June Newsletter: Issue #4

Connecting with the Community

June Issue

Chief EMS and Rescue, Andrew Loveless

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Over the past year, our EMS team has responded to approximately 3,000 emergency calls for service and traveled more than 230,000 miles in the line of duty. Looking ahead, HGH EMS is planning to expand ambulance coverage into the northern part of the county, reaching the remote communities of Orovada, McDermitt, Kings River, Denio, and Thacker Pass.

In addition, we remain actively involved in preparing emergency medical services for large-scale events, including the annual Night in the Country Music Festival in Yerington.

Community engagement remains a cornerstone of our mission. We continue to offer EMT courses, hands-only CPR, Stop the Bleed training, and nasal Narcan education.

Our commitment to clinical excellence and professional development has been a central focus. This year, we revised our prehospital clinical guidelines and enhanced our in-house education and formal training programs with the involvement of our EMS medical director. These efforts ensure our providers deliver consistent, evidence-based care. We are also pursuing formal EMS accreditation through the Commission on Accreditation of Ambulance Services (CAAS), underscoring our dedication to the highest standards of quality and accountability.

CHIEF EXECUTIVE OFFICER Robyn Dunckhorst CHIEF FINANCIAL OFFICER Kim Plummer CHIEF NURSING OFFICER Bertha Higbee CHIEF HUMAN RESOURCES OFFICER Angela C. Giese CHIEF INFORMATION OFFICER Jackie Wilson CHIEF, EMS AND RESCUE Andrew Loveless MARKETING & OUTREACH DIRECTOR JoAnn Casalez

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.

Issue: 4

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In This Issue Hospital Week

Page 2

Monarch Awards

Page 3

National Nurses Week

Page 4

Saying Goodbye

Page 5

Staff Graduations

Page 6

Scholarship Recipients

Page 7

HGH Updates

Page 8

Upcoming Events

Page 9

Residents Graduation

Page 10

Job Opportunities at HGH

Page 11

Health and Safety Tips

Page 12

Heakthy Meals on a Budget

Page 13

Spotlight on Our Services

Page 14

New Nurse Practitioners

Page 15

Fit Kids Summer Program

Page 16

National Hospital Week at HGH

“We are Healthcare”

Hospital Week at Humboldt General Hospital was a meaningful time to honor and celebrate the individuals who made the organization a beacon of compassionate care and community strength. The week was filled with appreciation for the dedicated staff whose efforts helped Celebrating MONARCH During Hospital Week shape a supportive and healing environment for patients Hospital Week is the perfect time to recognize the people and families alike. who help make our hospital exceptional—not just in moments of crisis, but in the way they show up every The celebration was made possible through the generous single day. support and commitment of HGH’s Executive Leadership.

Their investment in the staff allowed for thoughtful MONARCH Recognition celebrates the vital, everyday opportunities to recognize, reward, and uplift the people contributions of our non-nursing staff who exemplify the who consistently gave their best each day. To celebrate values that make our workplace strong, supportive, and the staff who make HGH the community healthcare successful. This isn’t about going above and beyond—it’s partner we strive to be, each department hosted their about recognizing those who consistently lead with care, own exciting games, and many offered fantastic prizes. As show up with integrity, and help build the kind of culture staff completed the games, they marked them off on their we’re proud to be part of. These individuals don’t just do blackout bingo cards for a chance to win amazing raffle their jobs—they motivate their peers, bring optimism to basket prizes. every interaction, and help nurture a welcoming and inclusive environment. They remain adaptable under pressure, consistently show respect to all, and lead with care and helpfulness in every task. They are the ones who make each day a little brighter and every challenge a little lighter—true examples of what it means to be a MONARCH. MONARCH is more than just an award—it’s our way of saying thank you to the people who keep us moving forward.

Overall, the week was a great success. Our team came Hospital week memories made will carry forward in our together with energy and enthusiasm, cheering each other daily work. Most importantly, we’re grateful to be part of on throughout the games and the Monarch Awards. From such a dedicated and spirited team.

