By CRISTINA JANNEY Hays Post

A second doctor has sued HaysMed, arguing the noncompete clause in his contract is too restrictive.

Dr. Robert Rodriguez, an oncologist at HaysMed, filed suit against the hospital on Tuesday after his resignation on Nov. 16. <a href="https://hayspost.com/posts/ff47d31e-0893-42cc-9d64-36235a52511f">SEE RELATED STORY: LETTER: Oncologist announces resignation from HaysMed</a>

<a href="https://hayspost.com/posts/b34af9aa-1485-42c1-a272-afe7c74a36fb">He joins Dr. Jerod Grove, a general surgeon, who has also resigned from the hospital and sued the hospital to prevent the medical center from enforcing a noncompete clause in his contract.</a>

Rodriguez, who grew up in Goodland, expressed in the lawsuit a desire to continue to live and practice in western Kansas. Both Grove and Rodriguez's contracts would prevent the doctors from practicing within a 110-mile radius of Hays, which encompasses about 80% of western Kansas.

Both physicians have cited issues with the hospital administration and concerns about the quality of care at the medical center.

<a href="https://hayspost.com/posts/6dbff5d6-d29e-4959-b974-b6e39d502851">SEE RELATED STORY: Doctors share concerns on administration, future of HaysMed</a>

Rodriguez's lawsuit cited specific issues with care, including long wait times for crucial testing and treatment of cancer patients.

It has been taking up to six weeks to get insurance prior authorization to initiate chemotherapy, three weeks to get CTs and three to four weeks to obtain PET scans and MRIs, the lawsuit said.

"These delays had never been the case at Hays Med before, and it is&nbsp;definitely not the standard of care at our larger institutions in Kansas," the lawsuit said. "Delays in obtaining tests or starting treatment can have a negative&nbsp;impact on patient outcomes."

Rodriguez said in his lawsuit his employment was "unbearable," forcing him to resign from his position.

The lawsuit says HaysMed has been unable to maintain physicians, specifically within the cancer center.

He was hired in July 2015 with&nbsp;plans to expand the practice to four doctors. However, those plans rapidly changed when both of his longtime partners left the facility within six months of his starting, the lawsuit said.

The other hematologist/oncologist left after 15 years of service at HaysMed because of direct conflicts with the administration, the lawsuit said.&nbsp;She uprooted her entire family and moved back to the Kansas City metro area primarily because she was unable to work locally, the lawsuit said.

HaysMed was unable to recruit physicians, according to the lawsuit. The lawsuit said Rodriguez used his personal contacts and reputation to recruit and successfully sign doctors to work in oncology at the hospital.

Rodriguez's colleagues Dr. Anthony Accurso and&nbsp;Dr. Matthew Mallory both left Hays Med because of direct&nbsp;conflicts with the administration, the lawsuit alleges.

The lawsuit says traveling physicians could not fill the vacuum left by the two doctors.

Rodriguez says in the suit that for three weeks, he was the only oncologist working in a practice normally staffed by three or four doctors.

Rodriguez claims in the suit he was so overwhelmed by the workload that he was evaluated in the emergency room for a possible heart attack. He was diagnosed with an ulcer that he attributed to stress.&nbsp;

Rodriguez is one of only three oncologists in western Kansas.&nbsp;

According to the lawsuit, he covers about 5,000 patients through his practice.

According to Grove's lawsuit, HaysMed has lost 12 physicians, two certified registered nurse anesthetists, and three midlevel providers. None of these have remained in the region and provide services to the residents of the state's western half.

Services impacts include cardiology, urology, orthopedics, OB/GYN, hospitalists, oncology, nephrology and general family medicine, the lawsuit said.

The lawsuit alleges HaysMed is using its noncompete clauses to try to maintain a monopoly in health care in western Kansas.

The American Medical Association’s Council on Ethics and Judicial&nbsp;Affairs discourages noncompete agreements in physicians’ employment&nbsp;contracts because they can potentially negatively affect patient care, the lawsuit said.

The lawsuit argues barring Rodriguez from practicing in western Kansas will result in patients waiting much longer or traveling longer distances for care, which could both result in adverse health outcomes, including death.

The lawsuit says HaysMed's attempt to maintain a monopoly could increase patients' insurance costs by giving HaysMed a better bargaining position with insurance companies.

The lawsuit also alleges HaysMed administrators may be using noncompete clauses in contracts to better position the hospital in the case of a potential sale.

"Upon information and belief, Hays Med has, for various reasons, been&nbsp;exploring the possibility of entering into either a sale, merger or other&nbsp;business relationship with another hospital system as it has been&nbsp;operating with negative returns for a number of years. In order to get the best price possible, upon information and belief," the lawsuit said.

