Taylor Nelson Empowers Excellence in the Therapy Department

Taylor Nelson, MRHC Physical Therapist

Taylor Nelson, MRHC Physical TherapistAs the Therapy Director at MRHC, Taylor Nelson, PT, DPT, is committed to elevating the therapy department to new heights, offering cutting-edge treatments, and fostering a culture of excellence. As a Vestibular Rehabilitation Specialist, Nelson specializes in orthopedic-type conditions, implementing a multifaceted approach, including hands-on and exercise-based treatments to help patients achieve their physical therapy goals. Since starting at MRHC in 2021, Nelson has been dedicated to providing high-quality, evidence-based care.

“I enjoy working with individuals, and I like to think that I am a good listener. I believe this helps in determining what patients have going on and planning different strategies to improve their condition,” Nelson shared. “MRHC has been more than willing to listen to new ideas and develop new service areas that not only help our department grow but more importantly, provide patients with new treatment methods that will help them achieve their overall goals.”

Most recently, the therapy department collaborated with the respiratory therapy department to develop a Pulmonary Conditioning Program for patients suffering from respiratory issues. This was a service that the hospital was not able to offer previously. This collaborative initiative underscores MRHC’s commitment to meet evolving community healthcare demands.

“I feel like MRHC is a great representation of what the community of Manning strives to be: progressive in accepting new possibilities while maintaining their core values and respecting each individual that comes through the door,” said Nelson.

While expanding and enhancing treatment options and services for physical, occupational, and speech therapy at MRHC is one of Nelson’s main priorities, his vision for the therapy department goes even further.

“My broad, overarching goal for the department is to be experts in our field so that people know they will receive top-notch, evidence-driven care for whatever condition they are coming to us for,” Nelson emphasized. “I realize that it can be frustrating when it seems like to receive the care you expect and deserve, you must travel long distances. I want our department to have the reputation that we can help, and we are the experts you can rely on.”

Central to Nelson’s success is the supportive environment cultivated by MRHC administration and his peers. In addition to the support he receives, he is also appreciative of the emphasis on teamwork and mutual respect that fosters a positive work culture where every voice is heard. He points out the administration’s dedication to creating an enjoyable workplace, where collaboration thrives, and professional development is encouraged.

“A good team environment is always a selling point for a job. At MRHC that is the genuine truth. It is a goal of our administration as well as every department lead to create an environment that listens to each other as well as make it an enjoyable place to work long term,” Nelson shared.

It is also evident that Nelson plays an important role in helping young professionals grow in their healthcare careers. As Therapy Director, Nelson oversees the physical, occupational, and speech therapy staff. His team is made up of four additional individuals, Physical Therapist, Lucas Schwery; Occupational Therapist, Amy Osbahr; Speech Therapist, Carrie Scharfenkamp; and Intake Coordinator, Stacy Arp – who all share Nelson’s vision of helping the therapy department continually grow and improve.

“Taylor has been a major help in preparing me for my career as a physical therapist,” shared Lucas Schwery, DPT. “He leads by example as to what it means to be a good physical therapist and is always there to answer any questions that I may have.”

For aspiring physical therapists or those interested in pursuing a general career in healthcare, Taylor offers advice rooted in his own experiences.

“Take advantage of all the opportunities afforded to you in high school. Many schools provide training to get your CNA before graduation. This would be a great way to get your foot in the door and gain experience in general with the healthcare world. Having that experience would be greatly appreciated when starting the interview process to get into PT school or just expose you to other jobs in healthcare that you initially might not be aware of,” Nelson recommended. “If someone is dead set on PT, having a solid plan for the steps necessary to become a PT would help in terms of looking into which schools offer direct paths into their PT programs.”

If you are interested in joining the MRHC team, visit www.mrhcia.com/careers or call (712) 655-2072 for more information.

Struggling with COPD? Try Pulmonary Conditioning

pulmonary conditioning

Do you or a loved one struggle with chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD) or respiratory challenges? A pulmonary conditioning program at MRHC can help individuals manage COPD symptoms and improve their quality of life.

“This integrated form of therapy can be a valuable tool in helping people manage their COPD and live a healthier, more active life,” said MRHC Physical Therapist, Taylor Nelson, PT, DPT. Taylor Nelson, MRHC Physical Therapist

Chronic respiratory conditions, such as COPD, asthma, and pulmonary fibrosis, can significantly impede an individual’s quality of life. These conditions often lead to symptoms like shortness of breath, chronic cough, tightness in the chest, fatigue, and reduced stamina, limiting one’s ability to perform daily activities and affecting their overall health.

