Hocking Valley Community Hospital

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HVCH recently hosted a group of Rural Health Scholars from Ohio University. The Rural Health Scholars program represents an ongoing collaboration between the Office of Rural and Underserved Programs at the Heritage College and the Ohio State University Department of Family and Community Medicine. Established in 2002, the Ohio Rural Health Scholars strategy has served the medical schools of Ohio well in attracting students to excellence in clinical practice, in research, in advocacy and in medical education. Open to any student from any medical school in Ohio with an interest in generalist rural practice, this small program is structured around an annual retreat held in a rural setting and enrolls participating students as members of the National Rural Health Association. The program is made possible through an Ohio State University Department of Family Medicine endowment fund established by the family of Dr. J. Martin Byers, Jr., a family physician who practiced in rural Ohio.

November is National Diabetes Month, a time when communities across the country seek to bring attention to diabetes. Diabetes is a disease that occurs when your blood glucose, also called blood sugar, is too high. It affects about 38 million Americans, including adults and youth. Diabetes can damage the eyes, kidneys, nerves, and heart, and it is linked to some types of cancer. Know your risk for developing diabetes. You are more likely to develop type 2 diabetes if you have overweight or obesity; are age 35 or older; have a family history of diabetes; are African American, American Indian, Asian American, Hispanic or Latino, or Pacific Islander; are not physically active; or have prediabetes. Manage your blood glucose, blood pressure, and cholesterol levels. Preventing diabetes or managing diabetes as soon as possible after diagnosis may help prevent diabetes health problems. You can start by managing your diabetes ABCs. A is for the A1C test that health care professionals use to measure your average blood glucose levels. Some people with diabetes also use devices to track their blood glucose throughout the day and night. B is for blood pressure. C is for cholesterol. Take small steps toward healthy habits. Lifestyle habits such as planning healthy meals, being physically active, getting enough sleep, and not smoking may help you prevent diabetes or manage your diabetes. Take your medicines on time. Remember to take your medicines even if you feel healthy. Talk with your doctor or pharmacist if you have trouble taking your medicines on time or at the correct dose. Reach or maintain a healthy weight. You may be able to prevent or delay diabetes by losing 5 to 7 percent of your starting weight. Take care of your mental health. Managing diabetes can be hard. If you feel down, sad, or overwhelmed, learn about healthy ways to cope with stress. Consider talking to a mental health counselor or joining a support group. Work with your health care team. Managing diabetes takes a team. Your health care team may include a primary care provider, diabetes specialist, registered dietitian, or certified diabetes educator.

This week, HVCH is celebrating the lead-up to #NationalRuralHealthDay on Nov. 21! Did you know that nearly 61 million rural Americans depend on their hospital as an important source of care as well as a critical component of their area's economic and social fabric? https://lnkd.in/grKuy7CB

Do you need an antibiotic for that cough? Do you have to keep taking it after you feel better? Learn how and when to take antibiotics responsibly on the tip card below.

HVCH.org to learn more and apply!

HVCH staff were treated to lunch at Hungry Buffalo with CEO Stacey Gabriel in recognition of hard work and dedication. Those in attendance were Lisa Dye, Heather Breining, Chelsea Emerson, Amber Buckalew, Kellie Conrad and Stacey Gabriel.

As you are flipping those pages of your cookbook, let’s talk today about ingredients and how they have changed over the years. Chefs now look for alternative ingredients when whipping up those delicious foods. Indulging in holiday treats can be not only satisfying but healthy, too, when choosing good sources for what goes in the recipe. Feel good about what you’re eating both from age old ingredients to some of the newer ones: Cinnamon – Not only adds an irresistible fall and holiday smell to the house when baking it is also full of antioxidants and has been said to help improve bad breath. Chocolate? Yes, of course! Cocoa powder is another source of antioxidants to add to all those cookies and cakes this holiday season. And, did you know…cocoa dates back at least 5,300 years? Greek yogurt – Substitute for butter or oil. Also full of protein. Pumpkin pie is a must at the annual holiday feast. Another long-time staple, as it dates back to the 17th century when first published in an English cookbook. A great source of Vitamin A (supports eye health, helps our immune system by supporting growth and distribution of T cells which is a white blood cell that protects our body from infection). Vitamin A supports male and female reproduction and fetal development, keeps our skin and mucous membranes healthy…oh, and it helps with hair growth! Don’t forget those classic peanut butter blossoms when baking. Peanut butter is high in fiber and another source of protein. Looking for other ways to leave Santa some healthy cookies next to the tree this year? After all, he’s going to be eating thousands of cookies going from house to house…. Leave out ? of the sugar in your cookie recipe. If you remove anymore the texture of the cookie will change. If you’re watching cholesterol: When your cookie recipe calls for two eggs, use one large egg and two large egg whites instead. You can also trade regular milk for one of the latest trends - almond milk. Your flour can be healthier too! Look for ways to add fiber. Substitute ? of the flour with whole wheat flour. Finally, your add-ins will not only add flavor but benefits as well. Think nuts, seeds and fruits of all kinds.

HVCH welcomes the following new employees: Emily Villanueva, Occupational Therapist; and Grace Davidson, Pharmacy Tech.

Chief Nursing Officer Beth Kluding attended the Ohio Organization for Nursing Leadership conference. The conference focused on learning about compliance, legal, legislative, and safety updates for nursing. She also participated in a workshop for helping nurses grow their critical thinking skills, employee retention, and new ideas to help nurses work at the top of their license. The event allows for networking with other nurse leaders in Ohio to share best practices.