MHP Wears Red for Cardiovascular Disease

Posted on February 6, 2018February 6, 2018 by Rick Watts

(MAHASKA COUNTY, Iowa) – Friday was National Wear Red Day, when the American Heart Association encouraged everyone to wear red to bring awareness to cardiovascular disease and its effect on women.

According to the American Heart Association (AHA), cardiovascular disease is the number one killer of women in the United States. The goal of National Wear Red Day is to challenge women to know their risk for heart disease and take action to reduce their likelihood of developing the deadly disease.

“One of the main challenges this movement faces is convincing women that heart disease is actually a serious risk for them,” said Mahaska Health Partnership Cardiac Rehab Nurse Renee Edgar, RN. “Too many women are convinced that cardiovascular disease isn’t relevant to them because of their gender, age and lifestyle.”

Even with the increased efforts of the AHA, heart disease still kills more women than all cancers combined. “If you take the proper precautions ahead of time, you could save yourself from developing cardiovascular disease,” Edgar said. “Don’t wait for a heart attack or stroke to start eating healthy, exercising and if you smoke, quit.”

To further encourage heart health, MHP will be offering reduced-rate cholesterol screenings on Valentine’s Day, Feb. 14. The event will run from 6:00-9:00 AM on MHP’s Oskaloosa campus in the Cedar Bluff Learning Center, located at 1229 C Avenue East (entrance #3). No appointment is needed. In New Sharon, it will be held from 7:00-9:00 AM at the New Sharon Medical Center, 112 South Main Street. Appointments can be made by calling 641.637.2651.

The cholesterol screening is a Lipid Panel, which includes total cholesterol, HDL (good cholesterol), LDL (bad cholesterol) and Triglycerides. The screening requires a 12-hour fasting. Along with the cholesterol screenings, cardiopulmonary experts will be on hand in Oskaloosa to give blood pressure checks. Registered Dietitian Lea Rice will be checking body mass indexes for free.

MHP Responds to Flu Levels in Oskaloosa

Posted on January 19, 2018 by Rick Watts

MAHASKA COUNTY – In response to the widespread level of influenza in the Oskaloosa community, the MHP Medical Group is now offering a flu vaccine clinic Monday through Friday from 8:00 am to 4:00 pm by registering at door #4 on the MHP campus, until further notice.

According to Executive Director of Clinics Andrea Hagist, RN, MSN, people can stop by with no restrictions and no appointment, and insurance can be billed. “It’s not too late to get a flu vaccination,” Hagist said. “Health officials say that influenza will continue to circulate in the US and typically peaks in February. Getting vaccinated now will still offer protection for most of the flu season.”

Hagist said it’s always good practice to use the 3 Cs: Cover your cough or sneezes; Clean your hands often; and Contain germs by staying home when ill.

According to the Iowa Department of Public Health, the predominant flu strain this season is AH3N2, which typically causes serious illnesses, hospitalizations and even death, particularly for those who are very young or old and those with weakened immune systems. The flu is a respiratory illness caused by viruses. It comes on suddenly and symptoms may include fever, headache, tiredness, cough, sore throat, nasal congestion and body aches. Illness typically lasts two to seven days, and often puts healthy people in bed for days.

“Remember, serious illness from the flu is more likely in certain groups of people, including people 65 and older, pregnant women, people with certain chronic medical conditions and young children,” Hagist stressed.

“It’s also important to contact your health care provider as soon as possible after flu symptoms begin, especially if you are at high risk of complications and serious disease. If you start on anti-viral medications within a day or two of when your symptoms start, your risk of serious disease, hospitalization and even death can be significantly reduced.”

MHP Hosting Community Blood Drive

Mahaska Health Partnership (MHP) in Oskaloosa will host a community blood drive from 3:00 PM to 7:00 PM on Monday, Jan. 29 at 1229 C Ave E, inside of the Cedar Bluff Learning Center.

To donate, please contact the Blood Center at 800-452-1097 or visit www.bloodcenterimpact.org and use code 5047 to locate the drive.

MHP’s First Baby of 2018 Welcomed

Posted on January 10, 2018 by Rick Watts

The following is a news release provided to KMZN from Mahaska Health Partnership in Oskaloosa, Iowa:

(MAHASKA COUNTY, Iowa)–Adan Dean Martin was born at 4:12 am on January 4, 2018, making him Mahaska Health Partnership’s 2018 New Year’s Baby.

Adan weighed 6 lbs., 7 oz., and was 20 inches long. His parents are Patricia Snook and Travis Martin of Sigourney. His grandparents are Tim and Faye Snook of Oskaloosa and Crystal and the late Larry Martin of Sigourney. His great grandparents are James and Bonnie Handeland of Eddyville and Wallis and the late Beverly Lippard of What Cheer.