Recognizing a need to address these issues, various MRHC departments have collaborated to develop an integrated, specialized pulmonary conditioning program tailored to meet the unique needs of each participant. The program has a multidisciplinary approach, combining exercise training, education, and personalized support to empower individuals to manage their respiratory conditions effectively.

Once a patient’s primary care physician has recommended the need for a pulmonary conditioning program, a respiratory therapist will perform a Pulmonary Function Test (PFT) and gain a baseline understanding of the severity of the individual’s condition. Based on these results, a program will be personalized to meet the patient’s needs and goals.

Key components of a pulmonary conditioning program include:

  1. Individualized Exercise Regimens: Participants undergo comprehensive assessments to evaluate their current respiratory status and physical capabilities. Based on these assessments, personalized exercise regimens are crafted to gradually improve cardiovascular fitness, muscle strength, and endurance. This is the primary component of pulmonary conditioning and is facilitated by a physical therapist. Activities may include aerobic exercise, such as walking or cycling, and strength training. The exercise program will be tailored to individual needs and abilities and designed to maintain independence at home.
  2. Occupational Therapy: If needed, patients may be referred to an occupational therapist if activities of daily living are difficult or if their home is not conducive to their lifestyle. A living assessment may be performed and recommendations for alterations may be made.
  3. Education and Lifestyle Modification: Education plays a pivotal role in empowering individuals to take control of their respiratory health. Participants will gain insights into their condition, learn breathing techniques, and acquire strategies to conserve energy and manage symptoms effectively. Additionally, lifestyle modifications such as smoking cessation, proper nutrition, and stress management are emphasized to promote holistic well-being.
  4. Additional Services & Ongoing Support: Depending upon the condition, patients may also be recommended to a registered dietitian to develop a healthy eating plan to meet nutritional needs or a mental health counselor to help them cope with the emotional challenges of living with COPD. Participants receive continuous support and guidance from a dedicated team of healthcare professionals. Regular progress assessments are conducted to track improvements and make necessary adjustments to the treatment plan, ensuring optimal outcomes.

“Pulmonary conditioning has been proven to be effective in improving many outcomes in people with COPD,” Nelson said. “It can help you improve your ability to exercise without becoming out of breath; control COPD symptoms, like shortness of breath, coughing, and wheezing; improve quality of life by making it easier to perform everyday activities; and reduce the risk of being hospitalized for COPD exacerbations.”

Learn more about how pulmonary conditioning can help with COPD and other interstitial diseases. Contact the MRHC Therapy Department at (712) 655-2072 or your MRHC primary care provider at (712) 655-8100.

Free Medicare Information Seminar on March 26th

Medicare event

MRHC will be hosting a free “Welcome to Medicare” seminar on March 26th, from 7-9 pm for anyone interested in learning more about Medicare.

Offered by MRHC and the State of Iowa’s Senior Health Insurance Information Program (SHIIP), a free and confidential service, this seminar will cover Medicare Parts A & B benefits, Prescription Drug Benefits (Part D), Medicare Advantage Plans, Medicare supplement insurance, and share tips to help individuals identify Medicare fraud, errors, and abuse.

Interested individuals must call (712) 655-2072 by March 19th to register. Attendees should enter through the Emergency entrance and follow the posted signs.

Even if you do not yet qualify for Medicare, MRHC’s volunteer SHIIP Counselor, Nancy Danner, recommends that “the best time to start getting information is before you actually need it, so I advise thinking about it at least 6-12 months before someone turns 65 years old.”

Danner is also available every Wednesday at MRHC to meet with individuals by appointment. She can provide information to aid in Medicare decision-making and answer questions related to Medicare itself, benefits, plan options, claims, and how to guard against becoming a victim of Medicare fraud. She will not provide recommendations for plans or agents but can answer questions and provide impartial information to help individuals make educated decisions and assist people who have a limited income.

Anyone interested in making an appointment with Danner can email shiip.counselor@mrhcia.com or call MRHC at 712-655-2072. If a client is only wishing to talk on the phone, they may leave their phone number and Danner will return their call. Click here to learn more.