Body Snatchers in the ER to car racing in Administration, every event brought us closer and strengthened our bond.

We’re incredibly proud of all they accomplished and the support they showed one another.

While Hospital Week has come to an end for this year, we’re already looking forward to making next year’s celebration even better.

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Monarch Awards

There were many staff nominated for Monarch awards each for their dedication and nature. In the category of Providers, Dr. Adajar, Dr. Argyle, Dr. Alex Curtis, Dr. Scott Curtis, Dr. Church, Dr. Janhunen, Dr. Musick, Kyle Kelly, APRN-CNP, Echo Mathews, APRN-CNP, Hannah Kohler, APRN-CNP, and Tina Carbone, APRN-CNP were all nominated. The next category was EMS, the nominees were Gricelda Soto, Robert Rives, Tom Stephen, Seamus Maloon, Mike Sharpe, Silver Nichols, Amy Lake, Bree Dunckhorst, Ursula Monroe, Anthony Pasquale, and Theresa Willis. The Direct Patient Care Nominees were Ashlee Zuniga Garcia, Adriana Gomez, Anahi Garcia, Angelica Ramos, Annita Jury, Cass Schmidt, Cheryl Briseno, Connie Kersnowski, Jazmin Lopez, Jeanette Katzenmeyer, Jennifer Mendoza, JosLynn Quintero, Kayla Fimbres, Laura Butterfield, Lilianna Lopez, Lizbeth Diaz, Lupe Diaz, Diana Castillejos, Emilee Hatch, Tonya Romero, Cristal Lopez, Jaymie Dunckhorst, Breezy Foley, Jaid Carter, JaNita Jensen, Jasmin Brunson, Susan Larson, Sylvie Prokasky, Tina Gomez, Wendy Aitken, Desiree Solimine, Luxelle Salvador, Jasmine Monarch Recipients Sanchez, Marian Rabanes, and Mckenna Owen. The Providers EMS nominees for indirect patient care were Eusebia Solis, Dave Johnson, Odali Ruiz, Krystle McGillic, Dana Goldman, Maria Mayorga, Vitalina Garcia, Kenny Johnson, Chris Vertrees, Jared Powell, Lusia Martinez, Maria Angelica Avalos, Jasmine Estrada, Lori Payne, Maria Tinocco-Mendoza, Guadalupe F Alvarez-Rodriguez, Jessica Villarreal, Susan Hitchcock, Manual Magana, Jose Barajas, Kris Enochson, Cody Vess, Dr. Alex Curtis Theresa Willis Angelica Esparza, Arthur Bill, Tina Singer, Anton Castillo, Direct Care Business Office/ Ericka Castillo, and Cher Alvarez. In the Business Office/Patient Access category Melissa Lopez, Anne Patient Acess Hendrickson, Carlene Patchett, Karla Snider, Deby Copeland, Esmeralda Aguilar, Lori Zarate, Lexxi Robison, Kim Hayes, Jeanette Grannis, Stephanee Dins, Jennifer Waldie, Candace Tooley, Sandy Rose, Jessica Myers, Teri Christensen, Eva Acevedo, Ambir Grenfell, Kathy Patterson, Jennifer Nolen, Sylvie Prokasky Karla Snider Sofia Monreal, Chasey Schaap, and Lacy Villarreal were nominated. As for the Leaders, Jo Ella McClellan, Alicia Indirect Care Leader Wogan, Andrew Loveless, Bea Rodriguez, Sheri Garland, Becky Tisue, Clarissa Vincent, Crisanti Rabanes, Angela Giese Jackie Wilson, JoAnn Casalez, Kelly Pullin, Kevin Grannis, Kim Plummer, Landon Mouritsen, Diane Klassen, Duane Grannis, Cinda Peurala, Shelly Smith, Robyn Dunckhorst, Billie Lucero, and Tina Wilson were nominated. We appreciate all of our nominees, thank you for all that you do!

