never send money or share personal details with someone you’ve only met online.
Impersonation Scams Related to Charity
Many people feel compelled to donate to charity, but scammers take advantage of this generosity by setting up fake charity websites. To ensure your donations go to a legitimate cause, always donate through trusted and official charity platforms.
Stay Safe and Vigilant
It’s essential to protect your personal information. Always use secure channels for communication, avoid conducting sensitive transactions over public Wi-Fi, and enable multi-factor authentication on your accounts. These steps will help prevent loss, even if your password is compromised.
Stay safe, and remember to always validate before sharing sensitive information. From the Department of Information Technology at Humboldt General Hospital.
Laboratory Upgrades
Streamlined Efficiency, Expanded Labs, and Quality Care Close to Home!
In our ongoing commitment to providing exceptional care, we’ve made exciting upgrades to our laboratory with the addition of a new chemistry and immunoassay analyzer, a hematology machine, and a second general water system. These improvements will enhance the efficiency of our lab, allowingforfastertestresultsandreducedwaittimes.
Crisanti Rabanes, Laboratory Director
“Upgrading our laboratory greatly improves patient convenience and satisfaction. With more tests available in-house, patients can now avoid the hassle of traveling to external laboratories, saving time and reducing wait times for results. This ensures a more seamless and efficient experience for our community.”
The new Atellica CI Analyzer brings significant advantages, such as enhanced reporting capabilities, improved turnaround time predictability, and a focus on safety and security. With features like random-access sampling, microvolume aspiration, and automated maintenance and quality control scheduling, this analyzer helps deliver quicker and moreconsistentresultsforourpatients.
These upgrades also enable us to perform more tests inhouse, ensuring more timely results and reducing the need for outsourcing. This positive change will further strengthen our ability to provide high-quality care to the community while maintaining smooth operations and fast, reliable test results.
Brylee was this year’s New Years Baby, born on January 6, 2025,welcometotheworldlittleone.
Dr. Scott Curtis, “I had the privilege of delivering baby Brylee, the first birth of the year at Humboldt General Hospital in Winnemucca. Camryn’s strength and Cristhian’s unwaveringsupportmadetheexperiencetrulyspecial.
Congratulations to Camryn and Cristhian on their beautiful daughter. Wishing your family joy, health, and happiness in thedaysahead!”
Spotlight on Our Services: Mammograms
October is a month surrounded by awareness and resources in relation to breast cancer, but the reality for many is not as bright and sunny as campaigns make it seem. Finding a lump brings upon a feeling of impending doom for many, but there is hope. With proper screening and a quick diagnosis, cancer can be treatable with high success.
During October, Humboldt General Hospital offered 50% off screening mammograms for cash-pay patients just $274, including the reading fee. This allowed more of our community to access life-saving screenings. Community health is and always will be a priority at HGH, so bringing this opportunity to the community further achieved that goal.
Diane Klassen, Cristal Lopez, and Laura Butterfield were the radiologic technologists primarily performing mammograms to help our community. They also worked to train Jasmine Lopez in the field. Diane performed 26, Cristal performed 42, and Laura did 37, for a total of 121 mammograms this past October. Of these mammograms, there was one definitive case of breast cancer that was caught and one that is still being tested. This makes a total of 13 breast cancer cases this year that were caught at HGH because of mammogram technology.
How Do Mammograms Work?
During the procedure, the breast is compressed between two plates to spread out the tissue, allowing for clearer images with minimal radiation. The machine takes multiple X-ray images from different angles, which a radiologist reviews to look for any signs of issues like lumps or calcifications.
What It Takes to Be a Mammogram Technologist
Must be licensed with the American Registry of Radiologic Technologists (ARRT) for Radiography.
Must have a Nevada State License for Radiography. Must complete 25 mammograms and 30 hours of continuing education in digital and 3D mammography for a Nevada State License in Mammography. To become a Registered Mammography Technologist with the ARRT, a technologist must complete 200 mammograms/QC exams. Sit for a 200-question board exam
Cookies with Santa
Sharing the Holiday Spirit
The holidays are always meant to be an exciting time to get together with family and enjoy food and traditions. For HGH EMS, it also brings along the tradition of hosting Cookies with Santa. In recent years, the event has become too big to fit in the EMS station, but that doesn’t stop our hardworking staff fromworkingthingsout.
