MRHC Hosting Medicare Part D Enrollment Event November 11th

Medicare

Manning Regional Healthcare Center will host a special Medicare Part D enrollment event on Friday, November 11th to help area residents compare and answer questions regarding Medicare Part D plans offered for 2023.

Open enrollment for Medicare Advantage and Medicare Part D prescription drug plans runs until December 7th, and MRHC staff want to make sure individuals are informed about the many choices available.

“The coverage and cost of Medicare plans tend to change each year,” said Amy McLaughlin, CPA, Chief Financial Officer at MRHC. “Meeting with MRHC staff and volunteers can help people understand the Medicare options better and potentially save them money as a result.”

MRHC staff will be available on the 11th to provide free, unbiased, and confidential assistance. Appointments are required and can be made by calling (712) 655-2072. Participants should plan for 45 minutes of time and bring a listing of all recent medications along with their current or old Medicare cards.

Changes to Medicare Advantage and Medicare Part D prescription drug plans can be made through December 7th. Those who miss the open enrollment deadline generally must wait a full year before making changes to their plan.

MRHC wants to remind residents to do three important things during the open enrollment period:

  • Review your plan notice. Read any notices from your Medicare plan about changes for next year – especially your “Annual Notice of Change” letter. Review your plan’s information to make sure the prescriptions you use are still covered and your medical providers and pharmacy are still in network.
  • Think about what matters most to you. Medicare health and drug plans change each year and so can your health needs. Does your current plan best meet your needs?
  • Shop for the plans that meet your needs and fit your budget. Compare plans even if you’ve been satisfied with your current plan. The coverage and costs for plans can change from year to year.

MRHC staff will review all plans offered and will not promote any particular plan or company.

Christensen Helps Make an Impact Behind-the-Scenes at MRHC

LeeAnn Christensen

LeeAnn Christensen“When people think of healthcare, they often think of nurses, doctors, etc. – but there is so much more that goes into our patients having the best experience possible,” shared MRHC Revenue Cycle Director, LeeAnn Christensen, MHA.

Christensen and her team have an integral role at MRHC as the revenue cycle is the first and last encounter for a patient in a healthcare setting, whether it’s walking in the doors to register, calling to schedule an appointment, billing insurance, and everything that comes after patient care is done.

“There are so many talented and knowledgeable staff who are needed in the revenue cycle, and a lot goes into it,” said Christensen. “From registration to coding, billing, and patient billing, having our key players with the right personalities, certifications, and schooling is vital for our patients and MRHC.”

A local to the area, Christensen graduated from IKM, received her associate degree from DMACC in Carroll, and worked as a CNA at the Manilla Manor during college. After receiving her bachelor’s degree in Business Management from the University of Phoenix she worked at Myrtue Medical Center in Harlan as a Medicaid biller. She then moved to Omaha and held a variety of positions at The Nebraska Medical Center, gaining more revenue cycle experience. Once she completed her Master’s in Healthcare Administration from Clarkson College, she was ready to be back in a rural area.

Christensen moved home after accepting a night ward clerk position at MRHC in 2013. She soon transitioned to an administrative assistant at MRHC and eventually came back to the revenue cycle, working in various positions as Chargemaster Coordinator, PFS Coordinator, Patient Access Manager, and Privacy/Compliance Officer. In 2021, she began her current role as the Revenue Cycle Director.

“MRHC has helped me grow, and I am extremely thankful for all the opportunities I’ve had at MRHC to gain knowledge in a variety of departments. My experience has given me a great, well-rounded base in my journey to get me where I am today,” said Christensen. “MRHC adapts as the industry changes and looks within to see how to utilize the great staff that is here. Having the support and encouragement to keep learning and growing is something that I very much appreciate!”

“LeeAnn’s vast background in healthcare and tremendous work ethic make her an extremely valuable asset to MRHC that we are lucky to have,” shared Chief Financial Officer, Amy McLaughlin, CPA. “She has an eagerness to learn and a desire to make herself and the teams she leads grow and improve daily.”

In addition to gaining experience within various aspects of the healthcare setting and having the opportunity to grow in her career, Christensen also values being able to work close to home.

