MRHC Contributes to Community Beyond Healthcare

MRHC exterior

As a non-profit, critical access hospital, the mission and purpose of Manning Regional Healthcare Center (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. Hospitals are generally among the largest employers. They offer highly educated, well-paying jobs and physicians are essential to maintaining operations.

“In addition to providing healthcare through the services we offer, we also provide widespread benefits to support our community,” said Chief Executive Officer, Linn Block, RN, BSN, MHA.

Community Impact

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, and walk-in flu shot clinics. 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, and Medicare Enrollment. Many of these efforts have a direct impact on the local economy and overall community health.

Most notably, MRHC held a Healthcare Career Camp for IKM-Manning middle and high school students to have an immersive experience learning about a variety of careers available within healthcare. 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.

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

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.

Last year, Manning Regional provided $98,873 in charity care and served more than 50 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 is provided to patients, and community education events and important information about health and well-being are shared through radio ads, news articles, social media, and the MRHC website.

Economic Impact

Economic impact of an organization is often measured in terms of employment, income (payroll and benefits), taxable retail sales and sales tax collections. According to the Iowa Hospital Association, during the most recent reporting period (2022), Manning Regional Healthcare Center provided 160 jobs representing more than $7 million in direct payroll income and an indirect $11.4 million impact on the local economy. The health sector and the employees in the health sector purchase many goods and services from local businesses which are referred to as secondary (or indirect) impacts to the economy.

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

MRHC Helps Individuals Live at Home Longer with Occupational Therapy

aging in place

90% of older adults want to stay in their homes as they age. Occupational therapy at MRHC can help promote aging in place to help individuals live, work, and play more independently. Therapy treatments can help with aging in place by promoting independence and safety to make activities of daily living more doable.

Aging in place refers to an individual making a conscious decision to live in the residence of their choice for as long as they can with the comforts that are important to them. As they age, adding supplementary services to facilitate their living conditions and maintain their quality of life may be necessary. These could include assistance with personal care, household chores, making meals, money management, or health care.

Family members should consider the following questions when determining the best course of action for an aging adult:

  • What is the ideal way for them to spend their retired years?
  • What type of home environment do you see them living in – individual, community, assisted?
  • What special health care requirements are needed or anticipated?
  • What other types of supplementary services are needed?
  • What options are available in case of emergencies, life changing events, accidents, etc.?

MRHC Occupational Therapists remind individuals that aging in place does not mean that you need to do everything yourself. You can choose to do as little or as much as you want, can, and are capable of.

Occupational therapy at MRHC is available for people of all ages who need specialized assistance to lead independent, productive, and satisfying lives. Services can promote independence and aging in place by assisting with the following:

  • Getting around (adaptive devices: cane, walker, wheelchair)
  • Safety concerns and fall prevention
  • Home modifications (grab bars, lighting, and toilet risers)
  • Cooking
  • Laundry
  • Showering
  • Shopping
  • Medications
  • Cognition and memory
  • Muscle strengthening
  • Balance.

A doctor’s referral is required to be seen by an occupational therapist.

In addition to occupational therapy, MRHC provides a variety of other services to help community members live at home longer. Physical therapy is beneficial for those who are suffering from an injury, recovering from surgery, or dealing with any sort of acute or chronic pain. Senior Life Solutions offers an outpatient group counseling program to meet unique needs of adults over 65 struggling with depression and anxiety, often related to aging. Residential and outpatient medical care, behavioral therapy, and social support to enable a healthy lifestyle free from drugs and alcohol is available through the Recovery Center.

If you or a loved one would benefit from services that enable you to live at home longer, schedule an appointment with your primary care provider at MRHC by calling (712) 655-8100. To learn more about occupational therapy services, click here.

February is American Heart Month: Be Heart Healthy

heart attack signs

Dr. UlvelingHeart attack and cardiac arrest are two topics that have been in the news lately and are critical things to discuss relative to heart health. Manning Regional Healthcare Center sat down with Dr. Kyle Ulveling, the hospital’s visiting Cardiologist in the specialty clinic to learn more.

“A heart attack and cardiac arrest are different diagnoses with two very different treatments,” said Ulveling, MD. “A heart attack is when there is not enough blood flow to the heart. The warning signs are typically exertional chest pain or other exertional symptoms like jaw, arm, or teeth pain. It typically will get worse with activity and better with rest. If you have any of these signs don’t wait until it’s so bad that you don’t think you can complete an activity. Get checked out right away either by your primary care provider, an urgent care, or at the ER if it is severe.”