Adan was delivered by Family Practice Physician Shawn Richmond, MD. He was not due until mid-January, so being the New Year’s Baby was a big surprise for the family. Big brother Joshua, 4, has warmed up to the idea of a little brother.

“He’s healthy, that is what we are most happy about,” Patricia said. “Both of my children were born here at Mahaska Health Partnership. With Joshua, the Birthing Center had just opened. It’s as wonderful as I remembered!”

As MHP’s first baby of 2018, Adan received a basket full of gifts from MHP and Whispering Tree Gifts, the Hospital Auxiliary’s gift shop located just inside Entrance #4 on the MHP campus.

Featured Photo: Adan Dean Martin of Sigourney is Mahaska Health Partnership’s 2018 New Year’s Baby. He is shown with his delivering physician, Dr. Shawn Richmond; his older brother, Joshua; and his mother, Patricia Snook. Dad Travis Martin works nights and was home sleeping when the New Year’s Baby gift presentation was made. Adan was born Jan. 4 at 4:12 am and weighed 6 lbs, 7 oz.

Massages Have Merit During Cold Weather

Posted on January 5, 2018 by Rick Watts

Editor’s Note: This is a news release that was shared with KMZN from Mahaska Health Partnership, located in Oskaloosa, Iowa.

(MAHASKA COUNTY, Iowa) – The cold and flu season is well upon us, when the weather gets cooler and germs are more prevalent. A massage to boost the immune system would be a good way to stay healthy, energized and reduce stress.

According to the American Massage Association, medical studies have found that massage may boost the body’s immunity. Several studies have measured the stress hormone called cortisol in subjects’ saliva before and after massage sessions, and found dramatic decreases. Cortisol, which is produced when you are stressed, kills cells important for immunity, so when massage reduces your stress levels and hence the cortisol in your body, it may help you avoid getting a cold or another illness while under stress.

Mahaska Health Partnership Licensed Massage Therapist Michelle Hynick said studies have also found that massage relieves stress by lowering blood pressure, relaxing muscles and increasing endorphins. “Massage is great for relaxation,” Hynick said. “It improves mental outlook, promotes relaxed states of mental alertness and enhances calm and creative thinking. I think many of us could use some relaxation after the holiday season.”

Hynick explained that massage techniques move the blood through the body which brings oxygen-rich blood to tense and/or sore muscles, which help them heal and rejuvenate. The squeezing and pulling techniques of massage also flush lactic acid from the muscles which improves circulation of lymph fluid that carries metabolic waste away from muscles and internal organs.

Recent scientific research also proves that massage therapy increases immune function, decreases stress levels and reduces recovery time in many medical conditions including:

Allergies
Depression and Anxiety
Arthritis
Carpal Tunnel Syndrome
Asthma and Bronchitis
Circulatory Problems
Insomnia
Sports Injuries
Temporomandibular Joint Dysfunction (TMJ)
Fibromyalgia and Chronic Fatigue Syndrome
Musculo-Skeletal Disorders

“Another great benefit of massage is relief of tension-related headaches,” Hynick explained. “Massage has been proven to decrease occurrences of headaches, sleep disturbances and distress symptoms. It allows people to maintain a level of relaxation and stress-relief, reducing the chances of stress induced migraines.

“While some people still consider massage a luxury, research continues to prove it also has many important health benefits,” Hynick said. “Massage can help you maintain physical, mental and emotional well-being, especially when it is part of your wellness routine.”

MHP Massage Therapy offers a variety of massage options and extended hours. It is staffed by Hynick and Licensed Massage Therapist Esther Rose. For more information or to schedule a massage, call MHP Massage Therapy at 641-672-3181.

Kevin DeRonde Named CEO at Mahaska Health Partnership

Posted on December 21, 2017 by Rick Watts

The Mahaska Health Partnership (MHP) Board of Trustees announces Kevin DeRonde as Chief Executive Officer. DeRonde brings more than 15 years of healthcare business management and executive leadership experience to MHP. He is expected to join the organization on Feb. 19, 2018.

DeRonde is currently the CEO of Des Moines Orthopaedic Surgeons, P.C. (DMOS), the largest for-profit orthopaedic physician practice in Iowa. Since joining DMOS in 2012, he has provided leadership to support physicians in their business operations and growth in new services lines. He has also helped DMOS advance their presence in local and regional markets through benchmarking, innovation, business ventures, networking and best practices.

