Tuesday, January 02, 2018
Foundation Purchases Hospice Software
The Prairie Lakes Healthcare Foundation Board of Directors approved a request from the Prairie Lakes Hospice Department to access funds to purchase new computer software. The new software will support all lines of service, reducing resource usage by reducing repetitive data entry.
“This new software will allow staff to focus more attention on our patients and less on repetitive documentation,” said Julie Sampson, Director of Hospice/Home Health. “It will provide our staff working in the field access to critical information. The best care is provided when our clinicians have the patient’s most recent medical information at their fingertips in real time. We are extremely grateful for donors who contributed these funds through the Foundation.”
The cost of the software package is $284,186, which will be acquired through the Hospice Fund, also known as the Give Comfort Fund, of the Prairie Lakes Healthcare Foundation. The Foundation receives and manages all financial contributions made by donors.
“Donors contribute funds to the Foundation because they appreciate the medical services and professionals at Prairie Lakes,” said Dr. Jeffrey Brindle, President of the Prairie Lakes Healthcare Foundation. “In addition to cash contributions, our Foundation is able to receive gifts in the form of charitable bequests, IRA rollovers, beneficiary designated gifts, charitable trusts, remainder annuity trusts or lead trusts, many of which can have significant tax advantages for the donor.”
To learn more how to leave a charitable contribution to the Prairie Lakes Healthcare Foundation, contact Alison Gilbertson at 882-7631.
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Tuesday, December 19, 2017
PLHS Names New OB Director
Prairie Lakes Healthcare System (PLHS) named Watertown area native Michele (Micki) Cordell as the new Obstetrics (OB) Director. As the OB Director, Cordell will serve as the point of contact between PLHS and the physicians whose primary work area is OB and the newborn nursery.
Cordell grew up in Clark, SD and graduated with an Associate of Applied Science Nursing Degree (2002) from the University of South Dakota. While in nursing school Cordell experienced OB at PLHS and dreamed of working in the department. She currently has fifteen years experience as an OB nurse, the last ten at PLHS.
“I am passionate about patient-centered care and am excited to take this next step in my career as OB Director,” said Cordell. “The best part about being an OB nurse is that I am privileged to witness the miracle of birth every day. I am in awe every time.”
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Wednesday, December 13, 2017
Season of Giving
Prairie Lakes Healthcare System thanks all who donated their time and items to comfort patients over the holiday season. This list includes blankets to Cancer Center patients from Maggie Einrem and Sparton, leggings as comfort item to Cancer Center patients from LulaRoe - Katie DeBoer, and more.
2017 has been a year of giving back to the local communities for South Dakota Farm Bureau during their centennial year. In the spirit of giving back, the South Dakota Farm Bureau Women’s Leadership Team (WLT) and Young Farmers and Ranchers (YF&R) pledged to donate 100 fleece blankets and 100 agriculture books to pediatric patients across South Dakota. Prairie Lakes Healthcare System received five of the blankets. Pictured left to right are Bryan Moes, District III YF&R, Shawn VanderWal, District III Women’s Leadership Team, Janet Hurlbert, Vice Chair of the Women’s Leadership Team, Roger Hurlbert, District III Farm Bureau Member, and Josie Ries, Director of Medical/Surgical/Pediatrics (MSP).
At the Prairie Lakes Cancer Center gift bags sit under the tree thanks to the Pink Ladies Dart League. The group donated gift bags containing items to comfort patients, including snacks, lotion, warm socks, water, chap stick, crossword puzzles, hand sanitizer, and tissues. The Pink Ladies are uplifting spirits of cancer patients this holiday season as a part of their mission to make a difference in the community.Since their establishment in Watertown August, 2015 the Pink Ladies have raised funds for several causes through raffles and tournaments. To date, they have given monetary donations and blankets to 30 cancer patients.
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Monday, December 04, 2017
Building Trades Class Tours Site
Building Trade Students from Northeast Technical High School had a firsthand look at a safe construction site at Prairie Lakes Healthcare System (PLHS) recently. PLHS and building construction manager McGough toured the students through the active construction site to show the students how the safety practices they learn in class are applied on the job.