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National Nurses Week & Nurse Nightingale Awards

National Nurses Week, observed this year from May 6 to May 12, is a time to recognize and celebrate the incredible contributions of nurses across the country. At HGH, we honored our own during this special week with the Nurse Nightingale Award, presented on May 12—Florence Nightingale’s birthday.

This meaningful award celebrates the dedication, compassion, and critical role our nurses play in delivering quality care to patients in every setting.

Whether at the bedside, in clinics, or behind the scenes, our nurses lead with heart and professionalism, helping to shape a culture of excellence throughout our hospital.

They are critical for patient care, offering not only medical support but also comfort, advocacy, and encouragement to those they serve.

Did you know? According to the U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics, there are over 3.2 million registered nurses in the United States, making nursing the largest healthcare profession in the country.

To every nurse in our hospital and beyond, thank you for your tireless work and for the difference you make in the lives of so many.

This year, a total of 22 nurses were nominated for the Nurse Nightingale Award. The nominees include Kyle Kelly, Marina Lopez, Elizabeth Moore, Sabrina Jensen, Michel Winters, Kathryn Ourada, Becky Tisue, Kelly Crossett, Jenelle Camoirano, Sheri Garland, Jessica Grannis, Heather Beach, Maria Martinez, Adriana Calderon, Tiffany Andersen, Marlen Martinez, Melissa Moreira, Vanessa Sanders, Jennifer Fernandez, Vai Fuli, Arlene Bradshaw, and Landon Mouritsen.

Each nominee, through their unwavering compassion, dedication, and commitment to excellence in patient care, has made a profound and lasting impact on the lives of those they serve. Their efforts consistently go above and beyond the expectations of their roles, inspiring others and setting a high standard for quality nursing care.

We extend our heartfelt congratulations to each nominee and thank them for their continued contributions to our community.

“Passing of the Torch”

This year’s Nurse Nightingale Award was given to Sheri Garland, Nurse Manager of Acute and OB. Over the past year, she has taken on the responsibility of managing OB in addition to her previous role in Acute. Her hard work and kindness are exactly what earned her such a special place in her staff’s hearts.

Saying Goodbye and New Beginings Hannah Kohler, APRN-CNP

Angela Giese, Chief Human Resources Officer Angela has served as the CHRO of HGH for four years and has done admirable work within our hospital. She helped develop our High School Shadowing Program, the Bravo Awards, organized job fairs, and much more. While she will be missed, we are excited to see her grow into her new role in Wisconsin.

Nurse Practitioner Hannah Kohler from the Orthopedic Clinic will be leaving HGH this August.

Hannah has been an incredible part of our team for many years, and while it’s hard to say goodbye, we know her next chapter will be nothing short of extraordinary.

Hannah, who joined the HGH team in June of 2013, is admired by both patients and staff for her compassion, dedication, and unwavering drive to help others. Her calm presence, clinical excellence, and kindhearted nature have left a lasting mark on our organization and our community.

She will soon be relocating to Michigan with her family, and although we are sad to see her go, we fully support her decision and are excited for what lies ahead. HGH is proud to have been part of Hannah’s growth and advancement in her education, and we know she will continue to make a meaningful impact wherever she goes.

While Hannah is leaving big shoes to fill, we’re pleased to welcome a new Nurse Practitioner, Kristin, who is already prepared to take on her responsibilities in the Orthopedic Clinic. We’re excited to see the difference she’ll make—read more about Kristin on page 15.

In preparation for her departure, Melissa Lopez has been promoted to serve as Interim Director of Human Resources. Her extensive experience and deep commitment to the organization make her well-prepared to step into this leadership role.

Growth does not happen without change, and change takes bravery. We are thankful for the time Angela dedicated to HGH, and we look forward to all that she will accomplish in her new adventure.

