Connecting with the Community
Robyn Dunckhorst:
CEO’s Summer Recap & Looking Forward to Fall
This summer, Humboldt General Hospital made significant strides in expanding services and strengthening community ties. Our partnership with Reno Orthopedic Center (ROC) brought specialized care closer to home, and we set a new record with 421 athletes participating in our free sports physicals program. We also hosted successful events, including a red carpet premiere to celebrate our staff and families who contributed to our latest commercial and a vibrant car show and street carnival for the residents of Harmony Manor and Quail Corner. Additionally, we welcomed new residents and expanded our clinic offerings. Looking ahead, we are excited to participate in upcoming community events such as Trunk or Treat, 50% Mammos, and the Lowry High School Career Fair. Our focus remains on enhancing patient care, introducing new specialists, and continuing to engage with our community to make the remainder of 2024 even more impactful.
CHIEFEXECUTIVEOFFICER
RobynDunckhorst
CHIEFFINANCIALOFFICER
KimPlummer
CHIEFNURSINGOFFICER
BerthaHigbee
CHIEFHUMANRESOURCES OFFICER
AngelaGiese
CHIEFINFORMATION
OFFICER
JackieWilson
CHIEF,EMSANDRESCUE
AndrewLoveless
MARKETING&OUTREACH
DIRECTOR
JoAnnCasalez
Humboldt General Hospital (HGH) is proud to serve as a County Hospital District, a community-focused healthcare facility established and governed under Nevada Revised Statutes (NRS 450). Oversight is provided by an elected board of trustees, who ensure that HGH operates in the best interests of our community.
As a hospital funded in part by tax dollars, we are deeply committed to being fiscally responsible with public funds, ensuring that every dollar is spent wisely to support the health and well-being of our community Our continued operation is thanks to you the people who utilize our services. We are proud to employ over 400 community members, all dedicated to providing the highest quality care close to home. Thank you for trusting us with your health!
HGH Giving Back Serving the community since 1886
HumboldtGeneralHospital:ProvidingCharityCareforOurCommunity
At Humboldt General Hospital, we believe that everyone deserves access to quality healthcare, regardless of their financial situation. In 2023, HGH wrote off an impressive $364,984 in charity care, helping underserved members of our community receive the medical treatment they need without the added stress of a financial burden. January 1, 2024 to September 10, 2024 HGH has adjusted $180,602 tocharitycare.
Since the inception of our charity care program in 2019, HGH has generously provided $2,152,813 to HumboldtCountyresidentsinneedofassistancewiththeirhospitalbills.
This initiative reflects our ongoing commitment to supporting our community and ensuring that essential healthcare services are accessibletoall.
We're proud to serve our community and continue making a positiveimpactonthelivesofthosewecarefor.
HGH Community Health Fair-March 16, 2024
For more than two decades, Humboldt General Hospital has proudly partnered with the Lions Club of Winnemucca to host a free annual community health fair. When the Lions Club faced a decline in
Humboldt
General Hospital during the “New Deal” era.
membership and could no longer manage the event, HGH stepped in to ensure this valuable tradition continuedforourcommunity
In 2024, the health fair provided 41 lab panels and 10 PSA tests. Normally, these tests would cost $26,284.26. However, with discounted lab prices of just $55 per lab panel and $10 per PSA test, our communitysavedanincredible$23,92926inlabcosts
This is just one way HGH gives back to the community, ensuring that crucial health screenings remain accessible and affordable. In addition to the discounted lab costs, HGH covers all expenses for the event, including rentals, food, beverages, advertising, and coordinating vendors to offer free health assessments.Weareproudtocontinuethislegacyofcareandsupportforourcommunity.
Internet Safety
Chris Vertrees, Humboldt General Hospital's Network Systems Analyst, recently spent a morning at the Pleasant Senior Center speaking to the community about internet safety and the various scams circulating locally. His presentation was inspired by the positive interactions he and the IT team had with the public during the annual Health Fair, where they set up a booth to discuss online safety and offer computer tips. Seeing the community's interest, Chris initiated this focused presentation to help seniors stay informed and safe online.
Roc at HGH: A Partnership for Your Health
AtHGH,wearededicatedtoimprovingthequalityofcareweofferourcommunity.Withthis missioninmind,ourpartnershipwiththeRenoOrthopedicCenter(ROC)hasbroughtawaveof positivegrowth,providingaccesstoadvanced,specializedorthopediccareclosetohome.This collaborationismorethanjustanimprovement it'satransformationinthelevelofcarewecan deliver.
