’s
September 15, 2017
The Pulse
Your regular check up on SCKMC activities Share your thoughts, story ideas, and comments by e-mail to claytonp@sckrmc.org.
SCKMC Merges with Winfield Medical Arts
VFW Rededicates Flag Poles
The SCKMC Board of Trustees voted Tuesday in favor of entering into a merger agreement with Winfield Medical Arts. Prior to the unanimous approval of the resolution, Virgil Watson, SCKMC’s CEO, addressed those in attendance. “This is a monumental achievement for (SCKMC). We think we have put a process together that will move the hospital forward,” Watson said. Watson clarified that it will be business as usual for the patients and staff of Winfield Medical Arts going forward. “The Winfield Medical Arts name will survive through the test of time, their legacy will continue. The only thing that will change is the employees will get their checks from SCKMC instead of WMA,” Watson said. One other change will be the Medicare re-designation of Winfield Medical Arts from a standalone rural health clinic to a hospital based rural health clinic. Both Watson and SCKMC CFO Holly Harper anticipate WMA’s hospital based rural health clinic status will allow the clinic to continue to be financially self-supporting following the merger. “Part of the advantage of a rural health clinic is they have better reimbursement when attached to a hospital. Of course, that is the driving force behind the decision,” Harper said. The decision to merge has been discussed for several years between the clinic and hospital leadership. The two facilities regularly work together to assist with various needs. “It just made sense for us to build a closer relationship and make it where Winfield Medical Arts became a hospital based rural health clinic being owned and operated by SCKMC. We just wanted to grow and develop that relationship to the point where we were working totally together and not have this arms-length relationship.,” Watson said. The transition is scheduled to take place on October 1st with the all of the current WMA providers partnering with SCKMC as independent contractors through to continue to offer patient services through Winfield Medical Arts. SCKMC will lease the WMA office through the building’s owner. Each of the WMA providers were in attendance for the meeting, showing their support for the merger. “I think it’s great. It’s an incredible deal, not just for us but for Ark City having acquired our experienced employees and the good relationships that we have with each other,” Dr. Kent Winblad said.
Over 55 years ago Arkansas City Memorial Hospital was honored to receive their flag pole from the Veterans of Foreign Wars. This week a little bit of history was delivered to its new home as members of Spencer- Ralston Post 1254 rededicated the recognition plaques that once stood at the base of the original flag pole. The plaques are now mounted on opposite sides of SCKMC flag poles, located just outside of the hospital’s front entrance.
September Employee of the Month Congratulations Michele Cruz – Financial Counselor, for being named the SCKMC Exceptional Service Award winner for September. Michele was nominated by her coworkers for working hard everyday to ensure our patients are able to get the most benefit from their insurance coverage. In addition she is a key member in the success of the SCKMC Landrush, responsible for sponsorship tracking and coordination. Michele was presented with a certificate of appreciation by hospital CFO Holly Harper and will also have a special parking spot reserved for her throughout the month. Great job Michele!
The Pharm Forum with Homer Mah, D.Ph. The FDA is recommending patients avoid taking the potassium lowering drug Kayexalate (sodium polystyrene sulfonate) with other oral prescription or OTC medications at the same time. Studies have shown the effectiveness and absorption is decreased if taken together. It is recommended to separate the use of Kayexalate with other oral medications by at least three hours. Do not stop taking potassium lowering medications without talking to your health care provider. If you have question on how to take this medication, speak to your local pharmacist.
“When it comes to my health, I want someone specially trained to care for women.”
Dr. Perry Lin, OB/GYN • Obstetrics • Gynecology • Infertility • Women’s Health • High Risk Pregnancy • Laparoscopic Surgery Dr. Lin is expanding his practice and is now accepting new patients through SCK Clinic at 515 N. Summit in downtown Ark City. A referral is not needed with most insurances. Call 442-4850 to schedule your appointment today.
www.sckmc.org
(620) 442-2500
6401 Patterson Parkway, Arkansas City
For your family’s healthcare, you want excellence. You want experienced doctors, dedicated nurses, up-to-date facilities and advanced technology. You’ll find them all here. Because we know your family’s healthcare, has to be the best.
Specialty Clinic 6403 Patterson Parkway, Ark City (620) 441-5711
515 N. Summit, Ark City (620) 442-4850