“MRHC offers flexibility and promotes a work-life balance that is very hard to achieve, especially in management/supervisory roles,” Christensen points out. “We all agree, family comes first, and that message starts at the top of the organization. Being able to work so close to home in this type of role is something I am grateful for. I can take kids to their appointments, events, and be right there for the unexpected. Knowing I’m only a few minutes away from them during the day is great!”

She also recognizes that it is especially important in healthcare to be surrounded by a good group of people in a positive team environment.

“MRHC has taken huge strides in promoting a positive, supportive, and uplifting team environment and we can see it throughout the facility,” shared Christensen.

Christensen also points out that every role in the healthcare setting is equally important and makes an impact.

“I really like knowing that my work at MRHC helps take care of those I love and who mean the most to me,” said Christensen. “Helping my friends, family, and loved ones is priceless. I know I can make an impact on them, even if it’s behind-the-scenes. I want to remind people that there are quite a variety of roles in different areas for those who want to work in healthcare but not on the clinical side.”

If you would like to join the MRHC team, visit www.mrhcia.com/careers or call (712) 655-2072 for more information on current job openings.

Carroll Co. Growth Partnership Attends Annual Access Washington Trip

Linn and Dawn in DC
Block and Meyer Voice Area Concerns

By: Pam Kusel

It has been two years since Carroll County Growth Partnership has traveled on their annual Access Washington trip to visit with the Congressional delegation, federal agencies, and others to discuss important issues in Carroll County. COVID-19 and government shut downs kept the group from traveling to Washington DC the past two years. This year, the group brought a full slate of issues to discuss and new faces to experience our nation’s capital.

“I am so thankful for the opportunity to go to Washington DC to advocate for rural healthcare,” said Manning Regional Healthcare Center CEO, Linn Block. “As Iowa saw its first hospital closure this year, the impact of many years of reimbursement pressures will continue to put the future of rural healthcare in jeopardy. MRHC has consistently been a leader in working alongside state and federal policy makers to ensure they understand our challenges as we continue to meet the needs of our community.” Linn and Dawn in DC

Dawn Meyer, Manning City Administrator, said, “We met with all four of the House representatives from Iowa and their staff. We also met with a representative of the Biden administration. We talked about a number of issues specific to Manning. We brought a proposed change for David-Bacon, which is a federal regulation relating to contracts that involve federal money. This is a long-term issue. In the past we have received quick turnarounds, such as the gas line. We also brought up several healthcare concerns; things that are important to MRHC. We felt it was important to support those issues, and Linn (Block) presented very well on that, and we got some good feedback from elected officials.”

Healthcare dominated the trip, being the leading issue brought by private industry. Linn Block, MRHC CEO, asked for continued support and funding of the 340B program, which has a large impact to their bottom line and helping provide healthcare in the Manning area. Both requests were given support from the entire Iowa delegation (four Congressional offices and two Senate offices). Allen Anderson, CEO of St. Anthony Regional Hospital, discussed the importance of the rural demonstration program and the funding support it gives to the Carroll hospital.

Kimberly Tiefenthaler, Executive Director of Carroll County Growth Partnership led the group to DC on her first Access Washington trip. “Access Washington is a phenomenal opportunity for our organization, area businesses, and constituency to bring issues to our nation’s leaders,” stated Tiefenthaler.

The City of Carroll discussed issues regarding the wastewater treatment plant and effluent limitations. This was discussed at all congressional meetings and of the Environmental Protection Agency (EPA), asking for guidance to solve the problem and help the taxpayers of the city of Carroll. Other issues consisted of volunteer EMS support, transportation infrastructure (four-lane Highway 30), Davis-Bacon, Economic Development Administration reauthorization, and housing rehab. All issues gained the support of the Iowa delegation who were willing to help find solutions.

A highlight of the trip was meeting with Will McIntee, Associate Director of Public Engagement with the Biden Administration. The group met with Will at the Eisenhower Executive Office on the White House Campus, just down the hall from the Vice President’s office.

“We attend this trip looking for help and guidance to solve problems that people and businesses are facing here in Carroll County. Some years, CCGP has accomplished those tasks and some years, we continue to build relationships with the leaders in Washington DC. Either way, this trip is a benefit for the people of Carroll County,” stated Tiefenthaler.

