’s
July 21, 2017
The Pulse
Your regular check up on SCKMC activities Share your thoughts, story ideas, and comments by e-mail to claytonp@sckrmc.org.
KanCare Expansion Still An Option
Tax Credit Pledge Deadline Extended
On Tuesday, the total amount of federal funds Kansas has forfeited by not expanding KanCare reached $2 billion. This represents an average loss in Kansas taxpayer dollars of $18.40 every second since Jan. 1, 2014. These funds have gone to the federal government to be spent in other states for Medicaid expansion. Just one day prior, Senator Jerry Moran announced his decision to not support the revision to the Better Care Reconciliation Act. With the Act’s failure, Kansas still has the opportunity to expand coverage to approximately 150,000 Kansans who fall in the health care coverage gap, those who currently earn too much annually to be eligible for KanCare yet are unable to afford health insurance. “We must now start fresh with an open legislative process to develop innovative solutions that provide greater personal choice, protections for pre-existing conditions, increased access and lower overall costs for Kansans,” said Senator Jerry Moran in his statement Monday. The Kansas Hospital Association (KHA) praised the Senator’s decision. “This is another example of (Senator Moran’s) commitment to health care in Kansas and his advocacy for access to high quality health care across our state. This legislation would have increased the number of uninsured Kansans as well as hospitals' uncompensated care costs. It would have reduced access to health care and led to financial outcomes that are bad for Kansas,” wrote Cindy Samuelson, KHA’s Vice President of Public Relations and Political Fundraising. With Federal assistance still a possibility through a revised reconciliation act, area health care advocates have pledged to continue to work on a Kansas solution to expand KanCare. The Kansas Legislature nearly accomplished expanding the state’s program in the last session, with the bill ultimately vetoed by Governor Sam Brownback. “Kansas hospitals will continue to work with our elected officials to address our concerns with federal health care reform in hopes that Kansas will have the opportunity to keep our dollars in Kansas to improve access to health care coverage for our citizens,” the KHA release stated.
The application period has been extended until August 1st for a State grant that could allow donors who contribute to the medical center before the end of the year with a 70% State tax credit. The tax credits would be eligible on a first come, first serve basis to those who donate a minimum of $250 in goods, cash, or services to the hospital project. SCKMC is looking to raise $250,000 through the grant program. If they are approved the funds will be used to upgrade current radiology diagnostic equipment with a 3D mammography unit and a portable ultrasound machine. A short video further explaining the program and hospital need is available through the hospital’s website, Facebook page, and YouTube channel: https://youtu.be/3XL6Kbkp6ig. While donations are not due at this time, pledge letters must be received no later than July 26th. Those interested in pledging should contact Virgil Watson at (620) 441-5900 or virgilw@sckrmc.org.
July Employee of the Month Congratulations Carrie BloedelHelmer, CRNA, for being named the SCKMC Exceptional Service Award winner for July. Carrie was nominated by a patient for being friendly, personable, and professional. She was presented with a certificate of appreciation by hospital COO John Jones and will also have a special parking spot reserved for her throughout the month. Great job Carrie!
The Pharm Forum with Homer Mah, D.Ph. People sometimes ask how to use transdermal patches properly. Not every patch can be cut. Do not cut patches with a drug reservoir such as Androderm and NicoDerm CQ. It is okay to cut Lidoderm patches since the med is distributed evenly. Patches should be applied to clean, dry intact skin and application sites should be rotated. If the patch falls off, it is usually okay to reapply unless the manufacturer recommends otherwise. Med absorption is increased if exposed to heat, so avoid heated blankets and pads. When disposing of used patches fold the sticky sides together to avoid misuse.
Saturday, August 26th – Patterson Park, Arkansas City Opening Ceremony 8:45 a.m. - First Race Starts at 9:00 a.m. Free Spectator Area – Food & Beverage Vendors – Entertainment for All Ages
Extreme Obstacle 5K • •
12 Obstacles Prizes by Age Category
Kids 2K Fun Run • 6 Obstacles • Open to Ages 8 - 14
Obstacle Bike Race • •
New for 2017! On Road / Off Road Race + Obstacles
The funds raised will benefit South Central Kansas Medical Center and our mission to serve within the community. All money raised will be used as the foundation of growth and development for the services we provide, such as equipment purchases, physician recruitment, and program enhancement.
www.sckmc.org for registration information Obstacle photos are representative only. Obstacles are subject to change without notice.