Vernon Memorial Healthcare has once again achieved a prestigious 5-star rating from the Centers for Medicare & Medicaid Services (CMS) for its overall
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David Hartberg Chief Executive Officer/ Administrator
Vernon Memorial Healthcare
507 South Main Street
Viroqua, WI 54665
General Info: (608) 637-2101
At Vernon Memorial Healthcare, our story is about generational ties, strong community support, and a rich history that connects us all. We are proud to be recognized as one of America’s Top 100 Hospitals for our excellence in joint replacement care. We are even more proud to be awarded 5 Stars by the Centers for Medicare and Medicaid for Patient Quality and Patient Experience, one of only three hospitals in Wisconsin to receive such a distinction.
As an independent hospital, we are locally operated and committed to serving our community. This allows us to make decisions that best meet our community’s unique needs. We are not part of a larger healthcare system, so we have the flexibility to offer personalized, patient-centered care that reflects our local values. This independence helps us stay closely connected to our patients and ensures their voices are heard in the care they receive.
As we reflect on our work in 2024 and ahead to 2025 and beyond, we welcomed many new providers to the Vernon Memorial family. These talented individuals bring diverse experiences and a shared commitment to enhancing our community’s health and well-being. Alongside our long-standing team, they will help us continue providing compassionate, high-quality care that our community trusts.
Each team member, whether new or experienced, plays a vital role in creating a place where everyone feels welcomed and valued. The arrival of new providers and their families enriches our community, bringing fresh perspectives and engaging in local activities. This blend of experience and new energy keeps our rural community vibrant and resilient.
VernonMemorialHealthcare
www.instagram.com/ vernonmemorialhealthcare
www.linkedin.com/company/ vernon-memorial-healthcare www.vmh.org
We are committed to our mission: to inspire patient-centered, compassionate care in our community. This is not just where we work; it is where we live, as the heart of our community. As we welcome new providers and their families featured in this edition of the Spotlight, we anticipate the positive impact they will have on our healthcare network and our community. Join us as we continue our journey as a strong, growing, and independent healthcare network— together.
Vernon Memorial Healthcare has once again achieved a prestigious 5-star rating from the Centers for Medicare & Medicaid Services (CMS) for its overall quality of care in 2024. This recognition highlights Vernon Memorial Healthcare’s commitment to providing exceptional healthcare tailored to the unique needs of the Vernon County community.
The CMS Overall Quality Star Rating evaluates hospitals across various areas of quality, including mortality rates, safety of care, patient experience, 30-day readmissions, and timely and effective care. These categories are essential indicators of a hospital’s performance, covering everything from the treatment of critical conditions like heart attacks and strokes to the cleanliness and quietness of the hospital environment.
This accomplishment reflects Vernon Memorial Healthcare’s role as an independent hospital deeply rooted in its community. The hospital’s patient-centered approach ensures that everyone receives personalized care, contributing to high patient satisfaction and a strong overall hospital quality rating.
A key component of the 5-star rating is the Patient Experience Star Rating, derived from the Hospital Consumer Assessment
of Healthcare Providers and Systems (HCAHPS) survey. This national survey measures patients’ perceptions of their inpatient care, focusing on critical aspects such as communication with nurses and doctors, responsiveness of hospital staff, and the overall hospital environment. High scores in these areas reflect Vernon Memorial Healthcare’s commitment to creating a positive, supportive experience for every patient.
As we continue to serve the community with excellence, this 5-star rating stands as a symbol of Vernon Memorial Healthcare’s dedication to quality, safety, and the well-being of its patients. By remaining independent and communityfocused, we can deliver healthcare that not only meets but exceeds the expectations of those it serves.
At Vernon Memorial Healthcare, we are excited to introduce our newest providers, who bring unique insights and expertise across a wide range of care. Each of our new providers is dedicated to upholding the highest standards of medical excellence, ensuring that our patients receive the personalized, compassionate care they deserve.