"HaysMed is attempting to retain its providers, including physicians, nurses and other staff, in order to ensure it retains a larger value in the instance of a sale or re-negotiation of its insurance payment rates," the lawsuit said.

<a href="https://hayspost.com/posts/a32ac3e2-3d3b-4a77-94b3-9e455da465e1">SEE RELATED STORY: HaysMed losses $5M; current, former staff express concerns about care, administration</a> <a href="https://hayspost.com/posts/2be22ca4-173c-464f-b507-918c1bbcc5a8">SEE RELATED STORY: HaysMed administrators respond to challenges facing hospital</a>

The lawsuit argues HaysMed would not be harmed if Rodriguez was allowed to continue practicing medicine in western Kansas. HaysMed is aware of Dr. Rodriguez’s resignation and has 90 days to find a suitable substitute. 

"This&nbsp;is ample time to mitigate their damages, and it is their responsibility to&nbsp;ensure continuity of care at their hospital as they have reasonable notice of &nbsp;Rodriguez's&nbsp;departure," the lawsuit said.

Rodriguez states in his lawsuit he has been unable to negotiate with another hospital in western Kansas because HaysMed has stated it will enforce his noncompete clause.

Grove signed a contract with Greeley County Hospital. <a href="https://hayspost.com/posts/ac65c186-e3de-4a74-af00-f681eacbcca2">HaysMed has countersued both Grove and Greeley County Hospital to stop Grove from practicing at the hospital in Greeley County.</a>

Rodriguez has requested an injunction allowing him to continue to practice in western Kansas and is seeking unspecified damages to be determined at trial.

HaysMed issued a statement on Rodriguez's lawsuit Wednesday afternoon.&nbsp;

"We are aware of Dr. Rodriguez’s complaint and are currently reviewing the details. We do not agree with the allegations presented and intend to address this matter through the proper legal channels, " the statement said.

"Noncompete agreements are standard practice in health care and provide assurance to our patients that the hospital and its clinics have the medical staff and expertise to provide for their oftentimes complex medical needs.

"HaysMed remains dedicated to providing specialty care for the residents of Hays and the region, just as we have for many decades," the statement said.

Second doctor sues HaysMed over noncompete clause in contract

The Kansas Department of Health and Environment (KDHE) has issued a boil water advisory for the City of Russell public water supply system located in Russell County.

Customers should observe the following precautions until further notice:

The advisory took effect on December 5 and will remain in effect until the conditions that placed the system at risk of bacterial contamination are resolved. 

KDHE officials issued the advisory because of a waterline break at the water treatment plant resulting in potential bacterial contamination in the water entering the distribution system.

Regardless of whether the public water supplier or KDHE announced a boil water advisory, only KDHE can issue the rescind notice following testing at a certified laboratory.

For consumer questions, please contact the Russell water system at 785-483-6311, or KDHE at 785-296-5514. For consumer information please visit KDHE’s PWS Consumer Information webpage:&nbsp;<a target="_blank" href="https://links-1.govdelivery.com/CL0/https:%2F%2Fwww.kdhe.ks.gov%2F468%2FDisruption-in-Water-Service%3Futm_medium=email%26utm_source=govdelivery/1/0100019397b4d143-42ac469b-f288-4811-960a-74dbeb12bc7e-000000/eBwXKiv_Gq5UJ3YIbxx16CLFSk_WDtXpoONKGWXNux8=382">https://www.kdhe.ks.gov/468/Disruption-in-Water-Service</a>

Restaurants and other food establishments that have questions about the impact of the boil water advisory on their business can contact the Kansas Department of Agriculture’s food safety &amp; lodging program at&nbsp;&nbsp;<a href="mailto:kda.fsl@ks.gov">kda.fsl@ks.gov</a>&nbsp;or call 785-564-6767.

City of Russell under boil water advisory issued by KDHE

As the 2024 holiday season commences, Fort Hays State University’s annual toy-building event is approaching quickly.

The 35th Annual Fred Ruda’s Teaming up for Tots event is set to take place on Saturday, Dec. 7, at the Center for Applied Technology at Fort Hays State University. This year, volunteers from the community will build over 180 wooden helicopter toys that will be distributed to children in need in our community.

Students in the Department of Applied Technology have designed the toy and all the processes, jigs, and fixtures needed to produce the toys on a mass scale. Community members are asked to volunteer to run a station. Jobs include but aren’t limited to running machinery, moving pieces from one part of the assembly line to another, gluing and assembling parts, sanding, and applying oil finish to the production toys.

“This is one of the best opportunities for our students to give back to the community,” said Zach Pixler, Assistant Professor of Applied Technology. “Not only do they learn more about the manufacturing process, they get to flex their creative muscles a bit, practice critical thinking skills, and see the positive impact that their hard work has on those around them. This year’s helicopter toy incorporates some different materials, so it’s a challenge for our students. I’m excited to see them all come together on our line!”