MeetingtheCommunity’sNeedswithExpertise
BeforepartneringwithROC,HGHcouldonlyofferjointreplacementsurgeries,leavingpatients needingspecializedorthopedictreatmenttofacelongdrivestolargercities.Thiscreatedabarrierto receivingtimelyandeffectivecare.Now,withROC’sexpertiseintegratedintoHGH’sservices,that gaphasbeenfilled.Ourcommunitynowhasdirectaccesstoboard-certifiedorthopedicsurgeons skilledintreatingawiderangeofconditions,fromsportsinjuriestocomplexjointreplacements. Additionally,HGHnowoffersallofROC’sspecialtiesandtheir24/7virtualemergencydepartment, enhancingtheaccessibilityandqualityofcareavailabletoourpatients.Theconvenienceofreceiving world-classcareinWinnemuccameanslesstimeawayfromworkorschoolandmoretimefocusing onhealing.
WhySpecializedCareMatters
Orthopediccarerequiresahighlevelofexpertise,particularlywhenitcomestosurgery,trauma,and rehabilitation.Throughourpartnership,ROChasbroughtnotonlytheirseasonedphysiciansbutalso cutting-edgetechniquesinfootandanklesurgeries,sportsmedicine,andtotaljointreplacements. Theseadvancementsensurethatpatientsreceivethebestpossibletreatment,improvingtheir recoveryoutcomesandoverallqualityoflife.
WhatmakesourcollaborationwithROCevenmoreimpactfulistheindividualizedattentionpatients receive.WithROCspecialistsworkingdirectlywithinHGH,wecanofferthepersonalized, compassionatecareourpatientsdeserve—withouttheneedtotravelfarfromhome.
MoreThanJustaPartnership ACommunityAsset
Thispartnershipisaboutbuildingahealthier,strongercommunity.Bycombiningthelocal accessibilityandpatient-centeredapproachofHGHwithROC’sspecializedexpertise,weare deliveringahigherstandardofcare.It’sawinforourpatientsandourcommunity,helpingusfulfill ourmissiontoprovideexceptionalhealthcareservicesthattrul k diff
The positive feedback from patients has been overwhelming, as many have expressed their gratitude for being able to receive top-notch care without the stress of traveling out of town. This growth in services is a testament to how partnerships like these can elevate healthcare in rural areas like ours, ensuring that specialized care is no longer out of reach.
Hannah Kholer,
New Residents at RHC
HumboldtGeneralHospital’sRuralFamily MedicineResidencyprogramisexcitedto welcomeDr.CarlKetchamandDr.Kyle Shepherd.
Dr.Ketcham,aRockyVistaD.O.graduate withaKinesiologybackgroundandexperience asaMedicalScribe,iscommittedtoimproving careforunderservedcommunitiesandusing sportstoempowerothers.Outsideof medicine,heisanavidmartialartistand coach.
Dr.Shepherd,alsoaRockyVistaD.O. graduate,bringsleadershipinacademic medicineandextensivevolunteerexperience. Heenjoysmountainhiking,bowhunting,and playingorganmusicinhisfreetime.
Theirexpertiseanddiverseinterestswill greatlyenhanceourresidencyprogramand supportruralhealthcare.
Free Sports Physicals
In July, Humboldt General Hospital hosted its annual free sports physicals event, providing checkups for 421 local athletes. The event's success was thanks to the unwavering dedication of the hospital staff and the crucial support of volunteers. In addition to the good news, the prices for sports physicals outside of this event have dropped from $100 to $65.
Challenge of the Chapter
By bouncing sound waves through tissues so dense, It creates images with echoes intense. A probe that translates waves into sight,
What’s the device that reveals depth in light?
HGH EMS at National Night Out. spreading awareness and teaching hands only CPR.
HGH: A Part of our Community
EngagingwiththecommunityremainsakeyfocusforHGH,which hasactivelyparticipatedinandhostednumerouseventsoverthe pastfewmonths.
OnAugust6th,HGHEMSattendedNationalNightOut,sponsored bytheHumboldtCountySheriff'sDepartment,wheretheyengaged withattendees,distributedHGHswag,andprovidedtrainingon hands-onlyCPRforemergencypreparedness.
GriceldaSotoandEmilyPaddockproudlyrepresentedtheEMSRescueteamatthe2024KidzinMotion(KIMZ)Conferencein Orlando,collaboratingwithNevadaStateCoordinatorJohneanand fellowcarseatinstructorstoadvancechildpassengersafety initiativesalongsideleadingexpertsfromacrossthenation.
InJuly,theFitKidsSummerProgram,ledbyHGHWellness CoordinatorBillieLucero,wrappedupanothersuccessfulyear, continuingitsmissiontokeeplocalchildrenactiveandengaged.This year,160kidsandtheirfamiliesparticipatedinthefreeprogram, makingthemostoftheopportunitytostayfitandhealthy throughoutthesummer.
