Bradley County Medical Center News

BCMC Earns Two Get With The Guidelines® Awards from American Heart Association

Bradley County Medical Center was recently recognized by the American Heart Association with a pair of accolades. BCMC earned the Get With The Guidelines® - Coronary Artery Disease Rural Recognition Silver award along with a Get With The Guidelines® - Coronary Artery Disease STEMI Referring Center Bronze award.

The Get With The Guidelines® - Coronary Artery Disease Rural Recognition Silver award is for BCMC’s commitment to offering rapid, research-based care to people experiencing non ST-elevation acute coronary syndrome (NSTE-ACS). In the United States, NSTE-ACS affects more than 625,000 patients annually, or almost three-fourths of all patients with acute coronary syndrome.

“When someone experiences acute coronary syndrome, American Heart Association guidelines call for specific actions performed in the hospital in a consistent and timely fashion to prevent further myocardial damage and to save lives,” said Karen E. Joynt Maddox, M.D., MPH, co-author on the American Heart Association’s presidential advisory on rural health. “Where you live should not determine if you live, and rural communities deserve high-quality cardiac care. Bradley County Medical Center is recognized for consistently providing these patients with the care, guidance, and medical therapy they need to give them the best chance of survival.”

The Get With The Guidelines® – Coronary Artery Disease Rural Recognition award is earned by hospitals that demonstrate a commitment to treating patients according to the most up-to-date research-based guidelines for NSTE-ACS care as outlined by the American Heart Association.

This award recognizes hospitals for their efforts toward acute coronary syndrome care excellence demonstrated by composite score compliance to guideline-directed care, including timely electrocardiogram and troponin results, anticoagulant administration, risk stratification, and follow-up care.

BCMC also received the American Heart Association’s Get With The Guidelines® – Coronary Artery Disease STEMI Referring Center Bronze recognition for its commitment to offering rapid, research-based care to people experiencing a specific type of heart attack known as an ST elevation myocardial infarction (STEMI), known to be more severe and dangerous than other types of heart attacks.

Each year, more than 1 million cases of acute coronary syndrome (ACS) require hospitalization in the U.S., and about 30% of ACS cases are classified as STEMI, caused by a complete blockage in a coronary artery. Like all heart attacks, this requires timely treatment to restore blood flow as quickly as possible.

Recognition as a STEMI Referring Center is designed to showcase hospitals of every size on the front lines of care that do not have 24/7 cardiac catheterization lab availability but work in collaboration with emergency medical services to ensure patients receive guideline-directed STEMI and NSTEMI care.

“Effective and timely care is crucial for patients experiencing a STEMI heart attack. The American Heart Association’s guidelines call for specific interventions for these patients both in-hospital and post-hospitalization,” said Abhinav Goyal, M.D., MHS, FACC, FAHA, volunteer chair of the American Heart Association Coronary Artery Disease System of Care Advisory Group.

The STEMI Referring Center award is earned by hospitals that demonstrate a commitment to getting patients the most up-to-date research-based care for STEMI as outlined by the American Heart Association.

Get With The Guidelines® is the American Heart Association/American Stroke Association’s hospital-based quality improvement program that provides hospitals with the latest research-based guidelines. Developed with the goal of saving lives and hastening recovery, Get With The Guidelines has touched the lives of more than 14 million patients since 2001. For more information, visit heart.org.

BCMC to Host Blood Drive Friday, June 27

Bradley County Medical Center is proud to announce an upcoming LifeShare Blood Drive on Friday, June 27 from 1 p.m. to 7 p.m., in the BCMC Rural Health Clinic Parking Lot located at 304 E Central Street across the street from the hospital.

This vital event aims to support local hospitals and patients in need of life-saving blood transfusions. All eligible donors are encouraged to participate and help make a difference in the lives of others by donating blood on Friday, June 27. Blood drives are the main source of blood for hospitals in our region, including Bradley County Medical Center. Potential donors can reserve a time slot online through the donor portal on www.lifeshare.org. You do not have to make an appointment as walk-ins are encouraged.

Every two seconds someone in the United States needs blood and nearly 42,000 blood components are used by patients every day. One of every seven people who enter the hospital will need blood. That person could be you, your loved one, friend, or co-worker. With all the wonderful advances in modern medicine, there still is no substitute for human blood. The blood that helps patients comes only from caring people who volunteer to help others by donating their life-saving blood.

“Summer is a critical time for blood donations,” said BCMC Public Relations Specialist Dennen Cuthbertson. “With schools out and families traveling, blood supplies often run low. This drive is an opportunity for our community to come together and support those in urgent medical need.”

Every year, countless lives are saved through the generosity of blood donors, and Bradley County Medical Center is calling upon the community to join forces for this life-saving cause. The event aims to boost blood supplies during a crucial time, ensuring that hospitals and medical facilities in our region have an ample and steady blood inventory.

LifeShare Blood Center, established in Shreveport, La., in 1942, regularly supplies blood components and related services to more than 100 medical facilities and hospitals throughout Louisiana, East Texas and South Arkansas. LifeShare is a member of America’s Blood Centers and the American Rare Donor Program, is licensed by the U.S. Food & Drug Administration, and accredited by AABB. LifeShare Blood Center is a 501(c)(3) nonprofit community blood bank governed by a volunteer Board of Trustees.

For the latest news and updates regarding BCMC please like the Bradley County Medical Center Facebook page, follow us on Instagram (BCMCWarren), or X, formerly Twitter, (@BCMC Warren). To keep up with the most recent news and updates for the BCMC Rural Health Clinic, please like the BCMC Rural Health Clinic page on Facebook.

Dr. Russell Gregory to Join BCMC Rural Health Clinic in August

The BCMC Rural Health Clinic is excited to announce that Dr. Russell Gregory will be joining the facility as a family practice physician on August 4, 2025. To schedule an appointment with Dr. Gregory, please call 870-226-8636.

A native of Magnolia, Ark., Gregory graduated Magna Cum Laude from Southern Arkansas University in 2015 with a Bachelor of Science in Pre-Health Studies. He went on to earn his Doctor of Medicine from St. George’s University School of Medicine in Grenada in the West Indies in 2021. Additionally, he earned his Master of Business Administration in Multi-Sector Healthcare Management from St. George’s University in 2022.

Dr. Gregory is currently in the University of Arkansas for Medical Sciences (UAMS) Southwest Family Medicine Residency Program in Texarkana, Ark. He began this program in 2022 and is the Chief Resident for Dr. Matthew Nix. Prior to starting this residency program, he was a research assistant at the Children’s Diagnostic and Treatment Center of Broward Health for a little less than a year. Dr. Gregory is a member of the American Academy of Family Physicians (AAFP).

Dr. Gregory and his wife Amber, a native of Rison, Ark., are parents to an Angel Baby, Gabriel Neal. Their loss led to the creation of Gabriel’s Gift, an organization to provide compassionate support for families experiencing perinatal loss. They provide bereavement resources, emotional support, and commemorative initiatives to help families navigate grief while honoring the lives of their children.

His extensive volunteer experiences range from tutoring at St. George’s University, accompanying music productions for Magnolia Specialized Services, serving as President of the SAU Pre-Health Professional Club, and spending time as a Rotary Club member.

His hobbies and interests include music (piano, vocal, and guitar), worship arts, political history, landscape design, spending time with friends and family, and traveling. Dr. Gregory says he was drawn to Family Medicine because it facilitates the ability to develop relationships with patients and provides a wide range of exposure to many different types of diseases and interventions.

Dr. Gregory is looking forward to joining the BCMC Rural Health Clinic staff which features April Harris, APRN; Kristen Harvey, APRN; and Tiffany Wargo, APRN, PMHNP. He’s eager to join this team and continue helping the BCMC Rural Health Clinic provide family healthcare to Warren and the surrounding communities.

For the latest news and updates regarding BCMC please like the Bradley County Medical Center Facebook page or follow us on Instagram (BCMCWarren) or X, formerly Twitter (BCMC Warren). To keep up with the most recent news and updates for the BCMC Rural Health Clinic, please like the BCMC Rural Health Clinic page on Facebook.

Blood Drive Scheduled for Thursday, April 10 at BCMC

Bradley County Medical Center is looking for generous blood donors in the upcoming LifeShare Blood Drive scheduled for Thursday, April 10 from 1 p.m. until 7 p.m. The blood drive will take place in the BCMC Rural Health Clinic parking lot, located across the street from the ER entrance at the hospital, where the LifeShare Bus will be located.

Blood donations have hit a 20-year low nationwide, so if you can donate, please come by and give blood next Thursday, April 10. Blood drives are the main source of blood for hospitals in our region, including Bradley County Medical Center. Potential donors can reserve a time slot online through the donor portal on www.lifeshare.org. You do not have to make an appointment as walk-ins are encouraged.

Every two seconds, someone somewhere needs blood. One of every seven people who enter the hospital will need blood. That person could be you, your loved one, friend, or co-worker. With all the wonderful advances in modern medicine, there still is no substitute for human blood. The blood that helps patients comes only from caring people who volunteer to help others by donating their life-saving blood.

Every year, countless lives are saved through the generosity of blood donors, and Bradley County Medical Center is calling upon the community to join forces for this life-saving cause. The event aims to boost blood supplies during a crucial time, ensuring that hospitals and medical facilities in our region have an ample and steady blood inventory.

LifeShare Blood Center, established in Shreveport, La., in 1942, regularly supplies blood components and related services to more than 100 medical facilities and hospitals throughout Louisiana, East Texas and South Arkansas. LifeShare is a member of America’s Blood Centers and the American Rare Donor Program, is licensed by the U.S. Food & Drug Administration, and accredited by AABB. LifeShare Blood Center is a 501(c)(3) nonprofit community blood bank governed by a volunteer Board of Trustees.

For the latest news and updates regarding BCMC please like the Bradley County Medical Center Facebook page, follow us on Instagram (BCMCWarren), or X, formerly Twitter, (@BCMC Warren). To keep up with the most recent news and updates for the BCMC Rural Health Clinic, please like the BCMC Rural Health Clinic page on Facebook.

BCMC Partners with In-House Medical for Emergency Department Physicians

Bradley County Medical Center is excited to announce the hospital has partnered with In-House Medical to transition the staffing of Emergency Department physicians from an outsourced contract management group to more local control from BCMC.

The doctors in the BCMC Emergency Department will now be official hospital staff as opposed to a contracted company that would send a rotation of physicians to our hospital. In-House Medical will assist Bradley County Medical Center with recruitment, scheduling, and other managerial aspects by integrating their services into the fabric of BCMC instead of the other way around.

One of the major criticisms of emergency room visits nationwide is not feeling like they know the doctors and a lack of compassion. This new system of employing Emergency Department physicians will aim to solve these complaints. Another issue is camaraderie with the nurses and other members of the ER staff that is hard to maintain with ever-changing doctors. This will bring some stability to the department.

According to BCMC’s CEO/CFO, Leslie Huitt, “The mission of BCMC is to provide superior care to every patient, every time. We strive every day to achieve this mission. We feel this move will help up us accomplish this goal.”

Several doctors have already opted in to this model including known faces around the community, Dr. Bradley Biggers and Dr. Michelle Weaver. Others include Dr. Taylor Dilday, Dr. Nasir Zareen, Dr. Khaled Hassan, Dr. Leisa Spence, Dr. Raquel Rivera-Cruz, Dr. Madhulika Krish, and Dr. Patrick Mbawuike. There have already been compliments from this group on this new model.

These physicians are ones who want to work at BCMC and provide healthcare for our community instead of just being assigned to our hospital.

For the latest news and updates regarding BCMC please like the Bradley County Medical Center Facebook page or follow us on Instagram (BCMCWarren) or X, formerly Twitter (@BCMC Warren). To keep up with the most recent news and updates for the BCMC Rural Health Clinic, please like the BCMC Rural Health Clinic page on Facebook.

Steven Smith Honored with BCMC’s DAISY Award

Steven Smith, RN, earned the latest DAISY Award for Extraordinary Nurses® in a ceremony at Bradley County Medical Center Wednesday morning. This award is part of the DAISY Foundation's mission to recognize the extraordinary, compassionate nursing care they provide patients and families every day.

Smith is a nurse in BCMC’s Emergency Department and has been with the hospital for more than 30 years. He received two nominations during the voting period. One nomination was straight to the point calling him a great guy that provided good service along with being caring and a great listener.

The other nomination stated, “He always goes above and beyond for his patients, never treating them with bias or stereotypes. Patients come in asking for him by name.” The nomination continued by talking about his kindness towards colleagues, students, and new nurses. The nomination concluded with, “He deserves to be recognized for all of the things he has done and continues to do for this hospital and this community.”

In honor of winning the award, he received a certificate commending him for being an "Extraordinary Nurse." The certificate reads: "In deep appreciation of all you do, who you are, and the incredibly meaningful difference you make in the lives of so many people." Additionally, Smith was given a beautiful and meaningful sculpture called “A Healer's Touch,” hand-carved by artists of the Shona Tribe in Africa.

The DAISY Foundation is a not-for-profit organization, established in memory of J. Patrick Barnes, by members of his family. Patrick died at the age of 33 in late 1999 from complications of Idiopathic Thrombocytopenic Purpura (ITP), a little known but not uncommon auto-immune disease. (DAISY is an acronym for Diseases Attacking the Immune System.) The care Patrick and his family received from nurses while he was ill inspired this unique means of thanking nurses for making a profound difference in the lives of their patients and patient families.

Nurses can be nominated by patients, families, and colleagues. The nominations were blinded and voted on by the DAISY Committee. The nominations were graded based on set criteria, a numeric value was assigned based on these criteria, and awards were determined based on score. The committee members voted. The process was overseen by the DAISY coordinator.

The Award at Bradley County Medical Center is co-sponsored by generous donations. Initial funding was provided by the facility. The program is maintained through generous support from donors, including anonymous donors, committee members, the BCMC Employee Appreciation Council, and other fundraisers.

This is one initiative of The DAISY Foundation to express gratitude to the nursing profession. Additionally, DAISY offers J. Patrick Barnes Grants for Nursing Research and Evidence-Based Practice Projects, The DAISY Faculty Award to honor inspiring faculty members in schools and colleges of nursing, and The DAISY in Training Award for nursing students. More information is available at https://DAISYfoundation.org.

For the latest news and updates regarding BCMC please like the Bradley County Medical Center Facebook page or follow us on Instagram (BCMCWarren) or X, formerly Twitter (@BCMC Warren). To keep up with the most recent news and updates for the BCMC Rural Health Clinic, please like the BCMC Rural Health Clinic page on Facebook.

BCMC to Hold Blood Drive Thursday, Dec. 5 with Donations in High Demand

Bradley County Medical Center is issuing an urgent appeal to the community for blood donations in the upcoming LifeShare Blood Drive scheduled for Thursday, Dec. 5 from 1 p.m. to 7 p.m. The blood drive will take place in the LifeShare Bus that will be parked in the BCMC Rural Health Clinic parking lot, located across the street from the ER entrance at the hospital.

Blood donations have hit a 20-year low nationwide, so if you can donate, please come by and give blood on Thursday, Dec. 5. Blood drives such as this are the main source of blood for hospitals in our region. Potential donors can reserve a time slot online through the donor portal on www.lifeshare.org. You do not have to make an appointment as walk-ins are encouraged.

Every two seconds, someone somewhere needs blood. One of every seven people who enter the hospital will need blood. That person could be you, your loved one, friend, or co-worker. With all the wonderful advances in modern medicine, there still is no substitute for human blood. The blood that helps patients comes only from caring people who volunteer to help others by donating their life-saving blood.

Every year, countless lives are saved through the generosity of blood donors, and Bradley County Medical Center is calling upon the community to join forces for this life-saving cause. The event aims to boost blood supplies during a crucial time, ensuring that hospitals and medical facilities in our region have an ample and steady blood inventory.

LifeShare Blood Center, established in Shreveport, La., in 1942, regularly supplies blood components and related services to more than 100 medical facilities and hospitals throughout Louisiana, East Texas and South Arkansas. LifeShare is a member of America’s Blood Centers and the American Rare Donor Program, is licensed by the U.S. Food & Drug Administration, and accredited by AABB. LifeShare Blood Center is a 501(c)(3) nonprofit community blood bank governed by a volunteer Board of Trustees.

BCMC to Host Blood Drive October 3 with Donations in High Demand

Bradley County Medical Center is issuing an urgent request to the community for blood donations in its upcoming LifeShare Blood Drive scheduled for Thursday, Oct. 3 from 1 p.m. to 7 p.m. The blood drive will take place in the LifeShare BloodMobile that will be parked in the BCMC Rural Health Clinic parking lot, located across the street from the ER entrance at the hospital.

Blood donations are down across the nation as it has hit a 20-year low so if you can donate, please come by and give blood on Thursday, Oct. 3. Potential donors can reserve a time slot online through the donor portal on www.lifeshare.org. You do not have to make an appointment as walk-ins are encouraged. All donors will receive a LifeShare FIGHT CANCER shirt, while supplies last.

Every two seconds, someone somewhere needs blood. One of every seven people who enter the hospital will need blood. That person could be you, your loved one, friend, or co-worker. With all the wonderful advances in modern medicine, there still is no substitute for human blood. The blood that helps patients comes only from caring people who volunteer to help others by donating their life-saving blood.

Every year, countless lives are saved through the generosity of blood donors, and Bradley County Medical Center is calling upon the community to join forces for this life-saving cause. The event aims to boost blood supplies during a crucial time, ensuring that hospitals and medical facilities in our region have an ample and steady blood inventory.

LifeShare Blood Center, established in Shreveport, La., in 1942, regularly supplies blood components and related services to more than 100 medical facilities and hospitals throughout Louisiana, East Texas and South Arkansas. LifeShare is a member of America’s Blood Centers and the American Rare Donor Program, is licensed by the U.S. Food & Drug Administration, and accredited by AABB. LifeShare Blood Center is a 501(c)(3) nonprofit community blood bank governed by a volunteer Board of Trustees.

For the latest news and updates regarding BCMC please like the Bradley County Medical Center Facebook page, follow us on Instagram (BCMCWarren), or X, formerly Twitter, (@BCMC Warren). To keep up with the most recent news and updates for the BCMC Rural Health Clinic, please like the BCMC Rural Health Clinic page on Facebook.

