2 nmrmc.com BEST HEALTH is published as a community service for the friends and patrons of NEOSHO MEMORIAL REGIONAL MEDICAL CENTER, 629 S. Plummer, Chanute, KS 66720, telephone 620-431-4000, nmrmc.com. Dennis E. Franks CEO Patricia Morris Communications Officer Wannetta Wiltse Volunteer Coordinator Information in BEST HEALTH comes from a wide range of medical experts. It should not be considered or used as a substitute for medical advice, diagnosis or treatment. If you have any concerns or questions about specific content that may affect your health, please contact your health care provider. Models may be used in photos and illustrations. 2022 © Coffey Communications, Inc. All rights reserved. Prevention is the best medicine We’ve all heard the saying that an ounce of prevention is worth a pound of cure: It’s always better to prevent health problems or catch them early, when they may be easier to treat. So if you’ve put off health screenings and doctor visits during the pandemic, why not commit this fall to getting back on track? I encourage you to read our story about health screenings for men and women as a starting point for a conversation with your primary care provider. It includes information about the importance of scheduling routine tests and exams—from cholesterol checks to colonoscopies. Speaking of colonoscopies, we have an article in this issue about ways to reduce your risk for colorectal cancer. Colonoscopies combine the power of prevention and early detection. But getting screened isn’t the only thing you can do. Our article also discusses lifestyle changes that may help lower your risk of the disease while contributing positively to your overall health. Of course, your mental health is as important as your physical health. We’ve all been through a lot in the past few years, and seniors, in particular, may have been affected by the loneliness of isolation. Our back cover story can help seniors recognize—and get help for—any depression or anxiety brought on by COVID-19 isolation. As always, we’re here for you. Our talented team of providers at Neosho Memorial considers it an honor to help keep you and your family healthy. Sincerely, Dennis E. Franks, CEO Why I became a nurse: When I was 20, I delivered food trays to patients at Neosho Memorial. I loved watching the nurses work and how they treated patients. I thought, “I would love to do that someday.” Little by little, I achieved that goal. After working in housekeeping two more years, I took classes and became a CNA (certified nursing assistant) for the next seven years. That made me want to go into nursing even more. I received a scholarship from the hospital that helped pay for nursing school, including books. That made it possible for me to work part-time so that I could focus on my studies. During nursing school, I was able to do most of my clinical training at the hospital, which was great. I earned my LPN (licensed practical nurse) certificate and, in 2018, my RN (registered nurse) degree. Now I work in Neosho Memorial’s surgical department. Why I enjoy working here: I love taking care of patients. Of course, I love my co-workers; they’re just like family. This is a great environment and a great hospital. I grew up here in Chanute—it’s my community. I’m giving back by staying local and helping people here. EMPLOYEE SPOTLIGHT Courtney Huerter, RN
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