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Spring / April Medical article.

Don’t Let Seasonal Sneezing Drown Out Your Fun
For everything there is a season, including allergies! They may be impossible to stop, but there are some steps you can take to minimize the impact to those who suffer.
You are not alone
According to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC), more than 25% of adults — and nearly 20% of children — have a seasonal allergy that is often triggered by pollen.
Hay fever without the hay
Pollen — or pollen grains — are tiny seeds dispersed into the air from hay and many other flowers, trees, grasses and weeds. Some plants release pollen year-round, but the amount of pollen in the air is generally higher during warmer seasons.
When the nose knows what the eyes see
Two common seasonal allergies are allergic rhinitis and allergic conjunctivitis, both occurring when you're exposed to pollen or other allergens.
Allergic rhinitis, a.k.a. hay fever, is when your immune system releases chemicals that cause symptoms such as sneezing, a runny nose, and congestion.
Allergic conjunctivitis is inflammation of the lining of the eye, and shows up as red, watery, or itchy eyes. Found in up to 30% of the general population, this allergy also affects as many as 7 out of 10 of hay fever sufferers, creating a double whammy of symptoms.
Of special note for people with asthma or other respiratory illnesses: Pollen can trigger an asthma attack, so it’s wise to pay attention to high pollen days and alter outdoor habits, as much as possible.
When to see your doctor
When your body tells you something’s amiss, it’s best to see your primary care doctor before self-diagnosing and treating the symptoms. If the trouble stems from an allergy, further care from a specialist, or allergist, may be needed.
Good habits during pollen season
To minimize unnecessary pollen exposure, consider the following tips:
1. Avoid spending extra time outdoors
2. When you are outside, don’t touch your eyes before washing your hands
3. Once you come back inside —
• Leave your shoes at the door
• Shower and wash your hair to remove pollen
• Change your clothes and launder them before wearing again
4. Keep windows closed, and vacuum and dust to trap pollen that may have been tracked into your home
5. Use high-efficiency filters in your home’s heating, ventilation, and air conditioning (HVAC) system — as long as your HVAC system warranty allows, and change your filters frequently
Tame your seasonal allergies
With help from your Southeast Colorado Hospital District healthcare provider and a bit of extra attention to reducing exposure to pollen, you can still enjoy the beauty of the changing seasons.
Health Alert: Measles Outbreak in Neighboring Areas – Ensure Vaccination to Protect Your Family
Dear Baca County Community Members,
We want to inform you that there has been a recent measles outbreak in neighboring states, including Texas and New Mexico. Given the highly contagious nature of the virus, we urge all residents to take action and ensure that they and their children are up to date on their measles vaccinations. Although there are no current cases reported in Colorado, the risk of measles remains high due to the ongoing outbreaks in nearby regions.
Key Points for Your Health and Safety:
1. MMR Vaccination is the Best Protection:
o Children should receive two doses of the MMR vaccine, with the first dose at 12-15 months and the second at 4-6 years.
o Infants aged 6 to 11 months who are traveling internationally or to areas with outbreaks can receive an early dose. They should complete the full vaccination series with two additional doses as they grow.
2. Special Attention to Infants Under 1 Year:
o Children under the age of 1 are at greater risk for complications from measles. If you have infants in your household, please make sure to stay informed and take proactive steps to keep them safe.
3. Adults Should Ensure Vaccination:
o Adults should have at least one documented dose of the MMR vaccine or other evidence of immunity. Those at higher risk of exposure (such as healthcare workers, students, or international travelers) should ensure they have received two doses.
4. Additional Recommendations:
o Health care providers may recommend a second dose for adults or an earlier second dose for children aged 1-4 years, especially if they live in or visit areas with outbreaks.
We strongly encourage all residents to review their vaccination status and take immediate steps to ensure that they and their families are protected from this serious and highly contagious disease. Vaccination is the most effective way to prevent the spread of measles and safeguard our community.
For more information on measles and vaccination recommendations, contact your healthcare provider or visit the CDC website.
Thank you for helping us keep our community safe.
Sincerely,
Southeast Colorado Hospital District
“Free Nurse Aide Class” at Southeast Colorado Hospital District and Long Term Care in Springfield CO.

We are looking for interested candidates to take the nurse aide class and become a state certified nurse aide:
Your class and supplies are paid for, and your first state test is paid for by SECHD when you are employed with SECHD/LTCC.
We offer a support position for hire prior to the class to assist with non-nursing care for the Inn and cottage residents such as making beds, passing ice water, putting clean linens in the rooms, and visiting and getting to know the residents.
When class begins support staff employees’ transition to the NA theory and skills classroom. As an employee you will be paid your hourly wage to take the class and will be in the classroom for 2 weeks Monday through Friday 8am to 5pm. You will then come to the nursing home and secured unit areas for clinical training with a mentor certified nurse aide and an instructor to learn hands on training 8am to 5pm with the residents.
Once your nurse aide training is complete you will then be assigned your shift and your area to work in and you will again train with a certified nurse aide on your shifts to provide a safe caring environment to the residents of SECHD/LTCC.

