Healthy Talk

In this episode of Healthy Talk, we sit down with Chris Hanson, CRNA, ARNP, NSPMC, MSN, and owner of Mid-Iowa Anesthesia & Pain Services, to discuss how modern pain management is evolving to meet the needs of today’s patients.

Chris shares how his team partners with Boone County Hospital to provide innovative, non-surgical options for managing chronic and acute pain. From spinal injections to targeted therapies, we explore how personalized treatment plans can help patients regain mobility, reduce discomfort, and improve quality of life.

Whether you're living with ongoing pain or just curious about the latest in pain care, this conversation offers insight into how compassionate, patient-focused solutions are changing the way we heal.

Stay informed, stay healthy, and keep the conversation going with Healthy Talk.
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In this episode of Healthy Talk, we explore how physical therapy supports healing, mobility, and quality of life at Boone County Hospital. Join us as we sit down with Ethan Patterson, Director of Rehabilitation Services, and Carolyn Siskoff, Physical Therapist specializing in pelvic floor and women’s health.

From recovering after surgery or injury to managing chronic pain, incontinence, and mobility challenges, physical therapy offers far more than people realize. Ethan and Carolyn share how their team works with patients of all ages and needs—restoring function, building strength, and helping individuals return to the activities they love.

Whether you're curious about what physical therapy actually involves or want to learn more about specialized care for women's health, this episode shines a light on the real impact of physical therapy.

Stay informed, stay healthy, and keep the conversation going with Healthy Talk.
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In today’s digital world, managing your healthcare should be as easy as checking your phone or computer. That’s why Boone County Hospital offers the BCH Health Portal—a secure, user-friendly platform designed to give patients 24/7 access to their health information. But how does it work, and why should you use it?

In this episode of Healthy Talk, we sit down with Kelli Flynn, Clinical Analyst at Boone County Hospital, to explore everything you need to know about the Health Portal. Kelli walks us through its key features, including how to check test results, view medical records, communicate with your healthcare team, and even schedule appointments—all from the convenience of your home.

We also discuss the portal's benefits, from improving communication with providers to helping patients take a more active role in their healthcare journey. Whether you’re a current user looking to maximize its features or someone considering signing up, this episode will provide helpful insights to ensure you’re making the most of this valuable tool.

Tune in to learn how Boone County Hospital is embracing technology to make healthcare more convenient, accessible, and patient-focused than ever before!

Stay informed, stay healthy, and keep the conversation going with Healthy Talk.
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In this episode of Healthy Talk, we explore the journey from hospital to healing with Addison Enns, a social worker at Boone County Hospital. Skilled care plays a vital role in helping patients recover after a hospital stay, but many families have questions about what it entails, who qualifies, and how the transition process works.

Addison breaks down the key aspects of skilled care, explaining how it differs from assisted living and long-term care, and the medical and rehabilitative services it provides. She also shares how social workers support patients and their families—helping them navigate difficult decisions, understand financial options, and stay involved in their loved one’s recovery.

If you or a loved one are facing a transition to skilled care or simply want to learn more about the compassionate, expert care available in our community, this episode is packed with valuable information. Tune in to From Hospital to Healing: Navigating Skilled Care to better understand this important stage in the healthcare journey!

Stay informed, stay healthy, and keep the conversation going with Healthy Talk.
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This episode is about financial foundations supporting personal wealth and charitable impact. Shellie Grabau, Financial Advisor AAMS at Edward Jones and President of the Boone County Hospital Foundation Board, joins us to unpack a wealth of knowledge about estate planning, IRAs, Required Minimum Distributions (RMDs), and year-end giving strategies. 

With the end of the year approaching, Shellie provides practical advice on how to maximize charitable contributions, make strategic retirement account decisions, and organize estate plans that reflect your values and legacy goals. 

Whether you’re looking to donate to causes close to your heart or set up a sustainable financial future for your family, this episode offers a wealth of information to help you navigate year-end financial tasks with confidence. Perfect for those interested in aligning their finances with their personal and charitable goals, this conversation is packed with actionable steps and insightful tips for thoughtful, tax-efficient giving.

Stay informed, stay healthy, and keep the conversation going with Healthy Talk.
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In this insightful episode of Healthy Talk, we welcome Chris Torres, the new Chief Financial Officer (CFO) of Boone County Hospital, to discuss the complex and evolving financial side of healthcare. 

Discover how hospitals like Boone County navigate the intricate balance between providing top-quality patient care and maintaining financial stability in a challenging healthcare environment.

Chris Torres, who stepped into his role as CFO in June 2024, brings a wealth of experience and fresh perspectives to the conversation. We discuss his approach to managing the hospital’s financial operations, the strategies being implemented to ensure fiscal health, and how Boone County Hospital is adapting to external pressures such as shifting healthcare policies, reimbursement changes, and the rising costs of care. Chris also shares insights into his leadership style, how he collaborates with other departments to drive efficiency, and the importance of financial planning in securing the hospital’s future success.

