Connecti ith th C munity
June Iss
Chief EMS and R Andrew L
Over the past year, our EMS team approximately 3,000 emergency ca and traveled more than 230,000 m duty. Looking ahead, HGH EMS is p expand ambulance coverage into th communities of Orovada, McDerm
In addition, we remain actively invo 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.
CHIEFEXECUTIVEOFFICER
RobynDunckhorst
CHIEFFINANCIALOFFICER
KimPlummer
CHIEFNURSINGOFFICER
BerthaHigbee
CHIEFHUMANRESOURCES
OFFICER
AngelaC.Giese
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.
NationalHospital WeekatHGH
HospitalWeekatHumboldtGeneralHospitalwasa meaningfultimetohonorandcelebratetheindividuals whomadetheorganizationabeaconofcompassionate careandcommunitystrength Theweekwasfilledwith appreciationforthededicatedstaffwhoseeffortshelped shapeasupportiveandhealingenvironmentforpatients andfamiliesalike.
Thecelebrationwasmadepossiblethroughthegenerous supportandcommitmentofHGH’sExecutiveLeadership Theirinvestmentinthestaffallowedforthoughtful opportunitiestorecognize,reward,andupliftthepeople whoconsistentlygavetheirbesteachday.Tocelebrate thestaffwhomakeHGHthecommunityhealthcare partnerwestrivetobe,eachdepartmenthostedtheir ownexcitinggames,andmanyofferedfantasticprizes As staffcompletedthegames,theymarkedthemoffontheir blackoutbingocardsforachancetowinamazingraffle basketprizes.
Overall,theweekwasagreatsuccess.Ourteamcame togetherwithenergyandenthusiasm,cheeringeachother onthroughoutthegamesandtheMonarchAwards From BodySnatchersintheERtocarracinginAdministration, everyeventbroughtuscloserandstrengthenedourbond. We’reincrediblyproudofalltheyaccomplishedandthe supporttheyshowedoneanother
WhileHospitalWeekhascometoanendforthisyear, we’realreadylookingforwardtomakingnextyear’s celebrationevenbetter.
“We are Healthcare”
CelebratingMONARCHDuringHospitalWeek HospitalWeekistheperfecttimetorecognizethepeople whohelpmakeourhospitalexceptional notjustin momentsofcrisis,butinthewaytheyshowup every singleday.
MONARCHRecognitioncelebratesthevital,everyday contributionsofournon-nursingstaffwhoexemplifythe valuesthatmakeourworkplacestrong,supportive,and successful.Thisisn’taboutgoingaboveandbeyond it’s aboutrecognizingthosewhoconsistentlyleadwithcare, showupwithintegrity,andhelpbuildthekindofculture we’reproudtobepartof.Theseindividualsdon’tjustdo theirjobs theymotivatetheirpeers,bringoptimismto everyinteraction,andhelpnurtureawelcomingand inclusiveenvironment.Theyremainadaptableunder pressure,consistentlyshowrespecttoall,andleadwith careandhelpfulnessineverytask Theyaretheoneswho makeeachdayalittlebrighterandeverychallengealittle lighter trueexamplesofwhatitmeanstobea MONARCH.
MONARCHismorethanjustanaward it’sourwayof sayingthankyoutothepeoplewhokeepusmoving forward.
Hospitalweekmemoriesmadewillcarryforwardinour dailywork.Mostimportantly,we’regratefultobepartof suchadedicatedandspiritedteam
Monarch Awards
Monarch Recipients
Providers Providers
many staff nominated for Monarch awards each for their dedication and e 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 Sanchez, Marian Rabanes, and Mckenna Owen. The 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, Angelica Esparza, Arthur Bill, Tina Singer, Anton Castillo, Ericka Castillo, and Cher Alvarez. In the Business Office/Patient Access category Melissa Lopez, Anne 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, Sofia Monreal, Chasey Schaap, and Lacy Villarreal were nominated. As for the Leaders, Jo Ella McClellan, Alicia 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!
Dr Alex Curtis
Sylvie Prokasky
Manual Magana
Theresa Willis
Karla Snider
Noelle Enochson M
National Nurses Week & Nurse Nightingale Awards
NationalNursesWeek,observedthisyearfrom May6toMay12,isatimetorecognizeand celebratetheincrediblecontributionsofnurses acrossthecountry.AtHGH,wehonoredourown duringthisspecialweekwiththeNurse NightingaleAward,presentedonMay12 Florence Nightingale’sbirthday.
Thismeaningfulawardcelebratesthededication, compassion,andcriticalroleournursesplayin deliveringqualitycaretopatientsineverysetting. Whetheratthebedside,inclinics,orbehindthe scenes,ournursesleadwithheartand professionalism,helpingtoshapeacultureof excellencethroughoutourhospital.
Theyarecriticalforpatientcare,offeringnotonly medicalsupportbutalsocomfort,advocacy,and encouragementtothosetheyserve.
Didyouknow?AccordingtotheUS Bureauof LaborStatistics,thereareover3.2million registerednursesintheUnitedStates,making nursingthelargesthealthcareprofessioninthe country.