A Certified Nursing Assistant (CNA) is on the front lines of patient / resident care. The nursing assistant position is certainly one of the most vital to daily operations for the nursing care facility, your compassion and skill in patient/resident care will help minimize the stress of those who are sick or unable to care for themselves.

We will be offering the next class:
- April 7th -April 25th
o The Deadline to turn in your application is March 14th
- To apply for the class
o you must be 16 or older
o no record of a felony, No Violent or Theft crime
o Must pass a drug screening
o Pass a reading comprehensive test
o And pass an interview
- If you are ready to take the first steps toward becoming a certified nursing assistant, please call or email:
- Mary Mullins, Human Resources, at 719-523-2160 or email mmullins@sechosp.org or
Glenice Wade, ADON, (719) 523-2141 ext #141 or email gwade@sechosp.org
- SECHD offer competitive wages.
- An increase in wage after certification.
- For full time employees SECHD offers life insurance of $10 K, Medical, Dental and Vision, Aflac, vacation, and sick time, 3% matching for retirement after 1 year, option for 457.
- For part time employees Dental and Vision, Aflac, vacation, and sick time, 3% matching for retirement after 1 year, option for 457.
- Per diem employees (that is as needed if you are not interested in full or part time or maybe you’re a full time student and work when you can) you are offered sick time, option for 457 and .50 more per hour.
























































CONGRATULATIONS TO OUR AVALANCHE TICKET WINNERS, JILL AUSMUS & LISA RIDDICK!THANK YOU TO THOSE WHO ATTENDED OUR ALL-TEAM MEETINGS!! THANK YOU TO OUR NEW BOARD MEMBER, STEPHANIE HUND, FOR DRAWING OUR WINNERS!! AND A HUGE THANK YOU TO BRIAN HILLIER & ACRISURE FOR YOUR GENEROUS DONATION TO SECHD!!

































































National Nutrition Month
If “diet is a bank account and good food choices are good investments, ”it’s a good time to start investing in yourself and your family!
Make every bite count
A healthy eating routine can help boost your health now and in the future, plus showing your children healthy food choices can set them up with good habits all their lives. And a healthy diet and lifestyle are the keys to preventing and managing chronic health problems like cardiovascular disease.
Check in with your doctor
While there are generally accepted healthy nutrition choices, your doctor can help you target your and your family’s overall needs, especially if there are underlying health conditions such as diabetes, food allergies, or if you have specific weight goals. Generally, eat a variety of fruits, vegetables, grains, protein foods, and dairy or fortified soy alternatives. Also, limit added sugars, saturated fat, and sodium. If you’re buying packaged food, read the nutrition facts and ingredient list, and look for the Heart-Check Mark to find foods that have been certified by the American Heart Association as heart-healthy.
When it’s too much of a good thing
Good calories can add up, and you may be surprised to learn how much is a serving size.
In an average 2,000 calories per day adult diet, the American Heart Association offers the recommendations below. Remember that your calorie needs may be different, depending on your age, activity level and whether you are trying to lose, gain or maintain your weight, and other dietary needs that your doctor may discuss with you.
Vegetables
Fresh, frozen, canned or dried — Two and a half (2 1/2) servings per day, including dark green, red/orange, starchy and other; examples of one vegetable serving:
• 2 cups raw leafy salad greens
• 1 cup cut-up vegetables
Fruits
Fresh, frozen, canned or dried — 2 servings of fruit per day; examples of one fruit serving:
• One medium whole fruit
• 1 cup cut-up fruit
Grains
Six servings per day, preferably whole grains; examples of one serving of grains:
• One slice bread or one small tortilla
• 1 cup ready-to-eat cereal flakes
• 1 ounce (⅛ cup) uncooked pasta or rice (½ cup cooked rice, pasta or cereal)
Dairy
Three servings per day, preferably low-fat and fat-free; examples of one dairy serving:
• 1 cup milk or yogurt
• 1 ounce cheese (size of one domino)
Proteins
Choose from legumes and nuts; fish and seafood; and if you eat meat, lean cuts and skinless poultry; avoid processed meats that equal five and a half-ounces (5 ½-ounces) per day. Below are examples of one-ounce servings to combine:
• 1/4 cup cooked beans, peas or lentils, or tofu
• 1/2 ounce nuts or seeds or 1 tablespoon peanut butter
• One whole egg or two egg whites
Note: Cooked seafood, meat or poultry — three ounces looks like a deck of cards
Get the most out of your food budget
Eating healthy doesn’t have to cost a lot.
• Prepare menus and grocery lists ahead to help keep you from making impulse food choices, which often aren’t healthy.
• Use technology. There’s an app for that. Look for a grocery list or meal-planning app with a grocery list feature.
• Cook on the weekends. If your weekdays are busy, prep ahead or cook over the weekend and store the meals in the fridge or freezer.
• Prep snacks. Cut up fruits and vegetables and keep them handy in individual portions in the fridge.
• Buy fresh produce in season. You’ll pay more in the fall and winter when some are shipped from warmer climates. Big idea: When treating yourself and your family, choose out-of-season fresh foods rather than processed foods.
Proper nutrition for you and your family delivers a return on investment for years to come.

Please, call Southeast Colorado Rural Health Clinic today at (719) 523 6628 for help in finding a physician.





















































Celebrating Our Amazing Activity Professional Team!