Other common warning signs of a heart attack can include:

  • Fullness, indigestion, or a choking feeling
  • Sweating, vomiting, or dizziness
  • Severe weakness, anxiety, fatigue, or shortness of breath
  • Fast or uneven heartbeat

“Cardiac arrest is not necessarily a blockage problem of the heart, it’s where the heart has gone out of rhythm and is either too slow or too fast, not getting enough blood to the body. This is treated with things like CPR, shocks from either an AED, or in the hospital from a defibrillator,” Ulveling said. “One of the best things that you can do just as a person in the community is, if you’ve got access to training, learn how to do CPR and be trained how to use an AED. You can help somebody in the future should that happen to them.”

MRHC offers monthly CPR/AED training for anyone who wishes to be trained. Upcoming class dates are March 20 and April 17 at 6p.m. in the MRHC education room located in the maintenance shed behind the hospital. Course fee is $50 and includes a certificate and book.

Those interested in registering should call (712) 655-8179.

How to Maintain a Healthy Heart

While some heart issues can be hereditary, there are ways to help maintain a healthy heart. Dr. Ulveling shares some tips on things you can do without a doctor’s help for your heart health.

“Number one, moderate things in your diet like sodium, fats, or carbohydrates. That doesn’t mean you can’t have any, but recommended amounts can help prevent heart damage in the future. Number two, moderate physical activity for 20 minutes a day at least five days a week. This can be walking, biking, or any other uninterrupted, athletic activity. Lastly, regular well checks. Even if you don’t have a complaint, providers would much prefer to catch things earlier rather than when they might cause symptoms later on,” advised Ulveling.

It is also important to abstain from tobacco and vaping, find ways to manage stress to the best of your ability, and control high blood pressure, diabetes, and cholesterol with medications if necessary.

If you have any heart health concerns, Dr. Ulveling with the Iowa Heart Center in Carroll comes to Manning offering cardiology services on the first and third Tuesday of every month. Cardiac nuclear imaging & stress testing can be performed on an as needed basis. On the third Tuesday of the month, echocardiograms are performed in the specialty clinic.

If you have a history of heart health complications or have any heart health concerns, talk to your primary care provider about scheduling a cardiology appointment with Dr. Ulveling. To make an appointment to see Dr. Ulveling at MRHC, call (712) 792-6500.

 

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Nissen Celebrates Over 50 Years at MRHC

Linnet Nissen

Linnet NissenAfter 51.5 years of dedication to Manning Regional Healthcare Center, Linnet Nissen, a recognizable name and face for many current and past MRHC patients, employees, and providers, has made the decision to retire. Nissen was hired at Manning General Hospital in September of 1971 and she recalls how things were quite different back then.

“When I first started, I did switchboard, admissions, and all other office duties,” Nissen shared. “I was hired to do medical transcription for all the doctors and surgeons which was interesting since I didn’t have any medical background or transcription experience. I took typing in high school which consisted of the first semester on a manual typewriter and the second semester electric. I was told to leave blanks on the words I didn’t know, which ended up being a lot. So, I relied on the nurses quite a bit. I would put the tape back in the Dictaphone, run it up to the nurse’s station, and they would tell me what the word was. They later hired a transcriptionist to do that, and I moved into other shifts.”

Since starting her career at Manning General Hospital in the early 70s, Nissen has held a variety of roles and worn several hats throughout the years.

“I have done billing for all insurances, home health care insurance billing, reconciled Medicare, XIX and BC logs for fiscal year end, admissions with scheduling, transcription, and helped with the control center for fire, ambulance, and police when Manning General Hospital had the control center in their business office. We also did rural water and lifeline for a few years,” Nissen recalled. “I liked working with all the departments, but when we moved into our new building in 2014, I wanted to be up front as I enjoy taking care of and talking with our patients. I have known a lot of them for many, many years.”

Throughout her 50+ years at MRHC, Nissen has seen healthcare change and evolve before her eyes. She recalls that the installation of their first computer system was one of the biggest advancements at the hospital during her career.

“I think that was in the middle 80s, and we have probably gone through at least four or five different systems since then throughout my time at the hospital,” Nissen said. “With the upcoming changes for the new computer system and after working for 51 years, I decided it was time to retire.”