DeRonde has ties to MHP, serving as the Executive Director of Specialty Services and as a member of the Executive Team from April 2011 to November 2012. During his time with MHP, DeRonde helped drive growth through the recruitment of specialty physicians and by fostering collaboration between departments.

MHP Board of Trustees Chairman David Langkamp said the board unanimously chose DeRonde for the CEO position after a nation-wide search. “We’re very pleased with the leadership we received from Interim CEO Chris Jepsen, who will remain on the Executive Team.

“With Chris and Kevin working together, along with the rest of the Executive Team members, we feel that we have an unbeatable leadership team guiding the organization and we are so excited for what the future holds.”

Chief Medical Officer Tim Breon said he is thrilled to have DeRonde return to MHP. “Kevin brings passion, commitment and is a tireless worker. He has a strong desire to return to MHP and has a wonderful vision for our future as a county hospital serving our region,” Dr. Breon said.

DeRonde has a strong resume of healthcare business management, professional leadership, and has been recognized for building high performing, cohesive teams focused on delivering high quality, compassionate care. He has led strategic initiatives to improve financial operations and enhance employee and physician recruitment and engagement. In his previous management and executive roles at Vanderbilt University Medical Center in Nashville, Tenn., UnityPoint Des Moines, John Stoddard Cancer Center in Des Moines and MHP, DeRonde led numerous capital improvement projects.

“Mahaska Health Partnership is a vital part of this community, and I am so appreciative of the warm welcome that I’ve received from so many and really looking forward to working alongside this dedicated team,” DeRonde said. “I am proud to call Oskaloosa home and will do all that I can to make sure our community members continue to have access to the best possible care, right here close to home.”

DeRonde holds a Master of Business Administration (MBA) and a Masters of Healthcare Management (MHM) from Middle Tennessee State University. Prior to earning his Master’s Degrees and playing football in the NFL, DeRonde earned his bachelor’s degree in business management from Iowa State University, completed the Pre-Optometry program and served as a team captain for the ISU football team.

DeRonde will be relocating to Oskaloosa with his wife, Tori, and their rescue dog, Blitz.

Mahaska Health Partnership, located in Oskaloosa, is a non-profit health system accredited by the Joint Commission. It is guided by its mission to provide exceptional customer service and health improvement, linking the science of medicine with the humanity of compassionate care. For more information about how Mahaska Health Partnership is making healthcare personal, visit mahaskahealth.org.

Interim CEO At Mahaska Health Partnership Announced

Posted on October 9, 2017October 9, 2017 by Rick Watts

The Mahaska Health Partnership Board of Trustees named Chief Nursing Officer Chris Jepsen the organization’s Interim Chief Executive Officer during a special board meeting on Monday, October 9.

“After careful consideration, the board unanimously decided to offer her the Interim CEO position due to her past experience as well as her current working relationship with the senior team at MHP,” said MHP Board of Trustees President David Langkamp. “Chris brings outstanding qualifications with more than 30 years of healthcare leadership experience and we have great confidence in her ability to lead.”

Jepsen previously served as administrator of Parkland Health Center in Bonne Terre, Mo. She spent much of her career working for both large and small hospitals in Nebraska and Missouri in various leadership roles. Jepsen has a Masters of Nursing degree and is currently set to complete her Master’s of Health Administration.

“My husband, Gary, and I moved to Oskaloosa in August when I accepted the position of Chief Nursing Officer,” Jepsen said. “People have been so warm and welcoming to us. We feel embraced by the Oskaloosa community and are so happy to be here.

“I’m very passionate about providing high quality healthcare and I look forward to new challenges as I enter a slightly different role at Mahaska Health Partnership.”

Mahaska Health Partnership CEO Takes Leave

Posted on September 21, 2017 by Rick Watts

The Mahaska Health Partnership Board of Trustees announced that CEO Jay Christensen has taken an extended leave of absence effective Tuesday, September 19th.

Board President David Langkamp stated it’s business as usual at the hospital. “We have tremendous people working at MHP. The Executive Team will continue to oversee day-to-day operations with consultation from the Board of Trustees.

“Mahaska Health Partnership providers and staff remain committed to our community’s health and well-being and will continue to focus on maintaining a strong health center in Oskaloosa,” Langkamp stressed.

Mahaska Health Partnership, located in Oskaloosa, is accredited by the Joint Commission. It is guided by its mission to provide exceptional customer service and health improvement, linking the science of medicine with the humanity of compassionate care. For more information about how Mahaska Health Partnership is making healthcare personal, visit mahaskahealth.org.

Information provided by Mahaska Health Partnership press release.

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