Today, we take a moment to express our heartfelt gratitude
and admiration for the incredible work our Activity Professional staff does every day. Your creativity, passion, and unwavering dedication enrich the lives of those we serve and bring joy, purpose, and meaning to their days. You are the heart and soul of our community, creating a vibrant and caring environment where residents thrive.
Thank you for your tireless efforts to plan meaningful activities, build connections, and ensure every individual feels valued and empowered. Your impact goes beyond the activities you lead—it's the smiles, the laughter, and the memories you help create that truly make a difference.
As we celebrate National Activity Professionals Day, we honor YOU and the vital role you play in making the lives of our residents and their families richer and fuller. You are appreciated more than words can express!
#NationalActivityProfessionalsDay #ThankYou #ActivityProfessionals #Gratitude #Caregivers #MakingADifference #CommunityCare














































January is Cervical Health Awareness Month
At Southeast Colorado Hospital District, we’re committed to raising awareness about cervical cancer prevention. Cervical cancer is one of the most preventable cancers, with early detection and the HPV vaccine playing key roles in reducing incidence rates.
We encourage everyone to learn about the importance of regular screenings, including the Pap test and HPV test. The Pap test helps detect abnormal cells in the cervix that could lead to cancer, while the HPV test checks for the presence of the human papillomavirus (HPV), which is responsible for nearly all cases of cervical cancer. With both the HPV vaccine and early screenings, cervical cancer is largely preventable.
The HPV vaccine is recommended for youth starting as early as age 9 and up to age 26, with options available for those up to age 45. Regular screenings for women are essential for early detection when treatment is most effective.
Together, we can help spread the word and empower individuals to take control of their health. For more information on cervical cancer prevention and screening, visit https://www.nccc-online.org/?platform=hootsuite
Take charge of your health—early detection saves lives!
#CervicalHealthAwareness #HPVVaccine #CervicalCancerPrevention #EarlyDetection #WomensHealth #HealthAwareness
Local EMTs Increase Level of Training to Become AEMTs.

Three members of the Southeast Colorado Hospital (SECH) Ambulance Service recently completed all requirements to become Advanced Emergency Medical Technicians (AEMT). They are the first three to obtain this level of practice in the history of the agency.

Bobby Bickford spent many of his growing-up years in Baca County and worked as a CNA at SECH for some time before leaving the area temporarily and obtaining his EMT certification in the Loveland area. He returned to Baca County in 2023 and is a member of the full-time EMS team at SECH Ambulance Service.

Megan England, daughter of Campo residents and recently retired EMTs, LeRoy and Esther England, has been in EMS since 2012. As the youngest in a family of several first responders, she chose to pursue EMS as well, serving part-time while working another full-time job in the community.

Jennifer Reed is also a Baca County native and former CNA with SECH. Jennifer completed her EMT certification through the SECH Ambulance Service EMS Education Program in 2023 before immediately jumping into the Advanced course. She is also a full-time employee at SECH Ambulance Service.

The AEMT level of Emergency Medical Services is a relatively new scope of practice becoming more prevalent across the nation. It is a middle level of Emergency Medical Service (EMS) practice that allows some advanced care beyond that of an Emergency Medical Technician (EMT) but not to the level of the Paramedic. In the state of Colorado, becoming an AEMT allows these providers to give some additional medications and also allows them to have a Nationally-recognized scope above the Basic level. As EMS continues to change and grow, this advanced level certification is helpful in providing a consistently high level of care across our service.

Obtaining advanced-level EMS certification is a challenge due to few education programs offering the opportunity as well as the expense involved. However, these students were able to commit the time to attend courses through a hybrid online program offered by Pueblo Community College under grant funding provided through Senate Bill 22-226. They were also financially assisted by the Springfield EMS Association, Inc.

Congratulations to these three on this achievement. We are thankful for their dedication to serve those in our community.
















































































































































































































































Southeast Colorado Hospital District
Medicare Reminders

It is a remarkably busy time of year for Medicare beneficiaries. Medicare open enrollment begins October 15, 2024, and ends December 7, 2024. Southeast Colorado Hospital District would like to remind patients that we only accept traditional Medicare Part A, traditional Medicare Part B, and United Healthcare. Medicare Advantage plans except for United Healthcare are considered “noncontract” and “out of network.” What does this mean for you? This means the services provided to you and billed to your insurance may or may not be covered. It could be paid at an “out of network” cost leaving you with a larger amount due to Southeast Colorado Hospital District. It is important to remember that if you chose to enroll in a Medicare Advantage plan you forgo your traditional Medicare Part A and B coverage which means you will be subject to the requirements and limitations of your policy. Those requirements and limitations may include limited provider networks, difficulty switching plans, geographic restrictions, more out of pocket costs, limited coverage, and denial of preauthorization of services. If you have any questions about this issue, please call Dorothy Burke at 719-523-2182 or Kristin Grenard at 719-523-2103.





































































































































































































































