Building will commence at 9 a.m. and will be completed by lunchtime. Join us for coffee and donuts before the event and pizza after the build. All ages are welcome. No sign-up is necessary; just bring safety glasses and be ready to build.

For answers to any questions, contact the Department of Applied Technology at 785-628-4211.

🎙 Post Podcast: FHSU’s annual toy building event set for Dec. 7

Enter to win Eagle Radio's Reindeer Radio

2024 will mark the 33rd anniversary of Worcester Wreath Company donating Maine wreaths to adorn the headstones of our Nation’s veterans at Arlington National Cemetery. In addition to wreaths destined for Virginia, Worcester Wreath will again donate 8 ceremonial wreaths to over 1,200 State, National and local cemeteries across the Country.

In response to the many voices who wanted to share in the project, the non-profit Wreaths Across America organization was formed to expand the program by offering supporters the opportunity to sponsor a wreath. Our goal is to one day see every veterans grave in the country covered to honor every veteran during the holidays.

The Annual Wreaths Across America ceremony at the Kansas Veterans Cemetery at WaKeeney will be held on December 14, 2024 at 11:00 a.m. Eight ceremonial wreaths will be placed to remember those who gave their lives in service for our country. Specially made wreaths for Army, Marines, Navy, Air Force, Coast Guard, Merchant Marines, Space Force and POW/MIA will be placed as memorials during this ceremony. All of these specially made wreaths are donated by Worcester Wreath Company in Harrington, Maine. The full story can be seen and heard online at the Wreaths Across America Website at www.wreathsacrossamerica.com.

Although we have enough donations to place a wreath on each grave within our cemetery this year, we collect donations all year long, so new donations will be credited for 2024. If anyone would like to donate for the wreaths placed on graves at the Veterans’ Cemetery at WaKeeney, each wreath is $17.00. Please make checks payable to Wreaths Across America and send to: Kansas Veterans’ Cemetery at WaKeeney, PO Box 185, WaKeeney KS 67672. We would like to thank all of those who have so generously donated money to purchase wreaths for individual graves.

Family members will be given the opportunity, following the ceremony, to place a wreath on their loved one’s grave. If family members are unable to attend, the American Legion Riders and other volunteers will place the wreaths on those graves.

WaKeeney's Wreaths Across America ceremony Dec. 14

By BECKY KISER Hays Post

It's the season for holiday events in Hays.&nbsp;

Janet Kuhn,&nbsp;convention sales manager at the Hays Convention and Visitors Bureau, reviews some of the December activities.

For an up-to-the-minute calendar of events, check the Hays CVB website at <a href="https://www.visithays.com/calendar.aspx">visithays.com</a>.

🎥 CVB: It's holiday time in Hays

By LINN ANN HUNTINGTON Special to the Hays Post

With the holiday season in full swing, children across Northwest Kansas are looking forward to Christmas and the gifts they know will soon arrive.

However, for many foster children, Christmas is different. Many of the 200 foster children served by St. Francis Ministries in Ellis County and across Northwest Kansas have never received a Christmas gift.

Michele Eiland, a volunteer with St. Francis, acknowledges this fact is hard for most adults in this area to wrap their minds around.

That is why Eiland each year volunteers to help with St. Francis Ministries’ “Hope Tree Project.” From now until Friday, Dec. 6, St. Francis will collect gifts for these foster children in Ellis County and across Northwest Kansas. Their ages range from infant to age 17.

Four Hope Trees have been erected at Hays businesses. Each tree contains cards containing a “wish list” compiled by each child, their caseworkers, and their foster parents. Eiland said most of those “wish lists” include both toys and clothing.

Each card lists the child’s age, gender and, if clothing is needed, what kind(s) and size(s). Individuals are asked to take a card (or more than one) and purchase items from the list for that child. The ministry suggests a spending limit of $125 per child.

The four tree locations are KPRD Praise Radio, 709 Main St.; Thomsen Customs engravers, inside the Hadley Center, 205 E. Seventh St., No. 111; The Gamers Guild, 200 E. Eighth St.; and Aikido of Northwest Kansas, 208 E. Eighth St., No. 1.

Gifts should be returned unwrapped by Friday, Dec. 6, to the same location or to KPRD Praise Radio (see address above).

Eiland said, “Through no actions or decisions of their own, these children are not living with their parents. Many have never received any kind of gift, let alone a Christmas gift. When people purchase gifts that are on the wish list card, these children feel heard and important.”

The “Wrapping Extravaganza” to wrap the gifts for these 200 children will take place from 10 a.m. to noon Saturday, Dec. 7, and from 2 to 4 p.m. Sunday, Dec. 8, at North Oak Community Church, 3000 Oak St. The community is invited to participate, but registration is requested to make sure there are enough wrapping supplies for everyone, Eiland said.