Carroll County Growth Partnership invests in this trip every year and is to be used as a resource and benefit to Carroll County. Any leader or business can bring their issue and attend the trip in the future.

Attendees of the trip were: Kimberly Tiefenthaler, Carroll County Growth Partnership; Rick Hunsaker, Region XII Council of Governments; Dawn Meyer, City of Manning; Gene Meiners, Carroll County Supervisor; LaVern Dirkx, Carroll City Councilman; Mike Pogge-Weaver, City of Carroll; Allen Anderson, St. Anthony Regional Hospital; Linn Block, Manning Regional Healthcare Center; and Matt Meiners, Carroll Co. Growth Partnership.

MRHC Helps Individuals Ease into Retirement

Thrive close to home

As it has become more common for semi-retired or retired individuals to choose to continue working in a part-time or less intensive role, MRHC has taken notice and taken action to accommodate this emerging trend in employment.

“This is a great way for individuals to transition into retirement as well as retain and attract high-quality staff who might want to cut back on working full-time, eliminate travel, or simply remain connected within healthcare. And it has been a win-win for us,” said MRHC CEO, Linn Block, RN, BSN, MHA.

This is the case for Nancy Danner who worked as a registered nurse for 27 years in the Carroll County area, a Certified Physician Assistant for 16 years in Manning, and a Certified Medical Coder at MRHC the last four years. After retiring in August, she has since transitioned to a volunteer position as Senior Health Insurance Information (SHIIP) counselor at MRHC. Nancy Danner drop out

“I will be 70 in October, but I wanted to volunteer for something that was really needed,” Danner shared. “SHIIP helped my husband and I when we had to make Medicare-related decisions and we found the volunteer counselors were very helpful.”

Danner meets with individuals every Wednesday by appointment and provides information to aid in Medicare decision-making.

“I very much like the environment at the hospital, and I feel comfortable with the employees. I am happy to be able to continue to help the people of the Manning area as a SHIIP volunteer counselor,” Danner said.

Three other MRHC employees were able to take advantage of part-time roles as they looked to ease into retirement or take on less demanding jobs but continue to play an important role in healthcare.

Mindi Boyle now works as the Care Coordinator and Discharge Planner at MRHC after working in healthcare for 28 years. Boyle started her career at the Business Office at MRHC and spent 13 years filling a variety of roles at the hospital. After making a career change and receiving her four-year degree, Boyle worked as the Social Services Coordinator at the Manning Plaza for 15 years. Mindi Boyle

“After working for MRHC for 26 years, coming back felt like coming home,” said Boyle. “Working in a hospital setting has allowed me to continue to learn new things, help people, and stay connected in the healthcare arena on a part-time basis. I appreciate MRHC giving me the opportunity to continue working in healthcare and serving patients in a little different capacity than I had previously.”

Even after being away from the hospital setting for 15 years, MRHC staff have helped Boyle’s transition go as smoothly as possible and made it feel like she never left.

“Everyone at MRHC has been so welcoming and helpful. There is a team approach facility-wide to ensure that everyone, employees and staff, are taken care of with the utmost respect and care. We are fortunate to have such a progressive, professional, and compassionate healthcare facility in our community, and I am proud to be a part of that again,” shared Boyle.

Similarly, when Becki Ehlers reached retirement age after working in healthcare for over 30 years, nine of those spent in Admissions at MRHC, two as a receptionist at the Manning dental office, and 18 years as a chiropractic assistant and secretary, she was grateful to find a part-time role at MRHC. After seeing that the hospital needed a screener during the pandemic, she stepped out of retirement. Becki Ehlers

“I wanted to help patients again because I missed being around people.” Ehlers shared. “I liked the options that were presented to me for a retired individual. I enjoy being around people, and I can still help out with my grandchildren and spend time with friends and family.”

Ehlers was able to continue working after her services were not needed as a screener anymore, and she now works part time in the HIM department.

After 48 years in healthcare, Laurie Stein is coming back to work part-time at MRHC as she transitions into retirement. Stein started her career in healthcare in Sac City as a medical assistant before becoming a certified medical assistant (CMA) and working in the Manning clinic for 35 years, seven of which she served as a CMA for Nancy Danner. She obtained her RN degree in 2010 and started at MRHC as a surgical and specialty nurse the following year. She obtained her BSN degree in 2013 and has been at the Carroll VA since then, providing primary care and mental health nursing to local veterans.