Please, join me in congratulating Karma Wilson of Southeast Colorado Hospital District’s “Informatics” Department. Karma was recognized Friday August 30th for her work supporting the Southeast Region with their work on implementing measures and data for the CHASE Hospital Transformation project and the required reporting for the new state analytics. We are honored to have many great employees and Karma Wilson has been an area leader and State Leader that was recognized by Eastern Plains Heath Consortium for her service to others and leadership! Kudos, to Karma Wilson!!!






































































































































































































What is Naloxone?
Naloxone, sometimes referred to as Narcan (brand name) is a medication that is used in situations where someone has taken too much of an opioid pain medication (codeine, oxycodone, hydrocodone, morphine, fentanyl, heroin). The general public can administer the medication, via a nasal spray, to reverse the affects of the opioids rapidly. The most serious opioid affect is that of respiratory failure-the slowing down of breathing sometimes to the point of stopping altogether.
Signs of opioid overdose:
• Unconscious or poor/slow responses
• Shallow or slow breathing
• Pupils are pinpoint
• Vomiting or gurgling
• Pale, cold, or blue skin
• Inability to speak clearly
Who should have naloxone?
Anyone who is prescribed opioids such as those listed above. *Any family member of someone who is prescribed opioids. *Someone who uses opioid medication not obtained by prescription. *Anyone with potential exposure to opioid substances.
More about naloxone:
It is safe to use with children who have consumed opioid substances.
If a person has not consumed opioids, there should be no side effects at all.

Southeast Colorado Medical Clinic has partnered with the Colorado Naloxone Project as a harm reduction agency to provide free naloxone to patients, family members and community members who may find themselves in a situation to save someone who has overdosed. If you or a loved one are prescribed opioids for pain, please ask your provider about a naloxone rescue kit.











































































































































































I am writing to inform you of a crucial update regarding our safety protocols in light of the recent increase in COVID-19 cases.
Effective immediately, we are implementing a mandatory mask requirement for all individuals entering our Long-Term Care (LTC) facilities. This decision has been made to ensure the continued safety and well-being of our residents, who remain our top priority.
We kindly ask that all visitors, staff, and any other persons entering our facilities comply with this requirement. Masks will be available at the entrance if needed.
Your cooperation in adhering to this measure is greatly appreciated as we work together to protect our community during this challenging time.
Thank you for your understanding and support.
Best regards,

Charmaine Bishop, RN
Infection Prevention and Control
Southeast Colorado Hospital District
373 East 10th Avenue
Springfield, Co 81073
719-523-2173








































JULY IS JUVENILE ARTHRITIS AWARENESS MONTH. 300,000 children in America have arthritis. It is a common misconception that only “old” people are afflicted with arthritis. Most people do not know that kids get arthritis. Juvenile idiopathic arthritis (JIA), one form of juvenile arthritis, is quite common and affects more than 50,000 children in the United States alone. JIA is often referred to as juvenile rheumatoid arthritis (JRA) in the United States. Other specific names and forms of juvenile arthritis include: 1). Systemic Onset- JIA or Still’s disease, 2). Oligoarticular- JIA (affecting fewer than 5 joints), 3). Polyarticular- JIA (affecting five or more joints), 4). Enthesitis- related arthritis, and 5). Juvenile Psoriatic- arthritis.
When juvenile arthritis first shows its symptoms in a child’s body, many parents write off swollen joints and fever as a flu bug or think that a sudden rash that might have occurred was from an allergic reaction. A child’s immune system is not fully formed until about age 18; so, an “autoimmune” form of arthritis is especially aggressive in children. You can set an appointment with your primary care provider to see if your child might have juvenile arthritis by calling Southeast Colorado Hospital District’s- clinic or to schedule a wellness check for yourself or your child at (719) 523-6628.








































































JULY IS JUVENILE ARTHRITIS AWARENESS MONTH. 300,000 children in America have arthritis. It is a common misconception that only “old” people are afflicted with arthritis. Most people do not know that kids get arthritis. Juvenile idiopathic arthritis (JIA), one form of juvenile arthritis, is quite common and affects more than 50,000 children in the United States alone. JIA is often referred to as juvenile rheumatoid arthritis (JRA) in the United States. Other specific names and forms of juvenile arthritis include: 1). Systemic Onset- JIA or Still’s disease, 2). Oligoarticular- JIA (affecting fewer than 5 joints), 3). Polyarticular- JIA (affecting five or more joints), 4). Enthesitis- related arthritis, and 5). Juvenile Psoriatic- arthritis.
When juvenile arthritis first shows its symptoms in a child’s body, many parents write off swollen joints and fever as a flu bug or think that a sudden rash that might have occurred was from an allergic reaction. A child’s immune system is not fully formed until about age 18; so, an “autoimmune” form of arthritis is especially aggressive in children. You can set an appointment with your primary care provider to see if your child might have juvenile arthritis by calling Southeast Colorado Hospital District’s- clinic or to schedule a wellness check for yourself or your child at (719) 523-6628.
Southeast Colorado Hospital District and Long Term Care Center