All wrapping supplies and gift tags will be provided. Eiland asked that people register by Friday, Dec. 6, by calling or texting her at 214-546-1974 and specifying the day and time they will help.

“The Wrapping Extravaganza is an opportunity to get your family, friends or social groups together and help out in the wrapping of these gifts,” Eiland said. “It is a great way for all ages to give back to others in the community with no monetary costs, only a few hours of your time.

“Both of these simple acts—the shopping and the wrapping—can and will make this Christmas holiday special for these special kids,” she added.

‘Hope Tree Project’ collecting gifts for foster children

THE SUCCESSES OF TOMORROW BEGIN TODAY, CATHOLIC EDUCATION IS A LIFETIME ADVANTAGE.

CATHOLIC SCHOOLS….SCHOOLS YOU CAN BELIEVE IN!!!

Holy Family Elementary weekly update

Celebrate the season at the Hays Public Library! With themed programs and Frost Fest, the library has something coming up for all ages.

The first weekend of December will include both the Winter Art Walk and Frost Fest. The Winter Art Walk on Dec. 7 will feature a poetry reading put on by the FHSU Poet Laureate, Eileen Veatch. Also, the library will exhibit landscapes by Jan Williams.

On the same Saturday, join Santa for a come-and-go breakfast from 9 to 11 a.m., with a story at 10. Following the story, you can take a picture with Santa. Then get creative with seasonal crafts in the afternoon from 1 to 4. For the Frost Fest lighted parade on Sunday, Dec. 8, the library will reopen at 5:30 p.m. to serve hot chocolate. Community members are welcome to view the parade, which begins at 6 p.m., from inside the library.

Seasonal programs for adults will include a snowman craft on Dec. 5, How-To Series: Gift Wrapping on December 10th, and Holiday Cookie and Recipe Swap on December 16th.

A complete list of activities for all ages is available on the event calendar at hayslibrary.org.

Frost Fest and holiday activities planned at the Hays Public Library

Our 52nd Annual Christmas Past event commences at 7 p.m. on Dec. 6 and 7. 

Old fashioned and traditional, our longstanding start to the Christmas season invites all to enjoy carriage rides and live music. 

As ever enough for everyone, candied apples and hot cider will warm spirits for the upcoming season. 

Many volunteers and reenactors devote their time, once a year, to help orchestrate our popular event. 

We cordially invite all to attend and make it one more great season for everyone!

52nd annual Christmas Past scheduled

The Department of Applied Technology at Fort Hays State University is once again looking for “elves” to help make toys.

The annual Fred P. Ruda Teaming Up For Tots event will be from 9 a.m. to 1 p.m. Saturday, Dec. 7, in the wood shop of the Center for Applied Technology. 

Community volunteers are invited to come and go as their schedules permit. No reservations are required.

This year’s toy is a wooden helicopter. Approximately 200 will be made for children in the area, ages 2 through 6.

According to the department’s website, “The program is designed to spread holiday cheer to local children who may not otherwise receive Christmas presents. All ages are welcome to volunteer for toy production, but children 12 and under must be accompanied by an adult.”

Jobs include sanding, running parts from station to station, putting on wheels, attaching parts, finishing and, for those who have experience, running some machine operations.

‘Elves’ needed to help make 200 toys at FHSU

TMP-Marian boys vs Hugoton Thursday, Dec. 5 – 4:45 p.m. Hays, Kan. - Hays High School

Radio: KHAZ (99.5)&nbsp;<a href="https://99kzcountry.com/">CLICK HERE TO LISTEN </a>Video: TMP-Marian Sports Network&nbsp;<a href="https://vcloud.hudl.com/broadcast/embed/1755517">CLICK HERE TO WATCH
($)</a>

The TMP-Marian Monarchs return four starters from last year's team as they open the season against the Hugoton Eagles in the first round of the Hays City Shootout Thursday at 4:45 p.m.

The Eagles are coming off back-to-back 4A state title game appearances.

Tipoff of the boys game is set for 4:45 p.m. from Hays High on the Monarchs Sports Network.

TMP-Marian girls vs Olathe West Thursday, Dec. 5 – 8:15 p.m. Hays, Kan. - Hays Middle School

Radio: KHAZ (99.5)&nbsp;<a href="https://99kzcountry.com/">CLICK HERE TO LISTEN </a>Video: TMP-Marian Sports Network&nbsp;<a href="https://vcloud.hudl.com/broadcast/embed/1755530">CLICK HERE TO WATCH
($)</a>

The TMP-Marian Lady Monarchs begin their first season under head coach John Linn Thursday against Olathe West.