Family Medicine, La Farge Clinic - VMH
Dr. Oliver Taylor is a dedicated and highly skilled medical professional specializing in family medicine. Completing his residency at John Peter Smith Family Medicine Residency in Fort Worth, TX, Dr. Taylor has extensive training in both high-risk obstetric management and caesarean sections.
Dr. Taylor’s medical journey began with a Bachelor of Science in Physiology and Developmental Biology from Brigham Young University in Provo, UT, followed by a medical degree from Dallas, TX. Throughout his residency, he has focused on developing expertise in obstetrical and newborn care, addiction medicine, and treatments for PREP for HIV and hepatitis C.
A healthcare leader in his community, Dr. Taylor has served
on the Academic Improvement Committee and provided healthcare to patients experiencing homelessness through both inpatient consults and mobile clinics. His commitment to patient care and community health is evident in his approach to medicine and his ongoing professional activities. Dr. Taylor believes that listening to patients is essential to providing effective care, as it allows him to understand their unique needs and concerns, ultimately leading to more personalized and compassionate treatment.
Outside of his professional life, Dr. Taylor enjoys hiking, baking, rock climbing, reading Roald Dahl books to his two daughters, and solving escape room challenges with his wife. His diverse interests and holistic approach to life and medicine make him a compassionate and well-rounded healthcare provider.
Michael Loebertman, MD
Shelly Dillion, FNP, brings over 30 years of extensive nursing experience to her role at Vernon Memorial Healthcare. Having practiced in various settings, including Cardiology, Neonatal Intensive Care, and critical access hospitals, Shelly has developed a broad skill set that she now applies in her capacity as a Family Nurse Practitioner.
Originally from Iowa, Shelly recently made the move to Wisconsin, where her commitment to patient care remains unwavering. Her journey in healthcare has seen her thrive in roles such as triage nurse, nurse health coach, clinic educator, and manager over the past eight years.
Shelly’s inspiration to pursue the field of family nursing came from her experience as a nurse health coach, where she realized the potential to empower patients to achieve optimal health, even while managing medical conditions. She credits her motivation to several influential nurse practitioner mentors.
As an FNP, Shelly specializes in diabetic education, goal setting, and general healthcare. She holds certifications and is a proud member of the American
Dr. Michael Loebertman is a dedicated family medicine physician at Vernon Memorial Healthcare, offering a wide range of services including obstetrics, pediatrics, and vasectomies. He is committed to providing comprehensive care for individuals and families across all stages of life. Dr. Loebertman earned his medical degree from the University of Wisconsin-Madison School of Medicine and Public Health and completed his residency at OHSU’s
Cascades East Rural Family Medicine Program, where he developed a passion for rural healthcare.
Dr. Loebertman has a strong background in research, with several publications in pain management, particularly focusing on the long-term efficacy of radiofrequency ablation. His research
Shelly Dillion, FNP
Family Medicine
Bland Clinic - VMH
Association of Nurse Practitioners, with active nursing licenses in both Iowa and Wisconsin.
Notable achievements in her career include receiving the Highlight of Excellence Award for enthusiasm and being nominated for the Ellen Hurn award, recognizing her positive attitude with a patient focus.
has contributed to advancements in pain management techniques, and he has presented his findings at national conferences.
In addition to his clinical expertise, Dr. Loebertman is actively involved in community service, volunteering in various educational and mentoring programs. He is passionate about health education and supporting students interested in pursuing careers in medicine.
Dr. Loebertman is dedicated to building lasting relationships with his patients, offering personalized care that addresses their unique needs. His comprehensive approach and commitment to the community make him a valuable asset to Vernon Memorial Healthcare.
Shelly’s treatment philosophy revolves around collaborative care, working with patients to develop health plans, set goals, and support lifestyle changes. Her strength lies in building strong rapport and trust with patients through active listening and focused follow-ups. She is comfortable working with patients of all ages, with a special interest and comfort in pediatric care. Shelly’s unique approach involves leveraging her experience in health coaching to make patients active participants in their own care, fostering trust through positive relationships.