July is Ultraviolet (UV) Safety Month. The goal is to spread the word about how important it is to protect everyone’s skin from the harmful effects of UV rays. UV rays, either from the sun or from artificial sources like tanning beds, can cause sunburn. In some people, exposure to UV rays can cause a rash or a type of allergic reaction. Exposure to UV rays can also cause premature aging of the skin and signs of sun damage such as liver spots, actinic keratosis, and solar elastosis. UV rays can also cause eye problems. They can cause the cornea (on the front of the eye) to become inflamed or burned. They can also lead to the formation of cataracts (clouding of the lens of the eye) and pterygium (tissue growth on the surface of the eye), both of which can impair vision. Exposure to UV rays can also weaken the immune system, so that the body has a harder time fending off infections. It’s not possible (or healthy) to avoid sunlight completely, but there are ways to help ensure you’re not getting too much sun. If you are going to be outside, simply staying in the shade, especially during midday hours, is one of the best ways to limit your UV exposure from sunlight. Protect your skin with clothing and wear a hat to protect your head, face, and neck. Wear sunglasses that block UV to protect your eyes and the skin around them. Use sunscreen to help protect skin that isn’t covered with clothing. Source: The American Cancer Society editorial content. You can set an appointment with your primary care provider by calling Southeast Colorado Hospital District’s -Rural Health Clinic. July is a great time to schedule a wellness check for yourself or your child at (719) 523-6628. The Southeast Colorado Hospital District Board wants you to feel our increased emphasis on Respect, Compassion, Quality, Collaboration, and Empathy, as we thank you for choosing us for your care.

If you or someone you know are in need of long term care or just a happy, nice, secure safe place to live and age, we are here to serve you at Southeast Colorado Hospital District and Long Term Care Center, Cottage, and 10th Street Inn. Our residences are available for a short thirty day stay or as long-term homes. We strive to create environments where our residents / neighbors feel connected to their community, experience individualized programs, feel cared about, experience quality life engagement activities, develop relationships, and experience quality care in a secure safe home that they can truly call their own. We currently have rooms available in the secured memory care unit if your loved one has dementia, and you are in need of a place for them to receive safe and secure 24/7 care from a caring team. We are here for you! Contact Sheri Reed, Director of Nursing, (719) 523-2116, or Glenice Wade, Assistant Director of Nursing (719) 523-2141, to discuss any questions you may have or to set up a Southeast Colorado Hospital District Long Term Care Center Tour. We also have openings available in Long Term Care now.











































June is a time where the days are longer, and we can venture outside and exercise later in the warm evenings. There are also many things we can do in the June “heat of summer” that can change our health for the better. This time of year, the day feels less rushed as we get the "school's out!" attitude. Summer is a great time to start on a path to better health. Our health can benefit by getting outdoors and doing activities like yardwork, going on a hike, taking an outdoor walk, or just playing games outdoors. Time spent outdoors with your neighbors or family, bicycling, roller blading, swimming, chore time, and outdoor recreation can reap mental/physical benefits. We can also, take advantage of summer's slower schedule by using vacation time to unwind, lower blood pressure, stress, and your heart rate. Summer is a great time to skip drinks with alcohol and choose a light, chilled beverage. Research says we should keep a year-round sleep schedule and resist the urge to stay up later during long summer days. This summer we can try and eat a daily cup of mixed fresh berries; like, blackberries, blueberries, or strawberries. The berries will give a body antioxidants, shown to reduce the risks of age-related illnesses and they are high in fiber lowering cholesterol. During the long days it is fun to lower our stress level with a plant in a flowerpot or an outside garden at our home. As we work with our plants and soil the things we can’t control seem to get farther away. We can work for better oral health and try to floss our teeth every day and reduce harmful oral bacteria. You can set an appointment with your primary care provider and develop the best plan for improving your health or just set a wellness check or appointment by calling the rural health clinic at (719) 523-6628.



























