Staff Graduations Graduation is a time of celebration, a chance to recognize achievements and all the hard work that has gone into completing each program. This year, we are proud to honor a diverse group of graduates from various programs, each with their own unique journey.

From Great Basin College, several of our employees have reached important milestones. Sarah Aitken, Alexa Goddard, Kieonna Raby, and Ashley Salgado each earned their Associate of Science in Nursing. Maria Martinez, Vanessa Sanders, and Destiny Starkey earned their Bachelor of Science in Nursing.

We have had the privilege of watching them grow professionally and personally here at HGH, and we are incredibly proud of their progress.

Seven students graduated from the GBC M.A.P.E. program this year, several of whom are also employed at HGH. Pictured are Makayle Mathisen, Katlyn Gomez, Michelle Souza, Adriana Zepeda, instructor Katie Strong, and Katlyn Hilton. Not pictured are Terri Kennedy and Addison Sandberg.

We would also like to congratulate one of our ER nurses, Yolanda Gardner, on earning her Doctorate of Nursing Practice from the University of Nevada, Reno. Yolanda began her career in the Dietary Department, and we are so proud of how far she has come. Isabelle Roselia Carrillo, daughter of staff member Alma Carrillo, is graduating with a Bachelor's Degree in Biology and Chemistry, along with an Associate's Degree in Liberal Arts. She plans to pursue a PhD in Pharmaceutical Biochemistry.

Christian Alexander Rives, son of Robyn Dunckhorst, is graduating with a Bachelor of Arts in Social Science. He plans to use his education to support others through a career in case management. Each of these students has worked tirelessly to reach this point, and their accomplishments benefit the entire community.

We also want to celebrate the five graduates from the Lowry High School EMT class: Mia Gerhard, Danielle Scott, Audrey Doyal, Judith Garcia, and Paige Asbury. Each is planning to enter the medical field, including nursing and other specialties.

We are excited to see what they will accomplish and hope to see them return to us in the future with their new knowledge.

Awarded Scholarships

2025

The Employee Committee is committed to supporting both our staff and the broader community. As part of the HGHEC Giving Campaign, we’re proud to announce that $9,000 in scholarships have been awarded to Lowry High School students.

Each recipient was selected for their hard work, perseverance, and dedication to continuing their education. These students have shown remarkable determination, and we are proud to support them as they take the next step in their academic journey.

The best way to keep our community thriving is to support its members, something the HGHEC works to do every day. Through their generous donations, they are helping these students achieve their dreams and return with new skills.

This year’s award recipients include Jayce Casalez, Marcus Casalez, Matthew Casalez, Judith Garcia, Makenna Garcia, Tanner Hatch, Savannah Noyes, Irydiana Ramirez, and Danielle Scott.

Scholarship Recipients The Auxiliary proudly awards approximately $40,000 in scholarships each year to students throughout our community. These scholarships do not need to be repaid and serve as a meaningful way to invest in the future of Humboldt General Hospital.

Some of the recipients from this past year include Kieonna Raby, Sarah Aitken, Maria Martinez, Ashley Salgado, Alexa Goddard, and Destiny Starkey.

Currently, the scholarship is assisting Courtney Raby, Giffy Baaba Darko, JosLynn Quintero, and

Ashlee Zungia Garcia. The Auxilliary is an amazing part of HGH, helping many of our nurses through college so that they can focus on quality care rather than finances. While some nurses that receive the scholarship do leave town, about 95% return or stay local. Thanks to the hard work and dedication of the Pink Ladies, our hospital continues to grow and thrive. Many of our nurses, including our CEO Robyn Dunckhorst and our Chief Nursing Officer Bertha Higbee, are proud past recipients of the Auxiliary scholarship. This shows just how vital the Auxiliary is to Humboldt General Hospital, shaping the hospital we are today.

