Archives for December 2024

Several OAHS/FWV caregivers were recognized during the Summit Awards presentation at the recent HealthCare Service Excellence Conference in Orlando, Florida. The Summit Awards celebrate healthcare professionals and leaders who demonstrate exceptional commitment to improving the patient, resident, and employee experience.

Carlin Keimig, RN

Congratulations to Carlin Keimig, RN on receiving the Summit Award in the category of Exceptional Nurse. The Exceptional Nurse Summit Award is given to an individual who provides outstanding levels of compassion and quality care, while being supportive, a good listener, and constantly improving.

Carlin has been a valued member of the OAHS team for 29 years, currently serving in the Outreach Department. Whether she’s assisting in the operating room, serving as an outreach or same-day surgery admission/discharge nurse, or stepping up to fill shifts on the medical/surgical unit, Carlin has profoundly impacted not only her team but also the patients and families she serves. Patients often request Carlin by name, a reflection of the trust, comfort, and reassurance she provides through her compassionate care and exceptional skills. Her ability to connect with patients and deliver consistently high-quality care sets her apart as a true leader in the nursing profession.

Betty Karels-Williamson, FWVN Leader

Betty Karels-Williamson, Fairway View Neighborhood Leader, was nominated in the category of Exceptional Employee. Known for her creativity and passion, Betty works tirelessly to enhance life for residents at Fairway View, from organizing fundraisers for campus improvements to making personal dreams come true—like arranging a plane ride for a resident’s birthday. She leads with a can-do attitude, inspiring her team and residents alike, and ensures every voice is heard in her neighborhood. A keynote speaker at the conference specifically highlighted Betty’s incredible contributions during a presentation.

Myka Ross, HR Director

Myka Ross, HR Director, was nominated for Exceptional OASIS Team Captain for her transformative leadership and dedication to enhancing the workplace. In her time at OAHS, Myka has revitalized the HR department, making it approachable and efficient. As Team Captain of the Onboarding and Retention OASIS team, she implemented a new Human Resources Information System (HRIS), streamlined onboarding processes, and introduced innovative initiatives like new hire swag. Known for her positivity and problem-solving skills, Myka consistently uplifts her team, enhances employee morale, and ensures smooth operations across the organization.

We are proud to celebrate the achievements of Carlin, Betty, and Myka! Their commitment to excellence and compassion makes a lasting difference in the lives of those they serve.

During the recent HealthCare Service Excellence Conference (HCSEC) in Orlando, Florida, Ortonville Area Health Services was presented with 12 breakthrough awards for service excellence. These awards are given to healthcare facilities that have demonstrated significant achievements in patient satisfaction and outstanding quality of care.

Dr. Allan Ross, CEO of OAHS notes, “This remarkable achievement is a testament to our caregivers unwavering commitment to excellence and innovation. I am incredibly proud of their efforts and well-deserved recognition.”

Of the 12 Breakthrough Awards received, 6 were Diamond Awards, representing the highest level of achievement. OAHS received Diamond Awards in the following categories:

• Communication with Doctors
• Response of Hospital Staff
• Communication about Medicines
• Quiet Hospital Environment
• Transition of Care
• Recommend the Hospital

These Breakthrough Awards reflect the commitment of OAHS to continually improve patient care and satisfaction. By achieving measurable progress and setting new benchmarks in service quality, OAHS reaffirms its role as a trusted leader in healthcare, enhancing the well-being of communities served and fostering a culture of excellence.

About Ortonville Area Health Services
Ortonville Area Health Services is dedicated to delivering compassionate, high-quality healthcare throughout the region. OAHS includes a critical access hospital, a nursing home, two provider-based physician clinics, a school-based clinic, a home health agency, and a senior living facility offering independent apartments and assisted living units.With a steadfast focus on excellence and a commitment to innovation, OAHS serves as a vital resource for rural healthcare in Minnesota and beyond.

About the HealthCare Service Excellence Conference
The HealthCare Service Excellence Conference (HCSEC) is an annual event presented and organized by Custom Learning Systems Group Ltd. Custom Learning Systems is recognized as a leading expert in helping organizations transform their service delivery by creating a 5-star culture of healing kindness and accountability.

For the second consecutive year, Ortonville Area Health Services (OAHS) has achieved a 5-Star rating from the National Rural Rating System (NRRS). This  distinction highlights OAHS’ unwavering commitment to excellence in healthcare and its dedication to meeting the needs of rural communities with the highest standards of care. This year, OAHS is proud to be one of only two hospitals in Minnesota to earn this elite 5-Star recognition.

The NRRS evaluates rural and critical access hospitals using a rigorous 1-to-5-star scale, with 5 stars representing the highest level of achievement. Modeled after the Centers for Medicare & Medicaid Services (CMS) 5-Star Rating, the NRRS applies equally stringent criteria to rural hospitals and clinics. These evaluations emphasize patient satisfaction, quality care, and overall performance, offering a tailored assessment for smaller hospitals not covered by CMS ratings. To learn more about the NRRS and see the full list of 5-Star facilities, visit www.ruralratings.us.

By receiving this recognition, OAHS strengthens its position as a trusted local healthcare provider, delivering top-tier care to the region and ensuring that patients and families experience the highest quality healthcare.

About OAHS
Ortonville Area Health Services is dedicated to delivering compassionate, high-quality healthcare throughout the region. OAHS includes a critical access hospital, a nursing home, two provider-based physician clinics, a school-based clinic, a home health agency, and a senior living facility offering independent apartments and assisted living units.With a steadfast focus on excellence and a commitment to innovation, OAHS serves as a vital resource for rural healthcare in Minnesota and beyond.

About the National Rural Rating System
The National Rural Rating System is created to recognize excellence and help rural hospitals stand out and is open to all U.S. rural hospitals. The National Rural Honor Roll designation is awarded annually and is valid for 12 months, provided the participant maintains a high patient experience rating that meets the established criteria.