TMP returns all five starters from last year's team that finished 11-12 and 6-4 in the MCL.

They take on an Owls team that is the defending Shootout Champions.&nbsp;

Tipoff of the girls game is set for 7:55 p.m. from Hays Middle on the Monarchs Sports Network.

🏀🎥 TMP Monarchs take on Hugoton/Olathe West in Hays City Shootout opening round

The HaysMed Board of Directors issued the following statement on social media today.

We as the Board of Directors of Hays Medical Center are aware of the recent social media posts and want to assure the community of our continued strength as a key employer in the community and our ongoing commitment to providing the best quality of care in rural America.

We have been determined to not engage in a battle over social media.  Unfortunately, we have come to realize it is time to address some of the comments that are being circulated.

While it is always our goal to retain the providers who work at HaysMed, some level of turnover is normal and to be expected.  Recruiting and retaining qualified physicians is always a challenge in Kansas, but this issue is particularly amplified in rural parts of the state.

In 2024, HaysMed had a total of 10 physicians leave the community, but during the same timeframe, contracted with 20 new physicians who joined the medical staff.

According to data provided by the Kansas Hospital Association, the most recent average annual turnover rate for physicians in Kansas is 11% (See <a href="http://www.kha-net.org/DataProductsandServices/DataPublic/d139877.aspx?type=view&amp;fbclid=IwZXh0bgNhZW0CMTAAAR1mrKlwxqjl52w89cfL_a4X36N7tgkKmP0nQl5IG-EHAglrMcIw5rl_NtI_aem_XnBEn7TXuWZm1G5qZwCQRw" target="_blank">http://www.kha-net.org/DataPro.../DataPublic/d139877.aspx...</a>). HaysMed’s turnover rate in 2024 is 10.99%, so the amount of physician turnover HaysMed has experienced is very much in keeping with what other hospitals in the state have experienced.

More importantly, recent physician departures have not impacted HaysMed’s ability to serve the community’s needs.

In fact, over the course of this past year, we have seen a significant increase in patient visits, surgeries, and ancillary services. HaysMed continues to be the region’s leading provider in general surgery, orthopedic surgery, obstetrics/gynecology, hematology/oncology, and ear/nose/throat.

HaysMed also continues to provide the region’s only urology, nephrology, invasive cardiology, non-invasive cardiology, cardiothoracic surgery, electrophysiology, spine surgery, and pulmonology services.

Recently, concern has been expressed in social media posts regarding the financial losses HaysMed has experienced.  HaysMed is not alone in its struggles in dealing with the rising cost of labor, supplies, and inflation, while receiving less in reimbursement from insurance companies and governmental programs.

Many not-for-profit hospitals like HaysMed face these same challenges.  According to the latest analysis from the Center for Healthcare Quality and Payment Reform, more than 700 rural U.S. hospitals are at risk of closure due to financial problems.

Eighty-four (84) of those hospitals are located in the state of Kansas (and represent 86% of Kansas rural hospitals).

Despite these economic challenges, HaysMed’s Associates (including physicians and other HaysMed personnel) and members of management have worked diligently for the past 2 years to make changes aimed at creating greater efficiencies and reducing costs.

These efforts have had a significant positive impact on HaysMed’s financial performance. While we prefer to not use our savings to fund financial operating losses, HaysMed has invested its funds wisely over the years and has the funds available to cover such losses.

We have also developed a plan to return to a positive net operating margin.  The community should rest assured that the outlook for HaysMed is bright, and we are committed to taking the necessary steps to ensure HaysMed continues to play a key role in this community as an employer and health care provider for many years to come.

In carrying out this mission, we as the Board of Directors have to make tough decisions.  These decisions may seem unfair when viewed in isolation as to a particular individual or HaysMed Associate, but we do not have the luxury of making decisions based on the wants or needs of a particular individual.

We must make our decisions based on what is best for HaysMed and our patients. This includes our approach to physician contracting. Our goal is to recruit the most skilled physicians to work at HaysMed.

We want the best possible care for our patients, and as a result, HaysMed invests considerable resources into the hiring and retention of its physicians.

Like most hospitals, HaysMed requires noncompete agreements.  We are not unique in that regard.  Moreover, this is not a new practice.

This has been our practice since the early 1990s, which has served HaysMed and our patients well by enabling HaysMed to provide assurances to our patients that the hospital and its clinics have the medical staff and expertise to provide needed care.

Despite the negative social media posts, there is much to celebrate at HayMed.  This year, under the leadership of CEO Eddie Herrman, HaysMed and its Associates accomplished several key milestones. HaysMed achieved the prestigious five-star rating from the Centers for Medicare &amp; Medicaid Services (CMS) as part of CMS’ Overall Hospital Quality Star Rating.