CEO Linn Block Attributes Staff & Community for MRHC’s Success

Linn block

Linn blockOver the past few years, our collective journey at MRHC has been nothing short of transformative. United by a shared commitment to patient safety, quality care, and team engagement, we have implemented a strategic plan that not only elevated healthcare standards but also garnered attention and respect from the broader healthcare community.

At the heart of MRHC lies its people – our exceptional staff, providers, and the communities we serve. Your unwavering dedication to our shared mission has resulted in numerous notable accomplishments in patient care, expanded service offerings, and financial resilience. This is a collective achievement, and I take immense pride in being a part of this remarkable team.

I want to express heartfelt acknowledgment for the extraordinary resilience and strength demonstrated by our community in the face of the challenges brought on by the COVID-19 pandemic. These past couple of years have tested us in unexpected ways, and yet, together, we navigated uncertainties and overcame obstacles. Your commitment to safety protocols, mutual support, and unwavering trust in our healthcare team has been truly inspiring.

The way our community rallied during these trying times exemplifies the true spirit of unity and reinforces the vital role that rural healthcare plays in times of crisis. Your collective efforts not only safeguarded the health and well-being of our community members but also showcased the resilience that defines the heart of Manning Regional Healthcare Center.

Our ongoing community engagement initiatives, from local partnerships to the implementation of a new electronic health record system in collaboration with St. Anthony Regional Hospital, have further strengthened the bonds between MRHC and the communities we are privileged to serve.

The success of our capital campaign, raising nearly $1 million for the obstetrics wing’s renovation, and the recognition with the Press Ganey Guardian of Excellence Award for Employee Engagement underscore the incredible teamwork and passion that define MRHC. Your dedication has made our hospital a beacon of excellence in the face of financial challenges and changing landscapes in rural healthcare.

As I transition to the next chapter in my career, I carry with me the valuable lessons and memories from MRHC. The growth of our specialty clinics, the addition of same-day appointments, and the success of the substance abuse recovery center are all reflections of your hard work and dedication.

To our exceptional team, thank you for making MRHC not just a hospital but a family that cares for one another and for our community. To our patients, thank you for entrusting us with your healthcare needs. Your trust is our greatest honor, and we remain committed to providing you with the highest quality of care. The journey ahead for MRHC is exciting, and I am confident that, with your continued dedication, MRHC will continue to thrive and be a beacon of healthcare excellence in rural Iowa.

-Linn Block

Difficult but Necessary Conversations During the Holidays

woman putting hand on elderly man's shoulder

As the holiday season nears and families begin to spend extended periods of time together, MRHC encourages that, amidst the joyous celebrations, it’s crucial to recognize the importance of discussing a topic often overlooked: advance care directives. While these conversations might seem difficult or uncomfortable, addressing them during the holidays can bring families closer and ensure everyone’s well-being.

What are Advance Care Directives?

Advance care directives are legal documents that allow individuals to outline their healthcare preferences. They serve as guiding principles for medical decisions when a person is unable to express their desires due to illness or incapacity. An advance directive can help you think ahead about what kind of care you want to receive as well as guide your loved ones and healthcare team in making clear decisions about your health care when you can’t do it yourself.

All patients have rights that include privacy, informed consent, information about your condition, and information about advance directives. Advance directives can protect these rights if you ever become mentally or physically unable to choose or communicate your wishes due to an injury or illness. Advance directives can also limit life-prolonging measures when there is little or no chance of recovery.

“Advance directives help you protect your right to make medical choices that can affect your life,” said Julie Hodne, R.N., Education Coordinator at MRHC. “They help your family avoid the responsibility and stress of making difficult decisions on your behalf. Advance directives also help your physician by providing guidelines for your care.”

Having these in place empowers individuals to maintain control over their healthcare choices, ensuring that their preferences are honored even when they can’t voice them. Advance care directives also facilitate discussions among family members, fostering a deeper understanding of each other’s values, beliefs, and healthcare preferences. These directives come in various forms, including living wills, healthcare powers of attorney, and do-not-resuscitate (DNR) orders.