Morrison Earns BCMC DAISY Award

Krissy Morrison, RN, became the latest honoree of The DAISY Award for Extraordinary Nurses ® in a recent ceremony at Bradley County Medical Center. This award is part of the DAISY Foundation's mission to recognize the extraordinary, compassionate nursing care they provide patients and families every day.

Morrison is now in the role of Clinical Nurse Educator for BCMC after previously serving as the Labor and Delivery Nurse Manager. Her nomination commended her passion, empathy, trust, teamwork, admirable attributes, love, and selflessness. Her passion for patients was recognized in her nomination along with her compassion towards patients and coworkers. Her empathy was noted as she has been able to give advice to both patients and staff members. She can be stern when needed, but also offer supportive encouragement.

Her trust and teamwork were highlighted as her motto is “let’s do this.” This applied to delivering a 30-week gestational age newborn, working in a different area of the hospital, or figuring out how to fix a door. No matter the task she would work her hardest and work with her team to get the job done. Her patients and colleagues can always trust her to do her best. She never does her job with a “look at me” attitude. Additionally, she volunteers with M*A*S*H Camp, is involved with other hospital committees, and is out in the community.

Morrison has proven her love to patients on numerous occasions her love for patients and her selflessness is unmatched as she gives her all to the profession and to Bradley County Medical Center.

In honor of winning the award, she received a certificate commending her for being an "Extraordinary Nurse." The certificate reads: "In deep appreciation of all you do, who you are, and the incredibly meaningful difference you make in the lives of so many people." Additionally, she was given a beautiful and meaningful sculpture called “A Healer's Touch,” hand-carved by artists of the Shona Tribe in Africa.

The other finalist recognized was Rebecca Chambers of BCMC’s Senior Care Department. Both Chambers and Morrison received a certificate and honorary DAISY pin. The award ceremony featured both candidates being honored with cinnamon rolls, fruit, and punch served to all who attended the event, including family members of both candidates.

The DAISY Foundation is a not-for-profit organization, established in memory of J. Patrick Barnes, by members of his family. Patrick died at the age of 33 in late 1999 from complications of Idiopathic Thrombocytopenic Purpura (ITP), a little known but not uncommon auto-immune disease. (DAISY is an acronym for Diseases Attacking the Immune System.) The care Patrick and his family received from nurses while he was ill inspired this unique means of thanking nurses for making a profound difference in the lives of their patients and patient families.

Nurses were nominated by patients, families, and colleagues. The nominations were blinded and voted on by the DAISY Committee. The nominations were graded based on set criteria, a numeric value was assigned based on these criteria, and awards were determined based on score. The committee members voted. The process was overseen by the DAISY coordinator.

The Award at Bradley County Medical Center is co-sponsored by generous donations. Initial funding was provided by the facility. The program is maintained through generous support from donors, including anonymous donors, committee members, the BCMC Employee Appreciation Council, and other fundraisers.

This is one initiative of The DAISY Foundation to express gratitude to the nursing profession. Additionally, DAISY offers J. Patrick Barnes Grants for Nursing Research and Evidence-Based Practice Projects, The DAISY Faculty Award to honor inspiring faculty members in schools and colleges of nursing, and The DAISY in Training Award for nursing students. More information is available at http://DAISYfoundation.org.

For the latest news and updates regarding BCMC please like the Bradley County Medical Center Facebook page or follow us on Instagram (BCMCWarren) or X, formerly Twitter (@BCMC Warren). To keep up with the most recent news and updates for the BCMC Rural Health Clinic, please like the BCMC Rural Health Clinic page on Facebook.

BCMC Wound Care Clinic Earns Center of Excellence Award

Bradley County Medical Center is honored to announce the BCMC Wound Care Clinic is a recipient of RestorixHealth’s highest achievement, the Wound Center of Excellence Award. Recipients of this prestigious award meet or exceed national wound care quality benchmarks over a set period of time.

The Wound Center of Excellence Award recognizes wound centers that have demonstrated exceptional success by meeting or exceeding clinical, operational and patient satisfaction benchmarks. This is the second time in three years for BCMC to claim this honor after earning this recognition in 2022.

The BCMC Wound Care Clinic is dedicated to optimizing outcomes and preventing lower limb loss in patients with non-healing wounds. The approach to wound care is aggressive and comprehensive, coordinating traditional and advanced therapies and techniques that are proven to reduce healing time and improve healing rates.

The center is staffed with clinicians with advanced training in wound care. Integrating a team of wound care professionals optimizes patient care, while offering the most advanced healing options.

The BCMC Wound Care Clinic is located inside Bradley County Medical Center and is available on Tuesdays. For more information, please call 877-295-2273.

Committed to excellence in wound care, RestorixHealth is the wound care solutions company providing programs, services, products and education across the care continuum. From developing and operating wound centers in partnership with hospitals, through delivering professional wound care in nursing facilities and in-home settings, to supporting patients through the coordination of wound supplies, RestorixHealth’s solutions increase access to care, reduce hospital admissions and most importantly, improve patient outcomes and quality of life. For more information, visit www.RestorixHealth.com.

For the latest news and updates regarding BCMC please like the Bradley County Medical Center Facebook page or follow us on Instagram (BCMCWarren) or X, formerly Twitter (@BCMC Warren). To keep up with the most recent news and updates for the BCMC Rural Health Clinic, please like the BCMC Rural Health Clinic page on Facebook.

BCMC ER Earns Two Awards from American Heart Association

The Bradley County Medical Center Emergency Department has received American Heart Association’s Get With The Guidelines® – Coronary Artery Disease STEMI Referring Center and Coronary Artery Disease Rural Recognition, both at a Bronze level, for its commitment to offering rapid, research-based care to people experiencing a specific type of heart attack known as an ST elevation myocardial infarction (STEMI), known to be more severe and dangerous than other types of heart attacks.

Each year, about 285,000 people in the U.S. experience this type of heart attack, caused by a complete blockage in a coronary artery. Nearly 40% of people who go to the emergency room with acute coronary syndrome are diagnosed with a STEMI. Like all heart attacks, this requires timely treatment to restore blood flow as quickly as possible.

Recognition as a STEMI Referring Center is designed to showcase hospitals of every size on the front lines of care that do not have 24/7 cardiac catheterization lab availability but work in collaboration with emergency medical services to ensure patients receive guideline-directed STEMI and NSTEMI care.

The Get With The Guidelines® – Coronary Artery Disease Rural Recognition award is earned by hospitals that demonstrate a commitment to treating patients according to the most up-to-date research-based guidelines for STEMI care as outlined by the American Heart Association.

“When someone experiences a STEMI heart attack, American Heart Association guidelines call for specific actions performed in the hospital in a consistent and timely fashion to prevent further myocardial damage and to save lives,” said Stephen Sigal, M.D., MS, FAHA, FACC, American Heart Association volunteer and medical director of interventional cardiology at Titus Regional Medical Center. “Where you live should not determine if you live, and rural communities deserve high-quality cardiac care. Bradley County Medical Center is recognized for consistently providing these patients with the care, guidance and medical therapy they need to give them the best chance of survival.”

The STEMI Referring Center award is earned by hospitals that demonstrate a commitment to getting patients the most up-to-date research-based care for STEMI as outlined by the American Heart Association.

The Coronary Artery Disease Rural Recognition award recognizes hospitals for their efforts toward STEMI care excellence demonstrated by composite score compliance to guideline-directed care, including timely electrocardiogram and transfer, aspirin administration, administration of thrombolytic therapy, receptor inhibitor and anticoagulant, and more.

For the latest news and updates regarding BCMC please like the Bradley County Medical Center Facebook page or follow us on Instagram (BCMCWarren) or X, formerly Twitter (@BCMC Warren). To keep up with the most recent news and updates for the BCMC Rural Health Clinic, please like the BCMC Rural Health Clinic page on Facebook.

Blood Drive Set for August 1 with Donations in High Demand

Bradley County Medical Center is issuing an urgent appeal to the community for blood donations in its upcoming LifeShare Blood Drive scheduled for Thursday, Aug. 1 from 1 p.m. to 7 p.m. The blood drive will take place in the LifeShare Bus that will be located the BCMC Rural Health Clinic parking lot, located across the street from the ER entrance at the hospital.

Blood donations are down across the nation as it has hit a 20-year low so if you can donate, please swing by and give blood on Thursday, Aug. 1. Potential donors can reserve a time slot online through the donor portal on www.lifeshare.org. You do not have to make an appointment as walk-ins are encouraged. All donors will receive a LifeShare cooler tote and sunglasses, while supplies last.

LifeShare is asking donors to help beat the summer slump as 20% of blood donations come from high schools. Since most kids are out of school during the summer the LifeShare inventory sees a big decrease.

Every two seconds, someone somewhere needs blood. One of every seven people who enter the hospital will need blood. That person could be you, your loved one, friend, or co-worker. With all the wonderful advances in modern medicine, there still is no substitute for human blood. The blood that helps patients comes only from caring people who volunteer to help others by donating their life-saving blood.

Every year, countless lives are saved through the generosity of blood donors, and Bradley County Medical Center is calling upon the community to join forces for this life-saving cause. The event aims to boost blood supplies during a crucial time, ensuring that hospitals and medical facilities in our region have an ample and steady blood inventory.

LifeShare Blood Center, established in Shreveport, La., in 1942, regularly supplies blood components and related services to more than 100 medical facilities and hospitals throughout Louisiana, East Texas and South Arkansas. LifeShare is a member of America’s Blood Centers and the American Rare Donor Program, is licensed by the U.S. Food & Drug Administration, and accredited by AABB. LifeShare Blood Center is a 501(c)(3) nonprofit community blood bank governed by a volunteer Board of Trustees.

For the latest news and updates regarding BCMC please like the Bradley County Medical Center Facebook page, follow us on Instagram (BCMCWarren), or X, formerly Twitter, (@BCMC Warren). To keep up with the most recent news and updates for the BCMC Rural Health Clinic, please like the BCMC Rural Health Clinic page on Facebook.

Taylor Receives Latest BCMC DAISY Award

Belinda “Lee” Taylor, RN, was named the recipient of The DAISY Award for Extraordinary Nurses ® in a recent ceremony at Bradley County Medical Center. This award is part of the DAISY Foundation's mission to recognize the extraordinary, compassionate nursing care they provide patients and families every day.

Taylor’s nomination stated that she exemplifies servant leadership evidenced by her willingness to support and serve both her patients and staff. The nomination continued by explaining that although she fulfills a charge nurse role, she strives to meet our needs by providing bedside care, answering call lights, administrating meds, managing admissions, or discharges. Her demeanor is always professional, pleasant, and cooperative and no matter how busy it gets, Taylor has a “we got this” attitude. The nomination concluded by saying that she is a strong patient advocate, and the nominator appreciates her as a colleague and leaders.

At the time of this nomination, Taylor was the head of BCMC’s Med-Surg Unit, but she is now overseeing Social Services and Utilization Review. She received a certificate commending her for being an "Extraordinary Nurse." The certificate reads: "In deep appreciation of all you do, who you are, and the incredibly meaningful difference you make in the lives of so many people." Additionally, she was given a beautiful and meaningful sculpture called “A Healer's Touch,” hand-carved by artists of the Shona Tribe in Africa.

The other finalists included Celia Oehlerich, Ashley Grider, Kelly Adair, Sommer Johnson, and Jessica Jones. Each nominee received an honorary DAISY pin. The award ceremony featured all six candidates receiving a pin and Taylor being honored as the winner. Cinnamon rolls, fruit, and punch were served to all who attended the ceremony.

The DAISY Foundation is a not-for-profit organization, established in memory of J. Patrick Barnes, by members of his family. Patrick died at the age of 33 in late 1999 from complications of Idiopathic Thrombocytopenic Purpura (ITP), a little known but not uncommon auto-immune disease. (DAISY is an acronym for Diseases Attacking the Immune System.) The care Patrick and his family received from nurses while he was ill inspired this unique means of thanking nurses for making a profound difference in the lives of their patients and patient families.

Nurses were nominated by patients, families, and colleagues. The nominations were blinded and voted on by the DAISY Committee led by ER Nurse Manager Cheryl Wells, RN, who serves as BCMC’s DAISY coordinator. The nominations were graded based on set criteria, a numeric value was assigned based on these criteria, and awards were determined based on score. The committee members voted. The process was overseen by the DAISY coordinator.
The Award at Bradley County Medical Center is co-sponsored by generous donations. Initial funding was provided by the facility. The program is maintained through generous support from donors, including anonymous donors, committee members, the BCMC Employee Appreciation Council, and other fundraisers.

This is one initiative of The DAISY Foundation to express gratitude to the nursing profession. Additionally, DAISY offers J. Patrick Barnes Grants for Nursing Research and Evidence-Based Practice Projects, The DAISY Faculty Award to honor inspiring faculty members in schools and colleges of nursing, and The DAISY in Training Award for nursing students. More information is available at http://DAISYfoundation.org.

For the latest news and updates regarding BCMC please like the Bradley County Medical Center Facebook page or follow us on Instagram (BCMCWarren) or X, formerly Twitter (@BCMC Warren). To keep up with the most recent news and updates for the BCMC Rural Health Clinic, please like the BCMC Rural Health Clinic page on Facebook.

Save Lives by Donating Blood at BCMC Blood Drive May 30

Bradley County Medical Center is broadcasting an urgent appeal to the community for blood donations in its upcoming LifeShare Blood Drive scheduled for Thursday, May 30 from 1 p.m. to 7 p.m. The blood drive will take place in the LifeShare Bus that will be located the BCMC Rural Health Clinic parking lot, located across the street from the ER entrance at the hospital.

Blood donations are down across the country as it has hit a 20-year low so if you can donate, please swing by and give blood on May 30. Potential donors can reserve a time slot online through the donor portal on www.lifeshare.org. You do not have to make an appointment as walk-ins are encouraged. All donors will receive a 40-ounce travel tumbler, while supplies last.

Every two seconds, someone somewhere needs blood. One of every seven people who enter the hospital will need blood. That person could be you, your loved one, friend, or co-worker. With all the wonderful advances in modern medicine, there still is no substitute for human blood. The blood that helps patients comes only from caring people who volunteer to help others by donating their life-saving blood.

Every year, countless lives are saved through the generosity of blood donors, and Bradley County Medical Center is calling upon the community to join forces for this life-saving cause. The event aims to boost blood supplies during a crucial time, ensuring that hospitals and medical facilities in our region have an ample and steady blood inventory.

LifeShare Blood Center, established in Shreveport, La., in 1942, regularly supplies blood components and related services to more than 100 medical facilities and hospitals throughout Louisiana, East Texas and South Arkansas. LifeShare is a member of America’s Blood Centers and the American Rare Donor Program, is licensed by the U.S. Food & Drug Administration, and accredited by AABB. LifeShare Blood Center is a 501(c)(3) nonprofit community blood bank governed by a volunteer Board of Trustees.

For the latest news and updates regarding BCMC please like the Bradley County Medical Center Facebook page, follow us on Instagram (BCMCWarren), or X, formerly Twitter, (@BCMC Warren). To keep up with the most recent news and updates for the BCMC Rural Health Clinic, please like the BCMC Rural Health Clinic page on Facebook.

BCMC Rural Health Clinic to Begin Behavioral Health Services with Tiffany Wargo

The Bradley County Medical Center (BCMC) Rural Health Clinic is excited to announce new behavioral health services with Tiffany Wargo, who is a dual certified Adult Gerontology Primary Care (AGPCNP-BC) and Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner (PMHNP-BC), beginning on May 13, 2024. Appointments can be scheduled now by calling 870-226-8636.

Tiffany’s specialties include anxiety, attention deficit/hyperactivity disorder (ADHD), autism, bipolar disorder, depression, and medication management. The BCMC Rural Health Clinic is delighted to offer these integrated behavioral health services within the primary care setting to benefit the community.

Collaborating closely with patients, Tiffany develops tailored care plans founded on trust, mutual respect, and transparent communication with both patients and fellow medical professionals. As an experienced nurse with 25 years of hands-on experience, Tiffany is committed to delivering top-notch, empathetic, and comprehensive mental health care across diverse age groups and capabilities. Drawing on her intuition, keen observation, and clinical knowledge, she ensures that each patient receives the most pertinent and evidence-based treatment.

Tiffany’s educational journey includes earning her Practical Nursing degree from the UAM College of Technology (formerly Forest Echoes Technical College) and her Bachelor of Science in Business Administration from Fayetteville State University. She furthered her education by obtaining an Associate of Applied Science in Registered Nursing from SouthArk, followed by a Master of Science in Nursing and Post-Master’s Certificate from Walden University.

Beyond her professional pursuits, Tiffany finds joy in activities such as cooking, trout fishing, cheering on the Atlanta Braves, reading, and exploring new destinations with her family, which includes her husband of 27 years, Mark, and two sons. Having been rooted in southeast Arkansas for the past two decades, she eagerly anticipates extending her high-quality and compassionate behavioral health services to Warren and its neighboring communities.

For the latest news and updates regarding BCMC please like the Bradley County Medical Center Facebook page or follow us on Instagram (BCMCWarren) or X, formerly Twitter (@BCMC Warren). To keep up with the most recent news and updates for the BCMC Rural Health Clinic, please like the BCMC Rural Health Clinic page on Facebook.

Applications for BCMC’s Mini M*A*S*H Camp Now Open

The dates have been set for the 2024 version of the Bradley County Medical Center Mini M*A*S*H (Medical Applications of Science for Health) Camp with it set to take place from June 24-28. The application process is entirely online, and applications are due by Tuesday, April 30.

This event is a one-week summer enrichment program for students who have completed 10th or 11th grades and are interested in pursuing a medical career. Students must possess a minimum GPA of 2.75, have completed Biology, and are committed to attending the full one-week camp to apply for this program. Many students will apply, but only 12 spots are available. Students are chosen based on academics, extra-curricular activities, community involvement, teacher recommendations, personal essay, and work ethic.

The campers will take part in a number of activities during the week. These include CPR training, suturing, heart dissection, splinting, hospital tour, shadowing medical professionals, education materials, and much more.

The link to apply online can be found here: https://regionalcampuses.uams.edu/health-careers/high-school-students/mash/locations/mash-bradley-county-medical-center/.

For more information regarding the camp, please contact M*A*S*H Director Krissy Morrison at 870-226-4512 or by email at kmorrison@bcmed.org.

