January, 2015 - Putnam County Hospital

Putnam County Cancer Center Earns Commission on Cancer Accreditation Through 2029 with Zero Deficiencies

Tue, 10 Mar 2026 23:58:20 GMT

Greencastle, Indiana — Putnam County Cancer Center is proud to announce it has received accreditation from the Commission on Cancer (CoC), a nationally recognized program dedicated to improving survival and quality of life for patients with cancer through standard-setting, prevention, research, education, and monitoring of comprehensive quality care.

The accreditation is valid through 2029 and was awarded with zero deficiencies , highlighting the center’s commitment to delivering the highest standards of patient-centered cancer care to the community.

The Commission on Cancer is a multidisciplinary accreditation program that has developed comprehensive standards for cancer programs to ensure patients receive coordinated, high-quality care. Cancer programs are evaluated against these rigorous standards to demonstrate compliance and their ongoing commitment to excellence in treatment and patient outcomes.

“Achieving Commission on Cancer accreditation with no deficiencies is a significant accomplishment for our team,” said Kayla McDermitt, Oncology Manager at Putnam County Cancer Center . “This recognition reflects the dedication of our physicians, nurses, and staff who work collaboratively every day to ensure patients in our community receive high-quality, compassionate cancer care close to home. We are proud of the work our team has done to meet these rigorous standards and remain committed to continually improving the care we provide.”

CoC-accredited programs treat more than 74 percent of newly diagnosed cancer patients in the United States each year , making the network one of the most significant collaborations focused on improving cancer care nationwide.

Through participation in the Commission on Cancer program, Putnam County Cancer Center will continue to enhance care and outcomes for patients by:

Utilizing the Rapid Cancer Reporting System (RCRS) to analyze and compare cancer care delivery at the facility, state, regional, and national levels, helping identify opportunities for quality improvement.
Supporting research and innovation through access to data resources that allow investigators to advance cancer treatment and patient care.
Providing ongoing education and training for program staff through web-based learning and in-person workshops.
Leveraging tools and templates that support tracking and reporting of cancer program activities and compliance standards.
Participating in the CAnswer Forum , an online professional community connecting cancer program experts across the country.
Promoting cancer program excellence through community awareness and outreach resources tied to CoC accreditation.

Putnam County Cancer Center remains committed to providing comprehensive, compassionate cancer care and ensuring patients and their families have access to the latest standards in diagnosis, treatment, and support services.

For more information about cancer services at Putnam County Cancer Center, visit www.pchosp.org

Putnam County Hospital Named “Best of the Best” Healthcare Facility by Putnam County Residents

Thu, 06 Nov 2025 01:10:09 GMT

Putnam County Hospital is proud to announce it has been named the “Best of the Best” Healthcare Facility in Putnam County, as voted by local residents in the Banner Graphic’s annual Best of the Best contest.

The Best of the Best contest, hosted by the Banner Graphic, invited all Putnam County residents—not just subscribers—to participate. Voting was available both online and in print, giving the community an opportunity to recognize local businesses, organizations, and services across multiple categories.

After three weeks of voting, the results were tabulated, and Putnam County Hospital earned top honors as the community's choice for excellence in healthcare.

“We are truly honored to be recognized by the people we serve,” said Brooke Trissel, Director of Marketing for Putnam County Hospital. “This award reflects the dedication of our entire team — from physicians and nurses to support staff — who work every day to provide compassionate, high-quality care close to home.”

Putnam County Hospital extends its gratitude to the community for their continued trust and support. The hospital remains committed to advancing healthcare services, improving patient experiences, and promoting the health and well-being of all Putnam County residents.

Putnam County Hospital Launches “My Wellness Putnam County” to Help Employers Control Healthcare Costs and Improve Employee Wellbeing

Sun, 02 Nov 2025 23:35:23 GMT

Greencastle, IN – – Putnam County Hospital is proud to announce the launch of My Wellness Putnam County , a new employer-based wellness program designed to help local businesses manage rising healthcare costs while promoting better health for employees and their families.

This innovative program provides customized wellness services, preventative care resources, and ongoing health education tailored to the needs of each participating organization. By addressing health issues early and encouraging healthier lifestyles, My Wellness Putnam County aims to reduce long-term medical expenses and support a more productive workforce across the county and surrounding area.

“We recognize that employers are facing increasing pressure from rising healthcare costs,” said Dennis Weatherford , CEO of Putnam County Hospital. “With My Wellness Putnam County , we’re partnering directly with local companies to create healthier work environments and empower employees to take charge of their health.”

Key features of My Wellness Putnam County include:

A near site, shared employer clinic program
A comprehensive primary care/ wellness and lifestyle health program
A program that offers to partner with you, your employees and their families
A program that will increase employee satisfaction and lower healthcare costs
Getting to know each member as an individual and not as just another patient
Communicating with you, the employer, about what we recommend to help encourage clinic engagement
Tailoring special programs to the needs of a specific employer workforce dynamics

By integrating care with local healthcare providers and leveraging Putnam County Hospital’s expertise, the program offers a seamless and impactful approach to improving community health—right where people live and work.

Local employers interested in learning more about My Wellness Putnam County are encouraged to contact btrissel@pchosp.org to schedule an informational session.

Franciscan Sports Medicine and Putnam County Hospital Announce Strategic Collaboration to Advance Sports Medicine and Athlete Care

Fri, 26 Sep 2025 00:01:49 GMT

Franciscan Sports Medicine , a leading provider of orthopedic care, physical therapy, and athletic performance training, is proud to announce a new collaboration with Putnam County Hospital, to enhance sports medicine services and improve the health and performance of athletes at all levels.

This collaboration brings together two trusted organizations to deliver innovative, evidence-based care to athletes, from youth and high school program to college level athletes. The collaboration will focus on:

Injury prevention and recovery
Performance optimization
Research and innovation in sports medicine
Community outreach and education programs

“This collaboration represents a shared vision for delivering the highest standard of sports medicine care,” said CEO of Putnam County Hospital, Dennis Weatherford. “Together, we’re building a foundation for healthier, stronger athletes in our community at the new YMCA location.”

“We are very excited for this expanded relationship with Putnam County Hospital,” said Sharon Annee, Administrative Director of Orthopedics and Neurosciences for Franciscan Health Central Indiana. “Student athletes and the communities of Greencastle and Cloverdale will greatly benefit from this as we continue to expand our sports medicine program and services.”

Services will begin at the YMCA in Putnam County, and will include on-site medical support, injury assessment and rehab, performance training, and access to cutting-edge diagnostic technology.

For more information please visit www.pchosp.org or https://www.franciscanhealth.org/conditions-and-services/sports-medicine .

Putnam Women’s Health and Putnam Pediatrics and Internal Medicine joining together

Fri, 11 Jul 2025 02:22:24 GMT

Putnam County Hospital is excited to share some important news — Putnam Women’s Health is joining Putnam Pediatrics and Internal Medicine to provide women’s health and OB services alongside our primary care team. This will create the very best continuum of care for our community families.

It is the goal of Putnam County Hospital to create a seamless continuum of care. Putnam County Hospital hopes to improve patient outcomes and enhance the overall care experience. By integrating primary care and women’s health services, providers can ensure that patients receive coordinated, comprehensive care across every stage of life. This approach minimizes gaps in treatment, and facilitates better communication among care teams. A well-organized continuum of care promotes efficiency, supports families in all stages of life, and leads to more personalized and effective healthcare.

Darla Berry, RN and Mid-wife said, “Integrating our women’s health service line into PPIM allows us to truly become the one-stop for all your healthcare needs. All of your care needs in one trusted place."

Effective August 1, 2025, Putnam Women’s Health will transition to the Putnam Pediatrics and Internal Medicine team and will begin seeing patients inside of Putnam Pediatrics and Internal Medicine located on the 1 ^st floor inside of Putnam County Hospital.

Please rest assured that there will be no disruption to care of any of our current patients. All existing appointments after August 1, 2025 will take place within Putnam Pediatrics and Internal Medicine. If you have any questions or need help with directions, feel free to call us at 765-301-7440

Putnam County Hospital would like to thank you for continuing to trust us with the care of you and your family. It is our mission to continue to provide exceptional healthcare close to home

Quad A Release

Wed, 18 Sep 2024 00:58:06 GMT

Putnam County Hospital Earns Accreditation from QUAD A

Greencastle, Indiana – Putnam County Hospital announces the successful completion of its accreditation process from QUAD A, a global accreditation authority.

By earning accreditation, Family Medicine of Greencastle, Putnam Pediatrics and Internal Medicine, Family Medicine of Cloverdale, Putnam Prompt Care, and North Putnam Family Healthcare have demonstrated it meets all of the rigorous patient safety standards set by QUAD A’s accreditation program. QUAD A’s thorough processes, expert surveyors, and consultative approach make them a leading accreditation program for outpatient healthcare facilities.

Accreditation is an essential credential for almost every healthcare facility in this country, if not all,” said QUAD A’s CEO, Tom Terranova. “Facilities are really responding to our different approach to accreditation, and we are proud to provide a process that is streamlined, effective, and beneficial to both the facilities we work with and the patients they serve.”

“At Putnam County Hospital, we are committed to ensuring patient safety,” said Director of Marketing and Community Outreach, Brooke Trissel. “We are proud to have received accreditation from QUAD A and look forward to continuing to provide the highest quality of healthcare close to home.”

Established in 1980, QUAD A, a nonprofit, physician founded and led accreditation organization, has worked with thousands of outpatient facilities to help standardize and improve the quality of healthcare they provide. QUAD A strives to be an effective, efficient, and easy-to-work-with partner that values education, reliability, and communication. To learn more about QUAD A, the accreditation process, and why it’s so important to seek out accredited facilities when making healthcare-related decisions, visit www.quada.org

Putnam County Hospital is proud to continue to provide exceptional and safe healthcare close to home. For more information please visit www.pchosp.org

7 Medical Specialties That Help Keep You Healthy: From Rheumatology to Bariatrics

Tue, 31 Jan 2023 14:42:09 GMT

When it comes to maintaining good health, it's essential to have access to a wide range of medical specialties. From rheumatology to bariatrics, these specialties provide the expert care and treatment needed to manage various conditions and improve overall health.

Let's take a closer look at seven medical specialties that play a vital role in keeping people healthy: rheumatology, cardiology, audiology, dermatology, nephrology, pain management, and bariatrics.

Rheumatology

Rheumatology specializes in diagnosing and treating rheumatic diseases affecting joints, bones, and muscles. These chronic diseases cause pain, swelling, and stiffness in the joints and other body parts. Some examples of rheumatic diseases include osteoarthritis, rheumatoid arthritis, lupus, and gout.

