Connecting with the Community
Kim Plummer,
Chief Financial Officer
As Chief Financial Officer, I oversee the hospital’s financial operations, including budgeting, accounting, payroll, auditing, and cost reporting. I also manage the entire revenue cycle from patient registration to billing, coding, collections, and reimbursements.
AbigpartofmyroleisensuringcompliancewithGASB,CMS,andother regulatorystandardshelpmanagefinancialriskandinternalcontrols.I’m alsoinvolvedincontractreviews,ROIprojections,andbothstateand federalreporting.
Currently,Isupervisethebusinessoffice,accountingstaff,materials,and patientaccessteams.Notwodaysareeverthesame,andI’malways learningsomethingnew Rightnow,we’reinthemiddleoftransitioningto anewpaymentplatformthatwillmakestatementseasiertounderstand andpayingbillsmoreconvenientforpatients.
CHIEFEXECUTIVEOFFICER
RobynDunckhorst
CHIEFFINANCIALOFFICER
KimPlummer
CHIEFNURSINGOFFICER
BerthaHigbee
INTERIMHRDIRECTOR
MelissaLopez
CHIEFINFORMATION OFFICER
JackieWilson
CHIEF,EMSANDRESCUE
AndrewLoveless
MARKETING&OUTREACH
DIRECTOR
J
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.
Dr. Lacy Fettic featured in Nevada Business’s Healthcare Heroes
We’re thrilled to announce that Dr. Lacy Fettic has been honored in Nevada Business Magazine’s Healthcare Heroes 2025 under the Humanitarian category! The program celebrates those who’ve made a significant impact in healthcare across Nevada; improving quality, increasing access, and caring deeply for underserved communities.
Dr. Fettic, a UNR School of Medicine alum, is the Medical Director of Rural Health at Humboldt General Hospital. She’s also been Residency Site Director for UNLV’s Kirk Kerkorian School of Medicine, and an Associate Professor with UNR Med.
As a family physician, she’s known for her kindness, knowledge, and unwavering commitmenttomakingsurepeoplewhooftenstruggletogetcarearetreatedwithdignity. Onepatientsaid,“themostinformedandknowledgeablephysicianwehaveeverworked with.Herfriendlymannerandgenuineconcernisamazing.”
Wearesoproudofyou,Dr.Fettic,forallyou’vedoneatHGH,andforNevadaasawhole. Readthefullarticlehere:NevadaBusiness.com
CEO Robyn Dunckhorst Receives Recognition for CEO’s to Know List
We are proud to share that Humboldt General Hospital CEO, Robyn Dunckhorst, has been nominated for Becker’s Hospital Review’s 2025 “Rural Hospital and Health System Presidents and CEOs to Know” list. This honor recognizes leaders advancing rural healthcare through innovation, expansion, and compassion.
“It’s an honor to be nominated by those who recognize my rural pride, tenacity, and commitment to improving care,” said Dunckhorst.
UnderRobyn’sleadership,HGHhasexpandedservices, recruitednewphysicians,andinvestedintechnologyand facilityimprovements ensuringhigh-quality,comprehensive careclosetohome.
Cataract Services back at HGH
At HGH we strive to provide as many services as possible to our community, so that they can get quality care close to home. Our latest advancement in this goal is our newest service which will be provided by Dr. Freeman. He specializes in Ophthalmology and has been working with our staff to be able to provide such services. We are excited to have him on our team, and we look forward to seeing how our community benefits from his hard work and dedication.
Ophthalmology is the branch of medicine focused on the diagnosis, treatment, and prevention of eye and vision disorders. Ophthalmologists are medical doctors who specialize in eye health and are trained to provide a wide range of services. These include routine eye exams, prescribing glasses or contact lenses, and managing complex conditions such as cataracts, glaucoma, and retinal diseases.
Dr. David Freeman specializes specifically in cataract surgery. When a cataract develops in the lens of one’s eye, it can become difficult to see. Vision can become blurry, hazy, and even less colorful. Cataract surgery fixes the blur in your vision. This is done by removing the lens of your eye that contains the cataract and replacing it with an artificial eye lens called an intraocular lens (IOL). The surgery is usually not long, and recovery can vary from a few days to a few weeks.