Prairie Lakes Facilities Director Rick Masloski has 42 years of construction experience. With his variety of experiences in mind, he saw a prime opportunity to show local students a clean and safe worksite and motivate them to keep those practices in mind. “I’ve had past personal experiences with people I know getting hurt on worksites,” said Masloski. “Seeing McGough’s safety practices, I thought it was a great opportunity to show young people entering this profession on how to be safe.”
The students had a rare opportunity to see the progress of the expansion project. They toured all levels of the future Prairie Lakes Specialty Clinic and saw features including the helipad on the roof, halls connecting the hospital to the new building, HVAC systems, tubing that will transport information and specimens for testing, and the warm water therapy pool.
Chad Flemming, Building Trades Instructor at Northeast Tech brought three different classes to tour the facility. “This was a great opportunity for the Building Trades students at Northeast Technical High School,” said Flemming. “Seeing everything the students have learned about first hand was a great experience. I have been on hundreds of construction sites, and never seen one this safe. This experience demonstrates that the construction industry does not have to be a dangerous workplace.”
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Friday, November 10, 2017
PLHS Announces CEO Succession Plan
The Prairie Lakes Healthcare System Board of Directors is activating a search for the successor of Jill Fuller, President and CEO. The search will ensure a smooth leadership transition aligned with Fuller’s planned retirement. Fuller plans to remain in the leadership position until a new CEO is recruited.
“This is a good time for Prairie Lakes to start a leadership transition,” said Fuller who has been CEO for the past eight years. She started her Prairie Lakes career in 2000 when she was named the organization’s Chief Nursing Officer. “I’m proud of our achievements. In the last eight years, we have developed seven new service lines which improved access and medical outcomes for the people we serve. Our growth has been impressive and good for our community. I have been honored to serve with incredibly dedicated and talented professionals who take our healthcare mission seriously. They have achieved outstanding improvements in quality and patient safety.”
Prairie Lakes has a planned succession process for leadership transitions. When it was observed that Fuller’s retirement plans coincided with board turnover related to term limits, options to assure a smooth leadership transition were explored and it was decided to activate the CEO succession plan.
“Prairie Lakes has thrived under Jill’s leadership and we look forward to her continued guidance over the next months as we search for the best possible candidates,” said Board Chairman Jim Redlinger. “Because Jill’s retirement date is flexible, we have more time than usual to conduct a search for the individual who will be here for the next chapter in our service as a regional medical center.”
Fuller plans to be available to on-board a new CEO if needed. “I think we have a good plan and I look forward to working with the board to assure a thoughtful and orderly succession process.”
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Thursday, November 16, 2017
Therapy Pool Campaign
The Prairie Lakes Healthcare Foundation is honored to introduce a campaign that will enhance the lives of rehabilitation and sports medicine patients. Therapy Pool Campaign proceeds will help purchase a HydroWorx 2000 Series aquatic therapy pool. The therapy pool will be part of Prairie Lakes Rehabilitation Services, in the new location fall 2018.
The HydroWorx 2000 Series warm water aquatic therapy pool is designed to reduce pain, improve range of motion and enhance rehabilitation outcomes. The pool’s technology and low impact environment will benefit patients young and old. Therapy Pool Features:
- Adjustable Water Depth with the Moveable Floor
- Resistance Jet Technology
- Underwater Camera Monitoring System
- Underwater Treadmill
- Zero Depth Entry with the Moveable Floor
Photos above illustrate the moveable floor feature.
"The therapy pool will bring aquatic therapy to a new level in this region," said Alison Gilbertson, Foundation Director. "The community can help enhance the lives of many by contributing to the Therapy Pool Campaign."
Generosity and good works allows the Prairie Lakes Healthcare Foundation to enhance the quality of life of many who benefit from the regional reach of care of Prairie Lakes Healthcare System. "Make a splash" by contributing to our Therapy Pool Campaign through a tax deductible gift. You may donate online by credit card to this campaign by selecting "Make a Splash (Therapy Pool Campaign)" when completing the form, available by clicking the button below.