For the latest news and updates regarding BCMC please like the Bradley County Medical Center Facebook page or follow us on Instagram (BCMCWarren) or X, formerly Twitter (@BCMC Warren). To keep up with the most recent news and updates for the BCMC Rural Health Clinic, please like the BCMC Rural Health Clinic page on Facebook.

BCMC Issues Urgent Call for Blood Donations at Upcoming LifeShare Blood Drive March 29

Bradley County Medical Center is issuing an urgent appeal to the community for blood donations in its upcoming LifeShare Blood Drive scheduled for Friday, March 29 from 1 p.m. to 7 p.m. The blood drive will take place in the BCMC Rural Health Clinic parking lot, located across the street from the ER entrance at the hospital.

Blood donations are down across the country as it’s hit a 20-year low so if you can donate, please swing by and give blood on March 29. Potential donors can reserve a time slot online through the donor portal on www.lifeshare.org. You do not have to make an appointment as walk-ins are encouraged. Together, the Warren community can ensure that local hospitals have the necessary resources to provide quality healthcare when it matters most.

Every two seconds, someone somewhere needs blood. One of every seven people who enter the hospital will need blood. That person could be you, your loved one, friend, or co-worker. With all the wonderful advances in modern medicine, there still is no substitute for human blood. The blood that helps patients comes only from caring people who volunteer to help others by donating their life-saving blood.

Every year, countless lives are saved through the generosity of blood donors, and Bradley County Medical Center is calling upon the community to join forces for this life-saving cause. The event aims to bolster blood supplies during a crucial time, ensuring that hospitals and medical facilities in our region have an ample and steady blood inventory.

LifeShare Blood Center, established in Shreveport, La., in 1942, regularly supplies blood components and related services to more than 100 medical facilities and hospitals throughout Louisiana, East Texas and South Arkansas. LifeShare is a member of America’s Blood Centers and the American Rare Donor Program, is licensed by the U.S. Food & Drug Administration, and accredited by AABB. LifeShare Blood Center is a 501(c)(3) nonprofit community blood bank governed by a volunteer Board of Trustees.

For the latest news and updates regarding BCMC please like the Bradley County Medical Center Facebook page, follow us on Instagram (BCMCWarren), or X, formerly Twitter, (@BCMC Warren). To keep up with the most recent news and updates for the BCMC Rural Health Clinic, please like the BCMC Rural Health Clinic page on Facebook.

BCMC Wound Care Clinic Receives Clinical Distinction Award

Bradley County Medical Center is pleased to announce the BCMC Wound Care Clinic is a recipient of RestorixHealth’s Clinical Distinction Award. Recipients of this award meet or exceed national clinical benchmarks over a set period of time.

RestorixHealth launched its Clinical Distinction recognition program to recognize wound centers that have demonstrated exceptional success by meeting or exceeding clinical benchmarks.

The BCMC Wound Care Clinic is dedicated to optimizing outcomes and preventing lower limb loss in patients with non-healing wounds. The approach to wound care is aggressive and comprehensive, coordinating traditional and advanced therapies and techniques that are proven to reduce healing time and improve healing rates.

The BCMC Wound Care Clinic is staffed with clinicians with advanced training in wound care. Integrating a team of wound care professionals optimizes patient care, while offering the most advanced healing options.

Bradley County Medical Center’s Wound Care Clinic is held every Tuesday. For more information, please call 877-295-2273.

For the latest news and updates regarding BCMC please like the Bradley County Medical Center Facebook page or follow us on Instagram (BCMCWarren) or X, formerly Twitter (@BCMC Warren). To keep up with the most recent news and updates for the BCMC Rural Health Clinic, please like the BCMC Rural Health Clinic page on Facebook.

BCMC Advances Care with MEDITECH’s Cloud-Based Expanse EHR

Bradley County Medical Center is proud to announce its adoption of MEDITECH Expanse, a modern, cloud-based Electronic Health Record (EHR) for today’s healthcare needs. Expanse will provide BCMC with a single EHR that seamlessly connects patient records across all care facilities, including the BCMC Rural Health Clinic, starting on Tuesday, Jan. 23.

This shared electronic record will help to guide clinical decision-making by offering a comprehensive view of a patient’s health history, regardless of when or where a patient may have received care. And since the solution is cloud-based, physicians, nurses, and other clinicians at BCMC can use mobile devices to view patient records, place orders, and document care at any time — whether they are in the office, rounding on the floor, or checking their schedule from home.

Expanse includes intuitive, web-based navigation that presents each member of a patient’s care team with real-time information, personalized to their unique workflows. Inherent clinical decision support ensures patient safety and helps clinicians react quickly to fluctuations in a patient’s condition.

Additionally, patients can also easily see new test results, review discharge instructions, and connect with clinicians at Bradley County Medical Center through a secure patient portal. Virtual visit capabilities also provide convenient options for appointments outside of traditional medical settings.

The new patient portal will be available Jan. 23 and can be accessed by clicking on the Patient Portal tab in the dropdown menu under Patients and Visitors on www.bradleycountymedicalcenter.com. Patients will receive instructions how to enroll and information on how to download the mobile app.

This interactive web portal, accessible via any mobile device or desktop computer, gives patients and their families easy, secure access to their health information and providers. Patients can use the portal to:
• Book and pre-register for appointments; sign consent forms; complete questionnaires; and update insurance information, demographics, medications, and allergies — all before arriving for their visit.
• Upon arrival, they can complete self-check-in via smartphone, eliminating the need for kiosks and waiting in line to check-in for appointments.
• Easily access provider notes, radiology reports, and laboratory results; securely message their providers; and request prescription renewals between visits.
• Grant portal access to family members and caregivers, so they can help their loved ones manage appointments, bills, and conditions.

Clinicians at BCMC will also be able to use the portal to better track their patients’ health progress, with the help of virtual visits and remote monitoring.
• MEDITECH’s Virtual Care solution enables physicians and patients to schedule online visits for routine appointments. Clinicians can also pre-screen patients with COVID-19 symptoms, and respond quickly to those in need of immediate guidance, while the healthcare organization continues to follow social distancing guidelines.
• With remote monitoring, patients can upload data from personal health devices and medical device kits into the health portal. By tracking and trending this data, providers can keep a close eye on those patients with chronic or preexisting conditions and adjust treatment accordingly, without always having them come in for an office visit.

Another feature that will be rolling out in the next few days will be patient visit reminders through text message for those who have appointments starting Jan. 23. These are legitimate messages and not spam. They will come from phone numbers with an 870-area code. Patients who have prescriptions electronically prescribed will also get a confirmation text message letting them know it has been sent to their pharmacy.

For the latest news and updates regarding BCMC please like the Bradley County Medical Center Facebook page or follow us on Instagram (BCMCWarren) or X, formerly Twitter (@BCMC Warren). To keep up with the most recent news and updates for the BCMC Rural Health Clinic, please like the BCMC Rural Health Clinic page on Facebook.

BCMC Home Health Earns CAHPS Patient Satisfaction Award of Distinction

The Bradley County Medical Center Home Health department has been presented a Home Health CAHPS (Consumer Assessment of Healthcare Providers and Systems) Patient Satisfaction Award of Distinction by WellSky for 2023.

This award is given to home health departments that have exhibited superior performance in patient satisfaction during the 2022 calendar year. Based on overall patient survey results, BCMC Home Health has been named a national best practice agency by WellSky.

Based on a comparative analysis of agencies involved in WellSky’s Home Health CAHPS system for the past year, BCMC’s results for the Overall Satisfaction or Likelihood of Recommending survey questions placed them in the top 25% of WellSky’s National Home Health CAHPS database.

BCMC’s Home Health department has received a number of accolades over the years. This Patient Satisfaction Award of Distinction is the fourth time the department has been recognized with this honor since 2015.

For the latest news and updates regarding BCMC please like the Bradley County Medical Center Facebook page or follow us on Instagram (BCMCWarren) or X, formerly Twitter (@BCMC Warren). To keep up with the most recent news and updates for the BCMC Rural Health Clinic, please like the BCMC Rural Health Clinic page on Facebook.

LifeShare Blood Drive Scheduled for Dec. 29 at BCMC

Bradley County Medical Center is proud to announce its upcoming LifeShare Blood Drive scheduled for Friday, Dec. 29 from 1 p.m. to 7 p.m. This critical event will take place at the BCMC Rural Health Clinic, located at 304 East Central Street, where the LifeShare Bus will be stationed.

BCMC urges everyone who is eligible to donate blood to consider participating in this vital event on Friday, Dec. 29. Potential donors can reserve a time slot online through the donor portal on www.lifeshare.org. You do not have to make an appointment as walk-ins are encouraged. Every donor will receive a token of appreciation in the form of a $10 Walmart gift card for their selfless contribution. Together, the Warren community can ensure that local hospitals have the necessary resources to provide quality healthcare when it matters most.

Every two seconds, someone somewhere needs blood. One of every seven people who enter the hospital will need blood. That person could be you, your loved one, friend, or co-worker. With all the wonderful advances in modern medicine, there still is NO substitute for human blood. The blood that helps patients comes only from caring people who volunteer to help others by donating their life-saving blood.

Every year, countless lives are saved through the generosity of blood donors, and Bradley County Medical Center is calling upon the community to join forces for this life-saving cause. The event aims to bolster blood supplies during a crucial time, ensuring that hospitals and medical facilities have an ample and steady blood inventory.

LifeShare Blood Center, established in Shreveport, La., in 1942, regularly supplies blood components and related services to more than 100 medical facilities and hospitals throughout Louisiana, East Texas and South Arkansas. LifeShare is a member of America’s Blood Centers and the American Rare Donor Program, is licensed by the U.S. Food & Drug Administration, and accredited by AABB. LifeShare Blood Center is a 501(c)(3) nonprofit community blood bank governed by a volunteer Board of Trustees.

For the latest news and updates regarding BCMC please like the Bradley County Medical Center Facebook page, follow us on Instagram (BCMCWarren), or X, formerly Twitter, (@BCMC Warren). To keep up with the most recent news and updates for the BCMC Rural Health Clinic, please like the BCMC Rural Health Clinic page on Facebook.

BCMC Closes Obstetrics Department

The mission of Bradley County Medical Center is to provide superior care to every patient, every time. However, as the governing board of the hospital, and the Senior Leadership team of BCMC look forward to the long-term sustainability of our facility, the difficult decision to close the obstetrics (OB) program has been made.

As emotional as this decision has been, a recent revenue analysis by Stroudwater & Associates shows that our OB program is no longer sustainable for the following reasons:

• Volumes and changing demographics - The number of deliveries at BCMC has continued to decline yearly. While there is a nationwide decrease in births, there are newer facilities with specialized OB services to serve our region.

• Revenue loss - The OB department at BCMC is losing more than $1 million annually. While our mission does not change, we must improve our financial position to grow and provide service lines that offer the most benefit to our community.

“We have gone over the numbers and made every effort to avoid this decision,” stated Leslie Huitt, BCMC CEO/CFO. “As a critical access hospital, we had hoped to be the exception in providing OB services. But it is now time to swallow this bitter pill and move forward in our plans to grow and accommodate the healthcare needs of community.”

Moving forward, the BCMC Rural Health Clinic is not closing and will continue to provide all family care services to its patients. We are also accepting new patients currently.

• Effective immediately, the Rural Health Clinic will be helping any existing OB patients in transitioning their care to the provider of their choice. We will work to ensure this is as seamless as possible.
• Any OB patients who present to the BCMC Emergency Room will be treated in the ER and transferred as safety permits to another facility.

While we understand that the closure of obstetrics at BCMC after all these years is difficult, we are hopeful for what the future of our hospital and the healthcare landscape in Bradley County can become.

Get Your Mammogram at BCMC During Breast Cancer Awareness Month

October is #BreastCancerAwarenessMonth and it's time to get your mammogram at BCMC. Call the BCMC Radiology Department at 870-226-4165 to schedule your Genius™ 3D Mammogram during the month of October. Every one that comes in for their mammogram will receive a small gift and be entered into a drawing for a gift basket at the end of the month.

BCMC Will Host LifeShare Blood Drive Thursday, Aug. 31

There will be a LifeShare Blood Drive on Thursday, Aug. 31 from 1 p.m. to 7 p.m. in the LifeShare bus that will be set up in the BCMC Rural Health Clinic parking lot. The BCMC Rural Health Clinic is located at 304 East Central Street across the road from the Emergency Room entrance at Bradley County Medical Center.

Blood donations are in dire need as contributions are down nationwide. Local blood drives are the main source of blood for Bradley County Medical Center and the other hospitals in our region. If you are able to donate blood, please consider becoming a contributor on Aug. 31. Donors will receive a free limited-edition insulated water bottle with carry handle, while supplies last. Potential donors can reserve a time slot online through the donor portal on www.lifeshare.org.

Every two seconds, someone somewhere needs blood. One of every seven people who enter the hospital will need blood. That person could be you, your loved one, friend, or co-worker. With all the wonderful advances in modern medicine, there still is NO substitute for human blood. The blood that helps patients comes only from caring people who volunteer to help others by donating their life-saving blood.

LifeShare Blood Center, established in Shreveport, La., in 1942, regularly supplies blood components and related services to more than 100 medical facilities and hospitals throughout Louisiana, East Texas and South Arkansas. LifeShare is a member of America’s Blood Centers and the American Rare Donor Program, is licensed by the U.S. Food & Drug Administration, and accredited by AABB. LifeShare Blood Center is a 501(c)(3) nonprofit community blood bank governed by a volunteer Board of Trustees.

For the latest news and updates regarding BCMC please like the Bradley County Medical Center Facebook page, follow us on Instagram (BCMCWarren), or Twitter (@BCMC Warren). To keep up with the most recent news and updates for the BCMC Rural Health Clinic, please like the BCMC Rural Health Clinic page on Facebook.

BCMC Hosts Successful MASH Camp

The 2023 version of MASH Camp at Bradley County Medical Center was recently completed as the hospital hosted seven students from Warren High School and one from Rison High School for two weeks full of medical related activities that started on Monday, June 19 and ended on Friday, June 30.

MASH, which stands for Medical Applications of Science for Health, Camps are put on throughout a number of hospitals across Arkansas thanks to UAMS and Arkansas Farm Bureau. BCMC’s Labor and Delivery Nurse Manager Krissy Morrison and Emergency Department Nurse Manager Cheryl Wells took the lead for this year’s program as they have the last few years.

This year’s students from Warren included Alex Ayala, Ashlyn Crawford, Anna Mitchell, Adyson Rauls, MaCalia Thomas, Jolie Trussell, and Murphie Wilkinson. Rison High School’s Jared Saeler rounded out this year’s group.

The beginning of the camp started out with Alexee Chambers from Healing Chambers and included a visit from Kayla Gates of Gentiva Hospice. The last visitor of the day was Rick Beckner, RN, for a message about emergency preparedness, while the students had several educational activities led by Morrison and Wells along with a presentation from Tim Vandiver of the UAMS Stroke Program. The next day saw SouthArk faculty and students help with vital signs before a program from UAMS MASH Program Director Stephen Attebery. The day ended with a trip to Frazer’s Funeral Home in Warren and the UAM School of Nursing Simulation Lab with Dr. Brandy Haley.

Wednesday, June 21 started with a visit to Kids First in Warren with Jessica Griffin followed by hand hygiene and an introduction to medical records by BCMC’s Barbara Barnes-Saffel, RN, and Caleb Longoria, respectively. After lunch the students were in two different groups for presentations from BCMC Senior Care. One was a dementia simulation with Charlotte Clausen of the UAMS Center on Aging, while Brandy Files taught Nonviolent Crisis De-Escalation Tips. Thursday’s morning was spent in BCMC Surgery with the staff and Certified Registered Nurse Anesthetist Jan Gorman before hearing from Mainline’s Dietitian. The day concluded with suturing from Anthony Rodriguez, APRN, of Mainline and a trip to the BCMC Rural Health Clinic.

The conclusion of week one started with a tour of the Arkansas Rural Health Partnership van that has information about workforce and training opportunities in healthcare. Next on the agenda was a hands-on experience with the BCMC Respiratory Department’s Stephanie Slaughter and Sharee Williams on intubation and an ultrasound demonstration from BCMC’s Leeanna Williams. After lunch the group had an extensive visit with Jimmy Plyler and Justin Starnes of the Arkansas State Police, followed by diabetic education from Karen Rawls, RN.

The next Monday the campers were able to visit Dr. Doug Mullins with the Monticello Animal Clinic due to the power outage in Warren and then took off to El Dorado for SouthArk’s Simulation Lab and Escape Room. The day ended with CPR and First Aid by Kasey Reep and Emily Harton. Tuesday began with the BCMC Outpatient Therapy Department at the Brunson Medical Complex with an injection lab from SouthArk faculty and students after. The students then heard from Alleyssa Horn of New Outlook Counseling and underwent Narcan Training put on at BCMC by the ARHP. Next up was a visit with BCMC’s Peer Recovery Specialist Samantha Johnson followed by an obstetrics experience with Dr. Kristen Dent, Jessica Dawson, and Jasmin Cruz Queriapa.

Tuesday evening was a very special experience for the campers as they were able to witness a vehicle extrication training exercise with the help of the Warren Fire Department, Warren Police Department, EASI, and BCMC emergency room team. Wednesday morning saw the campers perform animal heart dissections with Dr. Michelle Weaver followed by some time with BCMC Radiology and Dr. Shannon Turner of RAPA. Wednesday afternoon was full with a presentation from Buddy Boldon on biomedical engineering, a trip to the Brunson Medical Complex to meet with DaVita Dialysis, casting with Dr. Dichelle George, and a visit from the Warren Lions Club.

Thursday’s morning featured meetings with the BCMC Laboratory and Pharmacy Departments before a trip to the Donald W. Reynolds YMCA of Warren and Bradley County with a presentation by Stacie Stone. Tyler Turner of LifeTouch Hospice then spoke to the campers after lunch with more time with the lab and pharmacy to end the day.

The last day of the camp began with a very interesting meeting with Pafford AirOne about the helicopter and was followed by a trip to Dr. Bob Smalling’s office. The students then heard from BCMC’s EMR Coordinator Lauren Case, had lunch, and then had an awards ceremony for friends and family in the newly renovated BCMC Conference Room.