“By offering cataract surgery here in Winnemucca, we’re saving patients long trips to Reno while still giving them the highest quality care,” said Robyn Dunckhorst, HGH CEO
Travel time is now cut down drastically from back-and-forth trips to Reno stacking up to only one pre-op visit around three weeks before surgery. Local optometrist at Black Rock and Bengoa Eyecare can help give patients more information on cataract surgery and help schedule an appointment with Dr. Freeman. Surgeries are already underway and going well.
Schedule an appointment with your local Optometrist to see if you’re a candidate for Cataract Surgery.
Spotlight on our Services: Cardiac Rehabilitation
If you are recovering from a heart attack or managing a chronic heart condition, cardiac rehabilitation at HGH can help you regain strength, improve your health, and return to the life you enjoy.Heartproblemsorriskfactorsdonotmeanyouhavetostoplivingfully.
The Cardiac Rehabilitation Program at HGH is accredited by the American Association of Cardiovascular and Pulmonary Rehabilitation. It is a medically supervised Phase II outpatient program that combines exercise, education, and support to help patients manage heart disease and reducefuturerisk.
Eachparticipantreceivesanindividualizedtreatmentplan.Theprogramcanlastuptotwelve weeksandincludeuptothirty-sixsessions,dependingonyourprogressandphysician recommendation.
Who is Eligible?
Yourphysicianwill determine whethercardiac rehab is right for you. Common candidates include patientswho have experienced or undergone the following:
•Aheart attack
• Coronaryarterybypass surgery
• Heart failure
•Angioplastyorstent placement
•Apacemakerordefibrillator implant
•Aheart transplant Getting Started
Areferral fromyourphysician is required. Most insurance plans, including Medicare, covercardiac rehabilitationwhen it is medically necessary.
To learn more orto enroll, please contact ourWellness Coordinator at 775.623.7907 orfax 775.621.0071.
Cardiac rehab is proven to reduce the risk of a second heart event. Even light exercise within a structured program can improve your overall health. Benefits may include lower blood pressure, reduced cholesterol levels, improved energy, and better daily function. Participants often report increased confidence, emotional well-being, and a renewed interest in daily life.
You will attend one to three supervised exercise sessions per week During these sessions, your heart rate and rhythm will be continuously monitored by trained professionals. Your exercise plan will be adjusted as your cardiovascular health improves. Regular progress reports will be shared with your physician. In addition to physical activity, the program includes education for you and your family.
Rural Care, Real Impact
100 Miles One Way: HGH Featured in National GoodRx Report on Healthcare Deserts
in a rural area, we understand firsthand how vital rural hcare is to the well-being of our communities. Access to timely, y care can be the difference between early intervention and us complications, especially when the nearest hospital or away. Rural healthcare providers often serve as ot just medical services but also trust, continuity, ction to the people they serve.
healthcare means investing in our neighbors, our uture, ensuring that no matter where we live, we ortunity to lead healthy and fulfilling lives. At Hospital, we understand better than most the challenges rural communities face in accessing
residents to travel over 100 miles one way just to ult to fully grasp unless you live it every day. That ecent national report by GoodRx titled "Mapping untry Still Lacks Adequate Access to Healthcare." analysis by Lauren Chase, the report examines how geography, income, and infrastructure shape access to care across the United States. By combining national data with real-life stories, including our own, it sheds light on the urgent need for solutions in rural healthcare.
At Humboldt General Hospital, we understand the real and pressing challenges that rural communities face in accessing healthcare. More than 80 percent of counties in the United States lack adequate access to essential services such as primary care, pharmacies, and hospitals. By continuing to invest in rural healthcare, we help ensure that every person, no matter where they live, has the opportunity to receive the care they need and deserve.
Watch short film 100 Miles One Way with this QR code Read Full GoodRx Report here
Seamus Maloon
Dr. Lacy Fettic
Auction Time!