Mr. Jeff R. Egbert has been appointed by the Southeast Colorado Hospital District Board as Interim CEO, effective May 29, 2024. Mr. Egbert will work closely with the Southeast Colorado Hospital District Board of Directors to carry out the strategic vision, construction projects, operations, quality improvement, and work with employees and medical staff to continue the hospital’s positive mission for the people of Southeast Colorado and the region.
Mr. Egbert is an experienced senior executive an exceptional grasp of strategic and tactical operations management, service line development and enhancement, physician recruitment and strategic execution. He is a servant leader skilled at building and motivating teams of talented professionals to exceed key operational objectives incorporating principles of continuous process improvement and fostering a culture of innovation and accountability. With a healthcare career spanning over 34 years, Mr. Egbert has served as CEO in multiple organizations. His career is highlighted by a history of growing organizations, improving quality, and increasing overall patient satisfaction. Mr. Egbert has held the position of CEO for Hutchinson Regional Healthcare, Phoenix Baptist Hospital in Phoenix, AZ, Arizona Heart Hospital in Phoenix, AZ, San Juan Regional Medical Center in Farmington, NM, Community Medical Center in Missoula, MT, and Clinton Memorial Hospital in Wilmington, OH.
Mr. Egbert holds a Masters of Science in Health Care Administration from Trinity University in San Antonio, TX and a Bachelor of Arts in Chemistry/Biology from Mount Marty College in Yankton, SD.
Mr. Egbert and his wife, Teri, are looking forward to living in Springfield, Colorado. They have two adult children and enjoy the outdoors, camping, fishing, RVing, hiking, and travel.
The Communities of Baca County and the Southeast Colorado Hospital District Board wish Mr Egbert a positive and productive tenure here.
Southeast Colorado Hospital District and Long Term Care Center
June of 2024 is designated as Men’s Health Month. We celebrate Men’s Health Month to heighten awareness of preventable health problems, and to encourage the diagnosis of preventable disease among men and boys. There is a silent health crisis in America... “it’s the fact that, on average, American men live sicker and die younger than American women.” (Center for Disease Control) In 1920 women lived; on average, one year longer than men. Now, men; on average, die almost five years earlier than women. Regardless of a man’s age or general health there are small steps a man can take to begin a lifestyle that will make them happier and healthier: 1. Have regular checkups even if you feel okay. 2. Schedule a doctor’s appointment when things don’t feel right. 3. Get to know your family health history and share it with your medical providers. 4. Exercise at least thirty minutes a day. 5. Give yourself permission to keep stress at bay by stopping work for affirmation and time with positive people. 6. Screen for cancer. 7. For the best you, try and remove a bad habit each year. Even before the pandemic, men's mental health was a cause for concern; but the last two years, it has seen a rise in the occurrence and become a crisis. There is a grave disparity in the high number of men who die from suicide and the low number of men who seek treatment for depression, anxiety, and other mental health challenges. Men are harder to encourage to seek medical attention and women are 100% more likely to visit the doctor for annual examinations and preventive services than men. Men die at higher rates than women; from 9 of the top 10 causes of death, and they are the victims of over 92% of the workplace deaths (CDC 2020). June is a great time to call our Southeast Colorado Hospital District Rural Health Clinic at (719) 523-6628 and have your yearly wellness exam, discuss Men’s Health, and begin a healthy lifestyle.
If you or someone you know is in need of long term care or just a happy, nice, secure safe place to live and age, we are here to serve you at Southeast Colorado Hospital District and Long Term Care Center, Cottage, and 10th Street Inn. Our residences are available for a short thirty day stay or as long-term homes. We strive to create environments where our residents / neighbors feel connected to their community, experience individualized programs, feel cared about, experience quality life engagement activities, develop relationships, and experience quality care in a secure safe home that they can truly call their own. We currently have rooms available in the secured memory care unit if your loved one has dementia, and you are in need of a place for them to receive safe and secure 24/7 care from a caring team. We are here for you! Contact Sheri Reed, Director of Nursing, (719) 523-2116, or Glenice Wade, Assistant Director of Nursing (719) 523-2141, to discuss any questions you may have or to set up a Southeast Colorado Hospital District Long Term Care Center Tour. We also have openings available in Long Term Care now.
Southeast Colorado Hospital District and Long Term Care Center

June of 2024 is “Alzheimer’s and Brain Month”. When Alzheimer’s or memory loss is not properly cared for, a loved one could put themselves and others in danger. If you suspect memory loss, here are some things you can look for: (1) Not keeping up with regular daily tasks or personal hygiene. (2) Difficulty managing money or bills. (3) Being more spontaneous or less inhibited in conversation without concern for their own behavior. (4) Becoming angry when confronted with forgetfulness, lack of self-care, or poor decision making. (6) Confabulation: making up stories or answers they believe are true, though sometimes the details may be imaginary or about something that happened in the past, something read, or heard elsewhere. If you are the person that is beginning to see the signs listed above in yourself and feel you need care, then there is not a more independent or better feeling than to make the decision yourself and to search out the best option for long term care. Whether your loved one is in denial of their need for care, or is getting Alzheimer’s or dementia, the most effective caregiver strategy is one of mitigation of the effects; rather than, trying over and over to make the person understand your viewpoint. The Treatment Advocacy Center agrees: “Nobody wants to take medicine if they aren’t sick, and people that don’t feel there is a living problem are no exception.” Southeast Colorado Hospital District and Long Term Care Center would like to be your long term care option when you; or a person you care for, requires someone else to help them with memory, physical, or emotional needs over an extended period. It is a great time to call our Southeast Colorado Hospital District Rural Health Clinic at (719) 523-6628 and set up an evaluation or wellness visit live or by telehealth and explore your professional evaluation and treatment options.

If you or someone you know are in need of long term care or just a happy, nice, secure safe place to live and age, we are here to serve you at Southeast Colorado Hospital District and Long Term Care Center, Cottage, and 10th Street Inn. Our residences are available for a short thirty day stay or as long-term homes. We strive to create environments where our residents / neighbors feel connected to their community, experience individualized programs, feel cared about, experience quality life engagement activities, develop relationships, and experience quality care in a secure safe home that they can truly call their own. We currently have rooms available in the secured memory care unit if your loved one has dementia, and you are in need of a place for them to receive safe and secure 24/7 care from a caring team. We are here for you! Contact Sheri Reed, Director of Nursing, (719) 523-2116, or Glenice Wade, Assistant Director of Nursing (719) 523-2141, to discuss any questions you may have or to set up a Southeast Colorado Hospital District Long Term Care Center Tour. We also have openings available in Long Term Care now.















































































































































































































