The data is available on the Medicare site at <a href="https://l.facebook.com/l.php?u=https%3A%2F%2Fdata.cms.gov%2Fprovider-data%2Ftopics%2Fhospitals%3Ffbclid%3DIwZXh0bgNhZW0CMTAAAR3P7XQEfZ-J0XspRmrHZoh5NRYCopNz-c4isydegISnIhHKIQxVWKrR4nE_aem_4o3qHAiCbKZGeYnj9c_bqA&amp;h=AT0HBl0dM_oy6RIVkUUTPV4gLEpbODBuTFAd8RkBrOuzaYNQi2aDD1uvUtDLAeUkGv52qpZ2w7lrQr02747sj1U83CMwkErwVtujb4f-G_DOzqp4T2vnfwSVfoGzAZ6Rrd657XU8Fw&amp;__tn__=-UK-R&amp;c[0]=AT3RoKeP-2Ld0q4i2L_Svu9Hxmny8Mmr4OA9h3FnVQN4iIpjQdvwaifvt25omjQRUfFVxBLc9PtCdXWBNtlIt0y0AEQui1619OulYr5-ku6z0-4PAjdQG1VJrlqP35X52REUlUC2J7Z4Zy-lpfB7ATrfbhTxKhy7qxMTQGptBv-kLHg1rf13w9kgZ-jXl3m06AzWe5wmfehUF7qApM8LOrdIyr4" target="_blank">https://data.cms.gov/provider-data/topics/hospitals</a>. CMS selected 46 of the hospital quality measures CMS publicly reports on at <a href="https://l.facebook.com/l.php?u=http%3A%2F%2FMedicare.gov%2F%3Ffbclid%3DIwZXh0bgNhZW0CMTAAAR0ULGAbz3jRbQJFAggMRoHkZZAp_TfCz25HQdVjb8n4BYAajl8m0jYwgWU_aem_N9WkHY4xjd_l6LGYPbmIbw&amp;h=AT39NBarbC6REsSIkSDg4MS-_FAhlVRFoBLxzWxx3mSyfuFVmYWE5zpDDv4hkqmfKQiR9Y_L2SEzqoY0n_bawu2xmIXLaipdhBJ40CMrSgtdagl_Ta_91djN_HzJplHJwPfkeb30MA&amp;__tn__=-UK-R&amp;c[0]=AT3RoKeP-2Ld0q4i2L_Svu9Hxmny8Mmr4OA9h3FnVQN4iIpjQdvwaifvt25omjQRUfFVxBLc9PtCdXWBNtlIt0y0AEQui1619OulYr5-ku6z0-4PAjdQG1VJrlqP35X52REUlUC2J7Z4Zy-lpfB7ATrfbhTxKhy7qxMTQGptBv-kLHg1rf13w9kgZ-jXl3m06AzWe5wmfehUF7qApM8LOrdIyr4" target="_blank">Medicare.gov</a> and divided them into 5 groups—mortality, safety of care, readmission, patient experience and timely and effective care.

HaysMed was 1 of 7 hospitals in the state of Kansas to receive the top five-star rating, and was the only hospital west of Pratt to receive the rating.

HaysMed also received national recognition as a Top 100 Rural &amp; Community Hospital from the Chartis Center for Rural Health.

HaysMed continued its mission of innovation when it became the first facility in Kansas to perform the groundbreaking Detour surgical procedure for peripheral artery disease.

Additionally, the hospital is completing a hybrid operating room which will be used to provide less invasive heart procedure options for qualifying patients in the region.

The board is working closely with HaysMed administration to ensure HaysMed remains in service to the Hays community and broader region for generations to come.

Our commitment is unwavering in these difficult times to continue providing complex care for the region.

As community members, business owners and patients ourselves, we are deeply committed to the well-being of our community, region, our Associates and our patients.

Every decision we make at HaysMed reflects this dedication.

— Hays Medical Center Board Jana Horsfall, Chair, Melissa Romme, Vice Chair, D. G. Bickle, Secretary, Dan Schippers, Treasurer, Edward Herrman, President &amp; CEO, Wayne Kieffer, Dr. Tom McDonald , Alan Moore, Chris Wente, Dr. Kayla Gray- Chief of Staff , and Dr. Ernesto Lopez – Past Chief of Staff

HaysMed Board of Directors issues statement on staffing

FHSU crime log Nov. 29-Dec. 5, 2024

Despite easing drought conditions in much of western Kansas, Ellis County still has a moderate drought, according to the Kansas Drought Monitor, released today.

The monitor shows moderate drought conditions in an area from Rush and Barton counties to the Nebraska border.

No precipitation is in the forecast for Hays through Wednesday, with highs in the upper 50s on Saturday and Sunday, according to the National Weather Service.