As Nissen looks forward to retirement, she reflects on all the relationships she has built with all the people she has met through MRHC.

“I have had a lot of memorable moments throughout the years. All my supervisors have been great, and I have been through it all with several personnel, weddings, graduations, deaths, and many laughs over the years,” Nissen shared.

“Linnet is the epitome of dedication having worked a majority of her life at MRHC,” said MRHC CEO, Linn Block, RN, BSN, MHA. “She will be missed by so many of our patients and staff and leaves a legacy of kindness, compassion, and empathy for all those she encounters. We wish her health, happiness, and fun in her retirement.”

It’s no surprise that after 51 years, Nissen has grown close to many patients, employees, and providers and finds retirement somewhat bittersweet.

“I think my longevity with working at MRHC has to do with the people and patients and the fact that I really didn’t want to travel to go to work. I raised my three children from the age of three months until they all graduated from high school while working here,” Nissen shared. “I feel I will leave a lot of my heart and soul at MRHC because they have also been a family to me. I will truly miss the patients, families, and employees who have made my job so complete and fulfilling. This isn’t goodbye, it is see you all later. Thanks for the memories…”

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

Is it a cold, the flu or COVID? How to Combat Seasonal Illnesses

seasonal illness

While many people may think seasonal illnesses are worse around the holidays, flu season actually peaks in February. Since we are not quite in the clear yet, here is some important information from Manning Regional Healthcare Center (MRHC) to educate you about and prepare you for seasonal illnesses as well as some tips to help prevent illness.

According to MRHC Infection Preventionist, Jill Arp, influenza numbers are continuing at a steady pace. Common symptoms of the flu usually come on suddenly and include some or all of the following:

  • Fever or feeling feverish/chills are common and typically last three to four days
  • Aches are common and often severe
  • Chest discomfort and cough are common and can be severe
  • Sneezing, sore throat, and runny or stuffy nose can sometimes occur
  • Muscle or body aches are common and can be severe
  • Headaches are common
  • Fatigue and weakness are common
  • Some people experience vomiting and diarrhea, but it is more common in children than adults

“To help protect yourself, it isn’t too late to get your flu shot,” says Arp, RN, BSN. “Doses are available at MRHC until the end of March, we just ask that you call ahead so we can be prepared.”

Complications from the flu are possible and can range in severity. According to the CDC, moderate complications can include sinus and ear infections, while serious complications such as pneumonia can result from either the flu virus infection alone or from co-infection of flu virus and bacteria. Other possible serious complications can include inflammation of the heart, brain, or muscle tissues and multi-organ failure, including respiratory and kidney failure. Flu virus infection of the respiratory tract can trigger an extreme inflammatory response in the body and can lead to sepsis.

The flu also can make chronic medical problems worse. For example, people with asthma may experience asthma attacks while they have the flu, and people with chronic heart disease may experience a worsening of this condition.

People at Higher Risk from Flu

Anyone can get sick with the flu, but some people are at higher risk of developing serious flu-related complications if they get sick. Those 65 years and older, people with certain chronic medical conditions (asthma, diabetes, or heart disease), pregnant women, and children younger than five years old are at the highest risk, according to the CDC.

Warning Signs for Flu Complications in Children

When we’re sick, it can be difficult to know when a visit to the doctor is necessary, especially if it’s a child. Be aware of these warning signs and if your child displays any of the following, seek medical attention as soon as possible:

  • Fast breathing or trouble breathing
  • Bluish lips or face
  • Ribs pulling in with each breath
  • Chest pain
  • Severe muscle pain (child refuses to walk)
  • Dehydration (no urine for eight hours, dry mouth, no tears when crying)
  • Not alert or interacting when awake
  • Seizures
  • Fever above 104 degrees that is not controlled by fever-reducing medicine or any fever in children younger than 12 weeks
  • Fever or cough that improves but returns or worsens
  • Worsening of chronic medical conditions
Warning Signs for Flu Complications in Adults
  • Difficulty breathing or shortness of breath
  • Persistent pain or pressure in the chest or abdomen
  • Persistent dizziness, confusion, and inability to arouse
  • Seizures
  • Not urinating
  • Severe muscle pain
  • Severe weakness or unsteadiness
  • Fever or cough that improves but returns or worsens
  • Worsening of chronic medical conditions

“It’s important to remember that if you or your child has a chronic health condition, are experiencing a persistent high fever, shortness of breath, chest pain, or the inability to keep any food or fluids down, it is more important to see your doctor sooner rather than letting it run its course,” advised Arp.