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Tuesday, October 17, 2017
Prairie Lakes Sleep Lab Receives Accreditation
Prairie Lakes Healthcare System (PLHS) proudly announces its approval of accreditation status by Accreditation Commission for Health Care (ACHC) for sleep studies.
Achieving accreditation is a process where healthcare organizations demonstrate compliance with national standards. Accreditation by ACHC reflects PLHS’s dedication and commitment to meeting standards that facilitate a higher level of performance and patient care.
Sleep studies determine how well you sleep and how your body responds to problems in your sleep. If you have symptoms such as day time sleepiness and interruptive snoring, your primary physician can order a sleep study at PLHS.
“This service meets a need for over 400 people per year in the region”, said Deb Pederson, Director of CCU, Telemetry, and Respiratory Therapy. “ACHC Accreditation of the Sleep Lab demonstrates that PLHS strives to provide the highest quality service through compliance with national regulations and industry best practices.”
ACHC is a not-for-profit organization that has stood as a symbol of quality and excellence since 1986. ACHC is ISO 9001:2008 certified and has CMS Deeming Authority for Home Health, Hospice and DMEPOS.
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Wednesday, August 09, 2017
Hospital Hill Run Makes Donation
The 21st Annual Hospital Hill Run walkers and runners participated to raise money for the Prairie Lakes Healthcare Foundation’s Caring Club House. The Hospital Hill Run committee proudly presented the Caring Club House a check for $1,500. Shown presenting the check are some members of the committee: Kris Munger, Dr. Dan Reiffenberger and Tom Beaudry. Also pictured is Alison Gilbertson, Executive Director of the Prairie Lakes Healthcare Foundation.
Sponsors of the 2017 Hospital Hill Run include Brown Clinic; Prairie Lakes Healthcare System; Glacial Lakes Orthopedics; Consulting Radiology Ltd.; Dr. Dan, Dr. Sarah, Molly, Megan and Nick Reiffenberger; Sanford Clinic – Watertown; Community Blood Bank; The Public Opinion; and Innovative Pain Clinic.
The Caring Club House exists to meet the hospitality needs of out-of-town patients, families, and caregivers receiving services through Prairie Lakes. Funded and furnished completely through community support and donations, the Caring Club House is a not-for-profit, community-based project of the Prairie Lakes Healthcare Foundation, with support from Prairie Lakes Healthcare System. Annual operating expenses are approximately $17,000.
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Monday, August 07, 2017
Welcome New Hospitalist
Prairie Lakes Healthcare System welcomes Ragheb Harb, MD to the Hospitalist staff. He joins Ali Chaudhry, MD, Mian Javaid, MD, and Megan Merkel, CNP in the care of inpatients.
Dr. Harb received his medical degree from the University of Balamand, Faculty of Medicine in Koura, Lebanon and completed his internal medicine residency at Carilion Clinic Virginia Tech in Roanoke, Virginia. Dr. Harb and his wife Annie are expecting their first child in September. They enjoy spending time outdoors, staying active and traveling and are looking forward to introducing their son to soccer along with some of their other favorite activities.
"I am excited to be a part of Prairie Lakes Healthcare System and hope that my service here will help the community of Watertown to flourish.” said Dr. Harb. “My wife and I look forward to getting to know the people of Watertown and being involved in this community that has already been so welcoming.”
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Friday, August 04, 2017
New Caretaker at the Caring Club House
Welcome John Miles, the new caretaker at the Prairie Lakes Caring Club House, effective August 14, 2017.
John’s face may be familiar, as he currently serves, and will continue to serve, as the part-time chaplain for Prairie Lakes Hospice. John’s work experience in various roles in other health systems as a spiritual leader, patient representative and development associate make him a great candidate for our caretaker. John has also served as an associate pastor in the catholic churches in Sioux Falls.
Please welcome John to the team at the Prairie Lakes Caring Club House.
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Thursday, August 03, 2017
New Manometry Technology is Now Available
Prairie Lakes Healthcare System (PLHS) is now offering procedures using a new ManoScan™ ESO high-resolution manometry system. This system is one of the most advanced solutions in aiding in the detection of disorders in the esophagus like difficulty swallowing and heart burn (acid reflux).