Rheumatologists are trained to diagnose and treat rheumatic disease using various methods, including medications, physical therapy, and surgery. They may also work with other physicians and healthcare professionals, such as physical and occupational therapists, to develop treatment plans tailored to each patient's needs.

Determining the correct diagnosis is essential in providing quality care, as some rheumatic diseases can be challenging to identify and require specific treatment.

Cardiology

Cardiology specializes in the diagnosis and treatment of conditions and diseases of the heart and blood vessels. According to the World Heart Federation, cardiovascular disease is the leading cause of death globally. It accounts for more than 17.9 million deaths yearly.

Cardiologists are trained to diagnose and treat various heart conditions, including coronary artery disease, pulmonary artery disease, congenital heart disease, heart failure, and arrhythmias. They may also provide preventive care, such as advising patients on lifestyle changes that can help reduce the risk of developing heart problems.

Cardiologists use a variety of diagnostic tests and procedures to evaluate the health of the heart and blood vessels. These may include electrocardiograms (ECGs), echocardiograms, and stress tests. They may also use medications and other therapies to treat heart conditions and sometimes recommend surgery.

Interventional cardiology can be an effective treatment option for many patients with heart conditions, as it allows for faster recovery times and fewer complications than traditional surgery.

Audiology

Audiology specializes in hearing disorders. Audiologists are healthcare professionals who specialize in the diagnosis and treatment of hearing loss and related disorders. They may work in hospitals, clinics, or private practice and see patients of all ages, from newborns to older adults.

Audiologists use a variety of procedures and tests to evaluate hearing and identify hearing loss. These may include hearing tests, such as pure-tone audiometry, and imaging tests, such as magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) or computed tomography (CT) scans. They may also use specialized equipment to evaluate the function of the auditory system, including the ear, auditory nerve, and brain.

Based on the results of these tests, audiologists may recommend hearing aids, cochlear implants, or other assistive devices to help patients with hearing loss. They may also provide counseling and support to patients and their families to help them adjust to living with hearing loss.

Dermatology

Dermatology specializes in the treatment of diseases of the skin, hair, and nails.

Dermatologists are healthcare professionals who specialize in the diagnosis and treatment of conditions affecting these areas of the body. They may see patients of all ages, from newborns to older adults.

Dermatologists use a variety of diagnostic tests and procedures to evaluate the health of the skin, hair, and nails. These may include skin biopsies, cultures, and imaging tests. They may also use specialized equipment to evaluate the skin, such as dermatoscopes or microscopes.

Based on the results of these tests, dermatologists may recommend various treatments, including medications, surgery, or other therapies. They may also provide preventive care, such as advising patients to protect their skin from the sun or other environmental factors that can cause damage.

Nephrology

Nephrology deals with the kidneys and the diseases and conditions that affect them.

Nephrologists are healthcare professionals who specialize in the diagnosis and treatment of kidney diseases, such as chronic kidney disease, acute kidney injury, and kidney infections. They may also see patients with high blood pressure, electrolyte imbalances, and other conditions that can affect the kidneys.

Nephrologists use a variety of diagnostic tests and procedures to evaluate the health of the kidneys, including blood and urine tests, imaging tests, and kidney biopsies. They may also work with other healthcare professionals, such as dietitians, to develop treatment plans tailored to each patient's needs.

Treatment for kidney disease may include medications, dialysis, or kidney transplantation. Nephrologists may also provide preventive care, such as advising patients on lifestyle changes that can help slow or prevent kidney disease.

Pain Management

Pain management is the medical specialty that focuses on the diagnosis and treatment of chronic pain. If pain persists for more than three months it is defined as Chronic pain. It can be caused by various conditions, such as arthritis, cancer, and nerve damage.

Pain management doctors, also known as pain medicine specialists or physicians, are trained to diagnose and treat chronic pain using various methods, including medications, physical therapy, and interventional procedures.

The goal of pain management is to help patients manage their pain and improve their quality of life. Pain management doctors work with patients to develop a comprehensive treatment plan that may include a combination of medications, physical therapy, and other therapies, such as acupuncture or cognitive-behavioral therapy. They may also work with other healthcare professionals, such as physical therapists, to coordinate pain management.

Bariatrics

Bariatrics is the medical specialty that focuses on the management of obesity and related conditions. Obesity is determined as having a body mass index (BMI) of 30 or higher. It is associated with the increased risk of various health problems, including heart disease, diabetes, and high blood pressure.

40% of adults suffer from obesity in the U.S., according to the Centers for Disease Control (CDC).

Bariatric doctors, also known as bariatric surgeons, are trained to treat obesity and related conditions using various methods, including medications, lifestyle changes, and surgery.

Bariatric surgery is designed to help patients lose weight and improve their overall health. There are several different types of bariatric surgeries, including gastric bypass, gastric banding, and sleeve gastrectomy. These procedures work by reducing the size of the stomach, bypassing part of the small intestine, or restricting the amount of food consumed.

Bariatric surgery is usually recommended for patients suffering from obesity, who have not been able to lose weight through other methods. However, it is typically only considered after other weight loss efforts, such as diet and exercise, have been tried and unsuccessful.

In conclusion, rheumatology, cardiology, audiology, dermatology, nephrology, pain management, and bariatrics are all essential medical specialties that play a vital role in the care of patients.

These specialties are staffed by highly trained and board-certified healthcare professionals who have completed years of medical school and either internal medicine or pediatrics specialization. They are dedicated to helping patients manage their conditions and improve their overall health.

Whether it's through medications, therapies, or surgery, these specialists work to provide the best possible care to their patients.

If you need medical care in any of these specialties, don't hesitate to contact Putman County Hospital. Our team of skilled healthcare professionals is here to help you manage your condition and improve your overall health. Click here to schedule an appointment, or call us at 765-301-7300 to speak with one of our friendly staff members.

Bariatrics Overview

Tue, 31 Jan 2023 14:23:05 GMT

Bariatrics is a branch of medicine that focuses on the treatment of obesity and associated conditions. The field encompasses a variety of treatments, procedures, and lifestyle changes to help individuals lose and maintain a healthy weight and improve overall health.

This article will discuss the treatments, related conditions, and physiology associated with this specialized field of medicine.

Physiology

The physiology behind bariatric interventions involves understanding how our body stores fat and uses energy from food sources to perform daily activities. Our body stores excess calories from food as fat cells, which then act as an energy reserve for when we do not have access to food sources or need extra energy for physical activity or other activities such as growth and development.

By changing our diets and increasing physical activity levels, we can reduce our caloric intake compared to what our body needs for daily functions. This leads us into a negative energy balance where our body begins using stored fat cells for energy instead of relying solely on food sources.

This process results in weight loss over time with proper implementation and monitoring of diet changes and physical activity levels by one’s individual goals and physician recommendations.

Sometimes more than diet and exercise may be required to lose weight or maintain successful long-term results.

Related Conditions

Other conditions are often related to or caused by obesity. These conditions include type 2 diabetes mellitus, hypertension (high blood pressure), sleep apnea (interrupted breathing during sleep), joint problems due to excess weight bearing on certain joints such as knees and hips, and heart disease (coronary artery disease).

Treating obesity through bariatric interventions can often help reduce the symptoms or improve the prognosis for these associated conditions.

Bariatrics Treatments

Weight loss specialists will design a weight management program according to individuals' needs.

Lifestyle Changes

Weight loss specialists will design a weight management program according to individuals' needs.

Related Conditions

Treating obesity through bariatric interventions can often help reduce the symptoms or improve the prognosis for these associated conditions.

Bariatrics Treatments

Weight loss specialists will design a weight management program according to individuals' needs.

Lifestyle Changes

Treating obesity and associated conditions can be done through lifestyle modifications such as diet changes and increased physical activity levels.

Psychological Counseling

This type of treatment often comes in the form of cognitive-behavioral therapy (CBT), which has been proven effective at helping people make better health decisions and encouraging healthier behaviors.

Medication

If a patient has an underlying medical condition contributing to their weight gain (such as hypothyroidism), medications may be prescribed to address this issue in addition to dietary changes or increased physical activity.

Bariatric Surgery

In morbid obesity cases, surgical weight loss, such as gastric bypass, lap band, and sleeve gastrectomy, may be recommended by a physician to help individuals lose weight faster and to reduce the risk of potential medical complications.

Weight loss surgeries can also help obese patients who have been unsuccessful at losing weight by dieting, exercising, or other non-surgical methods.

Bariatric surgery procedures are designed to achieve long-term weight loss success. By surgically altering the size of the stomach or intestines or controlling digestion in some way (such as with an adjustable gastric band), it can be easier for bariatric patients to stick to their meal plans and achieve their weight loss goals.

Weight loss surgery is becoming increasingly popular as a treatment for obesity. It is effective in helping people lose weight and maintain a healthy body mass index (BMI).

In addition, bariatric surgery can reduce the risk of developing severe medical conditions such as diabetes, heart disease, stroke, sleep apnea, high blood pressure, arthritis, gallbladder disease, and certain types of cancer.

Another benefit of bariatric surgery is that it can improve self-esteem and quality of life by improving physical activity levels, increasing energy levels, reducing stress, and making everyday tasks easier.

It can be difficult for people looking to take the first step in their weight loss journey to determine which treatment plan is best for them. With so many options available, from diet and exercise plans to medications and bariatric surgery, it can be overwhelming to figure out where to start.

By working with healthcare providers specializing in the prevention and management of obesity through an individualized approach tailored specifically to each patient’s needs, obese adults can finally take control of their health and reach their desired weight loss goals.

For more information about our services or to make an appointment, please visit our website or call us at (765) 301-7300.

Pain Management

Thu, 29 Dec 2022 14:28:26 GMT

Living with chronic pain can be all-consuming and debilitating, from the physical and emotional toll to the impact on your professional and personal life. This is why pain management is one of the most critical aspects of health care.

There are many ways to manage pain, from prescription and over-the-counter medications to interventional procedures and physical therapy. What works for one person may not work for another, so it's essential to explore your options and find the method or combination of techniques that provide the most relief.

Types of Pain:

Pain can be classified as either acute or chronic.

Acute Pain

Acute pain is generally caused by an injury, surgery, or illness and usually resolves within a few weeks or months. However, chronic pain can develop even after the initial injury has healed.

Common acute pain symptoms include throbbing, aching, and sharp sensations.

Chronic Pain

Chronic pain is pain that lasts for a long time. Many things, including injury, illness, or age, can cause it. Chronic pain symptoms can include throbbing, aching, stiffness, and fatigue.