Common Cold Vs Flu or COVID-19

Especially at the beginning of an illness, it can hard to tell whether it’s just a common cold, the flu, or COVID. Here are some key differences to look for.

Common Cold Symptoms
  • Symptom onset is gradual
  • Fevers and headache are rare
  • Slight aches are possible
  • Chills are uncommon
  • Sometimes people experience fatigue and weakness
  • Sneezing is common
  • Mild to moderate chest discomfort and hacking cough
  • Stuffy nose and sore throat are common
COVID symptoms
  • Fever or chills
  • Cough
  • Shortness of breath or difficulty breathing
  • Fatigue
  • Muscle or body aches
  • Headache
  • New loss of taste or smell
  • Sore throat
  • Congestion or runny nose
  • Nausea or vomiting
  • Diarrhea

If you or a loved one test positive for COVID-19, it is important to watch for these emergency warning signs and seek medical attention if these symptoms are present:

  • Trouble breathing
  • Persistent pain or pressure in the chest
  • New confusion
  • Inability to wake or stay awake
  • Pale, gray, or blue-colored skin, lips, or nail beds, depending on skin tone
People at Higher Risk from COVID-19

While anyone is at risk of getting COVID, older adults, people with certain underlying medical conditions (including infants and children), and people who are pregnant are at higher risk.

Like the flu, COVID-19 can also lead to a variety of health complications including:

  • Pneumonia
  • Respiratory failure or acute respiratory distress syndrome (fluid in the lungs)
  • Sepsis
  • Cardiac injury (for example, heart attacks and stroke)
  • Multiple-organ failure (respiratory failure, kidney failure, shock)
  • Worsening of chronic medical conditions (involving the lungs, heart, or nervous system or diabetes)
  • Inflammation of the heart, brain, or muscle tissues
  • Secondary infections (bacterial or fungal infections that can occur in people with flu or COVID-19)

“To help protect yourself and others from sickness this winter, wash your hands often, get your immunizations, get enough sleep/rest, eat healthy, drink plenty of fluids, and stay away from those who are not feeling well,” shares Arp.

If you are not feeling well, MRHC offers convenient clinic hours and same-day appointments for minor illnesses. Call (712) 655-8100 to schedule an appointment.

 

 

 

Vitito Thrives as Nurse Practitioner at MRHC

Sara Vitito

Sara VititoManning Regional Healthcare Center’s Family Practice Clinic provider, Sara Vitito, ARNP, knew she wanted to work in healthcare for as long as she can remember. When a position became available at MRHC, Vitito jumped at the opportunity to practice in the community she lives in.

“My mom is a nurse practitioner and inspired me to be the provider I am today,” Vitito shared. “Practicing close to home gives me the ability to care for those in the community and establish relationships. And MRHC provides a sense of community. Patients are not just a number here; they are our friends, family, and neighbors.”

After receiving her BSN from the University of Nebraska Medical Center (UNMC) in 2017, Vitito worked as a nurse with CHI-Lakeside, caring for patients in an inpatient setting and ER. She went back to school for her DNP in 2018 at UNMC. During graduate school, Vitito worked at Methodist Health Systems as an ER nurse. When she finished her Doctorate in Family Practice in May 2021, she then took a position at CHI- Bergan as an ER provider. Vitito joined the MRHC team in March of 2022, providing coverage in the ER and offering same-day appointments in the Family Practice Clinic.

“I love seeing different patients every day with a variety of conditions,” said Vitito. “The ER coverage fulfills my love for the ER and the same-day appointments help improve access to care for patients in the community.”

This new clinic appointment structure (launched in early 2022) provides same-day appointments for both established and new patients who need to be seen for a minor injury or illness.

“This model allows patients to be seen in a clinic instead of being hit with an ER or urgent care cost,” Vitito explained. “I have heard from patients, ‘Wow, I was so happy I could be seen so quickly here in Manning’ and ‘I really appreciate the flexibility in availability to have my children be seen before and after the workday.’ And it has been extremely useful, especially during the cold/flu season.”