The weather report from the K-State Ag Research Center says Hays has received .69 inches of rain this month and&nbsp;24.11 inches year to date, which is above the yearly average of&nbsp;22.94 inches of precipitation.

Hays received almost 4 inches of rain in November but experienced dry conditions earlier in the fall.

Drought persists for Ellis County

Hays native Leslie Hauck III has been promoted to brigadier general in the United States Air Force. He is the director of Electromagnetic Spectrum Superiority Headquarters for the U.S. Air Force stationed at the Pentagon in Arlington, Virginia.

His overseas assignments have included South Korea, Germany and Afghanistan.&nbsp;

He has also received multiple prestigous awards and decorations during a career.

Hays native promoted to brigadier general in U.S. Air Force

By BECKY KISER Hays Post

In 2019, the city of Hays purchased a 90-acre tract of greenfield property immediately northeast of Interstate 70, Exit 161, for development opportunities.

During Thursday's work session, city commissioners will hear a proposed award for engineering services for water/sewer main extensions under I-70, abutting street/intersection improvements and internal infrastructure improvements in that acreage.

The low bid is from&nbsp;Kaw Valley Engineering, Salina, for $118,750.

In 2022, the city hired RDG Planning and Design to conduct a market analysis and conceptual rendering of the property. It includes commercial, office and residential development, along with walking trails, public art and open space.

There is no specific development plan at this time, said Jarrod Kuckelman, Hays management analyst.

"There was a concept feasibility study put together of the acreage and what could fit out there on that property. It highlighted the goals of what the commissioners would like the property utilized for," Kuckelman said.

"That study is frequently shared with developers who are looking for a spot in Hays."

Two other bid recommendations will be heard Thursday.

Jeff Boyle, parks director, will discuss the east multi-use connector paths. It will provide the necessary links between the existing path, which ends at 22nd Street just south of HaysMed, and the new path, which will connect 41st Street and Hall to the Sternberg Museum.

The total low bid for both connector paths is $231,616 from T&amp;T Builders, Hays.&nbsp;Once all these new paths are constructed, there will be about five miles of multi-use path connecting the north and east sides of town.

Jeff Crispin, director of water resources, will discuss the demolition of obsolete structures at the water reclamation and reuse facility, 755 General Custer Road.

Three clarifiers were abandoned when the facility was upgraded between 2017 and 2019 to meet the Kansas Department of Health and Environment's new permit requirements.&nbsp;

One clarifier will be kept, although its metal components will be removed. It will be used if contaminated wastewater needs to be temporarily separated.

A single bid of $191,550 was submitted by M&amp;D, Hays, and is below the budget of $200,000. 

Boyle and Roger Bixenman, Hays Recreation Commission superintendent, will discuss the 2024 financial report and attendance at the pools and the sports complex.

This year, the recreation commission's total operating loss at the Hays Aquatic Park and Wilson Pool was $50,895. An agreement between the city and HRC splits the loss between the two entities, with each paying $25,447.

Attendance at the Hays Aquatic Park increased in 2024, with 46,004 patrons visiting the pool compared to 43,204 in 2023. Wilson Pool visitation decreased to 2,653 in 2024 compared to 2,903 in 2023.&nbsp;

The Bickle-Schmidt Sports Complex neted a profit of $39,883 for the rec commission in 2024.

The Dec. 5 agenda is available <a href="https://ks-hays.civicplus.com/AgendaCenter/ViewFile/Agenda/_12052024-1514">here</a>. The work session begins at 4 p.m. in Hays City Hall, 1507 Main.&nbsp;

🎥 I-70 Exit 161 city property to be linked to city infrastructure for future development  

RUSSELL COUNTY —Russell Police Department officers in Russell are investigating a series of vehicle burglaries.

Early Wednesday, the Russell Police Department started receiving reports of vehicle burglaries occurring throughout the city, according to a media release.

 The vehicle burglaries targeted unlocked vehicles in all areas of Russell. Investigation into these incidents is ongoing and 23 separate vehicle burglaries have been reported. 

Police are asking residents who have surveillance camera systems to review their camera footage on December 4, from 12a.m. to 6:00a.m.

 If residents find something suspicious on their camera footage or were burglarized and haven’t reported it, please contact police at 785-483-2121.

A crime prevention reminder: park in well-lit areas, always lock your vehicles, and do not keep valuables stored in vehicles. If you must store valuables in vehicles, store them in the trunk.

Police investigating series of vehicle burglaries in Russell

TOPEKA –&nbsp;Safe Kids Kansas will present its Annual Awards today, December 3, at 1:30 p.m. The awards recognize outstanding contributions by individuals, coalitions, organizations and businesses toward reducing unintentional injury to Kansas children. The awards will be presented virtually via Zoom.