Chronic pain is a common problem, affecting an estimated one in five Americans. There are many causes of chronic pain, including injury, inflammation, and disease.

Chronic Pain Disorders

Millions of people suffer from chronic pain conditions, making everyday activities difficult.

Chronic pain disorders can be incredibly isolating and frustrating.

Chronic pain disorders can include but are not limited to, diabetes, arthritis, fibromyalgia, multiple sclerosis, shingles, and irritable bowel syndrome.

Neuropathic Pain

Nerve or neuropathic pain is a form of chronic pain caused by damage to the peripheral nervous system or central nervous system. Nerve pain is often described as a burning, tingling sensation or a shooting or stabbing pain.

Treatment Options

Various pain relief treatment options include medication, physical therapy, massage, lifestyle changes, and surgery.

Medication Management

Pain medicine is often the first line of treatment. There are a variety of over-the-counter and prescription pain control medications that can be effective in managing chronic pain, such as analgesics and anti-inflammatory drugs, as well as heat or cold packs.

Interventional Procedures

Interventional procedures are used when pain medication has not successfully relieved your pain or to treat severe pain. These procedures can include things like injections or nerve blocks.

Massage and Physical Therapy
Massage and physical therapy can help you regain strength and flexibility. Physical therapy can play an essential role in improving the range of motion and helping to prevent further pain.

Physical therapy uses various methods to help the body heal and recover. One such approach is manual therapy, which involves hands-on soft tissue manipulation to improve joint mobility and decrease pain. This may include stretching, massage, joint mobilization, or even specialized techniques such as craniosacral therapy.

Additionally, physical therapists may use other modalities, such as electrical stimulation, to reduce pain signals to the brain.

Physical therapists are also educated in ergonomics and posture education to help their patients maintain proper form during an exercise program.

Finally, physical therapists can provide education on the proper pacing of activities, as well as lifestyle modifications that can help reduce pain. With the right physical therapy program, you can significantly reduce discomfort and better manage your condition.

Surgery

In some cases, surgery may be necessary to correct the underlying cause of chronic pain.

Counseling Services

Counseling can help you deal with chronic pain's emotional aspects.

Individualized Care
No matter what treatment approach is taken to control pain, the goal is always to provide relief from pain and improve quality of life. However, not all treatments are effective for everyone, and managing pain can be challenging. Every patient is different, and so is their experience with chronic pain.

For this reason, finding a healthcare provider with experience treating chronic pain who will take time to get to know their patient's unique situation and provide individualized care is of utmost importance.

Pain Management Tips
While there is no one-size-fits-all solution to relieve chronic pain, some options are available to lessen its impact on your life.

1. Understand your pain

It’s essential to take the time to understand your specific type of pain. What triggers it? What makes it better? What makes it worse? The more you know about your chronic pain, the better equipped you will be to manage it.

2. Exercise

Exercise can be essential to managing chronic disease and pain levels, depending on your condition. Exercise releases endorphins—the body’s natural painkillers—which can help to relieve pain. Plus, regular exercise has been shown to improve sleep quality, which is also essential for managing pain levels. Just be sure to start slow and listen to your body; overdoing it can make the pain worse.

3. Make healthy lifestyle choices

Eating right, staying hydrated, and getting enough sleep are all crucial to help reduce pain. These healthy lifestyle choices will help reduce inflammation and improve overall energy levels, which can help lessen pain levels.

4. Don't suffer in silence

It’s easy to feel like you’re the only one struggling with chronic pain, but you’re not. Talk to your friends and family about what you’re going through. Join a support group. See a therapist. Withholding your feelings will only worsen things in the long run.

If you are suffering from chronic pain, please talk to us. We offer individualized care based on each patient's unique needs and condition. We want to help you find relief from your pain so you can get back to living your life. Please get in touch with us today to learn more about how we can help you.

Nephrology Overview

Thu, 29 Dec 2022 13:22:32 GMT

Nephrology is a branch of medicine that deals with the diagnosis and treatment of kidney diseases. The kidneys are vital organs that filter waste products from the blood and excrete them in the urine.

There are a variety of kidney diseases, and each one requires different treatment. They can be acute or chronic, and various factors, including infection, injury, genetics, diabetes, high blood pressure, or other conditions, can cause them.

As kidney disease progresses, it can lead to kidney failure.

Common Kidney Diseases

There are many different types of kidney diseases, but some of the more common ones include the following:

Kidney Stones

These are small deposits of minerals that can form in the kidneys when there is an imbalance in the body’s calcium metabolism. Kidney stones can cause severe pain and may require surgery to remove them.

Urinary Tract Infections

These infections occur in any part of the urinary tract, including the bladder, urethra, ureters, or kidneys. Urinary tract infections are typically treated with antibiotics.

Polycystic Kidney Disease

Polycystic kidney disease is a genetic disorder that results in the formation of multiple cysts in the kidneys. These cysts can lead to kidney failure over time. Polycystic kidney disease is the most common genetic disorder affecting the kidneys, affecting about 1 in 400 to 1000 people. There is no cure for polycystic kidney disease, but treatment can help with the symptoms.

Acute Kidney Injury (AKI):

Also known as Acute Kidney Failure, it is a sudden decrease in kidney function that an infection, injury, or exposure to certain toxins can cause. Symptoms include fatigue, nausea, and decreased urine output. When the kidneys fail, dangerous levels of waste and fluids can build up in the body. This can lead to seizures, coma, and even death.

Treatment for acute kidney failure includes aggressive supportive care and dialysis. Acute kidney disease can often be resolved with treatment but can also lead to chronic kidney disease.

Chronic Kidney Disease (CKD)

This is a gradual decline in kidney function caused by diabetes, high blood pressure, or other conditions. Symptoms include fatigue, nausea, decreased urine output, and swelling in the legs and feet. Chronic kidney disease often requires dialysis or a kidney transplant to treat.

Kidney Disease Diagnosis

Several tests measure kidney function, including creatinine levels, serum urea nitrogen levels, and estimated glomerular filtration rate.

A kidney biopsy might also be needed when there is a suspicion of kidney disease.

Kidney Disease Treatment

Renal replacement therapy, or RRT, is the medical treatment for patients with renal failure. This can be done through various methods, including hemodialysis, peritoneal dialysis, and kidney transplant.

What is a Nephrologist?

A Nephrologist (or kidney doctor) is a doctor who specializes in the diagnosis and treatment of kidney diseases and provides treatments that may help slow the progression of kidney damage, prevent further complications, and maintain kidney health.

Nephrologists use a variety of tests to diagnose kidney disease, including blood tests, urine tests, and imaging studies. They also treat kidney disease with medication, dialysis, and kidney transplants.

After medical school, nephrologists must complete three years of residency, a two-year fellowship, and pass the American Board of Internal Medicine certification exam.

When to See a Nephrologist?

Symptoms that may indicate a kidney problem include changes in urine output, blood in the urine, swelling in the ankles or around the eyes, chronic urinary tract infections, and persistent pain in the back or side.

Your doctor might also refer you to a Nephrologist if:

You recently experienced any trauma to the kidneys, such as an accident or injury
You have been prescribed medications that may be harmful to your kidneys
Your urine tests have revealed high levels of certain substances, such as proteins or electrolytes

If you are experiencing any of the symptoms listed above, please do not hesitate to call Putnam County Hospital. Our nephrologists are here to help and can provide a diagnosis and treatment plan for you. For more information about our services or to make an appointment, please visit our website or call us at (765) 301-7300.

Dermatology Overview

Thu, 29 Dec 2022 12:53:40 GMT

Dermatology is the branch of medicine that deals with the skin, nails, and hair. It is a relatively new field, only gaining recognition as a medical specialty in the 19th century. However, nowadays, dermatologists play a vital role in keeping patients healthy.

Skin, nails, and hair can be early indicators of underlying health issues. That's why it's essential to have regular appointments with a dermatologist so they can spot potential health problems before they become serious issues.

Types of Hair, Nail, and Skin Conditions

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Skin Cancer

Skin cancer occurs when abnormal cells grow in the skin. There are three main types of skin cancer: melanoma, squamous cell carcinoma, and basal cell carcinoma. Types of treatment include chemotherapy, immunotherapy, radiation, and Mohs surgery.

Eczema

Eczema is a skin condition that can cause the skin to be dry, itchy, and inflamed. It is a prevalent condition that affects people of all ages. It is often a chronic condition. Eczema can be treated with medications, such as antihistamines, corticosteroids, or calcineurin inhibitors.

Psoriasis

Psoriasis is a chronic skin disease that causes the formation of scaly, raised patches of skin that can be itchy and sore. There is no cure for psoriasis, but many effective treatments can help control the symptoms, including topical medications, such as creams and ointments, phototherapy, and systemic medications.

Acne

Acne is a common skin condition caused by the overproduction of oil and dead skin cells from the sebaceous glands. It usually appears as red bumps, whiteheads, blackheads, or pimples on the face, chest, and back. Various factors, including hormones, genetics, and diet, can cause it. Common treatments include topical creams and gels, oral antibiotics, and laser therapy.

Varicose Veins

When veins cannot move blood back to the heart efficiently, it can cause them to become dilated and tortuous, and as a result, they can often become painful. In addition, varicose veins can lead to other medical problems, such as blood clots and ulcers. Treatments include sclerotherapy, laser treatment, vein stripping, and wearing compression stockings.

Age Spots and Wrinkles

Age spots are dark spots that can appear on the skin, and they're usually caused by sun damage. Wrinkles, on the other hand, are lines or creases in the skin that can occur as a result of both sun damage and the natural aging process.

Laser therapy can break up pigment cells and diminish the appearance of age spots. Injectables can plump up wrinkles and give the skin a more youthful appearance.

Hair Loss

Hair loss is a condition that can affect both men and women. While it is most commonly associated with aging, it can also be caused by medical conditions, genetic factors, or even certain hairstyles. Some medications can help to promote new hair growth, while hair transplant surgery can provide a more permanent solution.

Skin Tags and Moles

Most people have a few skin tags or moles, and for the most part, these benign growths cause no problems. However, sometimes skin tags can become irritated or even infected, and moles can become cancerous. Therefore, it is essential to be aware of these potential risks and to keep an eye on any changes in your skin tags or moles.

Contact Dermatitis

Contact dermatitis is a type of skin inflammation that occurs when the skin comes into contact with an irritant or allergen. Contact dermatitis can also be caused by physical factors such as heat, cold, or friction. Symptoms of contact dermatitis include itchiness, redness, and swelling. In severe cases, the skin may blister or crust over.