This year the employees committee has not only hosted one food auction but now has held two very successful week long auctions. This most recent one was in early August, filled with delectable treats and mouth watering dishes. All of the food donated was made by our own staff, then sold to the highest bidder. In total, we were able to raise $1,844.25. The food auctions have been a thrilling way the employees committee raises funds. The top auction items this time around were Homemade Choco flan made by Sheri Garland, Pumkin Chocolate Chip Cake made by Karla Snider, 24 Mini Chocolate Chip Cookies made by Kim Hayes, 6 Pork Tamales made by Graciela Bernal, and the top seller, Lemon Blueberry Tiramisu made by Danielle Scott. We love to participate in the auctions and we look forward to seeing what is up for grabs next time around!
Similar to the food auction, the employees committee also held a craft auction this September. Many different items were ready to be bid on and ended up raising $491. The top selling items were a pink infinity scarf made by Cinda Peruala , a standing sign celebrating Hispanic heritage made by JoAnn Casalez, and sold for the highest bid was a homemade quilt made by Mary Lou Rives going for $115.
Job Opportunities at HGH
Respiritory Therapist
The Respiratory Therapist is responsible for delivering respiratory care and life support to patients with cardiopulmonary disorders in accordance with federal, state, and local regulations. Clinical responsibilities include:
Therapeutic interventions
Monitoring Patient
Support for patients across various care settings within the facility.
You will be working under the direction of the supervisor and/or Medical Director, this role ensures high-quality, evidence-based care. In order to apply you must be licensed in Nevada, certified in BLS, ACLS, and NRP, and credentialed as a CRT or RRT through the NBRC.
Dietary Aide/Cook Float
This dual-role position supports both cook and dietary aide duties. Prepping meals for the day, tray line service, making sure the dishes are squeaky clean, setting up the cafeteria, and cashiering are just some of your daily responsibilities. Not only that, but you will be feeding patients and ensuring meals follow their diets and sanitation standards. Prior food experience is preferred but not a must; a ServSafe certification is a plus.
Certified Nursing Assistant (CNA)
Under the supervision of a licensed nurse, the CNA provides basic daily care to long-term care residents, ensuring their specific needs are met in accordance with facility policies and within the CNA scope of practice. Requires a high school diploma (or equivalent), valid Nevada CNA certification, and current CPR certification. Vocational training and prior healthcare experience are preferred.
Check out the rest of our job opportunities at: HGHospital.org > Join Us > Careers
2nd Annual 2nd Annual
Harmony Manor Car Show & More
This year we celebrate our 2 Annual Harmony Manor Car Show and Fall Festival. Last year we had great participation and success with the Car Show, so much so that we were able to host it again this year.
The day was filled with plenty of fun. Seniors were brought from Harmony Manor to enjoy the sunshine and take a look at all of the cars at West Campus. There was not a dull moment in the event with plenty of music, amazing vendors, and enough good company to fill the parking lot! Cars new and old parked for the day and residents were able to walk around, vote for their favorites, and pose for pictures. The man who won the vote of “People’s Choice” was none other than Martin with his black t-bird. Without a doubt, it was an amazing day not only for our residents down in Harmony Manor, but for everyone who came.
We would like to thank our amazing staff who delivered food, brought and supervised residents, and made this event so memorable. We would also like to thank all of the food trucks who joined us: Poured Out, Fish Fry and More, Dona Chona, and We Must Be Nuts.
Finally, we would also like to thank Koyote Kruisers and all of the families of residents and community members that came to enjoy the car show. We can’t wait to host this event next year!
SideBySide cancersupportgroup
Side by Side, a cancer support group, was created by Donna Vlahos who is also courageously navigating her own battle with cancer. Inspired by her journey, she was empowered to start this group so that no one has to face cancer alone. The group offers a welcoming place to share experiences, build meaningful connections, and support one another through the ups and downs of the cancer journey. This last August, the first meeting was held on the 22nd at Humboldt General Hospital. Everyone who had their own stories to share an be supported by people experie challenges. Cancer can affect ev life, but Side by Side reminds us a never alone and there is community.
Cancer touches nearly every family, whether through a personal diagnosis or as caregivers or loved ones grieving a loss. According to the World Health Organization, 1 in 5 people worldwide will be diagnosed with cancer in their lifetime. That means almost every family globally is affected by cancer, either directly or indirectly. Whether you are supporting a loved one through cancer or facing the journey yourself, no one should have to go through it alone.