Laurie Stein drop out photo“I wanted to be closer to home instead of having to drive 20 plus miles one way to work every day,” shared Stein, RN, BSN.  “I thought it would be great to come back full circle to the clinic setting that I originally started at when I first came to Manning.”

Stein will be assisting MRHC transition to their new electronic health record system and working as a nurse as needed in the clinic. Not only is she looking forward to being back at MRHC, she is appreciative of the opportunity to continue working in healthcare with less stress and more time for herself.

“This part-time status will allow flexibility in my schedule so I can enjoy some retirement time such as freedom to travel and more time for volunteer work in the community that I am very passionate about,” Stein said. “I know a lot of the staff at MRHC so I feel that I will fit in well with the team environment, and I am looking forward to working with everyone. I haven’t even started, and I already feel welcome.”

If you would like to join the MRHC team, visit www.mrhcia.com/careers or call (712) 655-2072 for more information on current job openings.

MRHC Financial Giving to Ensure Healthcare Remains Close to Home

Donor Wall

“We are grateful for the many financial contributions, large and small, that have made a significant impact on the services offered here at Manning Regional Healthcare Center,” shared MRHC CEO, Linn Block, RN, BSN, MHA. “We are proud to be able to recognize those within the hospital with the Trees of Hope donor wall display.”

The recent installation of the donor wall, located near the MRHC surgery waiting room, represents the contributions made during the hospital’s recent capital campaign, Project Forward. In total there were 83 donors who contributed nearly $700,000. As donations continue to be made to the hospital, additional leaves will be added throughout the year.

“We recognize that it takes many different funding sources and committed citizens to ensure that we can provide the high-quality care and variety of health care services that we offer here at MRHC,” said Block. “One of the organizations that has made a significant impact over time has been the hospital Auxiliary, and they have lots to celebrate this year.”

Auxiliary Surpasses $300,000 in Contributions

While membership is only $10/person, the total contributions from the Auxiliary to Manning Regional Healthcare Center over the past 47 years has now surpassed $300,000. Since 1975, the Auxiliary, on average, has maintained an annual membership of 200 members.

“While some people can afford to make larger donations, others can only make smaller, incremental donations over time,” shared Janet Myer, hospital Auxiliary president. “It’s incredible how those smaller donations add up, though.”

Some of the more notable donations Myer recalls over the years were furnishing the birthing room at the old hospital, providing a van for the Plaza, creating a beauty shop at the Plaza, and getting furniture in the Recovery Center.

“Although some of these items are no longer in use, one thing that remains steady is our commitment to keeping quality healthcare available here in Manning,” said Myer.

As the needs of the community and the hospital evolve, so do the projects that the Auxiliary funds. “Each year we ask MRHC departments for a wish list and try to spread the support throughout the whole facility,” emphasized Myer.

The Auxiliary has had to adapt to new ways of funding over the years as well. For many years, the Auxiliary hosted a snack bar at the Plaza. The Auxiliary now hosts the snack bar at the Manning Public Library from 2-4pm every Monday through Friday.

“We invite the whole community to take advantage of the homemade snacks while visiting the beautiful new library,” encouraged Myer. “It’s an easy way to show your support and get a sweet treat as well!”

The Auxiliary also hosts multiple bake sales throughout the year. These have been held in conjunction with the Manning Farmer’s Market twice per summer since the pandemic. Annual bake sales are also held before Easter and Christmas.

The Auxiliary’s final bake sale of 2022 will feature Christmas goodies on Saturday December 3rd on Main Street in Manning.

Continued Financial Need

While Medicare/Medicaid reimbursements continue to be a challenge for rural hospitals, community members have shown increased financial support to ensure high-quality healthcare services are available close to home.

“We are grateful for the increased financial support to our hospital,” shared Block. “When people set foot in our hospital, they are surprised and impressed by the beautiful facility and quality of healthcare that is unexpected from a small-town hospital.”