A graduate of GrandView University in Des Moines, Iowa, Shelly holds a Bachelor of Science in Nursing. She further pursued her education at Purdue Global University, earning a Master of Science in Nursing as a Family Nurse Practitioner.
Known for her positive, energetic, and sparkly demeanor, Shelly faces each day with gratitude and enthusiasm. She is excited to bring her passion for patient empowerment to the VMH team and looks forward to making a positive impact on the lives of her patients.
At Vernon Memorial Healthcare, we are proud to introduce Nicole Mueller, FNP, a dedicated and skilled Family Nurse Practitioner who brings a wealth of experience and a compassionate approach to patient care.
Originally hailing from Holmen, Nicole now calls Westby home, where she resides with her husband and a delightful fourlegged family—two dogs named Scout and Hazelnut, and two cats, Squirt and Corky.
With a healthcare journey that began in high school, Nicole has been an integral part of a medical team for the past decade. Her roles have included specialized areas such as psych/ drug & alcohol detox/chapter holds, IV therapy with a vascular access team, and contributing to Imaging Services, where she has been involved in Cardiac CTs, hydration, and PICC line placements.
Nicole’s inspiration for entering the medical field comes from her family’s strong medical background. Initially starting with a CNA course in high school, she went on to pursue higher education, earning her
Doctorate and becoming a board-certified FNP. Her expertise lies in vascular access, where she holds PICC certification with the use of ultrasound and 3CG technology.
Active in professional associations, Nicole is a proud member of the WI Nurses Association (WNA), American Nurses
Association (ANA), and Sigma Theta Tau. Her treatment philosophy revolves around patient-centered holistic collaborative care, reflecting her belief in treating others as she would like to be treated.
Nicole’s career highlights include delivering a baby and identifying a fracture during a follow-up appointment as a student. She is committed to breaking language barriers in healthcare and is on a journey to learn ASL and Spanish.
Choosing to be a general/family NP, Nicole is aligned with the vision of providing primary care where it is needed most.
Joining Vernon Memorial Healthcare allows her to care for her community and neighbors, fulfilling her mission to make a positive impact on the lives of those around her.
Beyond her professional achievements, Nicole enjoys various interests and hobbies, including hunting, trapping, gardening, crafting, reading, and engaging in outdoor activities. Her commitment to exercise and continuous learning reflects her holistic approach to life.
Lily Lepke, PMHNP is a dedicated and compassionate Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner specializing in the treatment of severe mental health issues. Born and raised in the Viroqua area, Lily has a deep connection to her community and is committed to providing high-quality mental health care to its residents.
Lily’s journey in healthcare began with a Bachelor of Science in Nursing from Viterbo University in 2019. She then gained valuable experience working for five years at Gundersen’s Inpatient Behavioral Health Unit, where she developed a strong foundation in acute mental health care. Motivated by a passion for mental health, Lily pursued and earned her Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner degree from the University of North Dakota.
Throughout her career, Lily has focused on treating adults with severe mental health conditions, including schizophrenia and bipolar disorder. She also provides care for individuals experiencing depression, anxiety, PTSD, ADHD, and addiction issues. A member of the American Psychiatric Nurses Association, Lily is particularly dedicated to addressing the stigma surrounding mental health in her practice, ensuring her patients feel understood and supported.
Outside of her professional life, Lily enjoys the tranquility of rural life in Chaseburg, WI, where she lives with her husband and two dogs. Her commitment to her patients and her community, combined with her professional expertise, makes Lily a trusted and respected healthcare provider.