“I have met a few people since my diagnosis and many of them just needed to be heard, without people feeling bad for them, that's when I decided that a support group would really benefit the community. It's just somewhere people can be heard, whether it's venting frustrations, talking about their fears, or celebrating the wins. It's somewhere we can support one another,” said Donna.
Meetings are held once a month every fourth Friday. Donna plans on bringing more resources as meetings continue. Such as information on the patient navigator, having a dietician come in to talk about nutrition, and addressing the overlooked mental health portion of a diagnosis.
Winnemucca may be a small town but when we stand together we stand strong. If you or a loved one are considering joining Side by Side: Cancer Support Group, we encourage you to do so. It’s a wonderful way to gain support, compassion and resilience from others while fighting your battle. Cancer is not easy nor has it ever been, but take this as a chance to make it a little bit easier, day by day, side by side.
Updates Around HGH
New Adult and High School EMT Classes
With the coming school year also comes a new class of EMT students. This year we have both our adult and high school classes up and running, and ready to learn. We would also like to mention the tremendous growth of our numbers since last year, last year our high school class had 5 students, but now has 11. We are excited to see all these new students will accomplish and we are proud to share the amazing knowledge that healthcare has to offer.
Getting Ready for Statewide Managed Care
Humboldt General Hospital is preparing for the upcoming transition to Nevada Medicaid’s new Statewide Managed Care Program, set to begin in January 2026. This initiative is designed to strengthen healthcare access and coordination for rural Nevadans. Our team is working closely with state partners to ensure a smooth transition and continued high-quality care for our Medicaid patients. Want to learn more? Visit the Nevada Department of Health and Human Services website for details and a program overview flyer: dhcfp.nv.gov/Providers/Statewide Managed Care
HGH Mammography Has Been Renewed!
Every three years HGH must renew its Mammo Accreditation. In doing so the hospital must be under review of numerous healthcare aspects such as personnel qualifications, equipment quality, image quality, and quality control procedures and programs. The process is thorough and meticulous all to ensure the facility is working to provide safe, high-quality care. In passing the renewal, the hospital shows that it is upholding the “Gold Standard” of medical imaging, signaling a commitment to high practice standards and patient care. By being the “Gold Standard” you know that every mammogram that is given here, is just another example of high quality care.
Discounted Price on Mammograms
Every October mammograms at HGH are discounted by 50% and this year is no different. We are proud to be able to offer this opportunity to our patients and community. Everyone deserves to be able to receive the preventative testing they need, which is why we work to be able to offer this each year. Last year 121 mammograms were performed, we hope to grow that number again this year to ensure that people are receiving testing that could save their lives. Cancer when caught early is treatable. Our mission is to help take care of our patients in the time of need, but also to try and prevent the things that can put them in the hospital.
Employees Committ Trunk or Treat: 10/25
Mark your calendars for Octob 2-4pm! The Employees Commi be hosting their annual Trunk o for the community. If your child seeing decorated trunks, spook costumes, or even just a bag fu candy, this would be the perfec filled evening just for them!
Upcoming Events
Veteran’s Day Free Lunch: 11/11
We’re excited to host our Annual Veteran’s Free Lunch Drive-Thru! Join us for a great meal and a special thank-you to those who’ve served. This year’s highlight — a raffle for a genuine leather jacket, custom-made to your branch and size!
Cookies with Santa: 11/29
We are excited to continue to offer our annual Cookies with Santa event and we hope to see you there as well. Delicious cookies made by our
How You and Your Insurer Share Costs
Jane’s Deductible: $1,500 Co-insurance: 20% Out-of-Pocket Limit: $5,000
Jane pays 100%
Her plan pays 0%
Jane reaches her $1,500 deductible; co-insurance begins. Jane has seen a doctor several times and paid $1,500 total. Her plan pays some of the costs of her next visit.
Office visit cost: $75
Jane pays: 20% of $75=$15
Her plan pays: 80% of $75=$60
Jane pays 0%
Jane has not reached her $1,500 deductible yet, her plan does not pay any of the costs.