The new manometry system can take high-resolution images during a short procedure time. This advantage allows for a more accurate diagnosis, leading to better treatment. Services are available with Dr. Gerrish, Dr. Kamlitz, and Dr. Schaeffer at Prairie Lakes General Surgery on an outpatient basis.
“PLHS makes it a priority to provide local access to advanced diagnostic services like manometry,” said Jill Fuller, President and CEO. “The new manometry system will improve the lives of those suffering with conditions like chronic acid reflux and difficulty swallowing. This advanced, high resolution system will allow our general surgeons to better understand symptoms and diagnose patients.”
According to recent studies being on antacids long term may have side effects. The new, high-resolution technology is intended to provide information that will help our general surgeons determine if patients are better suited for another option of treatment.
Prairie Lakes Healthcare System is a leader in regional healthcare for northeastern South Dakota and western Minnesota. You may schedule an appointment with Dr. Gerrish, Dr. Kamlitz, or Dr. Schaeffer by calling 605-882-6850.
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Tuesday, July 25, 2017
Welcome New ER Physician
Prairie Lakes Healthcare System welcomes Gregory Erickson, MD to our Emergency Medicine staff. He joins James Bear, MD, Elliott Filler, MD, and Leighton Singh, MD in the care of patients with emergent health conditions.
Dr. Erickson graduated from USD Sanford School of Medicine in Sioux Falls, South Dakota and completed his internship and internal medicine residency at the USD Sanford School of Medicine in Sioux Falls, South Dakota. He has over 16 years of experience in emergency medicine serving patients in rural areas. He and his wife Teresa are long term South Dakota residents and have three children.
“I am proud to join the dedicated team of emergency personnel in Watertown and the region,” said Dr. Erickson. “I look forward to the opportunity to provide care for patients during what is often a very challenging situation.”
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Monday, June 19, 2017
Caring Club House Caretaker Position
An on-site caretaker is needed at the Prairie Lakes Caring Club House (CCH) in Watertown. We are looking for a compassionate and caring individial who will live on site and care for the CCH and assist it's guests.
Responsibilities:
- General oversight of the CCH
- Ensure cleaning supplies are on hand
- Ensure towels, washcloths and sheets are on hand
- Ensure the premises is kept clean and tidy
- Ensure the outdoors is well-kept and maintained
- Display and remove holiday decorations in a timely manner
- Notify Foundation Director when maintenance or guest issues arise
- Assist CCH volunteers to help check-in/check-out guests when needed
- Be available physically to the CCH within 1 hour of request when other arrangements are not made for coverage
- Provide light maintenance as needed
- Assure the guest rooms and common areas are clean and well-maintained
- Be responsive via CCH cell phone
- Interact with CCH guests
- Enforce guest responsibilities or guidelines when necessary
- Assist with recruitment and retention of CCH volunteers in conjunction with Volunteer Coordinator
- Other duties as assigned
Benefits:
- Private living quarters at the CCH provided
- Cell phone and land-line phone provided
- Utilities provided
- Cable television provided
- Internet access provided
- Monthly cash stipend of $350
This opportunity does not constitute employment with or benefits through Prairie Lakes Healthcare System, rather is a third party contract between the caretaker and the Prairie Lakes Healthcare Foundation. Qualities of the ideal candidate(s) includes: reliability, flexibility, ability to proactively identify needs and address them as able, and the ability to display genuine compassion and care towards others. This opportunity is not suitable for people with children at home or who own a pet.
For more information or to apply, please contact Alison Gilbertson at 882-7631.
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Thursday, June 08, 2017
Cardiology Celebrates 10 Years
On May 8, 2007 Dr. Lunardi performed the first cath lab procedure for Prairie Lakes Cardiology. In ten years our Prairie Lakes Cardiology Program has touched 10,000 hearts. A few of the community members touched by our program came forward to tell their heart story. Let's listen in:
Today interventional cardiologists Dr. Evelio Garcia, Dr. Salem Maaliki, and Dr. Richard Howard provide residents in northeastern South Dakota and western Minnesota elite cardiology services. Our staff are always looking for new ways to offer innovative care to our region. Watch our story:
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