Discussing Advance Care Directives During the Holidays

The holiday season presents a unique opportunity for families to gather and connect on a deeper level. While conversations about end-of-life care may initially appear daunting, the holidays can provide a supportive environment for these discussions. Here are a few ways to initiate conversations about advance care directives during the holidays:

  1. Create a Safe Space: Choose a comfortable and quiet setting where family members can openly express their thoughts and concerns without judgment. Emphasize the importance of respecting each other’s perspectives.
  2. Share Personal Stories: Encourage family members to share personal experiences or stories related to healthcare decisions. This can help normalize the conversation and demonstrate the significance of having a plan in place.
  3. Use Resources: Utilize educational materials or seek guidance from healthcare professionals to facilitate discussions and clarify any uncertainties regarding advance care directives.To get a durable power of attorney for health care or a living will, you will need to complete a form available from the Iowa State Bar Association website. Keep a copy in a safe and secure place and provide a copy to your physician to be kept as part of your medical records. Your Durable Power of Attorney for Healthcare will also need a copy. Give copies to a relative or friend who is likely to be notified in an emergency. Review your advance directives regularly and make changes when necessary. Inform you physician, family, and POA of any changes.

    Another document to be considered for any individual who is frail and elderly or who has a chronic critical medical condition, or a terminal illness is the IPOST form (IOWA PHYSICIAN ORDERS for SCOPE OF TREATMENT). The original form is strongly encouraged to be accompanied by the person it is written for. You can discuss this with your medical provider and find more information about here.

  4. Focus on the Positive: Highlight the benefits of having these directives in place, such as reducing stress for loved ones and ensuring that individual preferences are respected.

Hodne suggests that “if you need help preparing your advance directives or if you would like more information, contact your legal counsel, healthcare provider, or any hospital, hospice, home health agency, or long-term care facility.” Hodne reminds everyone that “planning is the key to protecting your rights!”

As you gather with loved ones this holiday season, take the opportunity to engage in meaningful discussions about advance care directives. These conversations, though challenging, can strengthen family bonds and empower individuals to make informed decisions about their healthcare.

Free Medicare Information Seminar at MRHC on November 28

Medicare event

Medicare open enrollment is going on now until December 7th. Keep in mind that Medicare plans can change coverage, premiums, co-payments, co-insurance, and provider networks every year. Ensure your plan meets your needs and is the most affordable option by attending the free “Welcome to Medicare” seminar on November 28th from 7-9pm at MRHC.

Interested individuals must call (712) 655-2072 by November 24th to register. Attendees should enter through the Emergency entrance and follow the posted signs.

This free seminar, offered by MRHC and the State of Iowa’s Senior Health Insurance Information Program (SHIIP), a free and confidential service, will cover Medicare Parts A & B benefits, Prescription Drug Benefits (Part D), Medicare Advantage Plans, Medicare supplement insurance, as well as share tips to help individuals identify Medicare fraud, errors, and abuse.

Even if you do not yet qualify for Medicare, MRHC’s volunteer SHIIP Counselor, Nancy Danner, recommends that “the best time to start getting information is before you actually need it, so I advise thinking about it at least 6-12 months before someone turns 65 years old.”

If you are unable to attend the seminar, Danner is available every Wednesday at MRHC to meet with individuals by appointment. She can provide information to aid in Medicare decision-making and answer questions related to Medicare itself, benefits, plan options, claims, and how to guard against becoming a victim of Medicare fraud. She will not provide recommendations for plans or agents but can answer questions and provide impartial information to help individuals make educated decisions and assist people who have a limited income.

Anyone interested in making an appointment with Danner can email shiip.counselor@mrhcia.com or call MRHC at 712-655-2072. If a client is only wishing to talk on the phone, they may leave their phone number and Danner will return their call.

From Executive Chef to Healthcare Support Services Director: Grove’s Culinary Journey Making a Healing Impact

Dan Grove

Dan GroveA culinary career can take many unexpected turns, leading to surprising and fulfilling destinations. This is the case for Dan Grove, whose passion for cooking initially led him to kitchens of prestigious hotels and restaurants, ultimately guiding him to a pivotal role at MRHC, where his culinary expertise now plays a crucial role in patient care.

Grove’s culinary journey began after graduating from Tech High Vocational Trade School. His thirst for culinary knowledge led him to earn an AAS in Culinary Arts from DMACC, solidifying his foundation in the culinary world in 1986. Throughout the years, he took on various roles as an Executive Chef, leaving his mark in renowned establishments like the Holiday Inn, Embassy Suites, and Marriott management services, as well as with local restaurants.