Nurses' post by Sheri Reed
Nurses wear a lot of different hats, but some of the most compassionate nurses I know that work in long term care and secured memory unit. In a rural area, most likely you have grown up knowing most of the residents and their families and the ones that we don’t know we get to know very well after a little while and they and their families become like family to us, there are those whose family lives a long way away so you become their family quickly as you visit with them they tell you when they hurt, are sad, lonely, wanting a hug, need a smile or just someone to sit and hold their hand when they are dying and the family has not gotten here yet, or they have no family left and we step in as family for them. Being a nurse working with the elderly is very rewarding but is also very hard on your heart. Nurses pass medications, assess the residents when they have fallen or are sick and with the help of our CNAs, they are the eyes and ears for the providers and as stated before they become the sons/daughters/grandchild of the residents they care for. We are not only here to take care of these residents, but we are here for the families. They listen when the families call and need to express their concerns about their family members but also how they are feeling being so far away. As a nurse that has been with SECHD for almost 22 years, it always makes my day to be able to walk in the long-term care/secured memory unit and have a resident give you a smile or hold their arms out for a hug, or they just want to visit with you. Working in long term care/secured memory unit there is always something new that we learn about our residents and that is always rewarding for us all.
Post by Staci Bishop, Clinic Manager and provider.

HAPPY NURSES WEEK!!
When people in my generation think of nurses, normally they think of the white dress, the white cap with a little tray of medicine to give their patients.
The role of nurse has changed and evolved so much over the last few decades. My grandmother (June) used to say that back when she was in nurse training, the doctors gave shots and the nurses back then were more like CNAs with patient care. Boy have things changed a lot!
As healthcare has evolved, with more regulations and more tasks being required, healthcare providers have come to rely on our nursing staff every single day. Most people know in the clinic, if you want something done-you ask the nurses (and by nurses I mean the RNs, LPNs, CNAs and Mas) they truly run the show in the clinic. Most people who visit the clinic know the nurses room them, get vital signs and field the phone calls with questions. There is so much more going on behind the scenes than most realize. Nurses will spend hours on the phone getting a medication, procedure or imaging study approved so that the patient gets the care they need. They help our patients navigate getting to specialists-from the referral in a town that works for them- to finding resources for the travel itself. They will spend time on the phone reassuring patients about medications, treatments, diagnosis and so many other things-I couldn’t begin to list them all.
The one thing that I see day to day from the clinic nurses is compassion. Often, the clinic is where patients initially get the news they have an unexpected and often scary diagnosis. Since we live in such a remote area, arranging care for the “next steps” for patients is critical and usually needs to be done quickly. Every single time something like this comes up, you can thank the clinic nurses for getting you or your loved one to the place they need to go.
I have been blessed over the years to work with some of the most amazing nurses-and I know for a fact, the providers in our clinic would be absolutely lost without them!



















Heroes of Happiness recently took part in World Password Day. Employees had the opportunity to submit an answer to this question, "What are ways you keep our facilities network safe?" We asked the I.T. Department to help us! They were our judges and provided some information regarding the importance of secure passwords. Here are the answers we received from employees:

1. I keep our facility’s network safe by changing passwords timely, using at least a 10 mixed character password. All my passwords consist of upper-and- lower case letters, numbers, and special characters.
2. I DON’T (WINNER, WINNER, CHICKEN DINNNER ????)
• Open suspicious attachments
• Log in to my personal accounts from my work computer
• Use free WiFi on my personal device (especially to check work emails.)
• Use flash drives
• Download software
• Share my password
• Use the same password for my desktop than I use anywhere else, for anything
      I DO
• Keep up on my computer updates
• Keepy my desk clean (I really do try)
• Use the phish alert button
• Use passwords that contain upper case, lower case, numbers, and special characters
• Keep up on my KnowBe4 trainings (I usually enjoy them)
• Share the importance of confidentiality of passwords with new contracts and employees
• Screenshot any suspicious emails or notification and send them to I.T.
3. I keep our network safe by:
• Changing passwords often
• Never use the same password
• Use a password that has symbols, letters, and numbers
• Report phishing emails
• Call IT when I don’t know!
• I have also recently learned to never go on a sponsored website
• 4. Have a strong password
• 5. Limit access to the system
• 6. Reset your password regularly and watch what sites you get you
• 7. Do you Knowbe4s and don’t fish with phish!

• Congratulations, Rheannon Hendricks! She was our winner and received a big foot tumbler.
• All of these are great reminders to keep our network safe. Thank you all for participating.







