Additionally,HGHcontributedtotheCommunitiesinSchoolsFillthe Busevent,collectingvitalschoolsuppliesforchildreninneed,with manyemployeesdonatingandassistingwithdeliveries.
Asadistrict-runhospital,HGHprioritizesinvolvementininitiatives thatenhancepublichealthandsupportthecommunity.
Spotlight on Our Services: Infusions
By. Tiayra Andrus, RN
Medications What does Infusions do?
Currently infusions offers a wide variety of medications such as: IV or IM Antibiotics (ex. daptomycin, ertapenem, ceftriaxone, and more).
Antirheumatics (ex. Orencia, Rituxan, Actemra).
Special disease medications such as Lupron for Prostate Cancer, Benlysta for Lupus, Fabrazyme for Fabry Disease, and more.
Allergy injections such as Xolair. Some immunoglobins such as Gamunex-C, Octagam, Gammagard, etc.
Behavioral injections such as Haldol, Abilify, and Invega.
Iron infusions such as Venofer, Ferrlecit, and Dextran.
Hydration infusions such as normal saline, lactated ringers (with or without vitamin/electrolyte additives!). Can add Zofran for those ever nauseous patient’s!
Other important medications such as Tezpire, Procrit, and so much more.
Contacting Pharmacy at 1550 or via email can give you a more detailed list of medications that we have available to order.
Infusions provide a range of services, including intravenous, subcutaneous, and intramuscular injections. We also offer specialized nursing services, such as care for PICC lines, ports, and midlines. This includes everything from quick dressing changes and lab draws to daily antibiotic treatments. Our goal is to serve our community by reducing the need for patients to travel to distant infusion centers, saving them time and money.
Where is Infusions?
Hidden inside of the OR/PACU area.
Infusions is currently living in the first two rooms of the OR Pre-op Area. Anytime you need to reach the infusions department you can email us at infusions@hghospital.org or call 775.623.5222, ext. 1263.
Infusions at HGH saved our community 80+ out of town appointments just last month!
Employee Spotlight
Cody Vess Red Carpet VIPs
We are excited to announce Cody Vess as the first recipient of the HGH Bravo Award, which recognizes employees who go above and beyond their regular job duties.
Recently, Cody displayed exceptional dedication when he assisted during an emergency situation in the ER. When a patient was brought in unconscious and without a pulse, Cody immediately stepped in to help. He assisted in pulling the patient from the vehicle, allowing lifesaving CPR to be started without delay. Cody then worked alongside the ER team to move the patient onto a stretcher and bring them inside, all while CPR was being administered. Without his quick action, it would have been difficult to provide the necessary treatments as quickly. Cody's willingness to help in such a critical moment speaks volumes about his commitment to patient care and teamwork.
We are proud to have Cody as part of the HGH family, and this recognition is well-deserved. Please join us in congratulating him for his outstanding efforts!
Nominator: Sabrina Jensen
Chief HR
Officer
Angela
Giese, Cody Vess, ED Manager Becky Tisue, ED RN Sabrina Jensen
We want to extend a sincere thank you to all the employees who volunteered their time and effort for our new HGH commercial. Your generosity and dedication made it possible to create a beautiful representation of Humboldt General Hospital and the community we serve. Without your support, this project wouldn’t have been possible We are incredibly proud of the final result and grateful for your contributions. Thank you for making this commercial a true reflection of the heart and spirit of HGH!
Red Carpet MVPs: Dietary, IT, & Maintenance
A huge thank you to our MVPs who worked behind the scenes handling the setup and takedown of furniture, and provide us with delicious, first-class food Your hard work and dedication don’t go unnoticed you are the true MVPs, making everything run smoothly for our red carpet event!
Surgeries & Procedures
In July there was 56 Surgeries performed and 39 procedures.
In August there was 42 Surgeries as well as 35 procedures.
September had 42 Surgeries and 35 procedures.
These services that HGH offers each month help to keep our community healthy and keep compassionate care close to home.
Healthy You Fridays CNA training
To ensure we can keep providing our essential services, we have recently updated our pricing. As of September 6th, the cost of the Healthy You Friday labs is now $75, up from $55, and the PSA (Prostate Specific Antigen) test has increased to $15 from $10. These adjustments help us manage the rising costs of reagents, lab supplies, and staffing. We truly appreciate your understanding and continued support.
program?
Humboldt General Hospital (HGH) is excited to announce an incredible opportunity for aspiring healthcare professionals! Our "Advance Your Career with HGH" program is designed to recruit individuals for the position of Unit Clerk in the med-surge (ACUTE) unit, with the fantastic benefit of fully-funded training to become Certified Nursing Assistants (CNAs) at HGH.