Vitito is one of four providers in the Family Practice Clinic who sees patients on a regular basis. The clinic also includes Dr. McLaws, DO, Dr. Luong M.D., and Courtney Rupiper, PA-C.

“Sara has been such a great addition to our clinic team,” said MRHC Clinic Director, Shelby Dickson, RN. “She is always positive and upbeat, and she delivers great care. Plus, her ability to provide same-day access for our patients has really helped improve the care we provide to the community.”

Not only does Vitito enjoy the variety of work she does on a daily basis, but she is also grateful for a supportive team and positive work environment at MRHC.

“We have a fantastic facility to practice in, and I love my coworkers and the team we have here! The providers I work with are all willing to help whenever needed, and the work environment is positive and friendly,” said Vitito. “MRHC has anniversary lunches to celebrate milestones, gifts for nurse practitioner week, provider meals at Christmas, and gifts hospital-wide during the holidays. MRHC also has a Christmas party for all staff to build relationships outside of work. And I have a great work life balance with a flexible schedule.”

For anyone interested in pursuing a career as a nurse practitioner or something similar, Vitito shared this encouraging advice.

“Being a nurse practitioner has endless opportunities. You can work in a big city, rural community, or even teach,” said Vitito. “Take as many clinic or shadowing opportunities as possible to learn what you enjoy, and never be afraid to ask questions because it allows for growth in knowledge. And do not let the amount of schooling deter you! It goes faster than you think.”

If you are in need of a same-day appointment due to a minor injury or illness, call (712) 655-8100. To join the MRHC team, visit www.mrhcia.com/careers or call (712) 655-2072 for more information on current job openings.

Rupiper Finds Calling as PA at MRHC’s Family Practice Clinic

Courtney Rupiper

Courtney RupiperAfter debating a career in business or physical therapy, Courtney Rupiper found her calling as a physician assistant and now works in the Family Practice Clinic at Manning Regional Healthcare Center.

“I started working at a local nursing home when I was younger and fell into healthcare,” said Courtney Rupiper, PA-C. “I felt comfortable with healthcare and helping people. When I went to college, I thought I was going to be a physical therapist, but I quickly learned that wasn’t for me. After doing some job shadowing of PAs, I felt like it was something I could do, and here I am.”

Rupiper joined the MRHC Family Practice Clinic as a Certified Physician Assistant in November of 2017. She completed her undergraduate degree at the University of Northern Iowa and received her PA degree from St. Ambrose University.

“I really enjoy getting to know all the families here at MRHC. And as I grow in my career as a PA, I hope to complete more continuing education so I can be even more help for my patients,” Rupiper said.

In addition to the meaningful work Rupiper does daily, she also values the laid-back feel of working in the clinic, the convenience of working close to home, and the work-life balance MRHC offers.

“MRHC provides a great atmosphere to work in, and I like that you know everyone,” said Rupiper. “It feels like home even when I’m at work.”

Rupiper is one of four providers in the Family Practice Clinic who sees patients on a regular basis. The clinic also includes Dr. McLaws, Dr. Luong, and Sara Vitito who accepts same-day appointments.

“Courtney is a great asset to the MRHC provider team,” said MRHC Clinic Director, Shelby Dickson. “She works hard and always puts a patient’s best interest at the forefront of the care she gives.”

To schedule an appointment with Rupiper, call (712) 655-8100. To join the MRHC team, visit www.mrhcia.com/careers or call (712) 655-2072 for more information on current job openings.

 

Dream Lights Tree Tradition Continues

The West Central Iowa Healthcare Foundation’s holiday tradition of lighting Main Street in Manning with Dream Lights Trees continues. The Dream Lights campaign has taken many forms over the years, but the theme has always been to remember or honor family members and friends during the holidays by making a donation to the WCIHF.

The campaign will have a “new look” this year. Foundation members, Debbie Ranniger and Donna Hacker worked with Puck Enterprises, Inc. and Plastico, T&C to create new trees and new ornaments for display on Main Street.  The trees have been custom designed out of sheet metal and will be strung with lights.  They will be decked with ornaments or stars created by Plastico.  The ornaments and stars are available for sponsorship.  The fresh look is especially fitting as the group celebrates the 25th anniversary of Dream Lights this year.

Donors will be able to sponsor a gold ornament for $75 and a red ornament for $125.  There will be 42 ornaments available.  There will be three stars available as well; sponsoring a star is $250.  This year all donors will be recognized in the newspaper.  The lighting of the trees will coincide with the Weihnachtsfest Festival held on November 25th and they will remain lit until shortly after the New Year.

