Winona Health

During a panel on rural healthcare challenges at the ViVE 25 conference this past month in Nashville, Rachelle Schultz, President and CEO of Winona Health, an independent community health system based in southeast Minnesota, said she has to balance new ideas with specific workforce demands.

The Minnesota Hospital Association is shining a light on the financial challenges facing hospitals across Minnesota, in some cases leading to cutting services. In this episode of MHA’s Hospital Matters podcast, they talk with our President and CEO, Rachelle Schultz, EdD, about how these challenges affect community healthcare services. She reflects on how just over a year ago, a generous gift from community members provided a three-year reprieve for our dialysis department.

From the football field to the sewing machine—Logan Hicks is stitching up kindness in a big way! Read how this 15-year-old athlete is bringing comfort to patients. https://bit.ly/3DMKO6o #EveryoneMattters #KindnessMatters #studentathlete

See a familiar face? ???? One of our caregivers is featured in this video highlighting the importance of rural healthcare! In a world that sometimes celebrates big, we are reminded of the beauty and power of being small. We’re proud to be 100% focused on our community. #WeAreWinona #AHA #RuralHealth #aharuralhealth

At the ViVE 2025 conference, Rachelle Schultz, EdD, President & CEO, shared that while technology is creating new opportunities, what matters most is keeping care patient-focused. "We are people first. We are high-touch first. I think we have to be careful that we’re not interrupting what are really valued relationships that people have with their doctors, nurses, therapists and so forth, and making it too techy, because at the heart of it, it is the connection of people." #WeAreWinona #ViVE2025

Help us welcome Pediatric Nurse Practitioner Alyssa Eich, who is joining Doctors Heather Burton, Sarah Lallaman, and Kelli Ostermann in the Pediatric and Adolescent Medicine Department. #WeAreWinona

Have you ever been concerned about a health issue like a sore throat or earache, a stomach issue or a “funny feeling” that has you wondering if something is wrong? Not knowing what to do, where to go or who to call can make things even more stressful. Having a primary care provider can take away that stress and help you find answers – and relief – faster. Learn more about our primary care providers, then call to schedule your appointment. If you’re open to any primary care provider, we’ll let you know which providers have the earliest available appointment times. https://bit.ly/3U8Aco2

Know someone who deserves recognition in the Winona area? Nominate them for the Ben & Adith Miller Community Service Tribute today! Nominations are open through Friday, February 28. Last year, the honor went to Ken & Sally Mogren. To nominate or learn more: https://bit.ly/3Dw2VwL #WeAreWinona

Our story is about more than moments in time; it’s about the meaningful and enduring connections we’ve built together. With deep sadness for her passing and appreciation for the countless ways she touched our lives and our hearts, we honor the memory of Sara Gabrick, RN, MSN. Her legacy of compassion, care and dedication will continue to inspire us. Sara was part of Winona Health’s story for 40 years. Since 1985, she made a difference to our patients, residents, volunteers, community members and her fellow caregivers. Her life’s work had a positive impact on healthcare in our community and beyond. Throughout her years at Winona Health, Sara held several administrative and leadership positions with oversight responsibilities for most of our clinical areas at some point in her career. At the time of her passing, she served as Chief Operating Officer of Surgical, Specialty Care and Retail Services. Sara was a caregiver, a colleague, a leader, a teacher and a friend. Her sudden passing is a reminder of the uncertainty of life and the importance of appreciating each new day and every moment with each other. Our hearts go out to her family as we hold them close in our thoughts.

To further our commitment to creating a healthier community… Please help us welcome Katrice Sisson in our new, business development role! Katrice says, “Our community is best served when decisions about local services are made right here in Winona. One of my priorities is to gain deeper insight into healthcare needs from a variety of perspectives.” She’s looking forward to identifying opportunities for developing programs and services to improve health and wellness. Click the link to learn more about Katrice and her role! https://bit.ly/3EK7sMQ Have an idea or opportunity to improve health in our area? Feedback about healthcare services? Looking for a local expert for a wellness program? Contact Katrice at 507.454.3650. #WeAreWinona