The BCMC MASH Committee consisted of Morrison, Wells, Jamie Wolfe, Brooke Hatch, Lisa Williams, Barbara Barnes-Saffel, Lee Taylor, and Dennen Cuthbertson. Volunteers throughout the two weeks included Amber White, Holly Curry, Cliff Moore, Candice Warner, Ashley Gilbert, Jessica Jones, Codi Temple, and Sydney Broome.

The BCMC MASH Committee would like to thank Union Bank, Timber Logistics, Interfor, Chapel Woods, LifeTouch Hospice, Cura, Kay Robinson, Selena Jacks (Anna Boo’s Florist and Gifts), Beverly and Charley Rauls, and Amanda Rauls for proving food and/or snacks during the camp.

For the latest news and updates regarding BCMC please like the Bradley County Medical Center Facebook page or follow us on Instagram (BCMCWarren) or Twitter (@BCMC Warren). To keep up with the most recent news and updates for the BCMC Rural Health Clinic, please like the BCMC Rural Health Clinic page on Facebook.

LifeShare Blood Drive Scheduled at BCMC on Thursday, June 29

There will be a LifeShare Blood Drive on Thursday, June 29 from 1 p.m. to 7 p.m. in the LifeShare bus that will be set up in the BCMC Rural Health Clinic parking lot. The BCMC Rural Health Clinic is located at 304 East Central Street across the road from the Emergency Room entrance at Bradley County Medical Center.

Blood donations are significantly needed as contributions are in a downturn across the nation. Local blood drives are the main source of blood for Bradley County Medical Center and the other hospitals in our region. If you can donate blood, please consider becoming a contributor on June 29. Donors will receive a free Power of You LifeShare towel, while supplies last. Potential donors can reserve a time slot online through the donor portal on www.lifeshare.org.

Every two seconds, someone somewhere needs blood. One of every seven people who enter the hospital will need blood. That person maybe you, your loved one, friend, or co-worker. With all the wonderful advances in modern medicine, there still is NO substitute for human blood. The blood that helps patients comes only from caring people who volunteer to help others by donating their life-saving blood.

LifeShare Blood Center, established in Shreveport, La., in 1942, regularly supplies blood components and related services to more than 100 medical facilities and hospitals throughout Louisiana, East Texas and South Arkansas. LifeShare is a member of America’s Blood Centers and the American Rare Donor Program, is licensed by the U.S. Food & Drug Administration, and accredited by AABB. LifeShare Blood Center is a 501(c)(3) nonprofit community blood bank governed by a volunteer Board of Trustees.

For the latest news and updates regarding BCMC please like the Bradley County Medical Center Facebook page, follow us on Instagram (BCMCWarren), or Twitter (@BCMC Warren). To keep up with the most recent news and updates for the BCMC Rural Health Clinic, please like the BCMC Rural Health Clinic page on Facebook.

BCMC to Host LifeShare Blood Drive Thursday, April 27

There will be a LifeShare Blood Drive on Thursday, April 27 from 1 p.m. to 7 p.m. in the LifeShare bus that will be set up in the BCMC Rural Health Clinic parking lot. The BCMC Rural Health Clinic is located at 304 East Central Street across the road from the Emergency Room entrance at Bradley County Medical Center.

Blood donations are significantly needed currently as contributions are in a downturn across the nation. Local blood drives are the main source of blood for Bradley County Medical Center and the other hospitals in our region. If you can donate blood, please consider becoming a contributor on Thursday, April 27.

Every two seconds, someone somewhere needs blood. One of every seven people who enter the hospital will need blood. That person maybe you, your loved one, friend, or co-worker. With all the wonderful advances in modern medicine, there still is NO substitute for human blood. The blood that helps patients comes only from caring people who volunteer to help others by donating their life-saving blood.

It is safe to donate blood. COVID-19 does not pose any known risk to blood donors during the donation process or from attending blood drives. It is also safe to donate blood if you have received a COVID-19 vaccination.

LifeShare Blood Center, established in Shreveport, La., in 1942, regularly supplies blood components and related services to more than 100 medical facilities and hospitals throughout Louisiana, East Texas and South Arkansas. LifeShare is a member of America’s Blood Centers and the American Rare Donor Program, is licensed by the U.S. Food & Drug Administration, and accredited by AABB. LifeShare Blood Center is a 501(c)(3) nonprofit community blood bank governed by a volunteer Board of Trustees.

For the latest news and updates regarding BCMC please like the Bradley County Medical Center Facebook page or follow us on Instagram (BCMCWarren) or Twitter (@BCMC Warren). To keep up with the most recent news and updates for the BCMC Rural Health Clinic, please like the BCMC Rural Health Clinic page on Facebook.

Joseph Huitt Earns BCMC's DAISY Award

Joseph "Joe" Huitt, RN, was honored as the most recent recipient of The DAISY Award for Extraordinary Nurses ® Tuesday afternoon at Bradley County Medical Center. This award is part of the DAISY Foundation's mission to recognize the extraordinary, compassionate nursing care they provide patients and families every day.

Huitt's nomination stated that he is an absolute, wonderful above and beyond nurse. It continued by saying that Huitt took excellent care of their dad during his stay at BCMC along with being attentive and wasn't a rush in, rush out kind of nurse. The nomination continued with, "He listens, and he is also a great asset to the BCMC, you are blessed to have him. Everyone took great care of my dad, he really enjoyed having Joe as his nurse, all his other caregivers were great as well, but to nominate one, we nominate Joe Huitt."

A nurse on BCMC's Med-Surg Unit, Huitt received a certificate commending him for being an "Extraordinary Nurse." The certificate reads: "In deep appreciation of all you do, who you are, and the incredibly meaningful difference you make in the lives of so many people." Additionally, he was given a beautiful and meaningful sculpture called "A Healer's Touch," hand-carved by artists of the Shona Tribe in Africa, and a banner for the Med-Surg Unit.

In addition to Huitt, two other nurses were finalists for the award including Halee Byrd, RN, and Dana Sawyer, RN. Each nominee received an honorary DAISY pin. The award ceremony featured all three candidates receiving a pin and Huitt being presented his award. Cinnamon rolls, fruit, and punch were served to all who attended the ceremony.

The DAISY Foundation is a not-for-profit organization, established in memory of J. Patrick Barnes, by members of his family. Patrick died at the age of 33 in late 1999 from complications of Idiopathic Thrombocytopenic Purpura (ITP), a little known but not uncommon auto-immune disease. (DAISY is an acronym for Diseases Attacking the Immune System.) The care Patrick and his family received from nurses while he was ill inspired this unique means of thanking nurses for making a profound difference in the lives of their patients and patient families.

Nurses were nominated by patients, families, and colleagues. The nominations were blinded and voted on by the DAISY Committee led by ER Nurse Manager Cheryl Wells, RN, who serves as BCMC's DAISY coordinator. The nominations were graded based on set criteria, a numeric value was assigned based on these criteria, and awards were determined based on score. The committee members voted. The process was overseen by the DAISY coordinator.

The Award at Bradley County Medical Center is co-sponsored by generous donations. Initial funding was provided by the facility. The program is maintained through generous support from donors, including anonymous donors, committee members, the BCMC Employee Appreciation Council, and other fundraisers.

This is one initiative of The DAISY Foundation to express gratitude to the nursing profession. Additionally, DAISY offers J. Patrick Barnes Grants for Nursing Research and Evidence-Based Practice Projects, The DAISY Faculty Award to honor inspiring faculty members in schools and colleges of nursing, and The DAISY in Training Award for nursing students. More information is available at http://DAISYfoundation.org.

For the latest news and updates regarding BCMC please like the Bradley County Medical Center Facebook page or follow us on Instagram (BCMCWarren) or Twitter (@BCMC Warren). To keep up with the most recent news and updates for the BCMC Rural Health Clinic, please like the BCMC Rural Health Clinic page on Facebook.

BCMC Recognized as a Top 100 Critical Access Hospital by The Chartis Center for Rural Health

Bradley County Medical Center has been recognized as a 2023 Top 100 Critical Access Hospital by The Chartis Center for Rural Health. This annual recognition program honors outstanding performance among the nation's rural hospitals based on the results of the Chartis Rural Hospital Performance INDEX™.

BCMC was one of just four Critical Access Hospitals in Arkansas to earn Top 100 status. Currently there are 28 Critical Access Hospitals in Arkansas and 1,360 across the entire United States.

"The hospital business is a tough business to be in right now," BCMC CEO/CFO Leslie Huitt remarked. "Some days the challenges seem insurmountable. Then, recognition like this comes along and helps us all to remember our why. Quality hometown care matters! I am extremely proud of the care that BCMC provides to our community. BCMC will continue to do great things. This is just the beginning."

"Across the nation, top 100 rural providers continue to serve as a source of inspiration for hospital leadership teams and staff working diligently every day to improve the delivery of care within their local communities," said Michael Topchik, National Leader, the Chartis Center for Rural Health. "The list of award winners in each category is as geographically diverse as we've seen in some time, which is wonderful to see. We're thrilled to be able to honor the outstanding efforts of these top performing rural hospitals."

Now in its 13th year, the INDEX has established itself as the industry's most comprehensive and objective assessment of rural hospital performance. Leveraging publicly available data, the INDEX is trusted by rural hospitals, health systems with rural affiliates, hospital associations and state offices of rural health across the country to measure and monitor performance across a variety of areas impacting hospital operations and finance.

Bradley County Medical Center opened in 1951 and has been serving Southeast Arkansas as a Critical Access Hospital since 2005. The CAH designation is designed to reduce the financial vulnerability of rural hospitals and improve access to healthcare by keeping essential services in rural communities. Services that can be found at BCMC include the emergency department, home health, laboratory, medical-surgical unit, obstetrics, outpatient clinics, outpatient therapy, radiology, respiratory therapy, senior care, surgery, swing bed, and wound care. Additionally, the hospital operates the BCMC Rural Health Clinic.

For the latest news and updates regarding BCMC please like the Bradley County Medical Center Facebook page or follow us on Instagram (BCMCWarren) or Twitter (@BCMC Warren). To keep up with the most recent news and updates for the BCMC Rural Health Clinic, please like the BCMC Rural Health Clinic page on Facebook.

LifeShare Blood Drive Scheduled for Feb. 21 at BCMC

There will be a LifeShare Blood Drive on Tuesday, Feb. 21 from 1 p.m. to 7 p.m. in the LifeShare bus that will be set up in the BCMC Rural Health Clinic parking lot. The BCMC Rural Health Clinic is located at 304 East Central Street across the road from the Emergency Room entrance at Bradley County Medical Center.

Blood donations are significantly needed at this time as contributions are down nationally. Local blood drives are the main source of blood for Bradley County Medical Center and the other hospitals in our region. If you are able to donate blood, please consider stopping by the LifeShare bus on Feb. 21.

Every two seconds, someone somewhere needs blood. One of every seven people who enter the hospital will need blood. That person maybe you, your loved one, friend, or co-worker. With all the wonderful advances in modern medicine, there still is NO substitute for human blood. The blood that helps patients comes only from caring people who volunteer to help others by donating their life-saving blood.

It is safe to donate blood. COVID-19 does not pose any known risk to blood donors during the donation process or from attending blood drives. It is also safe to donate blood if you have received a COVID-19 vaccination.

LifeShare Blood Center, established in Shreveport, La., in 1942, regularly supplies blood components and related services to more than 100 medical facilities and hospitals throughout Louisiana, East Texas and South Arkansas. LifeShare is a member of America's Blood Centers and the American Rare Donor Program, is licensed by the U.S. Food & Drug Administration, and accredited by AABB. LifeShare Blood Center is a 501(c)(3) nonprofit community blood bank governed by a volunteer Board of Trustees.

For the latest news and updates regarding BCMC please like the Bradley County Medical Center Facebook page or follow us on Instagram (BCMCWarren) or Twitter (@BCMC Warren). To keep up with the most recent news and updates for the BCMC Rural Health Clinic, please like the BCMC Rural Health Clinic page on Facebook.

BCMC Chosen to Participate in Delta Region Community Health Systems Development (DRCHSD) Program

On behalf of the Health Resources Services Administration's Federal Office of Rural Health Policy (FORHP), and Delta Regional Authority (DRA), The National Rural Health Resource Center (The Center) is excited to announce Bradley County Medical Center has been selected to participate in the Delta Region Community Health Systems Development (DRCHSD) Program. Through the DRCHSD Program, the DRA and FORHP have partnered to support rural communities with an opportunity to receive intensive technical assistance (TA).

The TA consists of various assessments, onsite consultations, workshops and educational trainings, which will be provided through a multi-year phased-in approach. The Program is designed to increase the efficiency of the local health care delivery system practices by focusing on care coordination, social services integration, emergency medical services access, and workforce recruitment and retention with the goal to:
• Improve financial position and increase operational efficiencies
• Implement quality improvements that support an evidenced-based culture for improved health outcomes
• Address workforce recruitment and retention needs
• Increase use of telemedicine to fill service gaps and access to care
• Ensure access to and availability of Emergency Medical Services
• Integrate social services to address socio-economic challenges
• Enhance coordination of care and develop a community care coordination plan
• Strengthen the local health care delivery system to position for population health

With the support of the DRA and FORHP, The Center is proud to recognize Bradley County Medical Center for this outstanding accomplishment! The Center looks forward to working with Bradley County Medical Center and its community of Warren, Arkansas.

This project is supported by the Health Resources and Services Administration (HRSA) of the U.S. Department of Health and Human Services (HHS) under grant number U65RH31261, Delta Region Health Systems Development, $10,000,000 (0% financed with nongovernmental sources). This information or content and conclusions are those of the author and should not be construed as the official position or policy of, nor should any endorsements be inferred by HRSA, HHS or the U.S. Government.

"I am extremely grateful and excited that Bradley County Medical Center has been chosen to be a part of the DRCHSD Program," BCMC CEO/CFO Leslie Huitt said. "The learning opportunities are endless and the knowledge we gain through participation will have a positive impact on BCMC for years to come. There are great things happening at BCMC!"

To learn more about the DRA and FORHP collaboration to support rural communities through the DRCHSD Program, visit the Delta Regional Authority website.

For the latest news and updates regarding BCMC please like the Bradley County Medical Center Facebook page or follow us on Instagram (BCMCWarren) or Twitter (@BCMC Warren). To keep up with the most recent news and updates for the BCMC Rural Health Clinic, please like the BCMC Rural Health Clinic page on Facebook.

Barnes Earns January 2023 Employee of the Month Award and January BCMC Superstars Announced

BCMC's Employee of the Month for January is Peggy Barnes of the Home Health Department. Peggy's nomination mentioned that she is positive and supportive of all home health staff and patients and goes above and beyond what is expected. She coordinated a plan to replace steps for a patient that had a safety issue and took care of this herself. She will buy shower chairs and benches from yard sales and get them in working order for any patients that are in need. Additionally, Peggy is a team player and is willing to reschedule call days or patients without complaints and has also helped the Auxiliary advertise for the BCMC Thrift Shop that is located at Brunson.

Additionally, BCMC named its January Superstars and they are:
→ Dana Sawyer
→ Terry Young
→ Sherazade (Leng) Guanzon
→ Amberleigh Hopson
→ Halee Byrd
→ Dee Rogers
→ Cindy York
→ Peggy Barnes
→ Joyce Lephiew
→ Tia Girtman
→ Bruce Sullivan
→ Beverly Rauls
→ Theretha "Lady T" White
→ Ulanda Lewis
→ Thelma Ferrell
→ Deborah Green

Battles Named BCMC's Latest DAISY Award Recipient

Tina Battles, RN, was chosen as the latest recipient of The DAISY Award for Extraordinary Nurses ® Monday morning at Bradley County Medical Center. This award is part of the DAISY Foundation's mission to recognize the extraordinary, compassionate nursing care they provide patients and families every day.

The nomination for Battles stated that she had been excellent to the nominee's husband during their stay at BCMC. It went on to express that Battles was good at explaining the medication her husband was receiving and what it was for. A direct quote from the nomination stated, "My husband loved having her because she treated him with excellent care and was so good to the family while we were here visiting. Tina is an asset to BCMC and she helped make our stay pleasant."

An employee of Bradley County Medical Center for more than 30 years, Battles received a certificate commending her for being an "Extraordinary Nurse." The certificate reads: "In deep appreciation of all you do, who you are, and the incredibly meaningful difference you make in the lives of so many people." Additionally, she was given a beautiful and meaningful sculpture called "A Healer's Touch," hand-carved by artists of the Shona Tribe in Africa, a box of cinnamon rolls, and a banner for her office.

In addition to Battles being nominated and receiving the award, the other candidates were Sabrina Peacock and Rebecca Powell. Each nominee received an honorary pin.

The DAISY Foundation is a not-for-profit organization, established in memory of J. Patrick Barnes, by members of his family. Patrick died at the age of 33 in late 1999 from complications of Idiopathic Thrombocytopenic Purpura (ITP), a little known but not uncommon auto-immune disease. (DAISY is an acronym for Diseases Attacking the Immune System.) The care Patrick and his family received from nurses while he was ill inspired this unique means of thanking nurses for making a profound difference in the lives of their patients and patient families.

Nurses were nominated by patients, families, and colleagues. The nominations were blinded and voted on by the DAISY Committee. ER Nurse Manager Cheryl Wells, RN serves as BCMC's DAISY coordinator. The nominations were graded based on set criteria, a numeric value was assigned based on this criteria, and awards were determined based on score. The committee members voted. The process was overseen by the DAISY coordinator.

The Award at Bradley County Medical Center is co-sponsored by generous donations. Initial funding was provided by the facility. The program is maintained through generous support from donors, including anonymous donors, committee members, the BCMC Employee Appreciation Council, and other fundraisers.

This is one initiative of The DAISY Foundation to express gratitude to the nursing profession. Additionally, DAISY offers J. Patrick Barnes Grants for Nursing Research and Evidence-Based Practice Projects, The DAISY Faculty Award to honor inspiring faculty members in schools and colleges of nursing, and The DAISY in Training Award for nursing students. More information is available at http://DAISYfoundation.org.

For the latest news and updates regarding BCMC please like the Bradley County Medical Center Facebook page or follow us on Instagram (BCMCWarren) or Twitter (@BCMC Warren). To keep up with the most recent news and updates for the BCMC Rural Health Clinic, please like the BCMC Rural Health Clinic page on Facebook.