Treatment for contact dermatitis typically involves avoiding exposure to the offending agent and using topical creams or oral antihistamines to relieve symptoms.

What is a Dermatologist?

Dermatologists are experts in managing conditions of the nails, hair, and skin, such as dry skin, acne, eczema, psoriasis, rosacea, and sagging skin. They can prescribe medication to help manage these conditions and provide guidance on caring for the skin. In some cases, dermatologists may also recommend surgery to remove skin growths. Dermatologists are also trained to administer cosmetic treatments.

Dermatology or pediatric dermatology are medical specialties that doctors can pursue after they complete their medical school and board certification.

A board-certified dermatologist is a medical doctor who has completed more than a decade of extensive training in the specialty of dermatology, passing a challenging exam administered by the American Board of Dermatology.

When to See a Dermatologist

Most people don't think about their skin unless there's a problem. Of course, you should always consult with a doctor if you have any concerns about changes in your moles or any other changes in your skin, nails, or hair. But seeing a dermatologist regularly has many benefits, from expert advice on caring for your unique skin type to helping spot potential health problems early on. If you have any concerns about your skin, hair, or nails, contact a dermatologist today!

Putnam County Hospital Receives Performance Leadership Award for Patient Perspective from Chartis Center for Rural Health

Wed, 16 Nov 2022 00:18:26 GMT

Putnam County Hospital Receives Performance Leadership Award for Patient Perspective from Chartis Center for Rural Health

Greencastle, Indiana, November 15, 2022– As part of the National Rural Health Day celebration, Putnam County Hospital today announced it has been recognized with a 2022 Performance Leadership Award for excellence in Patient Perspective. Compiled by The Chartis Center for Rural Health, the Performance Leadership Awards honor top quartile performance (e.g., 75th percentile or above) among rural hospitals in Quality, Outcomes and Patient Perspective.

“We are proud to be recognized by the Chartis Rural Hospital INDEX. That staff at Putnam County Hospital strive to be your first choice in healthcare and to exceed the expectations of every patient, every time. This award in the area of Patient Perspective score validates this patient service vision” Said Putnam County Hospital CEO, Dennis Weatherford.

The Performance Leadership Awards are based on the results of the Chartis Rural Hospital Performance INDEX™, the industry’s most comprehensive and objective assessment of rural hospital performance. INDEX data is trusted and relied upon 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 several areas impacting hospital operations and finance.

“Although the last two years have placed unprecedented pressure on the rural health safety net, the dedication to serving the community that we’re so accustomed to seeing from rural hospitals across the country hasn’t wavered,” said Michael Topchik, National Leader, The Chartis Center for Rural Health. “Let us celebrate the power of rural on National Rural Health Day and honor the facilities working tirelessly to provide access to high quality healthcare services to their communities.”

In 1908, 26 Putnam County female citizens started what would be the founding of a hospital to serve their family and friends. The hospital would offer solutions to their ever changing healthcare needs, and would bring technologies only previously offered in larger cities to their rural community.

Prior to the hospital opening, Putnam County residents depended on the house calls of local physicians to treat their ailments. Minor operations could be performed in the doctor’s office, but if major surgery was required, the patient had to be transported to Indianapolis.

The money needed to build the hospital was raised through community fundraising events. The week of October 1, 1908, a fair was held in downtown Greencastle to raise money. Hospital bonds were also sold for the facility and many monetary donations were made by local residents and organizations.

In 1924, the hospital opened its doors to begin offering services for the members of Putnam County. During the 55 years at the original location, the Hospital served thousands of patients. The Hospital expanded and was moved for the original location on Shadowlawn Avenue to the current site at 1542 South Bloomington Street, in 1979.

With the addition of the new, updated facility, the Hospital was even better equipped to serve the citizens of Putnam County. In 2001, the Medical Office Building was constructed to offer room for the expansion of Specialists, Physical Therapy and Oncology. In 2005 the Outpatient Surgery Center was expanded and updated to provide the latest in equipment and procedures. The Oncology Center also expanded and was moved to the second floor to allow more treatment bays for patients undergoing chemotherapy treatments.

Today, over 100 years later, Putnam County Hospital still serves the same mission and standards set by its founders: to provide exceptional healthcare to our friends and family in Putnam County, by continuing to provide a number of outpatient and inpatient services as a Critical Access Hospital in Greencastle, Indiana.

Putnam County Hospital offers a 24-hour Emergency Department, Intensive Care Unit, an Acute Care Medical/Surgical unit, and three surgical suites. Observation, inpatient care, and rehabilitation programs are offered within the units.

A host of outpatient services are also available. Cancer treatments, rehabilitation services, an outpatient clinic with over 10 varied specialties, digital radiology, laboratory and respiratory services are conveniently located in-house to provide more options for patients in one stop.

The hospital employs nearly 425 individuals, including physicians. Putnam County Hospital’s missions is to provide exceptional healthcare close to home.

For more details about The Chartis Center for Rural Health and the Chartis Rural Hospital Performance INDEX, contact Billy Balfour at wbalfour@chartis.com.

Audiology Overview

Fri, 11 Nov 2022 13:05:19 GMT

Audiology is a field of science that deals with diagnosing and treating hearing and balance disorders.

Hearing and balance disorders can significantly impact an individual's quality of life. These disorders can cause communication difficulties and problems with everyday activities such as work, school, and social interactions. Hearing and balance disorders can also lead to isolation and anxiety.

Types of Hearing and Balance Disorders

There are several types of hearing loss and balance problems, including:

Hearing Loss

Hearing loss can result from many things, such as aging, loud noises, or infection. It can also be a congenital disability.

The most common type of hearing loss is sensorineural, which is damage to the inner ear or the auditory nerve. This type of hearing loss cannot be cured, but it can sometimes be treated with hearing aids or cochlear implants.

Symptoms of this condition include difficulty hearing high-pitched sounds, ringing in the ears, and dizziness.

Tinnitus

Tinnitus is a condition that causes ringing, buzzing, or roaring in the ears when there is no external source of noise present.

Menier's Disease

Menier's disease is a disorder of the inner ear that causes progressive hearing loss, tinnitus, and vertigo. It is thought to be caused by a problem with the blood supply to the inner ear.

Vestibular Migraines

A vestibular migraine is a rare form of migraine that is characterized by episodes of vertigo. These episodes can accompany other symptoms such as nausea, vomiting, and sensitivity to light and sound.

Hearing and Balance Conditions Treatment

Various audiology treatments are available, depending on the specific condition, its cause, type, severity, and location (outer ear, middle ear, inner ear, auditory nerve, and central nervous system). They may include:

Hearing Aids:

Hearing aids are small electronic devices that amplify sound and are worn in or around the ear.

Cochlear Implants:

Cochlear implants are surgically implanted into the inner ear and provide a sense of sound to people who are deaf or severely hard of hearing.

Auditory Training:

Auditory training helps people learn how to make the most of their residual hearing and can be done with or without amplification devices.

Tinnitus Management:

While there is no cure for tinnitus, some people find that they can cope with the condition using various strategies such as sound therapy or relaxation techniques. However, for some people, these strategies do not provide adequate relief, and they may need to consider other options, such as medication or surgery.

How to Improve Your Hearing Health

1. Get your hearing checked at least once a year by a certified audiologist. This is especially important if you’re over 50.

2. Avoid loud noise whenever possible. If you must be in a noisy environment, use protective hearing devices.

3. Quit smoking and avoid secondhand smoke. Smoking damages your blood vessels, which can lead to hearing loss.

4. Eat a healthy diet. Eating a diet rich in fruits and vegetables can help improve your overall health, including your hearing health.

What is the Role of an Audiologist?

Audiologists diagnose and treat hearing loss, balance system dysfunction, and other ear-related issues.

To practice audiology, you do not need a master's degree. However, some audiologists earn a master's degree in speech-language pathology, which provides additional training to help treat patients with hearing loss.

When to See an Audiologist

It is recommended that you see an audiologist if you experience any of the following:

• Hearing loss in one or both ears

• Ringing in your ears (tinnitus)

• Problems understanding speech, especially in noisy environments

• Problems with balance or dizziness

• A family history of hearing loss

If you are experiencing problems with hearing or balance, it is essential to see an audiologist for an evaluation. With proper diagnosis and treatment, many people with hearing and balance disorders can live full and active lives.

Make an audiology appointment today for a comprehensive hearing evaluation.

Cardiology Overview

Fri, 11 Nov 2022 13:01:48 GMT

Cardiology is the study of the heart and blood vessels and their diseases. This includes medical diagnosis and treatment of conditions such as congenital heart defects, coronary artery disease, heart failure, and valvular heart disease.

Subspecialties of Cardiology include cardiac electrophysiology, echocardiography, interventional cardiology, and nuclear cardiology.

What Is the Difference Between Heart Disease and Cardiovascular Disease?

Heart disease and cardiovascular disease are often used interchangeably, but they are not the same thing. Heart disease is a type of cardiovascular disease that refers explicitly to conditions that affect the heart muscle, valves, or coronary arteries, including coronary artery disease (CAD), angina, heart attack, and congestive heart failure (CHF).

On the other hand, cardiovascular disease (CVD) can affect any part of the cardiovascular system, including the heart, arteries, and veins. CVD includes coronary artery disease, heart attack, stroke, and peripheral artery disease.

Most Common Cardiovascular Diseases

There are a few different cardiovascular disorders, but three of the most common ones are coronary artery disease, atrial fibrillation, and congestive heart failure.

Coronary artery disease (or coronary heart disease) happens when plaque builds up in the arteries that supply blood to your heart. This can lead to chest pain (angina), a heart attack, or even death.

Atrial fibrillation is an arrhythmia, or abnormal heartbeat, that causes your heart to beat irregularly. This can increase your risk for stroke since blood can pool and form clots inside your heart.

Congestive heart failure occurs when your heart cannot pump enough blood and oxygen to meet your body's needs. This can cause symptoms like shortness of breath, fatigue, swelling in your legs and feet, and rapid weight gain.

Less Common Cardiovascular Diseases

Some rare cardiovascular diseases include atrial septal defect, ventricular septal defect, and aortic stenosis.

What is Congenital Heart Disease?

Congenital heart disease (CHD), also known as congenital heart defects, are heart defects that are present at birth. CHD affects the structure and function of the heart and can be life-threatening.

Cardiology Tests

Several tests can be performed to diagnose heart conditions.

An ECG (echocardiogram) is a test that measures the electrical activity of the heart and can be used to diagnose arrhythmias or abnormal heart rhythms.

A stress test involves walking on a treadmill or riding a stationary bike while hooked up to an ECG machine to monitor the heart's response to exercise.