This year, Cookies with Santa was hosted in the hospital and was successful once again. In total, 414 people attended. Families were able to share cookies and get photos of their childrenwithSanta,whicharethenkeepsakestheygettohold onto. There is nothing more precious than these little momentsduringthewinterseason.
The great part about having Cookies with Santa inside the hospital rather than in the EMS station was that there was moreroomforfamilies,sonobodywaswaitingoutinthecold. The Cafe RX Coffee Cart was also open for business to providewarmdrinks.
Cookies with Santa also served the purpose of holding a toy drive. The circumstances of others are not always known, but the act of donating a toy or a jacket can be a holiday miracle for someone. Donations were collected by volunteers and distributedbytheFCC
Careers at HGH
Become a Community Healthcare Partner Dietary Aide
Dietary Aides prepare food for patients, staff, and the community on a daily basis. They do incredible work to keep our hospital healthy and provide delicious meal options. The Dietary department at HGH provides quality meals to patients, residents, staff, and visitors, focusing on balanced nutrition and maintaining a safe, sanitary environment.
Positions are available as both Casual Call E $25.11 per hour depending on experience. with the benefit of PERS (Public Employees Retirement System). PERS is a pension plan that provides retirement, disability, and survivor benefits to eligible public employe in Nevada.
To learn more, visit the careers tab under “Join Us” at https://www.hghospital.org/.
Certified Nursing Assistant
GettingstartedasaCNAatHGHissimple.EnrollinCNAclassesatGreatBasinCollege(GBC) andstartworkingtowardyourcertification.ThroughtheNursingAssistantinTraining(NAT) Program,youcanworkatHGHwhilecontinuingyoureducationandgaininghands-on experience.Aftercompletingyourclassesandpassingthestatecertificationexam,you’llbe readytobeginyourcareerasaCNA.
We’recommittedtosupportingyoureducation.ThroughourpartnershipwithGBC,youcan receiveupto90%reimbursementforyourCNAclasscosts.Oncecertified,you'llearna competitivewageof$19.64to$32.18perhour,dependingonexperience.
Job Qualifications and Requirements
Preferred Education:
High school diploma or equivalent
Post-high school vocational or specialized training
Required Licensure/Certification:
Valid Nevada State CNA certificate
Current CPR certification
To learn more, visit the careers tab under “Join Us” at https://www.hghospital.org/
2024: A Year in Review
Health Fair
The Community Health Fair was successful once again this year, continuing its tradition of promoting health and wellness within the community. Annually, it offers discounted labs, screenings, and health checks, making essential healthcare services more accessible to individuals and families.
Hospital Week
EMT Class
Residents Graduation
Color The Mucc
In April, the Humboldt Chamber of Commerce and Humboldt General Hospital came together for a fun-filled morning of color, community, and wellness. The Color The Mucc run is an annual tradition. Participants took part in a 3K and 5K color run, featuring 21 vibrant color stations that drenched them in colorful fun.
May 12-18: HGH celebrated Hospital Week with a week full of fun games, delicious food, and heartfelt recognition. The event highlighted the outstanding contributions of our staff, with special honors for Nurse Nightingale and the recipients of the Monarch Awards, showcasing the dedication and excellence that define our hospital community.
HG Auxiliary Annual Banquet
In May, the Auxiliary celebrated the Pink Lad for their dedicated volunteer hours and recognized Alicia Cramer as a lifetime member. We are deeply grateful for the Pink Ladies' decades of generosity and service!
Graduation
This last school year, we had 9 senior graduates in our high school EMT class. Many are now attending school to become Registered Nurses and other healthcare professionals. This class is a great opportunity to take a step into healthcare.
On June 28th, HGH Family Medicine Residency Clinic in partnership with UNLV celebrated the graduation of its 2024 residents. Please join us in congratulating Dr. Andrew Gerenraich and Dr. Michael Rees as they begin their next chapter!
Fit Kids
June-July: The HGH Fit Kids program is a free summer Program that promotes physical activity and healthy habits for children. It encourages fun, active lifestyles and supports the well-being of our community's youth.