HGH Updates Senior Sober Grad Party Donation

Bike Rodeo

With graduation behind us, the Senior Sober Grad Party soon followed. We proudly donated $2,500 to support the organization of the grad party as well as their mission to provide safety.

Celebrating their achievements in a safe way provided a positive opportunity for the seniors to come together one last time as classmates.

Towards the end of June, we were fortunate to participate in Nevada Gold Mine’s Bike Rodeo on the 28th. Held in the EMS parking lot, the event offered kids free ice cream, bike helmets with fittings, and Stop the Bleed kits while supplies lasted.

This event was not only a great way to get children in our community active but also an important opportunity to teach them about safety. Our community is important to us, and part of preventing injuries is through education. Thank you to everyone who participated, as well as to our staff and partner organizations who made this event possible and fun!

Denim Day HGH proudly supported Denium Day, with many staff members participating by wearing denim to show their solidarity. We are grateful to everyone who joined in, helping to raise awareness and strengthen connections within our community.

Connections Challenge

Brain Health Summit For the 2nd Annual Brain Health Summit, we are proud to say that 28 staff members attended thanks to the generosity of HGH. HGH covered all registration fees and allowed staff to attend during working hours. We care very much about our staff’s mental health and were glad they had the opportunity to spent two days learning about mental health, as well as dementia and Alzheimer’s, not only to ensure they were at their best but also to share what they learned with our amazing community.

I don’t heal, but I help to diagnose, With steady hands, my work I propose.

I take what’s red, and with care, I withdraw, To aid the doctors in what they saw.

I’m not a surgeon, but I play a part, In uncovering secrets that lie in the heart.

Upcoming Events Sports Physicals NIAA rules require ALL high school athletes to have a physical exam each year. On Saturday, July 19th, we will be holding our annual free sports physicals from 8:30 AM to 2:00 PM. Please note that a parent or guardian must be present, but no appointment is necessary. The Walk-In Clinic no longer provides sports physicals. If you are unable to attend this event and your student needs a physical, you will need to schedule an appointment with your primary care physician.

CPR Classes We’re offering two types of CPR classes at the EMS Station: BLS Provider CPR for Healthcare Providers: July 7th and August 4th 8:00 AM-12:00 PM Cost: $75 HeartSaver CPR First Aid AED: July 21st and August 18th 8:00 AM-1:00 PM Cost: $65 CPR is a skill everyone should know, even though we hope you never have to use it.

Be prepared. Learn the skills that save lives.

National Night Out

Night in the Country Each year, EMS heads out to Night in the Country to help ensure everyone stays safe and well cared for. We love seeing the community come together, but safety remains a top priority throughout the event. Whether it’s dehydration, an injury, or something more serious, our Emergency Medical Staff is always ready to help.

National Night Out is one of the wonderful ways our community comes together to promote health and safety in Winnemucca.

Hosted by the Humboldt County Sheriff’s Office, the event features a variety of vendors and activities. Last year, some of our EMS staff participated by teaching effective CPR to attendees. We look forward to joining the festivities again this year and continuing to promote the importance of health and safety.

New Residents & Passing the Torch Family Medicine Residency Clinic Since 2016, the Family Medicine Residency Program at Humboldt General Hospital (HGH) has been instrumental in training future physicians and supporting rural healthcare in Nevada. In collaboration with the UNLV Kirk Kerkorian School of Medicine, this program addresses the ongoing physician shortage by preparing compassionate, community-focused doctors who are committed to serving in underserved areas.

This July, we proudly congratulate Dr. Frank Khong and Dr. William Rodriguez on their graduation from the Family Medicine Residency Program. Over the past two years, they have been integral to our care team—building meaningful relationships with patients, gaining real-world experience, and providing high-quality medical care. As they move forward in their careers, whether here at HGH or elsewhere, we thank them for their contributions and wish them continued success.