Office visit cost: $125
Jane pays: $125
Her plan pays: $0
Jane pays 20%
Her plan pays 80%
Jane reaches her $5,000 out-ofpocket limit. Jane has seen the doctor often and paid $5,000 in total. Her plan pays the full cost of her covered health care services for the rest of the year.
Her plan pays 100%
Office visit cost: $200
Jane pays: $0
Her plan pays: $200
Questions?
Pointyour smartphone cameraatthe QRcodeto sendanemail
In January 2026, some rural Medicaid N members will have Managed Care
Stayinghealthycanfeellikeasport.
ManagedCarehealthplansarelikeateamofdoctors, nurses,&coachesonyourside.Thehealthplanssharethe latestinformationwithyoutopickthebestplayers(doctors andtreatments).Theyalsogetadvicefromexpertsto makesureeverythingisdoneattherighttimeandplace forthebestoutcomeforyourhealth Youwillhaveabig teamtoworkwithtokeepyouhealthyandinthegame.
Home run!
Ina2024survey, Medicaidmembers askedfor:
1.Updateyouraddress& watchthemailformoreinfo infallof2025.
2.Stayinformedwiththe NVMedicaidApp.
3.Learnmore:Website
4.Contacttoaskquestions: StatewideMCO@DHCFP.nv.gov
Medicaidmembersexcept: childreninfostercare; youthinjuvenilejustice systems; peoplewithcertain disabilities; members65&older; peopleinHome& Community-Based Waiverprograms; KatieBeckettmembers
1.Update youraddress
2. Stay informed NVMedicaidApp
3.Learnmore 4.Contactuswithquestions: StatewidewebsiteStatewideMCO@DHCFP.nv.gov morepreventivehealth; easierappointments; moredoctors&providers. Focusonpreventive healthbyoffering incentivesforthose services. Beheldaccountablefor meetingappointment standards. Bringmoredoctors& providerstoruralNevada. Offerfreeextrabenefits.
NevadaListened ManagedCarehealth planswill:
Preparing For the Season’s Three Main Respiratory Viruses
As the weather cools and the seasons change, it becomes that time of the year where we have to start preparing for seasonal viruses. The main three being Covid 19, Influenza, and RSV (Respiratory Syncytial Virus). This section will tell you how to spot the difference between the viruses and a cold, who is at higher risk of these viruses, some prevention services at HGH, and ways to prevent illness in your own home.
Covid,Influenza,RSV,andthecommoncold allstartoffwithsimilarsymptoms.
Distinguishingillnessescausedbyrespiratory virusescanbecomedifficult.Symptomsofall mayincludecough,headaches,sneezing, runnynose,andcongestion.Buttherecan besomespecificstohelpdifferentiateeach illness.
Acoldisaminorinfectionofthenose, sinuses,orthroat.Thefluhasworse symptomsandoftentimescomesonfaster thanacold.RSVismorecommoninchildren andcanleadtobreathingdifficulties.Lastly, Covidaffectsthelungsandairwaysandcan leadtomildsymptoms.
Truly anyone can catch one of these viruses, however some are at a higher risk than others. This list includes, premature infants, infants 6 months or younger, children with underlying medical conditions, adults 65 and older, adults with chronic heart or lung disease, and adults with weakened immune systems.
Here are some of the virus prevention services we offer here at HGH:
Tests can help identify what virus you have and the next steps we can take with your healthcare provider.
Talk to your doctor to see if you are up to date on all of your vaccines.
Antiviral medications are available for influenza and Covid 19.
Illness prevention does not happen within one simple test or vaccine. It takes time as well as good habits in your day-to-day life. Here are some tips that can help with illness prevention in your own home:
Wash your hands with soap and water or using hand sanitizer with 60% alcohol. Cover your nose and mouth when you cough or sneeze. This can be with a tissue, and if one is not available with your elbow. Keep your distance from a sick individual. This can help reduce exposure to respiratory droplets containing a virus. Staying home when you are ill can prevent others from becoming sick as well.
Clean and disinfect frequently touched surfaces when someone is sick at home. This can prevent the illness from spreading to other household members so quickly. Wearing a mask can help protect individuals from viruses, it may even be more effective on those with a higher risk of a serious illness.