LifeShare Blood Drive Set for Dec. 27 with Blood Donations in Great Demand

There will be a LifeShare Blood Drive on Tuesday, Dec. 27 from 1 p.m. to 6 p.m. in the LifeShare bus that will be set up in the BCMC Rural Health Clinic parking lot. The BCMC Rural Health Clinic is located at 304 East Central Street across the road from the Emergency Room entrance at Bradley County Medical Center.

Blood donations are in great demand at this time as contributions are down across the country. Local blood drives are the main source of blood for Bradley County Medical Center and the other hospitals in our region. If you are able to donate blood, please consider stopping by the LifeShare bus on Dec. 27. Donors could get a free LifeShare hooded sweatshirt while supplies last.

Every two seconds, someone somewhere needs blood. One of every seven people who enter the hospital will need blood. That person maybe you, your loved one, friend, or co-worker. With all the wonderful advances in modern medicine, there still is NO substitute for human blood. The blood that helps patients comes only from caring people who volunteer to help others by donating their life-saving blood.

It is safe to donate blood. COVID-19 does not pose any known risk to blood donors during the donation process or from attending blood drives. It is also safe to donate blood if you have received a COVID-19 vaccination.

LifeShare Blood Center, established in Shreveport, La., in 1942, regularly supplies blood components and related services to more than 100 medical facilities and hospitals throughout Louisiana, East Texas and South Arkansas. LifeShare is a member of America's Blood Centers and the American Rare Donor Program, is licensed by the U.S. Food & Drug Administration, and accredited by AABB. LifeShare Blood Center is a 501(c)(3) nonprofit community blood bank governed by a volunteer Board of Trustees.

For the latest news and updates regarding BCMC please like the Bradley County Medical Center Facebook page or follow us on Instagram (BCMCWarren) or Twitter (@BCMC Warren). To keep up with the most recent news and updates for the BCMC Rural Health Clinic, please like the BCMC Rural Health Clinic page on Facebook.

BCMC's Huitt Named Hospital CFO of the Year by Arkansas Business

Bradley County Medical Center's Leslie Huitt was named the Hospital CFO of the Year by Arkansas Business in a ceremony Wednesday afternoon at the DoubleTree Hotel in Little Rock.

A native of Hermitage, Ark., Huitt was the BCMC Chief Financial Officer prior to being named the Chief Executive Officer of the hospital this past June. She was named one of four finalists for the Arkansas Business Hospital CFO of the Year award in September prior to being named the winner of the honor during Wednesday's ceremony.

Huitt is a Certified Public Accountant and has more than 20 years of accounting experience with more than eight years of time in management positions. She was named BCMC's Interim CEO in November of 2021 and had served in a dual role of Interim CEO and CFO for seven months before having the interim tag removed in June.

Under Huitt's leadership, Bradley County Medical Center retained its four-star status from the Centers for Medicare and Medicaid Services (CMS) under Huitt's watch. BCMC is the only hospital within a 50-mile radius to earn a four-star overall rating from CMS and also receive four stars on the patient survey rating.

In addition to the Hospital CFO of the Year award being announced, Arkansas Business also presented accolades for CFO Lifetime Achievement, Lifetime Achievement in Accounting, Small Private Company CFO of the Year, Large Private Company CFO of the Year, Nonprofit CFO of the Year, and Public Sector/Education CFO of the Year during the awards ceremony. The winners in all categories were chosen by a panel of five judges, all of whom were previous CFO of the Year honorees.

The Arkansas Business CFO of the Year Awards ceremony was presented by HoganTaylor, with Arkansas Business Publisher Mitch Bettis and Editor Lance Turner both emceeing the event with around 250 people in attendance.

For the latest news and updates regarding BCMC please like the Bradley County Medical Center Facebook page or follow us on Instagram (BCMCWarren) or Twitter (@BCMC Warren). To keep up with the most recent news and updates for the BCMC Rural Health Clinic, please like the BCMC Rural Health Clinic page on Facebook.

Dr. JoFrances Marquez to Begin General Surgery at BCMC

Bradley County Medical Center is pleased to announce Dr. JoFrances Marquez will begin general surgery on Tuesday, Nov. 1 and will be at BCMC every Tuesday for clinics and procedures.

Dr. Marquez, whose home facility is Ashley County Medical Center, will work with the BCMC Surgery Department every Tuesday. Some surgeries Dr. Marquez can perform include appendectomies, cholecystectomies, sigmoidoscopies, hernia repairs, colonoscopies, EGDs, port placements, lesion excisions, and more.

A native of the Philippines, Dr. Marquez received his medical degree from the University of the East Ramon Magsaysay Memorial Medical Center College of Medicine in 1998. He completed his residency program at Wayne State University in Detroit, Michigan in 2014 after moving to the United States. He is certified by the American Board of Surgery and is also a member of the Fellow American College of Surgeons.

Dr. Marquez is married to Roselle Tanya Lim Garcia, who is also a physician, and they have three children; Raymond, Lucianna and Nathaniel.

For the latest news and updates regarding BCMC please like the Bradley County Medical Center Facebook page or follow us on Instagram (BCMCWarren) or Twitter (@BCMC Warren). To keep up with the most recent news and updates for the BCMC Rural Health Clinic, please like the BCMC Rural Health Clinic page on Facebook.

LifeShare Blood Drive Set for Oct. 13 at BCMC with Vital Need for Donations

There will be a LifeShare Blood Drive on Thursday, Oct. 13 from 1 p.m. to 6 p.m. in the LifeShare bus that will be set up in the BCMC Rural Health Clinic parking lot. The BCMC Rural Health Clinic is located at 304 East Central Street across the road from the Emergency Room entrance at Bradley County Medical Center.

Blood donations are vital at this time as blood donations are down across the country, especially in our region. Local blood drives are the main source of blood for Bradley County Medical Center and the other hospitals in our surrounding area. If you are able to donate blood, please consider stopping by the LifeShare bus on Oct. 13. Donors will get a free "Changing Seasons" T-shirt while supplies last.

Every two seconds, someone somewhere needs blood. One of every seven people who enter the hospital will need blood. That person maybe you, your loved one, friend, or co-worker. With all the wonderful advances in modern medicine, there still is NO substitute for human blood. The blood that helps patients comes only from caring people who volunteer to help others by donating their life-saving blood.

It is safe to donate blood. COVID-19 does not pose any known risk to blood donors during the donation process or from attending blood drives. It is also safe to donate blood if you have received a COVID-19 vaccination.

LifeShare Blood Center, established in Shreveport, La., in 1942, regularly supplies blood components and related services to more than 100 medical facilities and hospitals throughout Louisiana, East Texas and South Arkansas. LifeShare is a member of America's Blood Centers and the American Rare Donor Program, is licensed by the U.S. Food & Drug Administration, and accredited by AABB. LifeShare Blood Center is a 501(c)(3) nonprofit community blood bank governed by a volunteer Board of Trustees.

For the latest news and updates regarding BCMC please like the Bradley County Medical Center Facebook page or follow us on Instagram (BCMCWarren) or Twitter (@BCMC Warren). To keep up with the most recent news and updates for the BCMC Rural Health Clinic, please like the BCMC Rural Health Clinic page on Facebook.

BCMC's Huitt Named a Finalist for Arkansas Business Hospital CFO of the Year

Arkansas Business recently announced its 2022 CFO of the Year award finalists with Bradley County Medical Center's CEO Leslie Huitt among the final four for Hospital CFO of the Year.

Huitt was just recently named Chief Executive Officer of the hospital in June after serving as the Interim CEO and Chief Financial Officer. She has been with BCMC since May of 2020 and has excelled in her role as evidenced by her being selected as a finalist for the Hospital CFO of the Year by Arkansas Business. Not only did Huitt come to BCMC during the height of the COVID-19 pandemic, she had to serve a dual role as Interim CEO and CFO for seven months before being named Bradley County Medical Center's CEO.

BCMC recently announced it has maintained its four-star status from the Centers for Medicare and Medicaid Services (CMS) under Huitt's watch. Bradley County Medical Center is the only hospital within a 50-mile radius to earn a four-star overall rating from CMS and receive four stars on the patient survey rating. During Huitt's interim tenure she began the process of developing a master plan for the hospital, obtained a USDA grant, and oversaw the installment of a new CT scanner.

Arkansas Business announced all of the 2022 CFO of the Year finalists and Lifetime Achievement Award winners recently. This year, Jeffery Holt of Stallion Transportation Group has earned the CFO Lifetime Achievement Award, and Mike Carroll now retired from Beall Barclay, formerly Landmark CPAs, will receive the Lifetime Achievement Award in Accounting.

This is the 13th year Arkansas Business has honored outstanding CFOs from around the state. Nomination forms were submitted to an independent panel of judges who met in August to determine finalists and winners.

Presented by Hogan Taylor, the 2022 CFO of the Year Awards will be hosted at the DoubleTree Little Rock as Arkansas Business Publisher Mitch Bettis and Editor Lance Turner highlight what sets these finalists apart.

Finalists and winners in each category will be honored at a special event on Nov. 2. And profiles of each of them will be published in a special supplement of Arkansas Business on Oct. 31. In-person ticket packages are available for purchase at ArkansasBusiness.com/CFO.

CFO of the Year 2022 Finalists
CFO LIFETIME ACHIEVEMENT
Jeffery Holt, Stallion Transportation Group

CFO LIFETIME IN ACCOUNTING
Mike Carroll, retired from Beall Barclay (now Landmark CPAs)

LARGE PRIVATE COMPANY CFO FINALISTS:
Jennifer Bridges, OrthoArkansas
Ashley Sims, Rock Dental Brands
Chad Ware, Central States Manufacturing, Inc.

NONPROFIT ORGANIZATION CFO FINALISTS:
Katie Dailey, Arkansas Humanities Council
Sylvia Murchison, Goodwill Industries of Arkansas
Phyllis Rogers, Arkansas Foundation for Medical Care

PUBLIC SECTOR/EDUCATION CFO FINALISTS:
TyRhonda Henderson, City of Texarkana, Arkansas
Adam Motherwell, Beaver Water District
Gaye Manning, Southern Arkansas University Tech

HOSPITAL CFO FINALISTS:
Leslie Huitt, Bradley County Medical Center
Kyle Sanders, NEA Baptist Health Systems
William Gorman, Arkansas Rural Health Partnership
Jeremy Jeffery, Jefferson Regional Medical Center

SMALL PRIVATE COMPANY CFO FINALISTS:
Bobby Gabbard, Summerwood Partners, LLC
Joe Hafner, Arkansas Glass Container Corporation
Tom Major, Mayfair Sterling, LLC

For more information on the CFO of the Year Awards program, visit www.ArkansasBusiness.com/CFO or contact Events Director Tiffany Mattzela at TMattzela@abpg.com, (501) 455-9334.

For the latest news and updates regarding BCMC please like the Bradley County Medical Center Facebook page or follow us on Instagram (BCMCWarren) or Twitter (@BCMC Warren). To keep up with the most recent news and updates for the BCMC Rural Health Clinic, please like the BCMC Rural Health Clinic page on Facebook.

BCMC Earns Four-Star Rating from CMS for Fourth Straight Year

Bradley County Medical Center has earned a four-star rating from the Centers for Medicare and Medicaid Services (CMS) for a fourth straight year as it was recently announced that BCMC maintained its four-star overall rating along with securing four stars in the patient survey rating.

BCMC was one of only 18 hospitals in Arkansas to earn a four-star rating or above. Additionally, BCMC was only one of three hospitals within a 50-mile radius to earn four or more stars and BCMC was the only one within that radius to receive a four-star overall rating and a four-star patient survey rating.

"They say do something you love and you will never work a day in your life," BCMC CEO Leslie Huitt said. "That is what BCMC has done for me. BCMC is the best because we have the best people! I appreciate each and every one of our employees beyond words!"

The Overall Hospital Quality Star Rating (Overall Star Rating) summarizes a variety of measures across 5 areas of quality into a single star rating for each hospital. Once reporting thresholds are met, a hospital's Overall Star Rating is calculated using only those measures for which data are available.

"Four stars were not earned over night," commented BCMC CNO Jamie Wolfe. "It is due to the years of dedication and compassion from everyone here at BCMC. COVID has been a mighty beast that tested everyone in healthcare. Nevertheless, our team gave superior care during very trying times and proved their passion for our community. I am proud of each and every member of our staff!"

This year, the hospital star ratings are based on 47 quality measures across five different categories which include mortality (22%), safety (22%), readmission (22%), patient experience (22%), and timely and effective care (12%). The amount of four-star hospitals in the nation decreased from 988 to 890 in 2022, which shows how difficult it can be to maintain a high rating.

"Through my many years of working at BCMC, I have learned many things within these walls but the greatest asset has been the relationships built with my co-workers," Leeanna Williams, BCMC's Compliance/Privacy/Risk Manager remarked. "Our BCMC family is caring, compassionate, and committed to meeting the healthcare needs of our community. I am very proud to be a part of BCMC and can't wait to see what the future holds for us."

For the latest news and updates regarding BCMC please like the Bradley County Medical Center Facebook page or follow us on Instagram (BCMCWarren) or Twitter (@BCMC Warren). To keep up with the most recent news and updates for the BCMC Rural Health Clinic, please like the BCMC Rural Health Clinic page on Facebook.

BCMC Conducts Emergency Preparedness Drill in Conjunction with SEAHDC

Bradley County Medical Center conducted a no-fault emergency preparedness drill in conjunction with the Southeast Arkansas Human Development Center Tuesday morning in an effort to test the hospital's plan in the event of a disaster that has mass casualties.

The drill began around 9 a.m. Tuesday morning as an active shooter drill at the Southeast Arkansas Human Development Center. In this mock scenario, SEAHDC informed BCMC that there could be mass casualties and that the hospital could see an influx of patients in the emergency room. Once this was completed, BCMC held its own mock exercise with the help of SouthArk nursing students and staff portraying the casualties, distressed family members, and a member of the media trying to gain access to the building.

A number of Bradley County Medical Center staff responded to the mock incident with around 35 total employees participating. This training exercise was conducted to allow the hospital to test its emergency preparedness for a disaster. There were several observers of the drill and all came together for a debriefing to discuss what went right and what went wrong. This exercise was a learning experience to gather information on BCMC's disaster response.

BCMC would like to thank the SouthArk nursing students and staff for their wonderful portrayal of mock victims, family members, and a media member. Bradley County Medical Center would also like to extend its thanks to the SEAHDC for allowing the hospital to participate in its mock drill and all of the other agencies involved that helped make this training a success. BCMC would also like to acknowledge its fantastic emergency room staff that were able to take care of our real patients and not miss a beat during this drill.

For the latest news and updates regarding BCMC please like the Bradley County Medical Center Facebook page or follow us on Instagram (BCMCWarren) or Twitter (@BCMC Warren). To keep up with the most recent news and updates for the BCMC Rural Health Clinic, please like the BCMC Rural Health Clinic page on Facebook.

BCMC Wound Care Clinic Receives Center of Excellence Award

Bradley County Medical Center is honored to announce the BCMC Wound Care Clinic is a recipient of RestorixHealth's highest achievement, the Wound Center of Excellence Award. Recipients of this prestigious award meet or exceed national wound care quality benchmarks over a set period of time.

The Wound Center of Excellence Award distinguishes centers that have demonstrated exceptional success by meeting or exceeding clinical and operational benchmarks in several categories, including healing outcomes, assessment and care processes and patient safety, along with a patient satisfaction rate of 96% or higher.

The BCMC Wound Care Clinic is dedicated to optimizing outcomes and preventing lower limb loss in those patients with non-healing wounds. The approach to wound care is aggressive and comprehensive, coordinating traditional and advanced therapies and techniques that are proven to reduce healing time and improve healing rates.

The center is staffed with a multidisciplinary team of physicians along with nurses and technicians with advanced training in wound care [and hyperbaric medicine]. Integrating a team of wound care professionals optimizes patient care, while offering the most advanced healing options.

A wound that is not healing properly may be complicated by underlying conditions such as diabetes, circulation problems or previous radiation treatment. Sometimes, the simplest of wounds can turn into a significant problem because the body's normal healing process is affected. Other types of non-healing or difficult-to-heal wounds result from pressure, trauma or infection. Non-healing wounds can have serious health consequences and may adversely affect your quality of life.

The BCMC Wound Care Clinic is located inside Bradley County Medical Center and is available on Tuesday. For more information, please call 877-295-2273.

RestorixHealth, the nation's leading wound care solutions company, develops and operates advanced wound healing centers and provides wound healing direct-care services, education and advanced wound supplies nationwide. Forging strong relationships with their partners, RestorixHealth's customized wound healing programs and solutions increase the access to care, lower or avoid direct care costs, reduce hospital admissions, improve outcomes and increase patient and partner satisfaction. For more information, visit www.RestorixHealth.com.

For the latest news and updates regarding BCMC please like the Bradley County Medical Center Facebook page or follow us on Instagram (BCMCWarren) or Twitter (@BCMC Warren). To keep up with the most recent news and updates for the BCMC Rural Health Clinic, please like the BCMC Rural Health Clinic page on Facebook.

LifeShare Blood Drive Set for July 12 at BCMC with Dire Need for Donations

There will be a LifeShare Blood Drive on Tuesday, July 12 from 1 p.m. to 7 p.m. as blood is critically needed at this time. The blood drive will take play in the LifeShare bus that will be set up in the BCMC Rural Health Clinic parking lot. The BCMC Rural Health Clinic is located at 304 East Central Street across the street from the Emergency Room entrance at Bradley County Medical Center.

Blood donations are essential at this time as blood donations are down across the country, especially in our region. Local blood drives are the main source of blood for Bradley County Medical Center and the other hospitals in our surrounding area. If you are able to donate blood, please consider stopping by the LifeShare bus on July 12. Donors will get a free "Summer Donor" T-shirt while supplies last.

Every two seconds, someone somewhere needs blood. One of every seven people who enter the hospital will need blood. That person maybe you, your loved one, friend, or co-worker. With all the wonderful advances in modern medicine, there still is NO substitute for human blood. The blood that helps patients comes only from caring people who volunteer to help others by donating their life-saving blood.