Sponsorship forms may be picked up at First National Bank and State Farm Insurance, on Main Street. They are also available at the Admissions Desk at Manning Regional Healthcare Center, or by emailing amy.benton@mrhcia.com.  Completed forms can be dropped off or emailed to Amy Benton at MRHC.

The lighted trees have become a charming attraction on Main Street during the holidays.  Let’s “Deck the Trees” to support the West Central Iowa Healthcare Foundation in their mission to provide health and wellness opportunities for residents of Manning and members of the surrounding communities.

MRHC Encourages Participation in Community Blood Drive as Blood Supplies Reach Critical Lows

Blood drive

MRHC encourages locals to donate blood during the upcoming Community Blood Drive on Wednesday, November 23rd at the Sacred Heart Catholic Church in Manning from 10:00 am – 2:00 pm.

Blood supplies are at a critical low for all blood types and LifeServe, a local blood center, currently only has a one-day supply of O+. When a hospital patient needs a blood transfusion, they rely on blood donors to make sure that lifesaving blood is on the shelf. There is no substitute for human blood, and it can’t be created in a lab. This is why MRHC partners with LifeServe to regularly host blood drives.

“A donation could help save your neighbor, a friend, a family member or a stranger in your community,” shared MRHC Education Coordinator, Julie Hodne, RN.

To schedule an appointment to donate blood, visit https://donor.lifeservebloodcenter.org/donor/schedules/drive_schedule/176763.

BJ Schreck Celebrates 26 Years in Iowa Air National Guard and Two Years at MRHC

BJ Schreck

BJ SchreckFor life-long Carroll County resident, B.J. Schreck, November 2022 marks 26 years in the Iowa Air National Guard. Schreck held several roles related to F-16 fighter aircraft maintenance early in his career, received his commission to become an officer in 2010, cross-trained in 2015, and has worked in the Communications/IT field over the past eight years. He has been deployed overseas three times, once each to Kuwait, Qatar, and Iraq.

While Schreck currently manages a range of responsibilities as the Communications (IT) Flight Commander for the 132nd Wing in Des Moines, he also serves as the Information Technology (IT) Director at Manning Regional Healthcare Center.

“My military experience has provided me with an understanding of the impact teamwork can have in achieving common goals and how each person in an organization can directly impact performance,” Schreck shard. “At MRHC, it’s easy to see how the work we do in our department and the work all our employees do, both medical and non-medical, matters. Much like every role in the military, playing a critical role in National Defense, every position in our hospital plays a part in providing a compassionate, holistic health care experience the community can trust.”

While Schreck has an important role at MRHC as the IT Director, he also has occasional military obligations to fulfill. When he recently had to commit three weeks to his Guard unit in September, MRHC was in the midst of a major project, but he received nothing but support from his team throughout his absence.

“My supervisor, co-workers, and the Senior Leadership Team make it incredibly easy to focus on military obligations while I’m away and provide the resources to get caught back up when I return. They support me and always have,” said Schreck. “And at MRHC, you get to work in an environment where you’re trusted to make important decisions. And you’re supported when the day doesn’t go your way.”

In addition to supporting his military commitments, Schreck also values the flexibility of his job, the convenience of working close to home, and the work-life balance MRHC offers, as he has even more important job titles as a father and a husband.

“MRHC puts family first and allows me to dedicate the time I need to our schedule at home. I’m lucky to work for an employer where I don’t have to miss picking up one of my daughters, miss a game, or not be able to be somewhere,” Schreck said. “I can also leave work at the end of the day and not feel as though I need to take it with me. People here care about the people, not just the position.”

Schreck received a degree in Management Information Systems (MIS) from the University of Northern Iowa and interned in the IT department with American Home Shield after college. After working for Wells Fargo Home Mortgage IT in Des Moines, Schreck returned home to work in a variety of IT positions for American Home Shield for 15 years. He came to work for MRHC as the IT Director in November 2020.

“BJ is a tremendous asset to MRHC and has fit seamlessly into our organization,” said MRHC CFO, Amy McLaughlin, CPA, CHFP. “He is always making patient and staff needs his top priority and is such a reliable and knowledgeable resource for us all.  We are very fortunate to have him leading our IT team.”

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