Cardiac catheterization is a procedure in which a long, thin tube is inserted into an artery in the arm or leg and threaded through the blood vessels to the heart.

Cardiology Procedures

There are many different cardiology procedures that heart doctors can perform. The type of procedure depends on the specific condition being treated. Here are 4 of the most common cardiology procedures.

Cardiac Catheterization
Coronary Angioplasty and Stenting
Pacemaker Insertion
Implantable Cardioverter Defibrillator (ICD) Insertion

What is a Cardiologist?

Cardiologists are physicians who diagnose and treat patients with cardiovascular diseases. In addition to completing four years of medical school and three years of residency in internal medicine, cardiologists must complete a three-year fellowship program in cardiology. Once they have completed their training, cardiologists can choose to subspecialize in one or more areas of cardiovascular medicine.

When Should Someone See a Cardiologist?

If you or someone you know is experiencing any signs and symptoms of heart disease, such as chest pain, shortness of breath, or irregular heartbeat, or if you have risk factors like a family history of heart disease, it is essential to see a cardiologist as soon as possible. Make an appointment with your doctor and get started on treatment.

And if you're looking for a top-rated hospital to provide that care, Putnam County Hospital is here for you. We have decades of experience in diagnosing and treating cardiology issues, and our team of experts is ready to help get you back on the road to health. Give us a call at 765-301-7300 to schedule an appointment today.

Guild Donation Press

Wed, 09 Nov 2022 14:30:14 GMT

Putnam County Guild makes generous donation
to Putnam County Hospital

On Tuesday, November 8, 2022, the Putnam County Guild held their Annual Fall Luncheon. The luncheon was open to all Guild members to attend, with special guests Putnam County Hospital CEO, Dennis Weatherford and Putnam Palliative Care Representative, Elaine Peck.

During the luncheon, the Guild presented Dennis Weatherford with at $10,000 check to Putnam County Hospital. Weatherford stated that part of the money would be used for a wheel chair scale. These scales allow wheel chair bound individuals to not have to move from their wheel chair onto a scale. This will make it easier for the patients and caregivers when trying to obtain weight.

The Putnam County Hospital Guild is a charitable organization dedicated to assisting Putnam County Hospital in carrying out its mission and improving the lives of its patients through service and fundraising. This organization is open to both men and women interested in this type of community service, and is currently actively seeking new members.

The Guild is composed of an all-volunteer staff with the same mission in mind- to better the patient experience at Putnam County Hospital. The volunteers staff the gift shop, located just inside of the main hospital entrance, volunteer at the information desk at the Medical Office Building, and also hold several fundraising events such as scrub sales, book fairs and popcorn sales, every year. All of the funds raised at these events are invested back to Putnam County Hospital

Serving on the Putnam County Hospital Guild not only supports our local hospital, it also is a group of caring individuals who support each other with friendship and fellowship throughout the year.

The 2022/2023 Board of Directors are listed below. We want to thank each and every Guild member for their hard work and dedication. If you are interested in becoming a Guild member please stop in Putnam County Hospital or reach out to a member listed below.

Brenda Heacock

President

Anita McEnulty

Vice President

Sharyl Berry

Recording Secertary

Beth Dodds

Corresponding Secretary

Regina King

Gift Shop Treasurer

Kay Thomas

Gift Shop Scheduler

Members at Large

Doris Knauer, Jackie Sutherlin, and Ella Marie Torr

Flu Clinic Release

Tue, 08 Nov 2022 23:44:56 GMT

Putnam County Hospital offices host another successful drive thru flu clinic

Putnam County Hospital hosted the final drive thru flu shot clinic at the four primary care offices the last week of October. Over 340 flu vaccines were given during these drive thru clinics. Family Medicine of Greencastle, Putnam Pediatrics and Internal Medicine, North Putnam Family Healthcare, and Family Medicine of Cloverdale all participated for the 2022 clinics.

The drive flu vaccines were held on one Friday afternoon and over the course of two Saturdays. Community members could call the office of their choice, schedule and appointment, drive up to the office and never have to leave their vehicle. These clinics make it convenient for those that cannot always get off work to go to the doctor, children do not have to be pulled out of school, and it is a quick and easy process.

CDC recommends everyone 6 months and older get vaccinated every flu season. Children 6 months through 8 years of age may need 2 doses during a single flu season. Everyone else needs only 1 dose each flu season. It takes about 2 weeks for protection to develop after vaccination. There are many flu viruses, and they are always changing. Each year a new flu vaccine is made to protect against the influenza viruses believed to be likely to cause disease in the upcoming flu season. Even when the vaccine doesn’t exactly match these viruses, it may still provide some protection.

Anyone looking to schedule an appointment to receive a flu vaccine or are looking for a new healthcare provider, please visit us at www.pchosp.org . All of the Putnam County Hospital primary care offices are accepting new patients.

Putnam County Hospital continues to look for ways to make healthcare convenient for all community members, while providing exceptional healthcare close to home.

Rheumatology Overview

Fri, 14 Oct 2022 12:54:11 GMT

Rheumatology is the branch of medicine that focuses on the cause, course, diagnosis, and treatment of autoimmune and inflammatory conditions affecting joints, muscles, ligaments, and bones.

Rheumatic and Musculoskeletal Diseases

Arthritis

There are several connective tissue diseases. However, arthritis is the most common one rheumatologists treat.

Joint pain and stiffness are common symptoms of arthritis.

There are more than 100 types of arthritis. Here are some of the most common types:

Osteoarthritis

The most common type of arthritis is osteoarthritis, which affects millions of Americans. Osteoarthritis is a degenerative disease that occurs when the cartilage begins to wear down. This can cause pain and stiffness in your joints.

Rheumatoid Arthritis

Rheumatoid arthritis is one of the most common types of systemic autoimmune diseases. It causes the body’s immune system to attack the joints. This can lead to inflammation, pain, stiffness, and swelling. People with rheumatoid arthritis often have fatigue, fever, and general discomfort.

Gout

Gout is a form of arthritis that affects people with high uric acid levels in their blood.

Gout can cause sudden attacks of intense pain, stiffness, swelling, redness, and heat in joints. The most common joint affected by gout is the big toe.

Osteoporosis

Osteoporosis is a medical condition that can cause bones to become weak and brittle. This makes them more likely to break, even with minor falls or injuries.

Fibromyalgia

Fibromyalgia is a condition that causes widespread muscle pain and fatigue. People with fibromyalgia often have sleep problems, morning stiffness, headaches, depression, anxiety, and memory problems.

Lupus

Lupus is a chronic autoimmune disease that can affect any body part. It often causes skin, joints, kidneys, heart, lungs, or brain inflammation. Lupus can also cause problems with cognition or mental health.

Rheumatic Disease Treatment

There are a few different ways to treat rheumatic diseases, depending on the severity of the condition. Over-the-counter pain relief medication can be taken for mild cases to help ease the symptoms. If the illness is more severe, prescription medications may be necessary.

Occupational therapy or exercises may also be prescribed to help ease the pain and improve mobility. In some cases, surgery may be necessary to correct the issue.

Rheumatic Diseases Health Care Providers

The patient's primary care physician should be able to determine when to see a specialist.

Rheumatologists are the leading specialists who treat rheumatic diseases.

Other medical specialties that help treat rheumatic and autoimmune conditions are orthopedists.

Occupational therapists are also increasingly used to treat musculoskeletal conditions and rheumatic diseases.

You Don't Have to Suffer in Silence!

You must see a rheumatologist if you are experiencing any signs or symptoms associated with rheumatic diseases.

Don’t hesitate to call Putnam County Hospital internal medicine at 765-301-7300 for a physical exam.

All our rheumatologists are board certified and have several years of specialized training in treating rheumatic diseases. With four years at undergraduate school, four years in medical school, three years in residency, and two or three additional Fellowship programs, you can rest assured you are in good hands.

Our rheumatologists conduct research to determine the proper care for each patient so they can expect to experience significant symptom relief and improved quality of life. Don’t suffer in silence – get the help you need today.

Greencastle and Cloverdale partner with PCH, Franciscan for Sports Medicine

Fri, 08 Jul 2022 13:35:32 GMT

Putnam County Hospital, in partnership with Franciscan Sports Medicine, is excited to announce the new partnership with both, Greencastle Community School Corporation and Cloverdale Community Schools. Both school systems are taking the “buy local” approach and have agreed to partner for at least the next three years.

“The collaboration with the Franciscan Group will allow us the opportunity to provide exceptional healthcare close to home for our county athletes. Through this partnership we will provide services similar to what Franciscan Sports Medicine is currently providing to Purdue University, Butler University, and over 40 school systems state wide. We are looking forward to a long and successful partnership with Franciscan Sports Medicine, Greencastle, and Cloverdale.” Stated Dennis Weatherford, CEO of Putnam County Hospital.

“We are so excited to work with our middle school athletes, high school athletes, coaches, and their families in the coming years. Putnam County Hospital has been supporting our youth athletics for several years and the transition into middle school and high school is going to be fantastic. When our community members keep their healthcare dollars local, it opens up so many more opportunities for us to give back to the community and continue to provide exceptional healthcare close to home. As a community member and parent, I am beyond excited to see these partnerships grow.” Said Director of Marketing and Community Relations, Brooke Trissel.

The Franciscan group will be providing athletic trainers to the schools and have a vast knowledge in sports medicine and a highly recognized sports medicine program throughout the state.

“Putnam County Hospital was wanting to partner with us to provide athletic training services for our student athletes,” Gibboney said. “They’re doing so by bringing in the Franciscan Alliance. They have an established, up-and-running training program. It’s very similar to what we had, but we think that both Franciscan Alliance and Putnam County Hospital are going to be better partners in the long term. They’re our local hospital. And we’re getting more sponsorship dollars and we’re going to have better coverage for our student athletes.”

The administration at Cloverdale Community Schools is excited to partner with Putnam County Hospital and Franciscan Health in an effort to provide our student athletes with high quality sports medicine support. We know that Franciscan Health has a long history of working with schools and athletes across the state, and we look forward to becoming a part of their team. Locally, Putnam County Hospital has been a great supporter of CCSC health initiatives by providing our staff and students with telemedicine access for the past three years. We appreciate the support of our local hospital in continuing to enhance the support they are willing to provide our students." Stated Greg Linton, Cloverdale Superintendent.

Putnam County Hospital would like to invite the community for our upcoming ribbon cutting at Cloverdale on July 14 at 3:30 and at Greencastle on July 14 at 5pm. By keeping your healthcare local, we can continue to support our athletes across the county.