There are many ways to give to support the hospital, both great and small. For long-term financial support of the hospital, please contact Linn Block at (712) 655-2072 or email linn.block@mrhcia.com.

MRHC to Host Walk-in Flu Shot Clinic October 29th

flu shot

Still need a flu shot? Manning Regional Healthcare Center will be hosting a walk-in flu shot clinic on Saturday, October 29th from 8-11am at MRHC in Manning.

The cost is $30 or can be billed to insurance. Fluzone high dose for individuals 65 and older along with Fluzone regular dose for those six months and older will be available. COVID-19 boosters will also be available during the clinic if desired. No appointments are necessary. Those who would like to get a flu shot sooner can schedule an appointment in the clinic by calling (712) 655-8100.

“Getting the flu vaccine is one of the best ways to protect yourself and others during flu season so we encourage anyone six months and older to get their flu shot,” said MRHC Infection Prevention and Employee Health Nurse, Jill Arp, RN, BSN.

Local businesses that are interested in having MRHC administer flu shots to their employees should reach out to Infection Preventionist, Jill Arp, at (712) 655-8170 or email jill.arp@mrhcia.com.

Bivalent COVID-19 booster shots are also available at MRHC by appointment. These cover two strains of COVID-19 and anyone 12 and older can get it if they have completed a primary COVID-19 series and two months have passed since the last shot.

MRHC Hosts Healthcare Career Camp for IKM-Manning Students

healthcare career camp

Manning Regional Healthcare Center hosted 24 IKM-Manning middle and high school students for a Healthcare Career Camp on Thursday, September 29th to introduce students to healthcare careers, tour the facility, and participate in simulations and hands-on activities.

“Recruitment to the healthcare field continues to be a challenge, so we wanted to spark an interest in students starting with middle school and high school-age students,” shared MRHC Chief Nursing Officer, Michelle Andersen, RN, BSN. “We collaborated with the IKM-Manning guidance counselors to form a mutually beneficial partnership. MRHC purchased mannequins and supplies to make it as hands-on as possible. We plan to offer the event to students at IKM-Manning two to three times per year in the fall and spring months.”

Students stopped at seven stations throughout the hospital to learn more about the different roles of healthcare, the variety of healthcare fields, and learn useful skills to utilize after leaving.

The stations included:

Ambulance
MRHC staff set up a scenario in which an ambulance was called to the scene of a grain bin fall or ATV rollover. EMTs shared first aid measures that would be conducted at the scene of the accident: how to apply pressure to wounds (stop the bleed), support for the limbs, and how to limit exposure. Responders talked about their role and how they would assist with transfer to a medical facility. The groups toured the ambulance and learned about the ambulance crew’s duties.

Emergency Room
A doctor, nurse, pharmacist, and respiratory therapist followed a Trauma Nursing Process (TNP) with a manikin. Students learned a variety of things that would happen in emergency situations including IV or IO access, medication from the pyxis, confidentiality and HIPPA and regulations, intubation using a pig’s lung, CPR/LUCAS device, and more.

Laboratory and Radiology
Students toured both departments and were able to draw blood through an IV manikin and viewed samples under the microscope in the lab. In the radiology department they took x-rays of a pig’s leg while wearing lead aprons and learned about CT scan and MRI capabilities.

Surgery
This station featured the job responsibilities performed by a surgeon, anesthesia, and surgery techs. Students had hands-on experiences working in a sterile environment, donning/doffing surgical garb, suturing a pig’s skin, and dissecting a pig heart.

Recovery Center
Students met with the Recovery Center staff to learn about the substance abuse program and the services offered at MRHC.

Family Practice Clinic, Specialty Clinic, Infection Control, and Therapy Department
In this session, students learned about the follow-up process with providers after an injury. Students were able to see the teamwork and integration that happens between multiple departments within the hospital. The tour started in the Family Practice Clinic where students learned about proper handwashing techniques, practiced giving a flu shot on oranges, and listened to a patient’s breathing.

Clinic staff shared information about medication management and each of their roles, as well as the career paths taken to get to those positions. The students toured the Specialty Clinic where they were able to cut a cast and remove staples. The experience wrapped up with a tour of the therapy department where many follow-up services, provided by physical therapy, occupational therapy, and speech therapy, occur.