We are also pleased to welcome our incoming residents: Dr. Daniel Janiak, DO, and Dr. John Brackett, MD. Dr. Janiak, originally from Ukiah, California, completed graduate studies in Laramie, Wyoming, where he worked with Native American tribes. He studied at Lake Erie College of Osteopathic Medicine and completed his internship in Family Medicine at UNLV. Dr. Brackett, from Pence, Wisconsin, is a former entrepreneur and martial arts enthusiast who earned his medical degree from the Kirk Kerkorian School of Medicine at UNLV and completed his Family Medicine internship there as well. Over the next two years, Dr. Janiak and Dr. Brackett will be providing essential care to the Winnemucca community, including chronic disease management, mental health services, well-child exams, Medicare visits, contraception counseling, and more. Their arrival comes at a crucial time for rural healthcare.

Across the U.S., especially in rural regions like northern Nevada, the shortage of healthcare providers continues to grow. “There simply aren’t enough docs to meet the current needs in our country,” says Dr. Trenton Argyle.

“This shortage is expected to worsen, and rural areas will be impacted the most.” Nevada ranks near the bottom nationally in access to primary care, making programs like ours more vital than ever. The UNLV Rural Family Medicine Residency Program is the only rural-based residency program in Nevada. It serves not just as a training ground for physicians, but also as a primary source of care for many Medicaid and Medicare patients in Humboldt County—patients who might otherwise travel out of town for basic services.

Beyond patient care, the program plays a key role in improving overall community health. Faculty physicians like Dr. Argyle and Dr. Lacy Fettic support both clinical care and education while also leading local health initiatives.

These include free sports physicals for students, cancer screenings through the Nevada Downwinders Project, and pediatric physicals for low-income families.

We are proud of our graduates, excited to welcome new residents, and committed to continuing this important work. As Dr. Argyle notes, “We hope the Residency Clinic will continue to serve northern Nevada families for many years to come.”

Are You Recently Graduated?

Check Out Job Opportunities Here at HGH

Dietary Aide/Barista

Love food, coffee, and making people smile? Join our team in a unique role that blends the best of both worlds! We’re looking for someone who can rock the tray line and craft the perfect latte.

In this fun and fast-paced position, you’ll: Prepare meal trays with care and accuracy, following patient diets and menus Keep things sparkling by washing dishes, pots, and pans Help serve up delicious meals in the cafeteria Jump behind the barista bar to whip up coffee drinks and specialty beverages Provide top-notch customer service with a friendly smile Run the register like a pro Whether you're plating meals or pouring espresso shots, you'll be part of a supportive team that keeps things running smoothly and keeps people happy. If you’ve got a positive attitude, a love for great service, and enjoy a little variety in your workday, we want to meet you!

Patient Access Love helping people and keeping things organized? Join our team as a Patient Access Representative—the friendly face that welcomes patients to Humboldt General Hospital.

You’ll greet and assist patients, gather personal and insurance info, schedule appointments, answer calls, handle mail, and coordinate with other departments.

If you’re great with people, detail-oriented, and thrive in a fast-paced environment, we’d love to have you on board.

All positions can be applied for through our website at https://www.hghospital.org/ under the Join Us Careers tab

This Summer HGH will be having a new Community Outreach and Marketing High School/GBC Intern position open up.

Must be enrolled in High School or GBC Valid Nevada Driver License Communication skills, both verbal and written, ability to work collaboratively in a team environment, reliable, with a strong work ethic, willingness to learn, basic computer skills.

Health and Safety Tips for College Students #1: Stay Aware of Your Surroundings

College campuses can be busy and sometimes overwhelming, especially if you are new. It is important to stay alert wherever you are, whether you are walking across campus alone, at night, or in unfamiliar areas. Avoid walking with headphones blasting or staring down at your phone, as this can make you less aware of potential risks. Learn where emergency call boxes or campus security stations are located so you can quickly get help if needed. #2: Practice Good Hygiene and Self-Care

Sharing bathrooms, dining halls, and dorm rooms can expose you to germs you aren’t used to. Regular handwashing, especially before eating and after using the restroom, helps prevent colds, flu, and illnesses. Keep your living space tidy to avoid allergens and pests. College can be stressful, so it is vital to balance academics with activities that help you recharge such as exercise, hobbies, meditation, or social time. #3: Know Your Health Resources

Every campus typically offers a range of health resources, from medical clinics and counseling centers to wellness workshops and peer support groups. Take time early on to learn what is available and where these services are located.