Nurse's Week is May 6-12. If you ask GOOGLE to define a rural nurse the answer is along the lines of: Rural RNs have less nursing education, are less likely to work in hospitals, and are more likely to work full-time and in public/community health than urban RNs. At first, reading Googles definition of a rural nurse left me a bit irritated, left me with a bad taste in my mouth and confirmed that one simply cannot trust everything all mighty Google tells us! Fun fact; of the 12 fulltime and 2 PRN Registered Nurses and that make up the core nursing staff at SECH 6 have their bachelor’s in Nursing and 1 have a Master’s degree in Nursing, the rest of the RN’s without the “advanced” education have an average of 10+ years in the field of nursing and 3 with 20+ years. I think Google had better reevaluate the roles of a rural nurse. Little does Google know but us rural BC nurses with less education are actually rockstars who wear many hats throughout the day depending on what or who decides to walk, run or roll through the doors. We can go from leisurely convincing the most stubborn patient that it is important to get up and walk after recovering from a surgery or acute illness one minute to setting up the crash cart, accessing an IV site to give lifesaving medications all while our team jumps into action setting up chest tubes, getting and maintaining an airway, doing chest compressions, hanging the blood and anything else that is needed. Us nurses call this “organized chaos” caught up in the moment. If you ask us, we all have a different word or term we call these “moments,” some are more colorful words than others. Truth be told us Baca County nurses have an advantage over them city nurses, who often only work in a certain “field” of nursing, usually of their liking/choosing leaving the other areas untouched and unknown unless it’s a choice to venture into another field. In the city you have many choices of specialty areas such as Cardiac nurses, Oncology nurses, Rehab nurses, Skilled Nursing nurses, Pediatric nurses, ICU nurses, Surgery nurses, Aesthetic nurses, Infusion nurses....you get the picture! We don’t get that option down here in rural America. In other words, you better be willing to be a Cardiac Nurse and in an instant switch over to a Pediatric Nurse when a 1 year old is brought in with 103 fever, no tears, barky cough and low oxygen. After another hour rolls by you hopefully have the child and heart patient stabilized because the ambulance is bringing in several victims from a car crash and you just became a Trauma Nurse. We wear many hats in rural America and while Google will tell you that Rural RN’s have less education, I’d argue to say us rural nurses are much more well-rounded and moldable into whatever situational nurse you need us to be, we have to know it all or at least be willing to learn it all. We also have each other’s backs, what is a weak area for one is a strong area for another and vice versa so we complement each other well. Rural Nursing isn’t for everyone and that’s ok. Many of us not only wear multiple hats inside the facility but also outside the facility. Many of us have livestock that we actively participate in the raising of alongside our spouses, have young children or grandchildren to raise up right while bouncing from one extracurricular activity to the next. We are part of what makes our small rural community special. Our patients are also our neighbors, church pastors, past teachers, friends of our children’s, moms and dads. We are all connected by something or someone and more often than not related somehow by either marriage or down the gene pool. When we take care of our patients we put our whole heart into it, often silently grieving when things don’t go the way we wished or hoped for. Baca County nurses are the best! Happy Nurses Week 2024!
SOUTHEAST COLORADO HOSPITAL DISTRICT

Southeast Colorado Hospital District mission is to focus on the well-being of the people we serve. Southeast Colorado Hospital District recognizes that each one of us comes from a different background(s). Our goal is to ensure that each member in our service area receives quality care by eliminating health inequities and improving health outcomes. Together, we can achieve and sustain the health of the population of our service area.


La misión del Distrito Hospital de Sureste Colorado es enfocarse en el bienestar de las personas que servimos. El Distrito Hospital de Sudeste de Colorado reconoce que cada uno de nosotros proviene de un entorno diferente. Nuestro objetivo es garantizar que cada miembro de nuestra área de servicio reciba atención de calidad mediante la eliminación de las desigualdades en la salud y la mejora de los resultados de salud. Juntos, podemos lograr y mantener la salud de la población de nuestra área de servicio.



























































































































































































































Change Healthcare Cyberattack
Thank you for your patience! Thousands of hospitals, including ours, have been affected by the Feb. 21, 2024, Change Healthcare Cyberattack. As the crisis continues, we continue to work with our partner organizations to have the smallest impact on Southeast Colorado Hospital District.
What Happened
On Feb. 21, Change Healthcare, a subsidiary of UnitedHealth Group, was the victim of a significant cyberattack on the U.S. healthcare system. Change Healthcare is the predominant source of more than 100 critical functions that keep health care systems operating. Among them, Change Healthcare manages the clinical criteria used to authorize a substantial portion of patient care and coverage, processes billions of claims, supports clinical information exchange, and processes drug prescriptions.
Impact to Hospitals, Health Systems, Communities and Patients
This unprecedented attack has already imposed significant consequences on patients, hospitals, health systems and other providers.
● Some patients have struggled to obtain prescriptions or have faced delays in scheduling care or receiving and paying bills.
● Hospitals, health systems and other providers are experiencing extraordinary reductions in cash flow, threatening their ability to make payroll and to acquire the medical supplies needed to provide care.
● Providers may be unable to verify patients’ health insurance coverage, process claims and receive payment from many payers, exchange clinical records with other providers, provide cost estimates and bill patients, and, in some instances, access the clinical guidelines to support prior authorization.
What We’re Doing
● We are working with our vendors to secure reliable workarounds to help claims processing and payment to take the place of manual claims entry which is very time consuming and costly.
● We have asked for support, including greater transparency about the nature and scope of the attack.
● We have asked for an anticipated timeline for resolution, and temporary access to advanced payments to help us weather the period while normal claims processing functions are down.
● We are reaching out to our legislators for federal support as this disruption persists and for help in mitigating solutions.
Please know, the wellbeing of our patients and communities is most important, and we are working on your behalf. Thank you for your patience during this critical time.