First Aid
Students filled a first aid kit and learned how each item should be used. The groups then discussed their perspectives of the camp and had a chance to ask any follow-up questions regarding the schooling necessary for healthcare careers they were interested in.

When asked what their favorite part of the camp was, students shared, “I liked to go in the x-ray & surgery room.” “My favorite part was being able to see the different departments. I loved being able to see different jobs and do hands-on activities.”  “My favorite part was holding the pig heart and leg. Also seeing the little pig lungs inflate.”  “The EMS & ER part was my favorite.” “I liked going to the clinic and when I got to do an IV on a manikin arm.” “I liked learning about all the different jobs that make up a clinic and that there are SO many possibilities in healthcare. I like that we got to wear scrubs and a stethoscope.” “I loved everything that we did. It was very fun, especially if you want to be in the medical field.”

When asked if they would recommend this experience to other classmates, students shared that they definitely would. “It’s a great opportunity for people to learn about the healthcare field.” “It’s just a good place and might be a job opportunity.” “There were SO many things to learn.”

IKM-Manning High School Guidance Counselor, Amy Bemus echoed the students’ responses about the effectiveness of the event. “The students had nothing but positive things to say about their experiences at the Healthcare Career Camp! They loved all the hands-on activities and felt like they really got to see a variety of careers that are available in the healthcare industry. This was an absolutely wonderful opportunity for the students, and I am so pleased that everyone was able to work together to provide that for them! We look forward to continuing this partnership with the hospital!”

“We have already had other school districts reach out with an interest in conducting a camp for their students as well,” shared Julie Hodne, event coordinator. “So, this has evidently sparked interest both in the community and beyond.”

The Benefits of Physical Therapy

Taylor Nelson, MRHC Physical Therapist

“I had knee pain all the time and it was hard to walk very far. I decided it was time to have surgery when I went to shoot a basketball with my son and could not bend my knees enough to even do that. I want to be able to do more activities with him,” shared Julie Lamp, a Manning resident who recently underwent a double knee replacement.

Due to the close proximity of having the knee replacement surgery and physical therapy services in the same building at MRHC, Lamp could start physical therapy as soon as her surgery was finished. That same day she was up and walking and well on her way to recovery.

“Being able to do surgery, recovery, and rehab at MRHC has made it a lot easier and faster to recover,” Lamp said. “All the providers are under one roof and can talk to each other, and it saved me having to drive somewhere else. Driving and getting in and out of the car makes a person tired. I also had more time after therapy to go home and put ice on to keep the swelling down and get things to heal faster.”

Lamp was also grateful that she was able to recover close to home and continue her physical therapy sessions at MRHC with Therapy Director, Taylor Nelson. Taylor Nelson, MRHC Physical Therapist

“Taylor is very helpful, knowledgeable, and keeps things light with his sense of humor,” Lamp shared. “If something isn’t working, he will find a different way to get it done. And he has taught me how to use practical items at home for weights instead of having to go out and buy new equipment.”

Nelson is a Vestibular Rehabilitation Specialist, which uses an exercise-based program to improve balance and reduce dizziness-related problems. He also specializes in orthopedic type conditions, implementing a multi-faceted approach, including hands-on and exercise treatments to help patients achieve their rehab goals.

“Here at MRHC, we pride ourselves in providing individualized care and creating varied treatment plans for everyone,” said Nelson, PT, DPT. “We evaluate, diagnose, and manage health conditions and movement problems in people of all ages and abilities.”

Nelson also reminds people that physical therapy is not just for those recovering from a surgery or an injury. “It is also commonly used to treat lower back, neck, or chronic pain as well as muscle and joint pain, headaches, carpal tunnel syndrome, weakness or loss of motion, body misalignments, and to recover from strokes,” said Nelson.

Studies also show that starting physical therapy sooner rather than later can lower out-of-pocket expenses compared to injections or surgery and is also associated with decreased opioid use, healthcare costs, and imaging services.

“Physical therapy allows us to identify factors contributing to your pain such as muscle weakness or joint and muscle stiffness and develop a treatment plan to fit your needs including hands-on treatment, exercise, and education,” Nelson shared.

Physical therapy appointments can be made without a doctor’s referral by calling (712) 655-8298.