Humboldt General Hospital Highlight
HGHhasbeenbusymakingsuretobringcareclosetohome.Recentlynew positionshavebeenfilledtobringNursePractitioners,FamilyPracticeResidents, andPhysiciansAssistantstoourhospitalforthebenefitofthehealthofour community.OneofthesesuchpositionswasfilledbyRebeccaStevens,PA-C,who joinedourteamonSeptember4th.Withherextensiveexperienceand commitmenttocompassionatecare,shehasbeenseeingpatientsofallagesin SuiteAandisalreadyprovingtobeavaluableassettoourcommunity. Seenew familypracticeresidentsonpage4.
InadditiontotheamazingpeoplethatarenowapartofHGH,wealsohavemade newpartnershipsandhaveadvancedtechnologyonthewaytoservethe community.ThelaboratorywillhaveanewChemistryandImmunoassayAnalyzer withintheyear.Thesemachineswillallowformoreteststobecompletedhereat HGHratherthanhavingtobesentout.BecauseHGHisacountydistricthospital therevenueitmakesfromdailyoperationsgoesintoobtainingnewequipment andstaffforthebenefitofthecommunity.HGHisdedicatedtobringingcare closetohome.
Challenge of the Chapter Answer
The answer to this editions Challenge of the Chapter is: Ultrasound!
Health tips
Stay Hydrated: Hydration supports overall health, helps prevent dry skin, and can boost your immune system.
Maintain a Balanced Diet: Foods rich in vitamin C and D can help strengthen your immune system and combat seasonal illnesses
Exercise Regularly: Keep active even in colder months. Indoor workouts or winter sports can help maintain fitness, boost mood, and prevent weight gain
Protect Your Skin: Cold air and indoor heating can dry out your skin. Use moisturizers and protect your skin from the elements with appropriate clothing, such as gloves and scarves.
Recipe
For the Cake:
Semi-Homemade Chocolate Cake By. Jennifer Waldie Business Office
1 box chocolate fudge cake mix
½ cup brewed coffee (cooled)
½ cup whole milk
3 large eggs
Oil (as per package instructions + an extra splash)
Splash of vanilla extract
For the Frosting:
1 cube (1/2 cup) unsalted butter, softened
Splash of vanilla extract
2-3 tablespoons milk (adjust as needed)
Powdered sugar (to taste)
Chopped nuts (optional, for topping)
Instructions
1. Prepare the Cake:
Preheat your oven and prepare your baking pan according to the cake mix instructions.
In a large mixing bowl, combine the chocolate fudge cake mix, brewed coffee, whole milk, eggs, oil, and a splash of vanilla.
Mix by hand or on low speed with a mixer until just combined. Be careful not to overmix.
Pour the batter into the prepared pan.
2. Bake:
Bake according to the cake mix directions, typically around 19 minutes, or until the cake springs back when lightly pressed. Adjust bake time for different pan sizes as needed.
3. Make the Frosting:
In a medium bowl, soften the butter.
Add a splash of vanilla and ½ the milk, then gradually mix in powdered sugar until you reach your desired consistency.
Add more milk or powdered sugar as needed to achieve a smooth and spreadable frosting.
4. Assemble:
Once the cake has cooled slightly, frost with the butter frosting.
Sprinkle chopped nuts on top, if desired.
5. Serve:
Enjoy the cake warm or let it cool completely for a delicious dessert any time!
Storage:
Store leftovers in an airtight container at room temperature or in the refrigerator for up to a week.
About HGH EC
Officers
President – Shelly Smith
Vice President – Ashlee Zuniga Garcia
Co-Vice President – Emilee Hatch
Event Coordinator – Kim Hayes
Secretary – Cher Alvarez
Treasurer – Tori Stephen
Meetings are the First Tuesday of the Month from 2pm to 3pm in Sonoma Conference room
The Giving Campaign at Humboldt General Hospital is a testament to the generosity of our employees, who contribute via payroll deduction, with all funds managed solely by the Employees Committee. Historically, HGH has matched employee donations on a quarterly basis, doubling the impact of these contributions. For many years, HGH employees have been deeply committed to giving back to our community, providing support in numerous ways, including awarding scholarships to graduating seniors. This ongoing dedication reflects the spirit of service and care that defines our team.
2024 Donations (through Sept.)
WMCA FFA Alumni
Winnemucca Little League
Sonoma Classic
Grass Valley PTA
Winnemucca United-Community Soccer
Humboldt County Library
Living Stones Church-Back to School
Main Street Winnemucca
Mustangs Hockey Sponsorship
Safe Haven
Sonoma Classic
Whitewater Swim
WYFL
Harmony Manor
LHS Graduates Scholarships
2024 HGH EC Fundraising & Events
Candy Grams
Cornhole Raffle
Food & Crafts Auction
Summer Bowling
Upcoming:
Trunk or Treat
Christmas Party
Employee Basket Raffel
Here are a few key points to keep in mind before applying: 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.