However, the demanding hours and the desire for a better work-life balance prompted Grove to shift his career. In 2007, an opportunity emerged at MRHC, where he joined as the Dietary Manager.

“I always wanted to be a chef. I enjoy cooking and have a passion for it,” shared Grove, CDM, CFPP, CWC. “But I came to a point in my life where the hours required were hard and affected my personal life. The position for Dietary Manager opened at MRHC, and it was a great fit for me having a young child at home.”

Grove’s role expanded over time, blending his culinary expertise with management skills. When the need arose for someone to manage housekeeping (EVS), his position morphed into the Support Services Director. The combination of nutrition services and EVS management aligned well, emphasizing the importance of sanitation in both departments. Grove’s commitment to maintaining impeccable standards in sanitation proved crucial, understanding that a clean and hygienic environment goes beyond the kitchen. Grove argues that it also has an impact on patient well-being.

“Proper nutrition is a huge part in healing the human body so our job in dietary is extremely important and goes a long way in making our patients well,” Grove emphasized. “And I think it goes without saying that a safe, sanitary, and clean environment is so beneficial and mandatory for the patient.”

Reflecting on the shift from restaurant kitchens to healthcare facilities, Grove is often asked if he misses working in that type of atmosphere.

“My immediate answer would be yes, but nothing outweighs my ability to work at a job I love and still be able to have quality time with my wife, children, grandchildren, and friends. This job allows me to do just that,” shared Grove.

Grove’s tenure at Manning Regional now spans an impressive 16 years, a testament to the supportive environment and the organization’s commitment to employee well-being.

“Everyone here is great to work with, and that makes it so easy to come to work each day,” said Grove. “It is a great atmosphere to work in. They truly care about their employees and try to make it a great place to work while still always moving forward and improving for our customer-patient experience.”

From orchestrating fine dining experiences to nurturing an environment conducive to healing, Grove’s culinary career showcases the power of passion, dedication, and a commitment to making a difference in people’s lives, one plate and one sanitized surface at a time.

To join the MRHC team, visit www.mrhcia.com/careers or call (712) 655-2072 for more information.

MRHC Creates Important Economic and Community Impact

MRHC exterior
In all, Iowa’s hospitals provided 145,252 jobs statewide

Last year, MRHC generated just over 250 jobs that added $290,577 to Carroll County’s economy, according to the latest study by the Iowa Hospital Association. Economic impact of an organization is often measured in terms of employment, income (payroll and benefits), taxable retail sales, and sales tax collections.

“We are grateful to be able to make such an impact on our local communities,” said MRHC Chief Executive Officer, Linn Block, RN, BSN, MHA. “It takes all aspects of a community working together to be vibrant and strong.”

The study was compiled from hospital-submitted data to the American Hospital Association’s annual survey of hospitals. The study found that Iowa hospitals employed 145,252 people in 2022. As an income source, Iowa hospitals provided over $9.3 billion in wages and expenses accounted for over $21.5 billion of the state’s gross domestic product.

“Iowa’s hospitals and health systems implemented the programs and services accounted for in this study in response to their communities’ needs,” IHA President and CEO Chris Mitchell said. “Many of these programs and services wouldn’t exist without hospital support and leadership. These efforts, with IHA’s advocacy, help ensure the financial stability of hospitals, making it possible for them to provide the services and programs most-needed by the people they serve.”

Community Impact

As a non-profit, critical access hospital, the mission and purpose of MRHC is to serve those in the local community and provide a public benefit. Quality healthcare has a large community and economic impact, and it is essential for attracting other industries.

MRHC continually works to provide quality healthcare services for the community. Expanding mental health services has been a recent top priority as it consistently rates high on community health needs assessments. To meet this need, MRHC now has a counselor providing therapy services as well as telehealth mental health care for patients 12+.

To provide additional convenient healthcare options, Manning Regional now has a dedicated provider offering more same-day appointments, a new patient portal was launched to improve patient experience, and orthopedic services have been expanded to include total hip replacements. These initiatives to expand and improve healthcare services have made an important community impact, adapting to the current needs of the community.

“In addition to providing healthcare through the services we offer, we also provide widespread benefits to support our community,” Block said. “We are proud to have served at least 473 people through various community service programs in the past year.”