Mental health is just as important as physical health, so if you are feeling overwhelmed, homesick, or anxious, do not hesitate to reach out.

Health and Safety Tips while traveling #1: Plan Ahead But Stay Flexible It’s important to book your accommodations and transportation early so you can get the best prices and avoid last-minute stress. At the same time, be prepared to adjust your plans if unexpected situations arise such as bad weather, travel delays, or changes in local rules and regulations. Staying flexible helps you enjoy your trip without unnecessary worry.

#2: Pack Smart and Light

Choose versatile clothing that matches the climate and the kinds of activities you plan to do. Avoid overpacking because carrying too much can be tiring, and you can usually wash clothes or buy essentials if needed. Make sure to bring important items like your passport, travel documents, chargers, medications, and a small first-aid kit to handle minor emergencies. #3: Stay Hydrated and Protect Yourself From the Sun

Spend lots of time outdoors but remember to drink plenty of water to avoid dehydration. Use sunscreen often and wear a hat and sunglasses to protect your skin and eyes, keeping you comfortable and safe. Taking breaks in the shade can also help prevent overheating and keep your energy up throughout the day.

Healthy Meals on a Budget

Being able to put together a meal is a skill that you will use for the rest of your life. Whether you are about to be a college student off on your own for the first time, or you want to focus more on home cooked meals rather than eating out, these tips from our Director of Food and Nutrition Services can help you create healthy meal on a budget.

Start by creating a plan using the items you already have in your fridge, freezer, or pantry and your favorite recipes.

Review items that are on sale to use in your menu planning.

Prepare and purchase items in bulk to freeze in smaller quantities to be available for future use easily.

Include fruits and vegetables that are inseason for a better price.

Use your menu to plan out your grocery shopping needs - keeps your grocery bill lower by buying what you need and having a plan to use the items.

Plan for leftover evenings to help food from going to waste in your fridge.

Protein sources are often the most expensive part of the food budget. consider a meatless meal once or twice a week to reduce food costs.

Use the MyPlate method to plan healthy, balanced meals for you and your family.

Divide your plate to include ¼ of the plate is protein, ¼ is grains or starchy vegetables, and ½ including non-starchy vegetables and fruit.

Cooking on your own can end up being fairly expensive especially in college, try cooking with friends or your roommate, then the expenses are divided up.

Spotlight on our Services: Lung Cancer Screening What should I ask my healthcare provider about lung cancer screening?

Is lung cancer screening recommended for me?

How do I know if my insurance covers LDCT screening?

What are the benefits and risks of LDCT screening?

What tools are available to help me quit smoking?

LDCT screening is only recommended for individuals at risk for lung cancer. You’re considered at-risk and eligible for screening if you: Are 50 to 80 years old Are currently smoking or have quit within the last 15 years Have a smoking history of 20 packs per year or more

At HGH, we are committed to providing high-quality care within our community. Patients should not have to travel long distances for services that can be offered close to home. That is why our lung screening technology is such an important part of the care we provide.

Much like a mammogram or a colonoscopy, lung cancer screening is a regular preventive health check. If screening detects lung cancer tat an early stage when it is small, and before it has spread, it is more likely to be treated successfully, significantly increasing the patient’s 5-year survival rate.

A low-dose CT (LDCT) scan is the only screening method recommended for at-risk patients. The LDCT machine takes a 3D picture of your lungs, showing more detail than a standard chest X-ray. LDCT scan uses 75% less radiation than a regular CT scan and does not require needles.