The 2024 Community Health Needs Assessment (CHNA) is a crucial tool that helps identify the most pressing health concerns in our community, guiding Vernon Memorial Healthcare in addressing these needs effectively. This year’s CHNA revealed that mental health is a significant concern in Vernon County, with 43% of respondents expressing high levels of concern and 31% worried about the stigma surrounding mental health issues. As part of our CHNA implementation plan, Vernon Memorial Healthcare is committed to addressing these concerns by providing resources and support.
Nationally, nearly one in five adults lives with a mental illness, underscoring the importance of community support and understanding. Family and friends can play a crucial role by listening without judgment, educating themselves about mental health, and encouraging loved ones to seek professional help.
For more information, including Vernon Memorial’s three-year plan to address these needs, visit our website to access the full report on the 2024 Community Health Needs Assessment.
Make It OK: makeitok.org
National Alliance on Mental Illness (NAMI): nami.org
Mental Health America (MHA): mhanational.org
Substance Abuse and Mental Health Services
Administration (SAMHSA): samhsa.gov 988: 988lifeline.org
Vernon Memorial Healthcare is proud to introduce the latest advancement in our hospital laboratory: the AccuVein vein visualization system. This cutting-edge technology uses near-infrared light to project a map of a patient’s veins onto their skin, making it easier for healthcare professionals to locate veins quickly and accurately.
The benefits of AccuVein are substantial, particularly for patients with difficult-to-locate veins, such as children, the elderly, or those with certain medical conditions. AccuVein enhances patient comfort and potentially decreases the risk of complications. This technology not only improves efficiency but also contributes to a more positive patient experience.
Safety is paramount at Vernon Memorial Healthcare, and the AccuVein system plays a crucial role in our commitment to patient safety. The device minimizes the chances of multiple punctures and reduces the likelihood of bruising or other adverse effects. By making vein visualization more precise, AccuVein supports our goal of providing safe, high-quality care that puts our patients’ well-being first.
This investment in advanced technology reflects Vernon Memorial Healthcare’s dedication to ensuring that our patients receive the most effective, compassionate, and safest treatment possible.
In this day and age, health systems across the country are facing difficult situations. Shortages of healthcare workers, increasing costs of equipment & supplies, and insurance companies covering less than ever before are just a few of these complex challenges - and VMH is certainly not immune. However, VMH is navigating these obstacles with ingenuity and adaptability, setting us apart as a health system focused on resiliency.
While many factors tie into our resilience, one important element is our community’s commitment to improving healthcare for our region. Our region is filled with compassionate people who give to Vernon Memorial Healthcare Foundation, making it possible for VMH Foundation to provide healthcare advancements, so that VMH can focus on the essentials.
VMH Foundation is a 501(c)(3) nonprofit organization, whose mission is to enhance access to healthcare for people in the regions served by VMH. Through the generosity of our donors, VMH Foundation works to provide special programs & services, cuttingedge equipment & technology, and education.
In this section of The Spotlight on Health, you’ll find examples of remarkable enhancements in care made possible by the many people and organizations who donate to VMH Foundation. I hope that after reading this section, you are encouraged and uplifted by the difference donations make in local healthcare.
With gratitude,
Nicole Hall Development Manager
We hope you enjoy reading about recent projects that have been made possible by our donors!
VMH Foundation provided $65,000 to support an ApolloKnee ™ robot for orthopedic surgery. Robotic surgery has been utilized at VMH for many years, but the new ApolloKnee ™ robot is the first of its kind with new technology, efficiencies, and planning tools. In fact, Vernon Memorial Healthcare was selected to be the first site in the entire world to have this technology, which is quite an honor.
The robots make vast improvements to robotic assisted surgery capabilities for knee replacements, including the first and only robotic knee balancer, increased control and efficiency, advanced cutting systems for femur and tibia cuts, and autonomous planning for alignment preferences.
“Robotic surgery has transformed my practice in a very positive way, and ApolloKnee ™ is a project we have worked on for four years – it takes what we currently do, and provides better planning and improved precision. The very first use of Apollo in the whole world was at VMH, and I’m excited to be able to offer this state-ofthe-art technology to our community. Our ability to gift a patient pain relief and restore their quality of life is the most gratifying job that I could have imagined.”