MRHC offers a variety of community education events, trainings, and clinics such as CPR, AED, & First Aid training classes, blood drives, monthly wellness clinics, blood pressure clinics, concussion testing at the high school, walk-in flu shot clinics, and fall prevention screenings.

They also hold and participate in educational events, such as the Bike Rodeo, babysitting courses, Suicide Prevention Walk, Live Healthy Iowa Healthiest State Walk, Senior Fun Day, Medicare seminars, giving away bike helmets, and other health-related activities at Kinderfest. Many of these efforts have a direct impact on the local economy and overall community health.

Most notably, MRHC has held several Healthcare Career Camps for local middle and high school students to have an immersive experience learning about a variety of careers in the healthcare field. This effort was recently funded by a University of Iowa grant to continue the program for more students and expand the offering to additional school districts.

MRHC has also supported foundations such as the IKM-Manning Education Foundation, West Central Iowa Healthcare Foundation, American Cancer Society, as well as community organizations such as Little Hawks Childcare Center, Manning Child Care Center, IKM-Manning Color Run, Kinderfest, Trail to Nowhere Bike Ride, Pack the Pantry, Fireman’s Golf Tourney, Main Street Manning, Manning Chamber, Manning Hausbarn Heritage Park, Manning Rotary, and Boy Scouts of America.

“We are proud to share that in the past three years, we have provided over $100,000 in community health improvement services to benefit our local communities,” shared Block.

In 2022, Manning Regional provided $92,572.41 in charity care and served more than 54 people through those efforts. Charity care is also known as uncompensated health care, which is provided for free, or at a reduced cost, to people with limited income who would otherwise be unable to pay for their treatment. Various types of financial assistance are provided to patients, and community education events and important information about health and well-being are shared through radio and print advertising, news articles, social media, and the MRHC website.

“MRHC will continue to adapt and evolve our services to meet the needs of our patients,” shared Block. “We value being a trusted community partner to improve the health and well-being of residents in west-central Iowa.”

Iowa Attorney General Brenna Bird Advocates for Rural Healthcare and Substance Abuse Treatment During Visit to MRHC

Brenna Bird visit

Iowa Attorney General, Brenna Bird, underscored her commitment to enhancing rural healthcare and tackling the challenges of substance abuse during her visit to Manning Regional Healthcare Center (MRHC) and the Recovery Center on September 12th. Brenna Bird visit

Attorney General Bird, known for her dedication to addressing critical issues affecting communities, spent the day engaging with healthcare professionals, touring the facility, and discussing key priorities related to rural healthcare access and substance abuse treatment. During a meeting with key hospital leaders, Attorney General Bird emphasized the vital role of rural healthcare in ensuring all Iowans have access to quality medical services.

“Rural communities are the backbone of our state, and it is crucial that we invest in and support healthcare facilities such as Manning Regional Healthcare Center,” Attorney General Bird stated.

The Attorney General toured the various departments meeting doctors, nurses, and other front-line staff to gain a firsthand understanding of the challenges they face in delivering healthcare services to rural populations.

Brenna BirdOne of the key highlights of Attorney General Bird’s visit was her exploration of the Recovery Center at Manning Regional Healthcare Center, where she engaged in discussions with addiction treatment specialists, counselors, and individuals in recovery. She expressed her deep concern about the rising prevalence of substance abuse issues in rural areas and emphasized the importance of comprehensive treatment options.

“The opioid epidemic has touched every corner of our state, and rural communities are particularly vulnerable. We must ensure that individuals battling substance abuse have access to effective and compassionate treatment close to home,” Attorney General Bird remarked.

In outlining her priorities related to rural healthcare, Attorney General Bird committed to working closely with healthcare providers and community leaders to address issues such as healthcare workforce shortages, infrastructure improvements, and access to mental health services. She also pledged to advocate for policies that support the expansion of substance abuse treatment programs and improve access to mental health resources in rural areas.

MRHC CEO, Linn Block, expressed gratitude for the Attorney General’s visit, stating, “We appreciate Attorney General Bird’s attention to the unique healthcare needs of rural communities. Her commitment to supporting initiatives that address substance abuse is particularly significant in our ongoing efforts to provide comprehensive care to our residents.”

As Attorney General Bird concluded her visit, she reiterated her dedication to collaborative efforts that bridge the gaps in rural healthcare and substance abuse treatment. “By working together, we can build stronger, healthier communities across Iowa,” she affirmed.