It is safe to donate blood. COVID-19 does not pose any known risk to blood donors during the donation process or from attending blood drives. It is also safe to donate blood if you have received a COVID-19 vaccination.

LifeShare Blood Center, established in Shreveport, La., in 1942, regularly supplies blood components and related services to more than 100 medical facilities and hospitals throughout Louisiana, East Texas and South Arkansas. LifeShare is a member of America's Blood Centers and the American Rare Donor Program, is licensed by the U.S. Food & Drug Administration, and accredited by AABB. LifeShare Blood Center is a 501(c)(3) nonprofit community blood bank governed by a volunteer Board of Trustees.

For the latest news and updates regarding BCMC please like the Bradley County Medical Center Facebook page or follow us on Instagram (BCMCWarren) or Twitter (@BCMC Warren). To keep up with the most recent news and updates for the BCMC Rural Health Clinic, please like the BCMC Rural Health Clinic page on Facebook.

BCMC Names Huitt CEO After Interim Stint

Bradley County Medical Center announced Friday that it has removed the interim label from Leslie Huitt's title as she officially takes over the role of Chief Executive Officer for the hospital.

A native of Hermitage, Ark., Huitt has been operating as the Interim CEO along with fulfilling Chief Financial Officer duties since November of last year. In the last seven months Huitt has overseen the process of developing a master plan for BCMC with eyes set to the future of the hospital. Additionally, the hospital was recently awarded a USDA grant and is currently in the process of installing a new CT scanner.

During Huitt's interim tenure, BCMC was one of only 11 hospitals in Arkansas to be recognized by the National Organization of State Offices of Rural Health with a Performance Leadership Award in Quality. In March, Bradley County Medical Center was named a National Silver Certified Sleep Hospital for our commitment to best practices and education on infant safe sleep.

"We have an amazing staff here at BCMC," Huitt said. "I wouldn't be where I am or able to do what I do without such and amazing support staff around me. I am excited for the future of BCMC!"

Huitt is a Certified Public Accountant and has more than 20 years of accounting experience with more than eight years of time in management positions and has been with Bradley County Medical Center since May of 2020.

Prior to her post at BCMC, Huitt served as an auditor for the Division of Legislative Audit in Arkansas after she spent several years as the Business Manager and District Treasurer for the Hermitage School District. Huitt also spent a number of years as a teacher at Hermitage before becoming the Business Manager and District Treasurer for the school district. Additionally, Huitt had a stint as an accountant at Murphy Oil Company before the positions in the Hermitage School District.

Huitt is a 1998 graduate of Hermitage High School and graduated from the University of Arkansas-Monticello in 2002 with a Bachelor of Business Administration in Accounting. She then earned her Master of Business Administration degree from Harding University in 2006. She has been married to her husband Matt for 23 years and they have four children.

For the latest news and updates regarding BCMC please like the Bradley County Medical Center Facebook page, follow us on Twitter (@BCMCWarren), or follow the hospital on Instagram (@bcmcwarren).

BCMC's Wound Care Clinic Recognizes Nursing Staff During National Nurses Month

This year, the BCMC Wound Care Clinic celebrates National Nurses Month by honoring the vast contributions and positive impact of America's nurses. We are proud to promote the value wound care nurses bring to healthcare and tell the powerful stories of our center's nursing staff--why they chose the nursing profession and why they are proud to be nurses.

Two years ago, the American Nurses Association (ANA) designated 2020 as the "Year of the Nurse" and pledged to recognize nurses for the entire month of May each year moving forward. This year, we join the ANA, World Health Organization (WHO) and many others in celebrating National Nurses Month and its theme "Nurses Make a Difference."

The BCMC Wound Care Clinic employs a couple of nurses who work in conjunction with a patient's primary care provider to create an ongoing plan and make recommendations regarding treatment to promote healing.

The BCMC Wound Care Clinic at Bradley County Medical Center provides a comprehensive approach to treating patients with non-healing wounds. The team features clinicians with advanced training in wound care.

The BCMC Wound Care Clinic is open on Tuesday. For more information about wound care or to schedule an appointment, call 877-295-2273.

BCMC's Wound Care Clinic Encourages Patients to Put Their "Best Foot Forward" This Foot Health Awareness Month

Bradley County Medical Center is encouraging patients to put their 'best foot forward' this Foot Health Awareness Month by following a few simple healthy feet tips.

The majority of adults in the US acknowledge they do not care for their feet as regularly as some other body parts, such as their heart or teeth. In fact, only 2 in 10 regularly give their foot health a great deal of thought. Because foot health can be an indicator for other health problems, it is important to take care of your feet each day.

The BCMC Wound Care Clinic recommends that patients routinely inspect their feet and monitor their nutrition, as issues with diabetes and obesity impact the feet. The center also recommends that patients:
• Wear shoes with socks or stockings.
• Regularly trim toenails.
• Wear properly fitted shoes.
• Limit walking barefoot.
• Regularly wash feel with soap and warm water; rinse well and pat dry.

The BCMC Wound Care Clinic treats all wounds with a comprehensive approach. The multidisciplinary team features clinicians with advanced training in wound care. For patients, that means faster healing times, increased mobility and decreased amputation rates - all leading to a better quality of life.

The BCMC Wound Care Clinic is open on every Tuesday. For more information or to schedule an appointment, call 877-295-2273. Referral is not required.

LifeShare Blood Drive at BCMC Set for April 5 with Critical Need for Blood Donations

There will be a LifeShare Blood Drive on Tuesday, April 5 from 1 p.m. to 7 p.m. in the LifeShare bus that will be parked in the BCMC Rural Health Clinic parking lot as blood donations are critically needed at this time. The BCMC Rural Health Clinic is located at 304 East Central Street across the street from the Emergency Room entrance at Bradley County Medical Center.

Blood donations are imperative at this time as blood donations are down across the country, especially in our region. Local blood drives are the main source of blood for Bradley County Medical Center and other hospitals in the surrounding area. If you are able to donate blood, please consider stopping by the LifeShare bus on April 5. Donors will get a free LifeShare T-shirt while supplies last.

Around 1 in every 7 people entering a hospital need blood. One blood donation, approximately one pint of blood, can save up to three lives. Your blood donation will go to someone battling cancer, enduring sickle cell disease, undergoing surgery, or suffering through a traumatic accident.

It is safe to donate blood. The COVID-19 coronavirus does not pose any known risk to blood donors during the donation process or from attending blood drives. It is also safe to donate blood if you have received a COVID-19 vaccination.

LifeShare Blood Center, established in Shreveport, La., in 1942, regularly supplies blood components and related services to more than 100 medical facilities and hospitals throughout Louisiana, East Texas and South Arkansas. LifeShare is a member of America's Blood Centers and the American Rare Donor Program, is licensed by the U.S. Food & Drug Administration, and accredited by AABB. LifeShare Blood Center is a 501(c)(3) nonprofit community blood bank governed by a volunteer Board of Trustees.

For the latest news and updates regarding BCMC please like the Bradley County Medical Center Facebook page or follow us on Instagram (BCMCWarren) or Twitter (@BCMC Warren). To keep up with the most recent news and updates for the BCMC Rural Health Clinic, please like the BCMC Rural Health Clinic page on Facebook.

National Safe Sleep Hospital Certification Program Recognizes BCMC

Bradley County Medical Center was recently recognized by the National Safe Sleep Hospital Certification Program as a Silver Safe Sleep Hospital for their commitment to best practices and education on infant safe sleep.

The National Safe Sleep Hospital Certification Program was created by Cribs for Kids®, a national infant safe sleep organization. Headquartered in Pittsburgh, PA, Cribs for Kids is dedicated to preventing infant sleep-related deaths due to Sudden Unexpected Infant Death (SUID) and accidental suffocation. As a Nationally Certified Safe Sleep Hospital, BCMC is recognized for following the safe sleep guidelines recommended by the American Academy of Pediatrics (AAP) and providing training programs for healthcare team members, and family caregivers.

"Sleep-Related Death (SRD) results in the loss of more than 3,500 infants every year in the U.S.," said Michael H. Goodstein, M.D., neonatologist and medical director of research at Cribs for Kids®. "We know that modeling safe infant sleep in the hospital and providing education to families has a significant effect on infant mortality. Cribs for Kids Hospital Certification Program is designed to recognize those hospitals that are taking an active role in reducing these preventable deaths."

The National Safe Sleep Hospital Certification Program was created in partnership with leading infant health and safety organizations such as All Baby & Child, The National Center for the Review & Prevention of Child Deaths, Association of SIDS and Infant Mortality Programs, Kids in Danger, Children's Safety Network, American SIDS Institute, Charlie's Kids, CJ Foundation for SIDS, and numerous state American Academy of Pediatric chapters and health departments.

According to Judith A. Bannon, Executive Director and Founder for Cribs for Kids®, "The certification program launched in 2015 in Pittsburgh, PA, home of the Cribs for Kids® national headquarters. Hundreds of hospitals across the US are certified. We welcome Bradley County Medical Center to this expanding group of committed hospitals. This will have a profound effect on saving babies' lives."

For more information on the Cribs for Kids® National Safe Sleep Hospital Certification Program, visit https://cribsforkids.org/hospitalcertification/.

For the latest news and updates regarding BCMC please like the Bradley County Medical Center Facebook page or follow us on Instagram (BCMCWarren) or Twitter (@BCMC Warren). To keep up with the most recent news and updates for the BCMC Rural Health Clinic, please like the BCMC Rural Health Clinic page on Facebook.

BCMC Wound Care Clinic Recognizes National Nutrition Month

March is National Nutrition Month. Good nutrition is an important part of wound-healing. During the healing process, your body needs increased amounts of calories, protein and vitamins.

Wounds must be well-fed to heal. Your body must add new tissue, replace fluids lost in wound drainage, manufacture enzymes to stimulate tissue growth and produce proteins to fight infection - all while maintaining itself as usual. No wonder it needs a little extra nutrition during this stressful time!

You may be at risk for nutrition-related problems if you have experienced or are experiencing any of the following:
• You have unintentionally gained or lost 5% or more of your body weight in the past month or 10% in the last 6 months.
• A simple calculation: To approximate 10% of any weight, look at the first 2 numbers. For a 150lb person, that number would be 15 lbs. Divide that in half for 5%, approximately 7 ½ lbs.
• You have a chronic disease such as heart or kidney disease.
• You have a stomach or intestinal tract disorder that interferes with absorption of nutrients.
• You have tooth or mouth disorders that interfere with eating or chewing.
• You eat alone much of the time or have trouble getting out for groceries.
• You take more than 3 medicines, including over-the-counter drugs.
• You are diabetic and not able to control your blood sugar.
• You are suffering from depression.

It is very important that you communicate with your provider to make them aware of any of these warning signs, so together you can come up with solutions to address your challenges.

Suggestions for getting needed nutrients during your treatment:

Take a good quality multivitamin which contains at least the RDA (recommended daily amount) of zinc, iron, and copper. Add foods from the lists below containing vitamin C, vitamin A, and the trace minerals.

If you are having difficulty getting in the recommended amount of protein, try a protein supplement such as Juven®, Boost®, Ensure®, or Carnation® Instant Breakfast. Consider adding a tablespoon of peanut butter or almond butter to your protein supplement to enhance the flavor. You can also find recipes for protein shakes on the internet or in health magazines.

Eat fat! Yes, there is such a thing as "good fat." Many patients avoid fat and this is one of the worst things you can do. Fat helps to decrease inflammation and helps keep your blood sugar stable. Drizzle a little extra olive oil on your food and sprinkle a little salt and pepper on an avocado for a healthy snack.

Drink plenty of fluids, especially those that are caffeine and sugar-free (water is the best and least expensive). Multiply your weight by .5 to determine needed fluid intake.

If you do not feel you can eat 3 large meals per day, try eating 5 or 6 small meals and snacks.

For more information on the BCMC Wound Care Clinic, call 877-295-2273.

LifeShare Blood Drive Set for Wednesday, Dec. 8 at BCMC

There will be a LifeShare Blood Drive on Wednesday, December 8 from 1 p.m. to 7 p.m. in the LifeShare bus that will be parked in the BCMC Rural Health Clinic parking lot. The BCMC Rural Health Clinic is located at 304 East Central Street across the street from the Emergency Room entrance at Bradley County Medical Center.

Local blood drives are the main source of blood for Bradley County Medical Center and other hospitals in the region. Blood donations are down across the country and Southeast Arkansas is not immune to this shortage. If you are able, please consider donating at this upcoming LifeShare Blood Drive on December 8. You could receive a LifeShare long sleeve shirt after you donate, while supplies last.

Around 1 in every 7 people entering a hospital need blood. One blood donation, approximately one pint of blood, can save up to three lives. Your blood donation will go to someone battling cancer, enduring sickle cell disease, undergoing surgery, or suffering through a traumatic accident.

It is safe to donate blood. The COVID-19 coronavirus does not pose any known risk to blood donors during the donation process or from attending blood drives. It is also safe to donate blood if you have received a COVID-19 vaccination.

LifeShare Blood Center, established in Shreveport, La., in 1942, regularly supplies blood components and related services to more than 100 medical facilities and hospitals throughout Louisiana, East Texas and South Arkansas. LifeShare is a member of America's Blood Centers and the American Rare Donor Program, is licensed by the U.S. Food & Drug Administration, and accredited by AABB. LifeShare Blood Center is a 501(c)(3) nonprofit community blood bank governed by a volunteer Board of Trustees.

For the latest news and updates regarding BCMC please like the Bradley County Medical Center Facebook page or you can follow @BCMCWarren on Twitter and Instagram. To keep up with the most recent news and updates for the BCMC Rural Health Clinic, please like the BCMC Rural Health Clinic page on Facebook.

BCMC Earns Performance Leadership Award for Quality

As part of the 2021 National Rural Health Day celebration, Bradley County Medical Center announced it has been recognized by The Chartis Center of Rural Health and the National Organization of State Offices of Rural Health (NOSORH) with a Performance Leadership Award in Quality.

BCMC was one of 11 hospitals in the state of Arkansas to receive a Performance Leadership Award in Quality and one of only three hospitals to earn the honor in Southeast Arkansas. This is the third time in four years that Bradley County Medical Center has been recognized by The Chartis Center of Rural Health and the NOSORH with a Performance Leadership Award as the hospital earned recognition in Outcomes in 2020 and 2018.

"Taking care of people is who we are and is what we do here at BCMC," Interim CEO Leslie Huitt said. "For the past year and a half, our staff has been tested emotionally, mentally, and physically due to the devastating effects of COVID-19, but we have persevered. It's more than just a job, it's a life of service and commitment to our patients. We are truly humbled to receive such an honor and we will continue to strive every day to provide quality patient care."

The Performance Leadership Awards utilize the results of the Hospital Strength INDEX®, the industry's most comprehensive and objective assessment of rural hospital performance. INDEX data is trusted by rural hospitals, health systems with rural footprints, hospital associations and state offices of rural health across the country to measure and monitor performance across a variety of areas impacting hospital operations and finance.

"We are proud to mark this year's National Rural Health Day by recognizing rural hospitals' steadfast commitment to serving their communities and delivering high quality care," said Michael Topchik, National Leader for The Chartis Center for Rural Health. "In the face of tremendous challenges, these top quartile performers continue to exemplify the power of rural and create a blueprint for excellence in quality, outcomes and patient perspectives."

For the latest news and updates regarding BCMC please like the Bradley County Medical Center Facebook page. To keep up with the most recent news and updates for the BCMC Rural Health Clinic, please like the BCMC Rural Health Clinic page on Facebook.

Huitt to Serve as BCMC Interim CEO

Bradley County Medical Center has announced that Leslie Huitt, the current Chief Financial Officer for the hospital, will be the Interim Chief Executive Officer after the resignation of Steve Henson.

Huitt, who will still conduct her regular duties as CFO in addition to serving as the interim CEO, steps in for Henson, who announced in late October he'd be resigning to take a position at a hospital in Tennessee. A native of Hermitage, Ark., Huitt has been with BCMC since May of 2020. She is a Certified Public Accountant and has nearly 20 years of accounting experience with more than eight years of time in management positions.

"What I want people to know the most about me is that our mission of 'providing superior care to every patient every time,' is what drew me to Bradley County Medical Center," Huitt said. "It is a mission that I will hold near and dear. Being from this community, born right here in this hospital, I understand what BCMC means to our community. I have a heart for the people and I am excited to serve here."

Prior to her post at BCMC, Huitt served as an auditor for the Division of Legislative Audit in Arkansas after she spent several years as the Business Manager and District Treasurer for the Hermitage School District. Huitt also spent a number of years as a teacher at Hermitage before becoming the Business Manager and District Treasurer for the school district. Additionally, Huitt had a stint as an accountant at Murphy Oil Company before the positions in the Hermitage School District.

Huitt is a 1998 graduate of Hermitage High School and graduated from the University of Arkansas-Monticello in 2002 with a Bachelor of Business Administration in Accounting. She then earned her Master of Business Administration degree from Harding University in 2006. She has been married to her husband Matt for 22 years and they have four children.

For the latest news and updates regarding BCMC please like the Bradley County Medical Center Facebook page. To keep up with the most recent news and updates for the BCMC Rural Health Clinic, please like the BCMC Rural Health Clinic page on Facebook.

CMS Interim Final Rule Will Require BCMC Employees to Be Vaccinated Against COVID-19

The Centers for Medicare and Medicaid Services (CMS) recently issued an interim final rule requiring COVID-19 vaccinations for workers in most healthcare settings, including Critical Access Hospitals such as Bradley County Medical Center, along with rural health clinics, home health agencies, and rehabilitation services BCMC provides, that participate in Medicare and Medicaid programs.

There are currently three different mandates which include the Federal Contractors Mandate, the OSHA Emergency Temporary Standard, and the CMS interim final rule, which is what affects BCMC. There are no options to allow for testing or other measures for unvaccinated staff under the CMS interim final rule. If BCMC does not comply with the CMS interim final rule then the hospital would be subject to fines, denial of payment from Medicare and Medicaid, and termination from the Medicare and Medicaid program. Termination would be a devastating blow to our community and the more than 200 people BCMC employs.

This requirement applies to facilities regulated under the Medicare Conditions of Participation. This applies to all facility employees, licensed practitioners, students, trainees, volunteers, and contracted staff of Bradley County Medical Center. Additionally, this also applies to staff who perform off-site duties and to individuals who enter BCMC such as a physician with privileges who is admitting and/or treating patients on-site, even if their physician's office doesn't fall under the Medicare Conditions of Participation.