Before your screening, you'll meet with your provider to talk about the benefits and risks. During the screening, you'll lie on a table while images of your lungs are taken—no needles or medicine are needed, and you typically won’t need to change clothes unless they contain metal. After the screening, a specialist will review your scan, and your healthcare provider or someone from the screening team will follow up with your results.

People choose to quit smoking for many different reasons. Regardless of your age, or how long or heavily you've smoked, giving up smoking brings a wide range of benefits.

About 80% to 90% of lung cancer deaths are linked to cigarette smoking. Do you have a reason to quit smoking?

To Learn More: Call: 775.623.5222, ext. 1530

Our New Nurse Practitioners on the Block

Meet Kristin Pointon, APRN

As we say goodbye to Hannah Kohler in our Orthopedic Clinic, we are pleased to welcome Kristin Pointon as our new Nurse Practitioner. Kristin has spent valuable time learning from both Hannah and our partners at the Reno Orthopedic Clinic. After completing her formal training, she has been practicing independently for the past several months. While transitions can bring change, patients can continue to expect the same high-quality, compassionate care. Kristen will also maintain our strong partnership with the Reno Orthopedic Clinic, collaborating closely with their team just as Hannah did. Kristin’s passion, dedication, and demonstrated clinical excellence make her a tremendous asset to our team. We look forward to the positive impact she will continue to have in our community as she begins this new chapter in her healthcare journey.

We are excited to welcome Angie Waller, a nationally certified Family Nurse Practitioner with over 19 years of experience in family medicine.

Angie has served in emergency care, private practice, and with Indian Health Services, providing care to communities in Montana, Arizona, and New Mexico.

A graduate of Alcorn State University, she earned both her nursing degrees with a perfect 4.0 GPA. Angie has been recognized as a top healthcare provider and brings a deep commitment to improving access to quality care. We are proud to have her join our team in the Walk-in Clinic.

Meet Angie Waller, FNP-BC

Fit Kids Summer Program The Fit Kids Summer Program has already kicked off but there is still time to get the little ones involved in the fun.

Organized by our Wellness Coordinator Billie Lucero, this program aims to keep kids active and excited to learn over the summer. Fitness can be fun, but by getting kids excited early on in life it helps keep the wonder and joy in their eyes as they get older. So far the Kick off event has already been completed as well as our Fun Fitness day, but there are still a few events left this summer. Each event will have free tickets to enter and win a brand new Boy’s and Girl’s bike! Be sure to join us for the upcoming Water Canyon Recreation Blackout Bingo, Thursday, July 17th, 10:00 AM - 11:00 AM, and the Grand Finale Bowling and Bike Raffle July 24th at Spare Time Bowling from 11:00 AM to 1:00 PM.

Sweet Potato Fries

Ingredients: Extra-virgin olive oil, for lightly coating 6 large, sweet potatoes, peeled and cut into steak fry-style wedges 2 teaspoons kosher salt 1/4 packet taco seasoning mix Note: If substituting baking potatoes for sweet potatoes, reduce the second bake time to 5 minutes instead of 10.

Yield: 4 to 6 servings, Prep Time: 20 minutes Cook Time: 20 minutes, Difficulty: Easy

Instructions: Preheat your oven to 425°F. In a large mixing bowl, toss the sweet potato wedges with a drizzle of olive oil until lightly coated.

Add the kosher salt and taco seasoning, and toss again until the fries are evenly seasoned.

Arrange the fries in a single layer on a baking sheet, leaving space between each piece to ensure they crisp up properly. You may need to bake in batches.

Bake for 10 minutes, then flip the fries over. Return to the oven for another 10 minutes, or until the fries are browned on the outside and tender on the inside.

Let the fries cool for 5 minutes before serving.

Connections Challenge Answer The answer to this edition's Connections Challenge is: Phlebotomist!