Attorney General Bird’s visit to Manning Regional Healthcare Center serves as a testament to her hands-on approach in addressing critical issues impacting the well-being of Iowans.

“We are thankful for the Attorney General’s visit to MRHC and appreciate her taking time to learn about the unique services we offer here as well as the challenges we face with regard to rural healthcare funding and staffing,” shared MRHC CEO, Linn Block.

Manning Regional Healthcare Center has recently become a popular site for politicians as the organization has been able to successfully manage rural healthcare challenges and continues to work hard every day to provide exceptional patient care. Read about other recent politicians visiting MRHC: U.S. Senator Grassley visited the hospital and Recovery Center. Presidential Candidate & North Dakota Governor Burgum

Presidential Candidate & N.D. Governor Burgum Visits Manning Regional Healthcare Center

Republican presidential candidate and North Dakota Governor, Doug Burgum, along with his wife, Kathryn, visited Manning Regional Healthcare Center on Wednesday, September 6th to learn about the challenges and opportunities within rural healthcare.

Burgum, a former technology entrepreneur, is hitting the campaign trail in rural western Iowa to connect with rural residents, business owners, and community leaders. Among his visits in the area were stops in Harlan, Denison, Audubon, and Atlantic.

Burgum’s interest in Manning and MRHC centered around the Recovery Center’s influential impact on substance abuse addiction treatment. The couple toured the Recovery Center, learned about the five levels of treatment services offered, discussed the challenges of funding reimbursements, and praised local leaders for the work they are doing and investing in such a beautiful facility for treatment.

“[Addiction] a national issue that touches every family, every community, and every organization,” shared Burgum. “Over 40 million people in our country are touched by the disease of addiction. We are faced now with a crisis related to overdose deaths. We have lost the equivalent of four Vietnams in the last two and a half years in terms of deaths related to overdose, 70% of those coming from fentanyl poisoning. This is an issue for our whole country.”

He continued, “These are sons and daughters [or] nieces and nephews of people who have been trapped in the disease of addiction and this is something we have to take on as a nation. There is a role for communities to play, but it starts right here like what is happening in Manning where great people [are] caring for each other and approaching this as the disease it is to fight against the disease of addiction.”

Kathryn Burgum has been sober for 21 years and champions the Recovery Reinvented program on addiction and recovery. While September is National Recovery Month and many efforts are happening across the country to raise awareness for substance use disorder and treatment services, the couple shared their journey to help addicts return to work and how they strive to eliminate the stigma of the disease of addiction. The couple intends to carry that message as they continue on the campaign trail.

Additionally during the hospital tour, the Governor and first lady stopped in the emergency department and experienced a live-look at the Avel e-Care emergency response system. They were impressed with the quality of care that can be achieved in rural areas despite having limited staffing. They also acknowledged that additional technological advances are necessary in order for rural healthcare to succeed long-term.

In a conversation with hospital leaders, Burgum shared his experience with electronic health records systems and sympathized with the MRHC senior leadership and board members for the challenges they face to implement such a costly system that does not necessarily contribute to improving the quality of care at the end of the day, but a requirement to remain competitive in the healthcare environment.

Burgum is from the small town of Arthur, North Dakota, and uses that platform to relate to rural Iowa voters. In the mid-1980’s, Burgum bought Great Plains Software which became a major supplier of accounting and record-keeping software for small and mid-size businesses. He grew the business to employ more than 2,000 people, took the company public in 1997, and in 2001 sold to Microsoft for $1.1 billion. Since selling Great Plains Software, Burgum founded two more businesses: a real estate development firm and a venture capital firm that invests in software companies. Burgum was elected as North Dakota’s governor in November 2016 despite few people even knowing who he was and having zero prior political experience. Burgum entered the presidential race in June and is seeking the Republican Party nomination in the 2024 presidential primaries.

“We are thankful for the Governor and Kathryn’s visit to MRHC and appreciate them taking time to learn about the unique services we offer here, as well as the challenges we face with regard to rural healthcare funding and staffing,” shared MRHC CEO, Linn Block.

Manning Regional Healthcare Center has recently become a popular site for politicians as the organization has been able to successfully manage rural healthcare challenges and continues to work hard every day to provide exceptional patient care. Last week U.S. Senator Grassley visited the hospital and Recovery Center.