Because of the CMS rule, BCMC employees will have until Dec. 6, 2021 to receive their first shot of a two-dose COVID-19 vaccine or their one-dose vaccine and must have received all shots for vaccination by Jan. 4, 2022. CMS requires facilities to allow exemptions in accordance with federal law for recognized medical conditions that would prevent someone from taking the vaccine or sincerely held religious beliefs. BCMC has developed a policy to make sure the hospital will be in compliance with this rule and allow for employees to apply for exemptions.

For the latest news and updates regarding BCMC please like the Bradley County Medical Center Facebook page. To keep up with the most recent news and updates for the BCMC Rural Health Clinic, please like the BCMC Rural Health Clinic page on Facebook.

Silent Epidemic Puts 34+ Million Americans at Risk for Diabetic Foot Ulcers

During American Diabetes Month®, the Bradley County Medical Center Wound Care Clinic wants to remind people with diabetes that they are at a higher risk for non-healing foot wounds - and therefore amputations - than most Americans and that a wound healing center can provide guidance for prevention and treatment.

For most Americans, a blister or cut on the foot is a small inconvenience that a Band-Aid™ and time will heal. But that's not the case for the 34.2 million Americans who have diabetes. Some of the complications of diabetes make feet vulnerable to non-healing foot ulcers that can result in infections and even amputations. Sixty to seventy percent of people with diabetes have limited or no feeling in their feet--their early warning systems have been altered or completely shut down by nerve damage. Patients who notice any skin changes or red patches on their feet and also have diabetes, the BCMC Wound Care Clinic encourages a visit to a primary care doctor or to call the wound healing center immediately for an evaluation. The center is here to educate, prevent and provide treatment when necessary.

A person with diabetes has impaired immunity and often reduced blood flow to the legs and feet. Both can hamper healing, cause infections and cause damage to underlying structures and bones. In some cases, the damage can lead to a toe, foot or leg amputation.

The World Health Organization estimates that up to 80 percent of all diabetic amputations are preventable. The BCMC Wound Care Clinic will provide the best treatment to help your wound heal. However, in order to prevent a foot ulcer from starting, it is vital that patients with diabetes check their feet daily and get regular foot care from their doctor.

According to the American Diabetes Association (ADA) and Centers for Disease Control (CDC), one adult is diagnosed in the United States every 17 seconds. That's 1.5 million more people each year at risk for non-healing wounds and other complications. What's more, one in four people who have diabetes today are undiagnosed and don't know they're at risk.

The Bradley County Medical Center Wound Care Clinic's wound healing team combines evidence-based best practices and advanced therapies with individualized treatment plans for faster healing to get their patients back to health and enjoying what they care about most.

For more information on the BCMC Wound Care Clinic, please call 877-295-2273.

LifeShare Blood Drive Set for Wednesday, Oct. 13 at BCMC

WARREN, Ark. (10/8/21) - There will be a LifeShare Blood Drive on Wednesday, October 13 from 1 p.m. to 7 p.m. in the LifeShare bus that will be parked in the BCMC Rural Health Clinic parking lot. The BCMC Rural Health Clinic is located at 304 East Central Street across the street from the Emergency Room entrance at Bradley County Medical Center.

Local blood drives are the main source of blood for Bradley County Medical Center and other hospitals in the region. Blood donations are down across the country and Southeast Arkansas is not immune to this shortage. If you are able, please consider donating at this upcoming LifeShare Blood Drive on October 13.

Around 1 in every 7 people entering a hospital need blood. One blood donation, approximately one pint of blood, can save up to three lives. Your blood donation will go to someone battling cancer, enduring sickle cell disease, undergoing surgery, or suffering through a traumatic accident. You will also get the chance to receive a free T-shirt from an assortment of options when you donate to let others know you gave blood.

It is safe to donate blood. The COVID-19 coronavirus does not pose any known risk to blood donors during the donation process or from attending blood drives. It is also safe to donate blood if you have received a COVID-19 vaccination.

LifeShare Blood Center, established in Shreveport, La., in 1942, regularly supplies blood components and related services to more than 100 medical facilities and hospitals throughout Louisiana, East Texas and South Arkansas. LifeShare is a member of America's Blood Centers and the American Rare Donor Program, is licensed by the U.S. Food & Drug Administration, and accredited by AABB. LifeShare Blood Center is a 501(c)(3) nonprofit community blood bank governed by a volunteer Board of Trustees.

For the latest news and updates regarding BCMC please like the Bradley County Medical Center Facebook page. To keep up with the most recent news and updates for the BCMC Rural Health Clinic, please like the BCMC Rural Health Clinic page on Facebook.

Drive-Thru COVID-19 Vaccine Clinic at BCMC Rural Health Clinic Set for Sept. 9

There will be a free drive-thru COVID-19 vaccine clinic on Thursday, Sept. 9 from 2 p.m. to 6 p.m. in the BCMC Rural Health Clinic parking lot, located at 304 East Central Street in Warren. This event is being sponsored by the Arkansas Rural Health Partnership (ARHP), Bradley County Medical Center, and Gannaway Drug Store.

All three brands of the vaccine will be available, including the Pfizer two-shot vaccine, which was recently granted full approval by the United States Food and Drug Administration (FDA) for people age 16 and older. The Pfizer brand also has an Emergency Use Authorization (EUA) for ages 12-15. The Moderna two-shot vaccine and one-shot Johnson & Johnson have EUA for people 18 and older and will also be available at the vaccine clinic. If you get one of the two-shot vaccines, the second dose will be given on Thursday, Sept. 30.

If you are an immunocompromised person, you can also get your third dose of the vaccine at this clinic. You will not have to get out of your car to receive the vaccine. You can stay in your vehicle for the shot and for the necessary monitoring time. There is no appointment necessary to receive the vaccine.

This is the second drive-thru COVID-19 vaccine clinic the ARHP is conducting after a successful one in Ashley County in August. Gannaway Drug Store is located at 101 North Main Street in Warren and has been instrumental in administering doses of COVID-19 vaccines in Bradley County.

For the latest news and updates regarding BCMC please like the Bradley County Medical Center Facebook page. To keep up with the most recent news and updates for the BCMC Rural Health Clinic, please like the BCMC Rural Health Clinic page on Facebook.

LifeShare Blood Drive Set for Wednesday, Aug. 18 at BCMC

There will be a LifeShare Blood Drive on Wednesday, August 18 from 1 p.m. to 7 p.m. in the LifeShare bus that will be parked in the BCMC Rural Health Clinic parking lot. The BCMC Rural Health Clinic is located at 304 East Central Street across the street from the Emergency Room entrance at Bradley County Medical Center.

Local blood drives are the main source of blood for Bradley County Medical Center and other hospitals in the region. Blood donations are down across the country and Southeast Arkansas is not immune to this shortage. If you are able, please consider donating at this upcoming LifeShare Blood Drive on August 18.

Around 1 in every 7 people entering a hospital need blood. One blood donation, approximately one pint of blood, can save up to three lives. Your blood donation will go to someone battling cancer, enduring sickle cell disease, undergoing surgery, or suffering through a traumatic accident. You will also receive a free "Take a Bite Out of Summer Shortages" T-shirt when you donate, while supplies last.

It is safe to donate blood. The COVID-19 coronavirus does not pose any known risk to blood donors during the donation process or from attending blood drives. It is also safe to donate blood if you have received a COVID-19 vaccination.

LifeShare Blood Center regularly supplies blood components to more than 100 medical facilities throughout Louisiana, East Texas and South Arkansas. Founded in Shreveport, La., in 1942, it is a nonprofit community service provider governed by a volunteer Board of Trustees. LifeShare is a member of America's Blood Centers and the American Rare Donor Program, is licensed by the U.S. Food & Drug Administration and accredited by AABB.

For the latest news and updates regarding BCMC please like the Bradley County Medical Center Facebook page. To keep up with the most recent news and updates for the BCMC Rural Health Clinic, please like the BCMC Rural Health Clinic page on Facebook.

The BCMC Wound Care Clinic Wants You to Love Your Feet!

The Bradley County Medical Center Wound Care Clinic is asking patients to love their feet by being mindful of certain conditions and complications associated with non-healing wounds. When it comes to foot care, the wound center staff knows that healthy feet are vital to the happiness and activity level of a patient.

Approximately one out of every four Americans with diabetes will develop a foot ulcer in their lifetime. Because foot ulcers can take weeks or months to heal without treatment, hospitalization is sometimes required. The BCMC Wound Care Clinic can help mitigate that risk if an ulcer is reported when signs or symptoms first appear.

"Diabetic patients should be referred to the wound healing center at the first sign of a non-healing foot wound," said Wendi Martin, RN. "We want our patients and the community at large to love their feet...we do!"

The BCMC Wound Care Clinic is offering the following tips to keep feet healthy:
• Patients with diabetes are at greater risk of complications, such as diabetic neuropathy and peripheral vascular diseases, which can ultimately lead to a foot ulcer. Check the bottoms of feet daily by placing a mirror on the floor and hovering feet over the mirror.
• Diabetic foot ulcers are often painless, so special care must be given to taking care of the feet. Avoid walking barefoot.
• Wear comfortable shoes and socks. Tight, narrow shoes and shoes with an open toe should be avoided.

The Bradley County Medical Center Wound Care Clinic treats all wounds, with an approach that is aggressive and comprehensive, yet caring and comforting. The center coordinates traditional and advanced therapies that aid and accelerate the healing process. For patients that means faster healing times, longer-lasting results, decreased amputation rates and increased mobility - all leading to a better quality of life.

The types of wounds treated include:
• Pressure injuries/ulcers
• Venous ulcers
• Diabetic foot ulcers
• Non-healing, post-surgical wounds
• Traumatic wounds
• Arterial/ischemic ulcers
• Compromised skin graft or flap
• Crush injuries
• A wound of any type that is not healing or is of concern

The Wound Care Clinic at Bradley County Medical Center is open on Tuesdays. For more information about wound care or to schedule an appointment, call 877-295-2273. No referral is required.

BCMC to Host LifeShare Blood Drive June 22

There will be a LifeShare Blood Drive on Tuesday, June 22 from 1 p.m. to 7 p.m. in the BCMC Rural Health Clinic parking lot where the LifeShare bus will be located for people who want to donate blood. The BCMC Rural Health Clinic is located at 304 East Central Street across the street from the Emergency Room entrance at Bradley County Medical Center.

There has been a shortage of blood supply on a regional and national level so blood drives like this are crucial to ensuring we have enough blood on hand at BCMC. Local blood drives are the main source of blood for our hospital.

Around 1 in every 7 people entering a hospital need blood. One blood donation, approximately one pint of blood, can save up to three lives. Your blood donation will go to someone battling cancer, enduring sickle cell disease, undergoing surgery, or suffering through a traumatic accident. You will also receive a free "Summer Blood Drive" T-shirt when you donate, while supplies last.

It is safe to donate blood. The COVID-19 coronavirus does not pose any known risk to blood donors during the donation process or from attending blood drives. It is also safe to donate blood if you have received a COVID-19 vaccination.

LifeShare Blood Center regularly supplies blood components to more than 100 medical facilities throughout Louisiana, East Texas and South Arkansas. Founded in Shreveport, La., in 1942, it is a nonprofit community service provider governed by a volunteer Board of Trustees. LifeShare is a member of America's Blood Centers and the American Rare Donor Program, is licensed by the U.S. Food & Drug Administration and accredited by AABB.

For the latest news and updates regarding BCMC please like the Bradley County Medical Center Facebook page. To keep up with the most recent news and updates for the BCMC Rural Health Clinic, please like the BCMC Rural Health Clinic page on Facebook.

Samantha Ellis Named BCMC Peer Recovery Specialist

Bradley County Medical Center recently hired Samantha Ellis as a Peer Recovery Specialist, which is a position that will allow her to support and guide people who are undergoing substance abuse challenges.

Ellis recently obtained her Associate of Arts in General Education from Southern Arkansas University Tech in Camden, Ark., where she graduated with honors and was on the Dean's List. She also has experience as a phlebotomist technician and is currently enrolled at UAM, with the ultimate goal of becoming a substance abuse and mental health counselor.

In this position of Peer Recovery Specialist, Ellis will be a peer advocate and role model to provide treatment and recovery resources. She will use her own experience to give her a unique perspective to help people out of substance abuse as Ellis herself is in long-term recovery. She has been clean for five years after her own 14-year addiction.

"I am ready to help others, as that is what I am compassionate about doing," Ellis said. "I want other individuals to see that there is a better life. So many people have helped me on this road to recovery, so I made a promise to God and myself, when I get to where I am going, I will be sure to turn around and help the next one in line. Fight for recovery!"

In the future she wants to open Christian sobriety homes in the area and become a motivational speaker to help people who are experiencing substance abuse challenges.

For the latest news and updates regarding BCMC please like the Bradley County Medical Center Facebook page. To keep up with the most recent news and updates for the BCMC Rural Health Clinic, please like the BCMC Rural Health Clinic page on Facebook.

2021 M*A*S*H Camp Applications Available Now

Applications for the 2021 version of M*A*S*H (Medical Applications of Science for Health) Camp at Bradley County Medical Center are now available. Completed applications are due by June 2, 2021 with the camp set to run from July 12-16. BCMC is excited to have M*A*S*H* Camp back after having to cancel last year's event due to the COVID-19 pandemic.

The camp is designed for students who are completing their 10th or 11th grade years in high school. Students must possess a minimum GPA of 3.0, completed Biology, and committed to attending the full week to apply for this program. Many students apply, but only 10 spots are available. Students are selected based on GPA, an essay describing their desire to attend M*A*S*H, teacher recommendation, extra-curricular activities and community service, as well as awards and accomplishments. A committee made up of faculty and physicians will review all applications and assist in the selection process.

The whole application must be complete along with a transcript (must include cumulative grade point average) and all signed consent forms.

Students selected into the M*A*S*H* program will shadow in a variety of health care locations, learn medical terminology, take part in hands on activities to learn medical procedures, tour the UAMS Little Rock campus, as well as a tour of local health facilities and/or educational center Students also take part in team building activities, heart dissection and suturing, proper wrapping techniques and casting, as well as learning about a variety of health careers and education levels needed for different careers.

Those interested in signing up for M*A*S*H Camp can download a form by clicking here, or can obtain one from any health professional teacher at their respective school. For more information please contact Alaina Glover, M*A*S*H Director at aglovermed@gmail.com.

Completed forms should be mailed to:
BCMC MASH Program
Alaina Glover
404 S Bradley St.
Warren, AR 71671

For the latest news and updates regarding BCMC please like the Bradley County Medical Center Facebook page. To keep up with the most recent news and updates for the BCMC Rural Health Clinic, please like the BCMC Rural Health Clinic page on Facebook.

Dr. Jenifer Kowalik Begins Practice at BCMC Rural Health Clinic

Bradley County Medical Center's newest physician, Dr. Jenifer Kowalik, began her practice on Monday, May 10 at the BCMC Rural Health Clinic, located at 304 East Central Street in Warren across the street from the ER entrance at the hospital.

Dr. Kowalik, who practices family medicine and obstetrics, joins Dr. Kristen Dent at the BCMC Rural Health Clinic along with APRNs April Harris and Kristen Harvey. You can schedule an appointment with Dr. Kowalik by calling 870-226-8636.

Dr. Kowalik was most recently a physician and the Director of Maternal and Neonatal Care at Brownfield Regional Medical Center (BRMC) in Brownfield, Texas. Prior to her experience at BRMC, she was in private practice from 2009-2019 in San Marcos, Texas.

"My hope is that I bring something to the medical community that will improve access to care," Dr. Kowalik said. "My true love is caring for moms and babies. I am capable of everything from the lowest risk minimally invasive delivery (I've previously been a provider of water births for women) to the highest risk complicated mom and everything in between."

A graduate of St. Mary's University in San Antonio, Texas, Dr. Kowalik earned her bachelor's degree in biology in 1993 before receiving her medical degree in 1997 from the University of Texas Medical School in Houston. After earning her medical degree, Dr. Kowalik completed an internship and residency in family medicine at Santa Rosa Hospital in San Antonio from 1997-2000.

Dr. Kowalik also completed an informal obstetrical fellowship in 2001 at South Texas Regional Medical Center in Jourdanton, Texas, which was a requirement from the medical staff before being granted full obstetrics privileges. During that preceptorship she was working a part-time private practice in Jourdanton, Texas, before working a full-time private practice there from October, 2001 to July, 2005.

Additionally, she proctored for the Santa Rosa Obstetrical Department, which was a requirement for family practice with obstetrics privileges, from 2003-2007. This overlapped with her OB/GYN residency from 2005-2008 at the University of Texas Medical Branch (UTMB), where she was the Chief Resident from 2007-2008.

Dr. Kowalik has four children, a set of twins named Kayla and Gabbie along with two sons, CJ and Sam. She enjoys reading, gaming, traveling, and watching sports (mostly her daughters play college softball and her sons play baseball). Recently, she has started bowling and playing golf.

She is also a member of a number of professional societies including the American Academy of Family Physicians, Texas Academy of Family Physicians, American Medical Society, Texas Medical Society, American College of Obstetrics and Gynecology, and Texas Academy of Obstetrics and Gynecology. She has also been involved in a number of research projects and has made several presentations over the years ranging from birth defects, STD's, teen pregnancy, neonatal withdrawal syndrome, and more.

For the latest news and updates regarding BCMC please like the Bradley County Medical Center Facebook page. To keep up with the most recent news and updates for the BCMC Rural Health Clinic, please like the BCMC Rural Health Clinic page on Facebook.

BCMC Alters Visitation Policy to Reflect No Patient Left Alone Act

Bradley County Medical Center has made updates to its visitation policy to reflect the No Patient Left Alone that was recently signed into law in Arkansas.

This act states that a patient be allowed one support person who is permitted to be physically present on a daily basis at reasonable times throughout his or her hospitalization. Therefore, each patient may have one support person with them during normal visiting hours. In accordance with this new law, BCMC will allow one support person per patient during normal visiting hours.