Putnam County Hospital; providing exceptional healthcare close to home.

Putnam County Hospital Celebrates Pulmonary Rehab Week

Sun, 14 Mar 2021 13:15:00 GMT

Putnam County Hospital introduced Pulmonary Rehabilitation in 2019 and has continued to grow an exceptional program. Our cardiopulmonary team is made up of four sensational individuals. Nancy Kittle and Anne Wilkey are co-managers of the department. Chelsea Beasley and Patty Taylor help with patient education and rehabilitation (all pictured).

What is Pulmonary Rehab? Pulmonary rehabilitation is a program of education and exercise to increase awareness about your lungs and your disease. You will learn to achieve exercise with less shortness of breath. The classes are offered in a group setting so you get the chance to meet others with your condition, which provides an opportunity to give and receive peer support. The skills and knowledge learned in the program will help you feel better and manage your chronic lung disease. You’ll become stronger by increasing your level of fitness. Exercising your lungs and your muscles helps you be more active so you can do the things you enjoy with your loved ones. Pulmonary rehabilitation may even decrease the need for hospital visits.

Pulmonary rehabilitation is recommended for patients with lung disease who experience shortness of breath frequently and are not able to perform daily activities despite daily use of medication. Many patients in rehabilitation programs have a diagnosis of COPD, but these programs also help people with other types of chronic lung disease that limits breathing and activity. If you have any of the following pulmonary rehab could be right for you:

Can pulmonary rehabilitation help after having COVID 19?

The answer is yes. Post COVID patients may qualify for pulmonary rehabilitation. If you or someone you know has had COVID-19 you may contact your provider to see if you qualify. For questions please feel free to reach out to Putnam Cardiopulmonary Rehab at 765.301. 7520.

To learn more about our cardiopulmonary rehabilitation please visit www.pchosp.org/aboutyourhealth.com

Putnam County Hospital; providing exceptional healthcare close to home!

March 12 – Putnam County Hospital Vaccine Update

Fri, 12 Mar 2021 20:46:00 GMT

On February 2, 2021 Putnam County Hospital opened up a COVID-19 vaccine clinic at the Putnam County Fairgrounds. As the day ended on Thursday, they have vaccinated 2,693 community members. As of Friday, March 12, 2021, the county is now at a 3.3% positivity rate.

Who is eligible to receive vaccine?

If you are an Indiana resident and answer yes to any of these questions, you are eligible to receive the COVID-19 vaccine:

Specific groups of patients at highest risk of severe illness from COVID-19 who are identified by their healthcare provider are also eligible. These individuals will receive a unique registration link by text or email, or may call 211 after receiving the notification:

Please contact your healthcare provider if you think you are eligible but haven’t yet received notification.

Click here for a list of who is eligible to receive the COVID-19 vaccine . If you are eligible, click here to register and make an appointment. Proof of eligibility will be required at the time of vaccination. The timeline for additional phases of vaccine administration is yet to be determined.

If you would like to be added to the PCH vaccine clinic stand by list please call 765.301.7527.

February 12 – Daily COVID-19 update from Putnam County

Mon, 15 Feb 2021 03:07:00 GMT

(Greencastle, Ind.) Putnam County officials announced today that there have been 3194 confirmed cases of COVID-19 in the county since March. Putnam County is currently at a 7.5% positivity rate. For a further breakdown of cases please visit www.coronavirus.in.gov . The positive case number also may include positive cases at the state correctional facility located in Putnam County. To learn more, visit https://www.in.gov/idoc/3780.htm .

Putnam County Hospital has opened a vaccine clinic at the Putnam County Fairgrounds. In the last two weeks they were able to vaccinate over 800 individuals. Vaccines are by appointment only. Please call 211 or go to www.ourshot.in.gov to schedule your appointment.

The Putnam County Health Department continues to offer a COVID-19 Vaccination Clinic at their offices. Anyone who received their first dose at PCHD, should return to the same location for their second dose.

Putnam County Hospital continues to offer curbside COVID testing. To schedule your appointment please go to https://scheduling.coronavirus.in.gov If the website is showing that there are no open appointments for the day please call our COVID curbside phone number. Testing hours are Tuesday-Friday 10:00am-6:00pm and every other Saturday 9:00am-2:00pm. If you have any further questions or if the online scheduling is showing full please call (765) 301-7019. Putnam County Hospital asks that patients arrive no earlier than five minutes before their scheduled test to help with the flow of traffic. When a patient arrives they will follow the COVID-19 testing signs. These signs will direct them to the proper testing area.

The U.S. Food and Drug Administration has issued an Emergency Use Authorization (EUA) allowing shipments of COVID-19 vaccine to be sent to Indiana and other states.

Who is eligible to receive vaccine?

If you answer yes to any of these questions, you are eligible to receive the COVID-19 vaccine:

Please be patient, as vaccine supply is limited. If you are a licensed healthcare provider, make sure your email is updated with the Indiana Professional Licensing Agency and continue to check your email and SPAM. If you are eligible and haven’t received an invitation, please ask your employer.

To learn more about the vaccine please visit https://youtu.be/veN1s1q3CBo

To learn more about Putnam County’s coordinated response to COVID-19, please visit the Putnam County Hospital at www.pchosp.org/covid-19-updates or the Putnam County Health Department at www.putnamhealthindiana.org.

February 5 – Daily COVID-19 update from Putnam County

Fri, 05 Feb 2021 20:04:00 GMT

(Greencastle, Ind.) Putnam County officials announced today that there have been 3116 confirmed cases of COVID-19 in the county since March. Putnam County is currently at a 8.1% positivity rate. For a further breakdown of cases please visit www.coronavirus.in.gov . The positive case number also may include positive cases at the state correctional facility located in Putnam County. To learn more, visit https://www.in.gov/idoc/3780.htm .

Putnam County Hospital has opened a vaccine clinic at the Putnam County Fairgrounds. This week they were able to vaccinate close to 400 individuals. Vaccines are by appointment only. Please call 211 or go to www.ourshot.in.gov to schedule your appointment.

Putnam County Hospital continues to offer curbside COVID testing. To schedule your appointment please go to https://scheduling.coronavirus.in.gov If the website is showing that there are no open appointments for the day please call our COVID curbside phone number. Testing hours are Tuesday-Friday 10:00am-6:00pm and Saturday 9:00am-2:00pm. If you have any further questions or if the online scheduling is showing full please call (765) 301-7019. Putnam County Hospital asks that patients arrive no earlier than five minutes before their scheduled test to help with the flow of traffic. When a patient arrives they will follow the COVID-19 testing signs. These signs will direct them to the proper testing area.

The U.S. Food and Drug Administration has issued an Emergency Use Authorization (EUA) allowing shipments of COVID-19 vaccine to be sent to Indiana and other states.

Who is eligible to receive vaccine?

If you answer yes to any of these questions, you are eligible to receive the COVID-19 vaccine:

To learn more about the vaccine please visit https://youtu.be/veN1s1q3CBo

Vaccines 101

Mon, 25 Jan 2021 17:55:00 GMT

January 22 – Daily COVID-19 update from Putnam County

Fri, 22 Jan 2021 21:16:00 GMT

(Greencastle, Ind.) Putnam County officials announced today that there have been 2941 confirmed cases of COVID-19 in the county since March. Putnam County is currently at a 12.1% positivity rate. For a further breakdown of cases please visit www.coronavirus.in.gov . The positive case number also may include positive cases at the state correctional facility located in Putnam County. To learn more, visit https://www.in.gov/idoc/3780.htm .

Putnam County is now back at a level orange according to the ISDH website. These requirements are in effect when a county reaches the orange metric and remain until a county moves to a lower status for two straight weeks.

Putnam County Hospital continues to offer curbside COVID testing. To schedule your appointment please go to https://scheduling.coronavirus.in.gov If the website is showing that there are no open appointments for the day please call our COVID curbside phone number. Testing hours are Tuesday-Friday 10:00am-6:00pm and Saturday 9:00am-2:00pm. If you have any further questions or if the online scheduling is showing full please call (765) 301-7019. Putnam County Hospital asks that patients arrive no earlier than five minutes before their scheduled test to help with the flow of traffic. When a patient arrives they will follow the COVID-19 testing signs. These signs will direct them to the proper testing area.

The U.S. Food and Drug Administration has issued an Emergency Use Authorization (EUA) allowing shipments of COVID-19 vaccine to be sent to Indiana and other states.

Who is eligible to receive vaccine?

If you answer yes to any of these questions, you are eligible to receive the COVID-19 vaccine:

Click here for a list of who is eligible to receive the COVID-19 vaccine . If you are eligible, click here to register and make an appointment. The timeline for additional phases of vaccine administration is yet to be determined. Check back here frequently for updates.
Please be patient, as vaccine supply is limited. If you are a licensed healthcare provider, make sure your email is updated with the Indiana Professional Licensing Agency and continue to check your email and SPAM. If you are eligible and haven’t received an invitation, please ask your employer.
The Putnam County Health Department continues to work with ISDH to administer the COVID-19 vaccine. PCHD will provide prompt updates on their website ( www.putnamhealthindiana.org ) once more information becomes available.

How can you prevent the spread of COVID-19 until the vaccine is available?

The vaccine is in limited supply at first and won’t be widely available until next year. Until there is enough vaccine for everyone, it’s crucial for you to continue to take these steps that we can do now to prevent the spread of COVID-19:

January 15 – Daily COVID-19 update from Putnam County

Fri, 15 Jan 2021 19:44:00 GMT

(Greencastle, Ind.) Putnam County officials announced today that there have been 2800 confirmed cases of COVID-19 in the county since March. Putnam County is currently at a 13.7 positivity rate. As of January 14, there have been 932 community members receive their vaccination. For a further breakdown of cases please visit www.coronavirus.in.gov . The positive case number also may include positive cases at the state correctional facility located in Putnam County. To learn more, visit https://www.in.gov/idoc/3780.htm .

Putnam County remains at a level red according to the ISDH website. What does being a red county mean? The county has a point score of 3.0 or higher when percent positivity and new cases per 100,000 residents are combined. Community spread is approaching high levels. These requirements are in effect when a county reaches the red metric and remain until a county moves to a lower status for two straight weeks.

Putnam County Hospital continues to offer curbside COVID testing. To schedule your appointment please go to https://scheduling.coronavirus.in.gov If the website is showing that there are no open appointments for the day please call our COVID curbside phone number. Testing hours are Tuesday-Friday 10:00am-6:00pm and Saturday 9:00am-2:00pm. If you have any further questions or if the online scheduling is showing full please call (765) 301-7019. Putnam County Hospital asks that patients arrive no earlier than five minutes before their scheduled test to help with the flow of traffic. When a patient arrives they will follow the COVID-19 testing signs. These signs will direct them to the proper testing area.