-Dr. Jeffrey Lawrence, Emplify Health Orthopedic Surgeon at Vernon Memorial Healthcare
VMH Foundation funds the Comfort Bear program for VMH, which provides a teddy bear to children in the Emergency or Urgent Care departments. Being in the ER can be a challenging experience for anyone, but for children it can feel especially overwhelming, and sometimes scary. The bears provide staff with a tool to help support and comfort some of our youngest patients to get them through this difficult time.
“These comfort bears, generously donated by the foundation, bring a sense of warmth and reassurance to our patients in the emergency department. They provide a small but meaningful comfort during a challenging time, helping to ease the stress and anxiety of our patients.”
-Shawna Andolsek, RN, ER Manager at Vernon Memorial Healthcare
The Foundation provided a Portable Handheld Ultrasound Scanner for Infusion Services. This new technology assists staff in placing difficult IV’s and PICC lines. Previously, staff had to rely solely on anatomical features for placement. The scanner enhances the visualization of veins, and provides better selection for optimal access.
“Patients needing PICC lines are typically dehydrated, which can make finding a vein challenging. This cordless handheld ultrasound now provides better representation of where the vein is utilizing imaging, making it easier for nurses to place lines. This can make it less painful for the patient while reducing the number of access attempts and other complications.
Thank you for this advancement for our patients!”
-Melonie Driese, Perioperative, GI, and Infusion Manager
As the old adage goes, “good things come in pairs,” and the partnership between VMH Foundation and the Friends of VMH is no different! The Friends of VMH play a vital role in embracing and sharing the mission and vision of Vernon Memorial Healthcare, through raising and donating thousands of dollars each year to benefit Vernon Memorial Healthcare!
making it a great improvement to have this diagnostic tool available at Vernon Memorial Healthcare for our community.
Together, VMH Foundation and the Friends of VMH fund an annual scholarship program, which provides tens of thousands of dollars annually to area students pursuing a career in healthcare as well as VMH employees. These dollars help students right here in our community, and make a real difference in helping them achieve their career goals.
“I am so grateful to be a recipient of the VMH Foundation & Friends of VMH Scholarship Program. Thank you for investing in my education and future career as an Occupational Therapist. VMH has always provided me with opportunities to grow my healthcare knowledge, whether it was through job shadowing or volunteering, and I am so grateful for everything my hometown hospital has done to lay the foundation of my career.”
-Jessica, 2023/2024 Scholarship Recipient
In addition to the annual scholarship program, the Foundation & Friends partnered together this year to make an exciting advancement possible for the community: funding a Lymes Disease Analyzer.
Together, the Foundation and Friends provided over $25,000 for the new piece of equipment for VMH. Previously, testing had to be sent out to another facility. By providing this technology, the Laboratory Team at VMH can now process these tests in-house, providing a more efficient workflow, ease for staff, and most importantly, faster results for patients.
In 2022, Wisconsin had 5,327 cases of Lyme disease. The average number of reported cases has more than doubled over the past 15 years. The actual number of cases is thought to be higher than what is reported, according to the Center for Disease Control. When detected and treated early, most people with Lymes Disease make a complete recovery,
“I have been a member of the Friends of VMH for over 20 years, and I have witnessed the impact that the scholarships and funding of equipment has had on our community and patients,” shares Kathryn Sutton Anderson, who is both a member of the Friends of VMH, and a donor to VMH Foundation. “The scholarships help local students offset the costs of education as they pursue a career in healthcare. It promotes and supports success by decreasing the financial burden for students, allowing them to focus on their studies. Equipment purchases allow excellent care to continue right here, close to home. I am proud to be an employee of VMH, President of the Friends of VMH, and a donor to VMH Foundation. My donations have had a meaningful impact – and all donors should be proud that they are contributing to something extraordinary.”