Whether you're in healthcare, finance, or simply interested in the business side of medical services, this episode offers valuable takeaways on how a community hospital like Boone County is planning for long-term sustainability while staying focused on delivering excellent patient outcomes.

Stay informed, stay healthy, and keep the conversation going with Healthy Talk.
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In this episode, we are thrilled to have Dena Systma, the Director of the Family Birth Center at Boone County Hospital, join us for an in-depth conversation. Dena brings her wealth of knowledge and experience to shed light on the incredible work happening at the Family Birth Center, where the journey of parenthood begins with expert care and unwavering support.

Throughout the episode, we explore the comprehensive services offered at the Family Birth Center, designed to provide personalized and compassionate care to expecting families. Dena discusses the collaborative approach between the birth center and the hospital's family practice physicians, ensuring seamless care for both mother and baby. Learn about the advanced medical practices and technologies that enhance the birthing experience, promoting safety and comfort for all patients.

Dena shares inspiring stories and valuable insights into the birthing process, highlighting the importance of tailored care plans that address each family's unique needs and preferences. She also discusses the extensive support systems in place, from prenatal education to postpartum care, ensuring that families feel confident and well-prepared at every stage of their journey.

Additionally, we delve into the advancements in maternal and newborn health, exploring how Boone County Hospital stays at the forefront to provide the best possible care. Dena emphasizes the significance of community and family involvement, illustrating how the Family Birth Center fosters a nurturing environment that extends beyond the hospital walls.

Whether you are an expectant parent, a healthcare professional, or simply interested in learning more about the birthing process, this episode offers a wealth of information and heartfelt stories. Tune in to discover how the Family Birth Center at Boone County Hospital is dedicated to creating healthy beginnings, one family at a time. Join us for an engaging and enlightening discussion with Dena Systma, as we celebrate the miracle of birth and the exceptional care that makes it all possible.

Stay informed, stay healthy, and keep the conversation going with Healthy Talk.
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In this episode, we're shining a spotlight on the Boone County Hospital Auxiliary and the incredible work they do. Joining us is Gayle Rinehart, the president of the Auxiliary, who will be sharing her insights and experiences with us.

The Boone County Hospital Auxiliary is a group of dedicated volunteers who play a vital role in supporting the hospital, its patients, and the community at large. From providing comfort and assistance to patients and their families to supporting hospital staff, the Auxiliary's impact is profound and far-reaching.

Gayle takes us behind the scenes, giving us a glimpse into the operations of the Auxiliary and sharing stories of the meaningful connections they've made along the way. Explore how these heartfelt helpers support patients, families, and staff, providing comfort, assistance, and a warm smile. Learn about the various ways the Auxiliary supports Boone County Hospital and Foundation, and discover how their contributions make a difference in the community. 

Whether you're a member of the Boone County community or simply interested in the impact of volunteerism in healthcare, this episode is sure to inspire and enlighten. So join us as we explore the heartfelt work of the Boone County Hospital Auxiliary.

Stay informed, stay healthy, and keep the conversation going with Healthy Talk.
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May is Mental Health Awareness Month. In this compelling episode of Health Talk, we are privileged to host Heidi Kennedy, the dedicated Program Director of Senior Life Solutions at Boone County Hospital. Mind Matters: Understanding Mental Health dives deep into the essential and often misunderstood topic of mental health. Heidi brings a wealth of knowledge and experience, shedding light on the challenges regarding mental health.

Throughout the episode, Heidi discusses the importance of early detection, tailored interventions, and community support in improving mental health outcomes. We also touch on the stigma that still surrounds mental health issues and how her program is working to break down these barriers. This conversation offers valuable insights not only into the struggles many individuals face but also into the hopeful advancements being made in the field.

Listeners will come away with a greater understanding of mental health dynamics and learn practical tips for fostering mental resilience in themselves and others. Whether you're a caregiver, a healthcare professional, or someone interested in bettering your mental health knowledge, this episode is a must-listen. Join us as we uncover the critical aspects of mental health with one of the leaders in the field.

Stay informed, stay healthy, and keep the conversation going with Healthy Talk.
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In this episode of Healthy Talk, we're diving into the world of wound care and transformative treatments with Kathy Chapple,  program director of the Wound & Hyperbaric Center at Boone County Hospital.

Wounds can be debilitating, affecting not only physical health but also mental and emotional well-being. However, advancements in medical science have brought about innovative treatments that can truly transform the journey from wound to wellness.

Kathy Chapple brings her wealth of experience and expertise to the conversation, shedding light on cutting-edge approaches to wound care and the comprehensive services offered at the Wound & Hyperbaric Center. From advanced dressings to hyperbaric oxygen therapy, discover how these interventions are revolutionizing the healing process and restoring hope for patients facing chronic wounds.

Join us as we explore the latest breakthroughs in wound management, the importance of a multidisciplinary approach, and the profound impact of compassionate care on patients' lives. Whether you're a healthcare professional or someone seeking insights into wound care, this episode promises valuable knowledge and inspiring stories of healing and resilience.

Stay informed, stay healthy, and keep the conversation going with Healthy Talk.
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