The U.S. Food and Drug Administration has issued an Emergency Use Authorization (EUA) allowing shipments of COVID-19 vaccine to be sent to Indiana and other states.

Any Hoosier age 70 and older, first responders (fire, law enforcement, emergency medical services, reservists and volunteers) who have in-person contact with the public, and licensed and unlicensed healthcare workers who have in-person contact with patients or infectious material in any healthcare setting are now eligible to schedule a vaccination appointment. Eligible professionals should receive an invitation and registration link from their employer, professional association, or the State of Indiana (Indiana Department of Health, Professional Licensing Agency, Family & Social Services Administration, Department of Homeland Security, or another state agency).

The Putnam County Health Department continues to work with ISDH to administer the COVID-19 vaccine. PCHD will provide prompt updates on their website ( www.putnamhealthindiana.org ) once more information becomes available.

Who is eligible to receive vaccine?

If you answer yes to any of these questions, you are eligible to receive the COVID-19 vaccine:

What else can I do right now to help prevent the spread of influenza and the flu?

January 8 – Daily COVID-19 update from Putnam County

Fri, 08 Jan 2021 19:48:00 GMT

(Greencastle, Ind.) Putnam County officials announced today that there have been confirmed cases of COVID-19 in the county since March. Putnam County is currently at a positivity rate. For a further breakdown of cases please visit www.coronavirus.in.gov . The positive case number also may include positive cases at the state correctional facility located in Putnam County. To learn more, visit https://www.in.gov/idoc/3780.htm .

Putnam County Hospital continues to offer curbside COVID testing. To schedule your appointment please go to https://scheduling.coronavirus.in.gov If the website is showing that there are no open appointments for the day please call our COVID curbside phone number. Testing hours are Tuesday-Friday 10:00am-6:00pm and Saturday 9:00am-2:00pm. If you have any further questions or if the online scheduling is showing full please call (765) 301-7019. Putnam County Hospital asks that patients arrive no earlier than five minutes before their scheduled test to help with the flow of traffic. When a patient arrives they will follow the COVID-19 testing signs. These signs will direct them to the proper testing area.

The U.S. Food and Drug Administration has issued an Emergency Use Authorization (EUA) allowing shipments of COVID-19 vaccine to be sent to Indiana and other states.

Any Hoosier age 80 and older, first responders (fire, law enforcement, emergency medical services, reservists and volunteers) who have in-person contact with the public, and licensed and unlicensed healthcare workers who have in-person contact with patients or infectious material in any healthcare setting are now eligible to schedule a vaccination appointment. Eligible professionals should receive an invitation and registration link from their employer, professional association, or the State of Indiana (Indiana Department of Health, Professional Licensing Agency, Family & Social Services Administration, Department of Homeland Security, or another state agency).

If you have difficulty registering online or if you know someone eligible to get vaccinated who doesn’t have access to a computer, please dial 211 from any phone to register.

What should you do if you are awaiting test results?

If you have been tested and are awaiting results please remember to follow the necessary precautions to help slow the spread. Here are some helpful tips and reminders from the CDC.

Stay home and away from others:

Monitor your health:

Think about the people you have recently been around.

What else can I do right now to help prevent the spread of influenza and the flu?

The Putnam County Health Department continues to plan and prepare for the release of the vaccine to the public at large. PCHD will provide prompt updates on their website ( www.putnamhealthindiana.org ) once more information becomes available.

December 18 – Daily COVID-19 update from Putnam County

Fri, 18 Dec 2020 01:06:00 GMT

2,102 cases

(Greencastle, Ind.) Putnam County officials announced today that there have been 2,102 confirmed cases of COVID-19 in the county since March. Putnam County is currently at a 9.9% positivity rate. For a further breakdown of cases please visit www.coronavirus.in.gov . The positive case number also may include positive cases at the state correctional facility located in Putnam County. To learn more, visit https://www.in.gov/idoc/3780.htm .

Putnam County remains in level orange according to the ISDH website. What does being an orange county mean? The county has a point score of 2.0 to 2.5 when percent positivity and new cases per 100,000 residents are combined. Community spread is approaching high levels. These requirements are in effect when a county reaches the orange metric and remain until a county moves to yellow or blue for two straight weeks.

Putnam County Hospital continues to offer curbside COVID testing. To schedule your appointment please go to https://scheduling.coronavirus.in.gov If the website is showing that there are no open appointments for the day please call our COVID curbside phone number. Testing hours are Tuesday-Friday 10:00am-6:00pm and Saturday 9:00am-2:00pm. If you have any further questions or if the online scheduling is showing full please call (765) 301-7019. Putnam County Hospital asks that patients arrive no earlier than five minutes before their scheduled test to help with the flow of traffic. When a patient arrives they will follow the COVID-19 testing signs. These signs will direct them to the proper testing area.

Beginning on January 4, 2021, the curbside COVID testing will be open 6 days a week. Monday-Friday from 10am-6pm and Saturday from 9am-2pm.

The COVID vaccine has arrived in Indiana. The U.S. Food and Drug Administration has issued an Emergency Use Authorization (EUA) allowing the first shipments of COVID-19 vaccine to be shipped to Indiana and other states.

Only people who received a link directly from their employers can register for vaccination at this time. That includes hospital-based employees and long-term care staff. A medical ID will be required.

Who will be eligible to receive vaccine first?

Initial doses will be limited, so the first priority for vaccine will go to healthcare workers and residents of long-term care facilities.

If you answer yes to any of these questions, you are among the first group of healthcare workers who will be eligible to receive the COVID-19 vaccine. Please make sure that your email address is current with the Indiana Professional Licensing Agency so that you will receive updates when registration is open.

Only people who received a link directly from their employers can register for vaccination at this time. As of Dec. 15, only hospital-based employees, long-term care staff, and emergency medical service providers are eligible to receive the vaccine. A facility ID will be required. We will notify additional healthcare personnel of their eligibility as more vaccine becomes available.

The timeline for additional phases of vaccine administration is yet to be determined. Check https://www.coronavirus.in.gov/vaccine/ for updates.

What should you do if you are awaiting test results?

If you have been tested and are awaiting results please remember to follow the necessary precautions to help slow the spread. Here are some helpful tips and reminders from the CDC.

Stay home and away from others:

Monitor your health:

Think about the people you have recently been around.

What else can I do right now to help prevent the spread of influenza and the flu?

December 11 – Daily COVID-19 update from Putnam County

Sun, 13 Dec 2020 01:16:00 GMT

1791 cases

(Greencastle, Ind.) Putnam County officials announced today that there have been 1791 confirmed cases of COVID-19 in the county since March. Putnam County is currently at a 10.6% positivity rate. For a further breakdown of cases please visit www.coronavirus.in.gov . The positive case number also may include positive cases at the state correctional facility located in Putnam County. To learn more, visit https://www.in.gov/idoc/3780.htm .

The following guidelines are recommended by ISDH when a county is orange.

Special, seasonal or commercial events for which more than 50 people are requested to attend must submit a plan to the local health department at least seven days in advance of the event and receive approval before proceeding. College and professional sports events are included.

Putnam County Hospital has received a very limited supply of Eli Lilly’s monoclonal antibody ( bamlanivimab ) from the Indiana State Department of Health.

The distributions to healthcare facilities across the state will vary on an ongoing basis as related to production of the medication. This antibody treatment may only be used in COVID-19-positive patients who have recently developed symptoms and are at a high risk of developing serious COVID-19 disease. High risk factors include age over 65, and chronic medical conditions, such as diabetes, chronic kidney disease, overweight, and also immunosuppressed states, due to illness or medication.

They only way to obtain the antibody treatment is to receive an order from your primary care or other healthcare provider, and administration must be performed in the hospital, as an outpatient. Infusions last 60 minutes, with additional time following the infusion for patient observation. Although the drug is available at no cost, there is a charge for administration and observation. Additional information can be reviewed at the following links.

https://www.fda.gov/news-events/press-announcements/coronavirus-covid-19-update-fda-authorizes-monoclonal-antibody-treatment-covid-19

https://www.fda.gov/media/143605/download

Putnam County Hospital continues to offer curbside COVID testing. To schedule your appointment please go to https://scheduling.coronavirus.in.gov If the website is showing that there are no open appointments for the day please call our COVID curbside phone number. Testing hours are Tuesday-Friday 10:00am-6:00pm and Saturday 9:00am-2:00pm. If you have any further questions or if the online scheduling is showing full please call (765) 301-7019. Putnam County Hospital asks that patients arrive no earlier than five minutes before their scheduled test to help with the flow of traffic. When a patient arrives they will follow the COVID-19 testing signs. These signs will direct them to the proper testing area. Please note that the curbside testing will be closed on November 26 and 27. However, the testing site will be open on Monday, November 23.

What should you do if you are awaiting test results?

If you have been tested and are awaiting results please remember to follow the necessary precautions to help slow the spread. Here are some helpful tips and reminders from the CDC.

Stay home and away from others:

Monitor your health:

Think about the people you have recently been around. While you wait for your COVID-19 test result, think about everyone you have been around recently. This will be important information to have available. If your test is positive, someone from the health department may call you to check on your health, discuss who you have been around, and ask where you spent time while you may have been able to spread COVID-19 to others.

What else can I do right now to help prevent the spread of influenza and the flu?

December 4 – COVID-19 update from Putnam County

Fri, 04 Dec 2020 01:22:00 GMT

1522 cases

(Greencastle, Ind.) Putnam County officials announced today that there have been 1522 confirmed cases of COVID-19 in the county since March. Putnam County is currently at a 7.7% positivity rate. For a further breakdown of cases please visit www.coronavirus.in.gov . The positive case number also may include positive cases at the state correctional facility located in Putnam County. To learn more, visit https://www.in.gov/idoc/3780.htm .

The following guidelines are recommended by ISDH when a county is orange.

Putnam County Hospital has received a very limited supply of Eli Lilly’s monoclonal antibody (bamlanivimab) from the Indiana State Department of Health.

https://www.fda.gov/news-events/press-announcements/coronavirus-covid-19-update-fda-authorizes-monoclonal-antibody-treatment-covid-19

https://www.fda.gov/media/143605/download

Putnam County Hospital continues to offer curbside COVID testing. To schedule your appointment please go to https://scheduling.coronavirus.in.gov If the website is showing that there are no open appointments for the day please call our COVID curbside phone number. Testing hours are Tuesday-Friday 10:00am-6:00pm and Saturday 9:00am-2:00pm. If you have any further questions or if the online scheduling is showing full please call (765) 301-7019. Putnam County Hospital asks that patients arrive no earlier than five minutes before their scheduled test to help with the flow of traffic. When a patient arrives they will follow the COVID-19 testing signs. These signs will direct them to the proper testing area. Please note that the curbside testing will be closed on November 26 and 27. However, the testing site will be open on Monday, November 23.