Whether it be partnering to provide education for local students, or to provide advanced technology for our community, VMH Foundation and the Friends of VMH believe that when we combine our resources, we can do more together. And that is the power of philanthropy.
This year’s application period is open until October 31, so if you or someone you know is a student pursuing a career in healthcare, encourage them to apply!
Eligibility requirements and the application are available at vmh.org/community/community-involvement.
Throughout the year, gifts are made to VMH Foundation to express their gratitude for a staff member or department for whose care they are grateful. Donors also choose this method of giving to celebrate individuals on special occasions such as birthdays, graduations, or anniversaries.
In response to these gifts, VMH Foundation sends a letter to the honored individual, and we are always happy to pass along a special note from you to them. Gift amounts are confidential. Individuals who were honored between March 1, 2024 and September 1, 2024 are listed.
La Farge Clinic Staff
Bernadette Adams, FNP
Sharon Barnhart, APNP
Derek Burkum, PA-C
William Calkins, MD
David Chakoian, MD
Heather Chestelson, DPM
Stephanie Croft, APNP
Bonnie Davidson, MD
James DeLine, MD
Phoebe Devitt, MD
Martin Erlandson, DO
Joann Fouts, DO
Nick Guzzo, APNP
Beth Honeyman, PA-C
Michael Kalinosky, DO
William Kumprey, MD
Jeffrey Lawrence, MD
Sally Light, PTA
Andrew Lehman, MD
Anthony Macasaet, MD, FACEP
Andrew Manspeaker, MD
Patricia Olijnyk, MD
Tammy Pedretti, PA-C
Craig Pierce, PA-C
Amar Polepalle, DO
Deb Prior, MD
Elizabeth Roberts, MD, MPH
Ann Sherry, PA-C
Whitney Sinclair, DO
Brendan Sotomayor, MD
Erin Swiggum, APNP
Brian Woody, MD
Adam Wuensch, MD
VMH Foundation is honored to receive special gifts made in memory of those who are no longer with us. These donations celebrate the memory of the person who has passed, while also enhancing the quality of care for people in our region.
When we receive a memorial, VMH Foundation sends a letter to the family of the individual being memorialized. Gift amounts are confidential. Individuals who were memorialized between March 1, 2024 and September 1, 2024 are listed.
Arelene Alexander
Verna Buhr
William Bula
Ruth Ann Clark
Marilyn Dahl
Joyce Funk
James Gaskell
Linda Holte
Paul Jacobson
Marilyn Kvigne
Glenn Lorenz
Irene “Ivy” Mayer
Bob & Ruth McClurg
Annabel McGarry
James McIntosh
Tamara Oliver
Judy Phinney
Bernice Schroeder
Peder Swanson
Marjorie Swiggum
Carol Weber
Nelson Ward
VMH Foundation thanks our friends for their generous gifts to further our mission. Your support represents a shared commitment to making a positive impact in our community, and we are immensely grateful for your partnership in realizing our collective mission. For a comprehensive list of our compassionate donors, please visit vmh.org/community/2024-vmh-foundation-donors
At VMH Foundation, we are dedicated to developing and supporting projects which enhance access to quality healthcare and wellness for people served by VMH. We hope you have found these examples of impact inspiring, and we invite you to make a gift to VMH Foundation to be a part of this work!
Your donation today will enrich the lives of people in our community through providing special programs, advanced technology & equipment, and education.
Gifts can be made using the enclosed envelope, on our website vmh.org/ community/foundation, or using the QR code below. Just as there are many reasons to give, there are many ways to give! Visit our website for a full list of giving options, or call Nicole Hall to learn more at 608-637-4374.
SCAN ME
A gift from your IRA, DAF, stocks, or trust can support our mission while providing you with tax savings.
Vernon Memorial Hospital
507 South Main Street
Viroqua, WI 54665
General Info: (608) 637-2101