Celebrating Safely: Preventative Tips for a Stress-Free Holiday
Halloween: Safety for All Ages
Halloween is a time for fun and imagination, but safety should remain a priority.
• Choose flame-resistant costumes with reflective materials for visibility. Avoid masks or accessories that obstruct vision.
• Children should be accompanied by an adult while trick-or-treating. Use sidewalks, carry flashlights, and cross streets carefully.
• Inspect all treats before allowing children to eat them. Discard anything that is unwrapped or looks suspicious.
• Drivers should be extra cautious in residential areas.
Christmas: Protecting Your Home and Health
Decorations, colder temperatures, and family gatherings can increase safety risks during the Christmas season.
• Inspect lights and electrical cords before use. Do not overload outlets and turn off decorations when not in use.
• Keep natural trees well watered and place them away from heat sources.
• Choose age-appropriate gifts and monitor small children around toys with batteries or small parts.
• Pay attention to mental health. This season can bring stress, so take time to rest and reach out for support if needed.
Thanksgiving: Food and Fire Safety
Thanksgiving centers around food and family, which makes kitchen safety and food handling essential.
• Cook turkey to an internal temperature of 165 degrees Fahrenheit. Refrigerate leftovers within two hours and reheat thoroughly.
• Keep flammable materials away from stovetops and never leave cooking food unattended.
• Encourage balance by staying hydrated and including light physical activity like a walk after dinner.
NewYear’s: A Safe Start to the Year
New Year’s Eve is a time of celebration, but it also requires thoughtful planning to prevent avoidable accidents.
• Never drive under the influence. Use a designated driver or a rideshare service if you plan to drink.
• Use fireworks only where permitted and follow all safety instructions. Keep a water source nearby and supervise children at all times.
• Make sure gatherings are safe and that all guests have a responsible way to return home.
Milan Cookies
As the holidays approach the need for cookies becomes evident. They are the perfect treat to share with others, and although everyone has their favorite kind you should give these decadent cookies a try.
Ingredients:
For the Cookies:
12 tablespoons butter, softened
2 ½ cups powdered sugar
⅞ cup egg whites (from about 6 eggs)
2 tablespoons vanilla extract
2 tablespoons lemon extract
1 ½ cups all-purpose flour
For the Cookie Filling:
½ cup heavy cream
8 ounces semisweet chocolate, chopped
Zest of 1 orange
Instructions:
In the bowl of a stand mixer fitted with the paddle attachment, cream the butter until smooth. Add the sugar and mix until light and fully incorporated. Gradually add the egg whites while mixing, then blend in the vanilla and lemon extracts. Add the flour and mix just until incorporated do not overmix.
Battle of the Badges Blood Drive
The recent community blood drive was a great success with more donors, more blood collected, and more lives potentially saved. A total of 76 people donated, 14 more than last time. In all, 94 units were collected, enough to help up to 282 people.
Blood donation is a simple act with a powerful impact. Since blood cannot be manufactured, donations are essential for patients in surgery, trauma care, cancer treatment, and more.
Thank you to everyone who participated and helped spread the word. In the friendly vote, Sheriff won with 24 votes, just ahead of Fire with 23. If you missed this drive, watch for the next one, your donation could save lives.
Transfer the batter to a piping bag fitted with a small (1/4-inch) plain tip. Pipe 1-inch sections of batter onto the prepared sheet pan, spacing them 2 inches apart to allow for spreading. Bake for about 10 minutes, or until the edges are light golden brown. Let the cookies cool completely on the pan.
To make the filling, heat the cream in a small saucepan over medium flame until scalded (small bubbles appear around the edge but do not let it boil). Pour the hot cream over the chopped chocolate in a bowl. Whisk until the chocolate is melted and the mixture is smooth. Stir in the lemon zest and mix well. Set aside to cool; the filling will thicken as it cools. Once the cookies and filling are both cool, spread a thin layer of the filling on the flat side of one cookie. Press the flat side of a second cookie on top to form a sandwich. Repeat with the remaining cookies.
Connections Challenge Answer
The answer to this edition's Connections Challenge is: Virus