In July HGH welcomed our two new residents, Dr. Ketcham and Dr. Shepherd! They bring fresh perspectives and enthusiasm to our team as they continue their medical training. We look forward to the positive impact they will have on our patients and community. Welcome to HGH!
2024: A Year in Review
National Night Out
HGH EMS attended the HCSO National Night Out, connecting with the community and showcasing their lifesaving work. It was a great opportunity to strengthen relationships with local first responders and promote safety awareness.
Harmony Manor Car Show
Veterans Lunch
Red Carpet
On September 16th, HGH rolled out the red carpet to celebrate the premiere of our new commercial, featuring volunteer stars from our team and community. The event was a glamorous affair, complete with special treats and VIP recognition for those who made it possible. It was a wonderful way to highlight the creativity, teamwork, and community spirit that define HGH, making it a standout moment in our year!
The Harmony Manor Car Show is a new event created for the residents of our long-term care facilities to enjoy food and cars. The community was invited to join in the fun. Although it was the first year, the car show brought many smiles and gave the residents an t f th i
Trunk Or Treat
The employee committee has shown their HGH spirit once again this year with Trunk or Treat. Everyone's car decorations were exceptional, with costumes to match. Helping the community is one of our goals, so handing out candy is always rewarding.
Caroling at the SNF
On November 13th, HGH celebrated Veterans Day by giving out hot and fresh lunches to local veterans. Each recipient was entered into a raffle to win a handmade quilt by Mary Lou Rives.
CHRO, Angela Giese coordinates the now-annual sing-along at Harmony Manor and Quail Corner, bringing joy and music to the residents. This heartwarming event, led by HGH leadership, has become a cherished tradition, with residents enthusiastically joining in the singing. It’s a wonderful way to spread happiness and connect with the community during the holiday season
Donating to Pleasant Seniors
On December 10th, the Executive Team and HGH Employees Committee joined forces to donate $768 to the Pleasant Senior Center, helping cover the cost of Christmas dinners for local seniors. This heartfelt contribution ensures a warm, festive meal filled with holiday cheer.
Results From This Year Healthy You Friday Tests Performed:
Tiffani Nalivka Employee of the Year
Humbo our Em others "Iwas colleag thankfu
Since j enthusiasm, collaborating closely with multiple departments and empowering others to learn about food and nutrition. She takes pride in helping people achieve their health goals, whether for life or as theirneedschange.
Congratulations,Tiffani,onthiswell-deservedrecognition!
Sinceitsfoundingin1969,theHumboldtGeneralHospitalAuxiliaryhasdonatedover$4 milliontosupportthehospital,fundingcriticalpurchasessuchashospitalbeds,surgical equipment,andablanketwarmerforHarmonyManor,thehospital'slong-termcarefacility.
In2024,theAuxiliary’scontributionsincluded$18,000foranewportablebabyhearing scanner.Thismoderndevicereplacesthebulky,difficult-to-maneuverequipmentpreviously used,enablingtheOBdepartmenttoefficientlyandeffectivelyscreennewbornswithintheir firstmonth.Additionally,theAuxiliaryfundedaspirometrymachineand600tubesforthe PulmonaryRehabprogramandpurchaseda$2,500exercisebikeforthelong-termcare physicalrehabprogram.
TheAuxiliaryalsoplaysasignificantroleinsupportingfuturehealthcareprofessionals.It awards$40,000annuallyinnursingscholarships,with2024recipientsincludingsixnew applicantsandtworenewals.Thescholarshipprogramhasrecentlyexpandedtoinclude individualspursuingcareersasPhysicianAssistants.
TheAuxiliary’sthriftshop,Poke'nPeek,continuestobeavitalsourceoffunding.In2024, volunteersTimMessmer,TimTrakas,andDaveGourleyinstallednewshelves,andBlackout Tintingaddedfront-windowtintingtoimprovetheshop’sappearanceandfunctionality.Eric Brooksinstalledanewsignfortheshopandiscurrentlyfocusedonbuildinganewcashier’s corner.October’sworkdaysawanimpressiveturnoutofvolunteers,allowingforthe processingofasignificantvolumeofdonateditems.However,theinfluxofclothing donationscontinuestooutpaceprocessing,emphasizingtheneedforadditionalvolunteer support.