Bradley County Medical Center reserves the right to limit or place visitor restrictions in certain situations including, but not limited to, when the presence of visitors would be medically or therapeutically harmful; interfere with the care or rights of any patient; visitors are engaging in violent, disruptive, or threatening behavior; or visitors are noncompliant with BCMC policy.

Visitors still have to follow normal screening procedures upon entering BCMC and must continue to follow the mask mandate, including respiratory hygiene and cough etiquette. No one will be allowed in the building if they have a temperature of 100.4 or higher or if they refuse to follow the mask mandate.

If you have any questions or concerns you can call the hospital at 870-226-3731.

For the latest news and updates regarding BCMC please like the Bradley County Medical Center Facebook page. To keep up with the most recent news and updates for the BCMC Rural Health Clinic, please like the BCMC Rural Health Clinic page on Facebook.

Bradley County Medical Center Wound Clinic Wants Patients to Put Their "Best Foot Forward" During Foot Health Awareness Month

BCMC encourages patients to take care of their feet, offering key tips

Bradley County Medical Center Wound Clinic is encouraging patients to put their 'best foot forward' during Foot Health Awareness month by following a few simple healthy feet tips.

According to Foot.com, Americans walk approximately 75,000 miles by the time they reach age 50. Good foot health ensures that patients can continue to log miles and set themselves up for long term mobility and well-being.

Bradley County Medical Center Wound Clinic recommends that patients routinely inspect their feet and monitor their nutrition, as issues with diabetes and obesity impact the feet. The center also recommends that patients:
• keep feet clean. Wash with soap and warm water; rinse well and pat dry.
• do not wear shoes without socks or stockings.
• do not walk barefoot.
• wear properly fitted shoes.
• trim toenails regularly.
• do not use over-the-counter remedies for corns.
• avoid temperature extremes.
• apply moisturizer regularly.

Bradley County Medical Center Wound Clinic provides a comprehensive approach to treating patients with non-healing wounds. The team features clinicians with advanced training in wound care.

Bradley County Medical Center Wound Clinic is open every Tuesday. For more information about wound care or to schedule an appointment, call 877-295-2273. No referral is required.

Bradley County Medical Center Wound Care Clinic Receives "Going the Distance" Quality Award

The Bradley County Medical Center Wound Care Clinic earned the 2020 Going the Distance award, issued by RestorixHealth, an organization that specializes in the development and management of comprehensive wound healing and Amputation Prevention Center® facilities.

This award acknowledges the BCMC Wound Care Clinic as a nationwide leader in wound healing patient outcomes. Healthcare professionals have been tasked with maintaining quality through patient outcomes despite a daunting global pandemic. The Going the Distance award acknowledges those outpatient wound healing centers who have achieved or exceeded nationwide patient outcome standards within a set period of time during 2020.

"Our center's staff bring a wealth of talent to the wound healing workplace and that fuels a positive impact on our patients' outcomes," said Steve Henson, BCMC CEO. "Amidst a pandemic, their dedication to healing is a sign of resilience and strong work ethic. We are proud to be recognized as center that is 'Going the Distance.' "

Results are calculated by comparing BCMC's Wound Care Clinic's patient outcomes against RestorixHealth nationwide benchmarks.

The Bradley County Medical Center Wound Care Clinic is open every Tuesday. For more information about wound care or to schedule an appointment, call 877-295-2273. No referral is required.

For the latest news and updates regarding BCMC please like the Bradley County Medical Center Facebook page. To keep up with the most recent news and updates for the BCMC Rural Health Clinic, please like the BCMC Rural Health Clinic page on Facebook.

BCMC and Gannaway Drug Store to Host COVID-19 Vaccine Clinic March 18

Bradley County Medical Center and Gannaway Drug Store will host a COVID-19 vaccine clinic on Thursday, March 18 in the Fellowship Hall of First United Methodist Church in Warren. The event will run from 12:30 p.m. to 3:30 p.m.

People who are eligible under Phases 1-A and 1-B who would like to receive their vaccine should call the BCMC Pharmacy at 870-226-4335 or Gannaway Drug Store at 870-226-3751 to schedule an appointment and reserve a time slot.

The COVID-19 vaccine is available to anyone who is in the Phase 1-A and Phase 1-B groups of the Arkansas COVID-19 Vaccine Plan. Phase 1-A includes healthcare workers, residents and staff at long-term care facilities, first responders, school nurses, and more. Phase 1-B is now underway and includes anyone 65 years of age or older, people with intellectual and development disabilities, policemen, firemen, other first responders, teachers, daycare workers, university professors, food manufacturing workers, agriculture workers, veterinary workers, corrections officers, preachers, grocery store workers, postal workers, and more.

You can find out more information on who is eligible for a vaccine in Phase 1-A and Phase 1-B here: https://www.healthy.arkansas.gov/programs-services/topics/covid-19-vaccination-plan.

The vaccine being administered will be the Pfizer brand. This means you will have to take two separate doses to be fully vaccinated against COVID-19. There will be another vaccine clinic scheduled in approximately three weeks for those to receive their second dose if they get their first dose on Thursday, March 18.

This is on a first come, first serve basis so you need to call as soon as possible to schedule your appointment if you want to receive the vaccine.

For the latest news and updates regarding BCMC please like the Bradley County Medical Center Facebook page. To keep up with the most recent news and updates for the BCMC Rural Health Clinic, please like the BCMC Rural Health Clinic page on Facebook.

BCMC Radiology to Offer State-of-the-Art Genius™ 3D Mammography™ Exams Starting Feb. 23

The Bradley County Medical Center Radiology Department is excited to offer Genius™ 3D Mammography™ exams, developed by Hologic, Inc., a worldwide leader in Women's Health beginning on Tuesday, Feb. 23. Utilizing advanced breast tomosynthesis technology, Genius exams are clinically proven to significantly increase the detection of breast cancers, and also decreasing the number of women asked to return for additional testing.

In conventional 2D Mammography, overlapping tissue is a leading reason why small breast cancers may be missed and normal tissue may appear abnormal, leading to unnecessary callbacks. A Genius exam includes a three-dimensional method of imaging that can greatly reduce the tissue overlap effect.

A Genius exam includes both 2D images and tomosynthesis scans. During the tomosynthesis-dimensional portion of the exam, an X-ray arm sweeps in a slight arc over the breast, taking multiple images. A computer then converts the images into a stack of thin layers, allowing the radiologist to review the breast tissue one layer at a time. A Genius exam requires no additional compression and takes just a few seconds longer than a conventional 2D breast cancer screening exam.

Our Genius™ 3D Mammography™ exam, available on the 3Dimensions™ and Selenia® Dimensions® systems from Hologic, are revolutionizing how breast cancer is detected by providing a better option for women of all breast densities compared to 2D alone. Researchers have found that:

• The Genius™ 3D Mammography™ exam finds 20-65% more invasive breast cancers compared to 2D alone, an average increase of 41%.
• Only the Genius™ 3D Mammography™ exam is FDA approved as superior for women with dense breasts compared to 2D alone.
• The Genius™ 3D Mammography™ exam reduces callbacks by up to 40% compared to 2D alone.

BCMC is committed to the fight against breast cancer. In offering the Genius exam, BCMC Radiology provides a more accurate tool for breast cancer screening.

"We are proud to offer this new technology to our community and are excited about the benefits that it brings to our patients," Director of Radiology Leeanna Williams said. "The exam will be very similar to what patients have had previously, but the images produced will be far superior! The radiologist will now be able to look at the breast in a completely new way. The best analogy that I have seen compares the breast to a book. A 2D mammogram is like an x-ray of a closed book. Now with 3D mammography we will be able to flip the pages of the book and examine what lies on each individual page. This will allow us to diagnose breast cancer at earlier stages as well as reduce patients being called back for additional pictures."

If you would like to schedule a Genius 3D Mammography™ exam, or have questions about this important breast health procedure, please contact the BCMC Radiology Department at 870-226-4165.

For the latest news and updates regarding BCMC please like the Bradley County Medical Center Facebook page. To keep up with the most recent news and updates for the BCMC Rural Health Clinic, please like the BCMC Rural Health Clinic page on Facebook.

LifeShare Blood Drive Set for Feb. 26 as Low Inventory Causes Critical Need for Blood Donations

There will be a LifeShare Blood Drive on Friday, Feb. 26 from 11:30 a.m. to 5:00 p.m., inside the LifeShare bus that will be parked in the BCMC Rural Health Clinic parking lot. The BCMC Rural Health Clinic is located at 304 East Central Street in Warren and is across the street from Bradley County Medical Center.

There is a critical need for blood donations due to a low inventory of blood across our region that LifeShare serves across East Texas, Louisiana, and South Arkansas. This low inventory is a result of the winter weather we have experienced this past week and cancellations of blood drives due to the winter storm. Additionally, the weather has made it difficult, if not impossible, to get blood transported in from other areas of the country.

Around 1 in every 7 people entering a hospital need blood. One blood donation, approximately one pint of blood, can save up to three lives. Your blood donation will go to someone battling cancer, enduring sickle cell disease, undergoing surgery, or suffering through a traumatic accident. You will also receive a free "Krewe of Life" T-shirt when you donate, while supplies last.

It is safe to donate blood. The COVID-19 coronavirus does not pose any known risk to blood donors during the donation process or from attending blood drives.

LifeShare Blood Center regularly supplies blood components to more than 100 medical facilities throughout Louisiana, East Texas and South Arkansas. Founded in Shreveport, La. in 1942, it is a nonprofit community service provider governed by a volunteer Board of Trustees. LifeShare is a member of America's Blood Centers and the American Rare Donor Program, is licensed by the U.S. Food & Drug Administration and accredited by AABB.

For the latest news and updates regarding BCMC please like the Bradley County Medical Center Facebook page. To keep up with the most recent news and updates for the BCMC Rural Health Clinic, please like the BCMC Rural Health Clinic page on Facebook.

BCMC Partners with ESS for Emergency Department Staffing

Bradley County Medical Center recently entered a new partnership with Emergency Staffing Solutions (ESS) to staff and manage the Emergency Department as BCMC looks to continue providing great patient care and improving operating efficiency.

ESS will staff and manage the Emergency Department at BCMC and compliment the inpatient staff already at the hospital, providing a unique "Hybrid" system which combines both the Emergency Room and Hospitalist services, providing a continuum of care from ER to Discharge. This system will allow the same physician to follow patients from their initial contact in the ER all the way through discharge should admission be required. They will also provide care for inpatients of other physicians in the hospital as needed.

As part of this new partnership, Dr. Bradley Biggers will continue to practice at BCMC with ESS. He will cover the ER and Inpatient floor on Mondays, Tuesdays, and Wednesdays, while the rest of the week will be staffed with other ESS physicians. One or more physicians will be on the Bradley County Medical Center premises 24/7, 365 days of the year, ready to serve Bradley County and its surrounding communities. Additionally, ESS is already in network with all the Arkansas insurance payors.

"BCMC is very excited for this new partnership," Bradley County Medical Center CEO Steve Henson said. "Working with ESS and having Dr. Biggers as the cornerstone of the programs will be a big step in our journey to continue to improve operations. And having ESS already in network with all the Arkansas insurance payors will be another great benefit for our patients."

ESS will provide all physicians associated with BCMC with 24-hour access to resources including staff training tools as well as regional and national clinical support. This degree of care and resources are generally found in larger, more metropolitan facilities.

Emergency Staffing Solutions, founded 2001, is a Texas based company which focuses on rural and suburban areas and has a strong network of over 1,000 physicians. They manage Emergency Departments and Hospitalist programs for over 50 facilities nationwide.

For the latest news and updates regarding BCMC please like the Bradley County Medical Center Facebook page. To keep up with the most recent news and updates for the BCMC Rural Health Clinic, please like the BCMC Rural Health Clinic page on Facebook.

Starting the New Year on the Right Foot: How Bradley County Medical Center Wound Clinic Helps Non-Healing Wounds

As America rings in the new year, Bradley County Medical Center Wound Clinic is reminding its patients that if they or a loved one has a non-healing wound, the center can help heal that wound.

Approximately 15% of Medicare patients in the United States have at least one type of wound or infection. Left untreated, foot or leg wounds may result in limited mobility, lower quality of life and possible amputation.

Bradley County Medical Center Wound Clinic recommends that patients call for an appointment if they are experiencing any of the following symptoms:
• an existing, slow-to-heal or non-healing wound
• foot or leg ulcer or wound
• non-healing surgical wound
• non-healing skin graft or surgical flap
• symptoms occurring on or around a point of radiation (such as pain, rectal or bladder bleeding)
• bone infection, also called osteomyelitis
• crush injury

Bradley County Medical Center Wound Clinic at Bradley County Medical Center provides a comprehensive approach to treating patients with non-healing wounds. The team features clinicians with advanced training in wound care.

Bradley County Medical Center Wound Clinic at Bradley County Medical Center is open every Tuesday. For more information about wound care or to schedule an appointment, call 877-295-2273. No referral is required.

BCMC Acquires New UVC Decontamination Devices from UVC Cleaning Systems

Bradley County Medical Center is excited to announce the hospital has purchased three Safezone UVC decontamination devices from UVC Cleaning Systems, Inc., that will expedite the cleaning process for different areas of the hospital, along with destroying and sterilizing air pollutants, bacteria, and viruses including SARS-CoV-2, which is the virus that causes COVID-19.

Two of the mobile units will be used inside the hospital in different areas of the facility where patients are seen. The third one will be used at the BCMC Rural Health Clinic, located across the street from BCMC at 304 East Central Street. All three of the units are on wheels which means they can be transported to different rooms and areas of the hospital throughout the day to decontaminate and disinfect.

It only takes about one minute for this machine to kill the COVID-19 virus in the air and on surfaces in a room. The UVC light is effective in destroying both viruses and bacteria. It will destroy Staph Aureus, MRSA, E. coli, Salmonella, the common cold, Influenza, Clostridium difficile spores, and even bed bugs.

Some routine housekeeping measures are still needed, but these devices will cut the time it takes to decontaminate and disinfect a room from around an hour down to around 15 minutes. No one can be in the room while the machine is in use, but once it is done decontaminating people can immediately enter the room safely. This means the hospital can see more patients during the day and also cut down on time spent in the waiting room.

The purchase of the three Safezone UVC decontamination devices from UVC Cleaning Systems, Inc., are just another way Bradley County Medical Center is committed to keeping you, your family, and our community safe during the COVID-19 pandemic and beyond.

For the latest news and updates regarding BCMC please like the Bradley County Medical Center Facebook page. To keep up with the most recent news and updates for the BCMC Rural Health Clinic, please like the BCMC Rural Health Clinic page on Facebook.

Two COVID-19 Treatments Available at BCMC

Bradley County Medical Center has obtained the U.S. Food and Drug Administration (FDA) approved treatment for COVID-19 Remdesivir (Veklury) along with the investigational monoclonal antibody therapy Bamlanivimab, which has received an Emergency Use Authorization from the FDA.

COVID-19 cases are on the rise across the nation and in Arkansas as the state reported a record in hospitalizations. Bradley County and other parts of Southeast Arkansas are also seeing their highest number of active cases in months. If you have COVID-19, you don't have to leave Southeast Arkansas to be treated because BCMC can provide these two treatments.

The first treatment for COVID-19 is the antiviral drug Remdesivir, which is only administered to patients in an inpatient setting. It is for patients that are 12 years or older and weighing at least 88 pounds. The approval of Remdesivir was supported by the agency's analysis of data from three randomized, controlled clinical trials that included patients hospitalized with mild-to-severe COVID-19. BCMC was one of the first hospitals in South Arkansas to receive and put Remdesivir to use.

The other treatment recently given Emergency Use Authorization by the FDA is Bamlanivimab. Bamlanivimab is for use in the outpatient setting. It is authorized for patients with a positive COVID-19 test result that are 12 years or older and weigh at least 88 pounds, and who are at high risk for progressing to severe COVID-19 and/or hospitalization. This includes those who are 65 years of age or older, or who have certain chronic medical conditions. Bamlanivimab was shown in clinical trials to reduce COVID-19-related hospitalization or emergency room visits in patients at high risk for disease progression within 28 days after treatment when compared to placebo. BCMC received Bamlanivimab within days of the Emergency Use Authorization.

Remdesivir will only be administered to patients in the hospital that are moderately to severely sick with COVID-19. Bamlanivimab, on the other hand, will come with an order from your primary care physician. You will have to test positive for COVID-19 and be determined to be at a high risk of developing severe COVID-19 and/or hospitalization. You will come to the hospital as an outpatient and receive the infusion of Bamlanivimab, which takes approximately one hour, in hopes of reducing severe complications from COVID-19 and/or hospitalization.

For the latest news and updates regarding BCMC please like the Bradley County Medical Center Facebook page. To keep up with the most recent news and updates for the BCMC Rural Health Clinic, please like the BCMC Rural Health Clinic page on Facebook.

LifeShare Mobile Blood Drive Set for Thursday at BCMC Rural Health Clinic

There will be a LifeShare Mobile Blood Drive on Thursday, Dec. 3 from 1 p.m. to 7 p.m. The blood drive will take place inside the LifeShare mobile unit in the BCMC Rural Health Clinic parking lot, which is located at 304 East Central Street across the street from Bradley County Medical Center's ER entrance.

If you donated blood in the emergency blood drive held last month, you won't be able to donate this time. However, it is important that those who can donate do so. Donors will have the chance to receive a LifeShare fleece blanket while supplies last.

The COVID-19 pandemic has led to a significant decrease in blood donations, which has led to a shortage in the blood supply on a regional and national level. These local blood drives are the main source of blood for our hospital.

Around 1 in every 7 people entering a hospital need blood. One blood donation, approximately one pint of blood, can save up to three lives.

It is safe to donate blood. The COVID-19 coronavirus does not pose any known risk to blood donors during the donation process or from attending blood drives.

LifeShare Blood Center regularly supplies blood components to more than 100 medical facilities throughout Louisiana, East Texas and South Arkansas. Founded in Shreveport, La. in 1942, it is a nonprofit community service provider governed by a volunteer Board of Trustees. LifeShare is a member of America's Blood Centers and the American Rare Donor Program, is licensed by the U.S. Food & Drug Administration and accredited by AABB.

For the latest news and updates regarding BCMC please like the Bradley County Medical Center Facebook page. To keep up with the most recent news and updates for the BCMC Rural Health Clinic, please like the BCMC Rural Health Clinic page on Facebook.

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