Awards include the prestigious&nbsp;Dr. Dennis Cooley Award of Excellence, named in honor of pediatrician Dr. Dennis Cooley of Topeka. This year’s Cooley Award will be presented to&nbsp;Christy Schunn, Executive Director of the KIDS Network.

Christy’s early experience as a social worker providing bereavement services to families who had lost an infant led her to a career path in prevention. Her leadership in educating and supporting families in providing safe sleep environments for their infants has resulted in changes to policies and practices from hospitals to child care. Additionally, she collaborated to develop a Safe Sleep Instructor certification program that has expanded beyond Kansas.

“Christy is known for being an enthusiastic collaborator and convener, bringing partners together around tables and pulling communities together to advocate and educate safe sleep practices to protect infants from the leading cause of death between their first month and first birthday,”&nbsp;Cherie Sage, State Coordinator for Safe Kids Kansas, said.&nbsp;“We are thrilled to work with Christy Schunn and the KIDS Network and to bestow her with our highest honor.”

Safe Kids Kansas will also present awards for the Dr. Jeffrey Colvin Award for Outstanding Innovation in Child Safety, Outstanding Partnership for Child Safety, Outstanding Coalition Organization, Local Coalition of the Year and Service Recognition.

The Dr. Jeffrey Colvin Award for Outstanding Innovation in Child Safety&nbsp;Kansas Department of Transportation (KDOT).

KDOT&nbsp;released the&nbsp;<a href="https://links-1.govdelivery.com/CL0/https:%2F%2Fwww.ksdot.gov%2Fbureaus%2FburTrafficSaf%2Fdrivetozerocrashdatadashboards.asp%3Futm_medium=email%26utm_source=govdelivery%23:~:text=Transportation%2520safety%2520partners%2520can%2520use,make%2520data%252Ddriven%2520safety%2520decisions./1/010001938e012dfc-67561693-77be-4e80-ba0f-e585a5563aae-000000/hQGM7TFe82C-Kv2JxM2jjr_VaaZhkSZoWt13lcS3gqc=382">Drive to Zero Data Dashboard</a>&nbsp;as a tool to assist traffic safety partners in understanding fatal and suspected serious crashes occurring in Kansas. This tool helps organizations like Safe Kids Kansas and communities identify, location and other information pertaining to the type and severity of crashes experienced to help develop more effective interventions and direct prevention messaging and programs.

The Outstanding Partnership for Child Safety&nbsp;the KIDS Network.

The KIDS Network&nbsp;has been a crucial partner of Safe Kids Kansas for over 20 years. Their staff has led the Safe Sleep efforts of our coalition, which over time has evolved to include a network of over 190 certified Safe Sleep Instructors (SSIs). After surveying birthing hospitals in Kansas about their infant sleep policies and practices, they developed a&nbsp;<a href="https://links-1.govdelivery.com/CL0/https:%2F%2Fwww.kidsks.org%2Fsafe-sleep-star-toolkit.html%3Futm_medium=email%26utm_source=govdelivery/1/010001938e012dfc-67561693-77be-4e80-ba0f-e585a5563aae-000000/ouJPDUAMtiQ9gfOIOtTNaJSMSUMlpjXwghxyEWmyXRg=382">Safe Sleep Star Toolkit</a>&nbsp;and launched the Safe Sleep Star designation to recognize hospitals and clinics promoting safe sleep policies and risk-reduction strategies. They presented nationally and internationally on collaborative efforts in Kansas and continue to work to provide devices such as safety-approved portable cribs to families with infants who live in settings that put them at increased risk, along with resources on safe sleep practices.

The Outstanding Coalition Organization&nbsp;Operation Lifesaver.

Operation Lifesaver&nbsp;has been a national leader in rail safety education since its establishment in 1972. They are one of the few addressing this risk through education. Operation Lifesaver participates in many Safe Kids-hosted events, including Safe Kids Day at the Zoo and National Injury Prevention Day. They provide education and awareness to prevent collisions, injuries and fatalities on and around railroad tracks and highway-rail grade crossings. They distributed hundreds of copies of the Safe Kids Worldwide book “Clifford and the Railroad Crossing,” to help educate families through reading.

The Local Coalition of the Year&nbsp;award was presented to&nbsp;Safe Kids Mitchell County.

Safe Kids Mitchell County&nbsp;has provided childhood injury prevention outreach to their community by distributing safety devices to home visiting programs and community awareness events, such as Bucks for Buckles. The coalition works with the community to support the Kids Café summer program, providing lunch&nbsp; and safety presentations on Bicycle and Railroad Safety. Local Child Passenger Safety Technicians offer assistance with car seat installation and help families who cannot afford a car seat. Blad serves as the coalition coordinator; the lead agency is the Mitchell County Health Department.

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