TheAuxiliaryalsomadeadirectimpactonthecommunitythroughtheannualClothesfor Kidsevent,whichprovidedclothingfor107children. ThankstotheAuxiliary’sdedication,HGHandthesurroundingcommunitycontinueto benefitfromimprovedresources,enhancedcare,andmeaningfulopportunitiesforthenext generationofhealthcareprofessionals.
Volunteers needed!
VolunteeropportunitiesavailableforHumboldtGeneralHospital, PokeN’PeekThriftShop,andmore!
Anyamountofserviceisappreciated! Greatwaytomakelong-lastingfriendships! Amazingwaytogivebacktothecommunity! Bothmenandwomenwelcome!
(775)623-2076
Officersfor2025
ShellySmith President
CherAlvarez VicePresident
ToriStephen Treasurer
JessicaVillarreal Secretary
JoAnnCasalez Eventpromoter
ThankyoutoEmileeHatch,KimHayes, andAshleyZuniga-Garciaforyour dedicationasofficersfor2024 Meetings
The Employees Committee (HGHEC) is a vital part of Humboldt General Hospital, bringing employees together and giving back to the community. Their efforts are tireless, consistently coming up with fresh ideas and organizing meaningful events Some of the largest and most anticipated events they organize include the summer bowling event and the annual Christmas party, which is the biggest event of the year. This year’s Christmas party welcomed around 270 participants and served as a highlight of the holiday season.
HGH strongly supports the efforts of the Employees Committee, matching employee donations and contributing $10,000 toward the Christmas party, ensuring its continued success and joy for all involved. Additionally, HGHEC organizes fundraisers like food and craft auctions showcasing employee-made items, further fostering a sense of community and camaraderie.
In 2024, the HGHEC demonstrated remarkable generosity, donating $12,308.60 to 19 local organizations and sponsoring 12 scholarships for Lowry High School students, totaling $9,000.00. Just this quarter, they contributed $250 to Zion’s Fall Festival and $500 to the Winnemucca Grammar School for Spook Night, along with their sponsorship of the annual Employee Christmas Party. Their ongoing dedication to both employees and the community exemplifies the spirit of Humboldt General Hospital
Here are a few key points to keep in mind before applying for HGHEC donations:
There's no deadline to apply! Applications are welcome anytime throughout the year.
Applications will remain on file for the calendar year. We may request additional information from applicant organizations.
Preference will be given to organizations contributing to the health, wellness, and safety of Humboldt County.
We don't fund administrative costs such as rent, utilities, or salaries.
Complete applications are essential for consideration.
Connections Challenge
I’m
a special kind of picture, clear and precise, I help doctors look for changes, and I do it quite nice. For women’s health, I play a key part, What am I, that’s close to the heart?
Harry’s Artichoke & Jalapeño Dip
Submitted by Christine Gooch
This Game Day dip is the perfect snack to sit around with friends and enjoy while watching your favorite teams compete.
Ingredients:
2 cans (14 oz each) quartered artichoke hearts, drained
1 small can (4 oz) diced hot jalapeños, drained
Health Tips to Bring in the New Year With Lacy Fettic, MD
Make sleep a priority: Establishing a consistent sleep schedule (same time to bed, same time to wake), sleeping in a cool, dark, and quiet environment (no lights/noise from electronics), and exposure to early morning sunlight are the best ways to ensure restorative sleep. Consistent sleep patterns improve our stress levels, strengthen the immune system, and boost our ability to focus and solve problems.
Do not give up: We all have days in which we overeat, underexercise, sleep poorly and make poor health decisions. Don't let this completely derail your health goals!
1.
½ cup mayonnaise
2 cups grated Parmesan cheese
Freshly ground black pepper (about 6 turns)
Paprika (for garnish)
Whole jalapeños (optional, for garnish)
Instructions:
Prep the Artichokes: Drain and chop the artichokes into small pieces.
Mix: In a bowl, combine artichokes, jalapeños, Parmesan, pepper, and mayonnaise. Stir to combine.
3.
2. Bake: Transfer to a shallow baking dish, sprinkle with paprika, and bake at 400°F for 30 minutes, until golden and bubbly.
4.
Garnish & Serve: Remove from oven, garnish with halved jalapeños (optional), and serve with chips, pita, or veggies.
Connections Challenge Answer
The answer to this edition's Connections Challenge is: Mammogram!