Toeverynurseinourhospitalandbeyond,thank youforyourtirelessworkandforthedifference youmakeinthelivesofsomany.
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.
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”
Saying Goodbye and New Beginings
Hannah Kohler, APRN-CNP
NursePractitionerHannahKohlerfromthe OrthopedicClinicwillbeleavingHGHthisAugust Hannahhasbeenanincrediblepartofourteamfor manyyears,andwhileit’shardtosaygoodbye,we knowhernextchapterwillbenothingshortof extraordinary.
Hannah,whojoinedtheHGHteaminJuneof2013, isadmiredbybothpatientsandstaffforher compassion,dedication,andunwaveringdriveto helpothers.Hercalmpresence,clinicalexcellence, andkindheartednaturehaveleftalastingmarkon ourorganizationandourcommunity.
ShewillsoonberelocatingtoMichiganwithher family,andalthoughwearesadtoseehergo,we fullysupportherdecisionandareexcitedforwhat liesahead.HGHisproudtohavebeenpartof Hannah’sgrowthandadvancementinhereducation, andweknowshewillcontinuetomakeameaningful impactwherevershegoes.
WhileHannahisleavingbigshoestofill,we’re pleasedtowelcomeanewNursePractitioner, Kristin,whoisalreadypreparedtotakeonher responsibilitiesintheOrthopedicClinic.We’re excitedtoseethedifferenceshe’llmake readmore aboutKristinonpage15.
Angela Giese, Chief Human Resources Officer
AngelahasservedastheCHROofHGHforfour yearsandhasdoneadmirableworkwithinour hospital.ShehelpeddevelopourHighSchool ShadowingProgram,theBravoAwards,organized jobfairs,andmuchmore.Whileshewillbe missed,weareexcitedtoseehergrowintoher newroleinWisconsin.
Inpreparationforherdeparture,MelissaLopez hasbeenpromotedtoserveasInterimDirectorof HumanResources.Herextensiveexperienceand deepcommitmenttotheorganizationmakeher well-preparedtostepintothisleadershiprole.
Growthdoesnothappenwithoutchange,and changetakesbravery.Wearethankfulforthetime AngeladedicatedtoHGH,andwelookforwardto allthatshewillaccomplishinhernewadventure.
Staff Graduations
Graduationisatimeofcelebration,achancetorecognize achievementsandallthehardworkthathasgoneinto completingeachprogram.Thisyear,weareproudtohonora diversegroupofgraduatesfromvariousprograms,eachwith theirownuniquejourney.
FromGreatBasinCollege,severalofouremployeeshave reachedimportantmilestones.SarahAitken,AlexaGoddard, KieonnaRaby,andAshleySalgadoeachearnedtheirAssociate ofScienceinNursing.MariaMartinez,VanessaSanders,and DestinyStarkeyearnedtheirBachelorofScienceinNursing. Wehavehadtheprivilegeofwatchingthemgrow professionallyandpersonallyhereatHGH,andweare incrediblyproudoftheirprogress.
SevenstudentsgraduatedfromtheGBCM.A.P.E.program thisyear,severalofwhomarealsoemployedatHGH.Pictured areMakayleMathisen,KatlynGomez,MichelleSouza,Adriana Zepeda,instructorKatieStrong,andKatlynHilton.Not picturedareTerriKennedyandAddisonSandberg.
WewouldalsoliketocongratulateoneofourERnurses, YolandaGardner,onearningherDoctorateofNursing PracticefromtheUniversityofNevada,Reno.Yolandabegan hercareerintheDietaryDepartment,andwearesoproudof howfarshehascome.IsabelleRoseliaCarrillo,daughterof staffmemberAlmaCarrillo,isgraduatingwithaBachelor's DegreeinBiologyandChemistry,alongwithanAssociate's DegreeinLiberalArts.SheplanstopursueaPhDin PharmaceuticalBiochemistry. ChristianAlexanderRives,sonofRobynDunckhorst,is graduatingwithaBachelorofArtsinSocialScience.Heplans tousehiseducationtosupportothersthroughacareerin casemanagement Eachofthesestudentshasworked tirelesslytoreachthispoint,andtheiraccomplishments benefittheentirecommunity.
WealsowanttocelebratethefivegraduatesfromtheLowry HighSchoolEMTclass:MiaGerhard,DanielleScott,Audrey Doyal,JudithGarcia,andPaigeAsbury.Eachisplanningto enterthemedicalfield,includingnursingandotherspecialties. Weareexcitedtoseewhattheywillaccomplishandhopeto seethemreturntousinthefuturewiththeirnewknowledge.
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
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.
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.
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.
Bike Rodeo
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!
Connections Challenge
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 7 and August 4 8:00 AM-12:00 PM th th Cost: $75
HeartSaver CPR First Aid AED: July 21 and August 18 8:00 AM-1:00 PM st th 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
HealthandSafetyTips forCollegeStudents
#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.
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.
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.
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?
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.
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
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?
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,
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 24 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.