Update from Putnam Prompt Care

Due to increased number of positive Covid-19 cases in our community and the very limited size of the Putnam Prompt Care waiting room, we will be changing the way patients are admitted to Prompt Care for services. Beginning Monday, November 16, 2020 patients coming to Putnam Prompt Care will need to call the office to register for an immediate appointment from the Hospital parking lot. Prompt Care’s telephone number is 765-301-7030.

For patients who “walk in” – the main hospital front door screening staff will provide a Prompt Care service flyer to the patient and ask them to call the clinic from their vehicle. The patient will be registered over the phone so paperwork will be minimal. Prompt Care staff will communicate directly to waiting patients when there is room available for them. The patient will enter into the hospital and let the screening staff know they were called by Prompt Care to come in for their appointment.

Patients are asked to come alone, with a parent/guardian or with their designated caregiver.

Putnam Pediatrics and Internal Medicine, Family Medicine of Cloverdale, and North Putnam Family Healthcare are requiring that all patients contact the office to make an appointment before visiting the office.

What should you do if you are awaiting test results?

If you have been tested and are awaiting results please remember to follow the necessary precautions to help slow the spread. Here are

some helpful tips and reminders from the CDC.

Stay home and away from others:

Monitor your health:

Think about the people you have recently been around. While you wait for your COVID-19 test result, think about everyone you have been around recently. This will be important information to have available. If your test is positive, someone from the health department may call you to check on your health, discuss who you have been around, and ask where you spent time while you may have been able to spread COVID-19 to others.

What else can I do right now to help prevent the spread of influenza and the flu?

November 25 – Daily COVID-19 update from Putnam County

Wed, 25 Nov 2020 01:24:00 GMT

1246 cases

(Greencastle, Ind.) Putnam County officials announced today that there have been 1246 confirmed cases of COVID-19 in the county since March. Putnam County is currently at a 7.0% positivity rate. For a further breakdown of cases please visit www.coronavirus.in.gov . The positive case number also may include positive cases at the state correctional facility located in Putnam County. To learn more, visit https://www.in.gov/idoc/3780.htm .

Putnam County Hospital continues to offer curbside COVID testing. To schedule your appointment please go to https://scheduling.coronavirus.in.gov If the website is showing that there are no open appointments for the day please call our COVID curbside phone number. Testing hours are Tuesday-Friday 10:00am-6:00pm and Saturday 9:00am-2:00pm. If you have any further questions or if the online scheduling is showing full please call (765) 301-7019. Putnam County Hospital asks that patients arrive no earlier than five minutes before their scheduled test to help with the flow of traffic. When a patient arrives they will follow the COVID-19 testing signs. These signs will direct them to the proper testing area. Please note that the curbside testing will be closed on November 26 and 27.

Update from Putnam Prompt Care

Patients are asked to come alone, with a parent/guardian or with their designated caregiver.

What Holiday precautions should individuals take?

Thanksgiving is just around the corner. The CDC has many helpful resources to ensure your family has a safe and healthy Thanksgiving.

Thanksgiving is a time when many families travel long distances to celebrate together. Travel increases the chance of getting and spreading the virus that causes COVID-19. Staying home is the best way to protect yourself and others. If you must travel, be informed of the risks involved . If you are traveling over the holiday please refer to the CDC recommendations for travel found at https://www.cdc.gov/coronavirus/2019-ncov/travelers/travel-during-covid19.html

Lower risk activities

Moderate risk activities

Higher risk activities

Avoid these higher risk activities to help prevent the spread of the virus that causes COVID-19:

What should you do if you are awaiting test results?

If you have been tested and are awaiting results please remember to follow the necessary precautions to help slow the spread. Here are some helpful tips and reminders from the CDC.

Stay home and away from others:

Monitor your health:

The Energy Assistance Program is now accepting applications!

Apply online through EAP Connect https://ihcda.rhsconnect.com/ (Office not open to the public at this time.)

Advantages of applying online:

Mail-in hard copy applications are currently being prepared or the application can be printed from our website at www.wicaa.org .

For income limits and eligibility requirements see our website or IHCDA https://www.in.gov/ihcda/406.htm

Local Food Pantries Available to Help

Check out more information on their Facebook Page at https://m.facebook.com/pages/category/Nonprofit-Organization/Putnam-County-Pantry-Coalition-112239163882801/

Putnam County 360 Coalition COVID-19 Help Request

Do you, or someone you know, need help or support and don’t know where to turn? Do you feel isolated and don’t know who to contact to ask questions? The Putnam County 360 Coalition has developed an online resource to help. Members of the 360 Coalition will help you or direct you to appropriate resources as best as we can to provide the support that you need. REMEMBER: If this is an emergency, please call 911 for assistance.

Please complete the Help Request Form at:

https://bit.ly/2KKL6va or by calling 765-653-4820, then selecting Option 5 during business hours.

For a message from our local business owners and officials please visit https://drive.google.com/file/d/1zqZJT7go8rSA05FIFiNbGeJnyJPapVkW/view?usp=sharing

What else can I do right now to help prevent the spread of influenza and the flu?

November 20 – Daily COVID-19 update from Putnam County

Fri, 20 Nov 2020 01:34:00 GMT

1104 cases

(Greencastle, Ind.) Putnam County officials announced today that there have been 1104 confirmed cases of COVID-19 in the county since March. Putnam County is currently at a 5.5% positivity rate. For a further breakdown of cases please visit www.coronavirus.in.gov . The positive case number also may include positive cases at the state correctional facility located in Putnam County. To learn more, visit https://www.in.gov/idoc/3780.htm .

Putnam County Hospital continues to offer curbside COVID testing. To schedule your appointment please go to https://scheduling.coronavirus.in.gov If the website is showing that there are no open appointments for the day please call our COVID curbside phone number. Testing hours are Tuesday-Friday 10:00am-6:00pm and Saturday 9:00am-2:00pm. If you have any further questions or if the online scheduling is showing full please call (765) 301-7019. Putnam County Hospital asks that patients arrive no earlier than five minutes before their scheduled test to help with the flow of traffic. When a patient arrives they will follow the COVID-19 testing signs. These signs will direct them to the proper testing area. Please note that the curbside testing will be closed on November 26 and 27. However, the testing site will be open on Monday, November 23.

Update from Putnam Prompt Care

Patients are asked to come alone, with a parent/guardian or with their designated caregiver.

What Holiday precautions should individuals take?

Thanksgiving is just around the corner. The CDC has many helpful resources to ensure your family has a safe and healthy Thanksgiving.

Lower risk activities

Moderate risk activities

Higher risk activities

Avoid these higher risk activities to help prevent the spread of the virus that causes COVID-19:

What should you do if you are awaiting test results?

If you have been tested and are awaiting results please remember to follow the necessary precautions to help slow the spread. Here are some helpful tips and reminders from the CDC.

Stay home and away from others:

Monitor your health:

The Energy Assistance Program is now accepting applications!

Apply online through EAP Connect https://ihcda.rhsconnect.com/ (Office not open to the public at this time.)

Advantages of applying online:

Mail-in hard copy applications are currently being prepared or the application can be printed from our website at www.wicaa.org .

For income limits and eligibility requirements see our website or IHCDA https://www.in.gov/ihcda/406.htm

Local Food Pantries Available to Help

Check out more information on their Facebook Page at https://m.facebook.com/pages/category/Nonprofit-Organization/Putnam-County-Pantry-Coalition-112239163882801/

Putnam County 360 Coalition COVID-19 Help Request

Please complete the Help Request Form at:

https://bit.ly/2KKL6va or by calling 765-653-4820, then selecting Option 5 during business hours.

For a message from our local business owners and officials please visit https://drive.google.com/file/d/1zqZJT7go8rSA05FIFiNbGeJnyJPapVkW/view?usp=sharing

What else can I do right now to help prevent the spread of influenza and the flu?

Putnam Prompt Care to go to virtual waiting room

Wed, 18 Nov 2020 01:40:00 GMT

Patients are asked to come alone, with a parent/guardian or with their designated caregiver.

Putnam County Hospital; providing exceptional healthcare close to home.

November 13 – Daily COVID-19 update from Putnam County

Fri, 13 Nov 2020 01:44:00 GMT

980 cases

(Greencastle, Ind.) Putnam County officials announced today that there have been 980 confirmed cases of COVID-19 in the county since March. Putnam County is currently at a 5.3% positivity rate. For a further breakdown of cases please visit www.coronavirus.in.gov . The positive case number also may include positive cases at the state correctional facility located in Putnam County. To learn more, visit https://www.in.gov/idoc/3780.htm .

Putnam County Hospital continues to offer curbside COVID testing. To schedule your appointment please go to https://scheduling.coronavirus.in.gov Testing hours are Tuesday-Friday 10:00am-6:00pm and Saturday 9:00am-2:00pm. If you have any further questions please call the COVID hotline at (765) 301-7019. Putnam County Hospital asks that patients arrive no earlier than five minutes before their scheduled test to help with the flow of traffic. When a patient arrives they will follow the COVID-19 testing signs. These signs will direct them to the proper testing area. Please note that the curbside testing will be closed on November 26 and 27. However, the testing site will be open on Monday, November 23.

Update from Putnam Prompt Care

Due to increased number of positive Covid-19 cases in our community and the very limited size of the Putnam Prompt Care waiting room, we will be changing the way patients are admitted to Prompt Care for services. Beginning Monday, November 16, 2020 patients entering the hospital will be Covid screened and routed directly to Prompt Care where an examination room will be immediately available.

In addition, a “virtual waiting room” will be created in the front parking lot of the hospital where patients may call from their vehicle and register to be seen in Prompt Care. Designated parking spots will be posted with the Prompt Care telephone number 765-301-7030 located on the sign.

For “walk in” patients – the main hospital front door screening staff will be asked to communicate when a patient wishes to be seen.

For patients who do come into the hospital and find that Prompt Care has reached full capacity, front door screening staff will provide a Prompt Care service flyer to the patient and ask them to call the clinic from their vehicle. The patient will be registered

over the phone so paperwork will be minimal. Prompt Care staff will communicate directly to waiting patients when there is room available for them. The patient will enter into the hospital and let the screening staff know they were called by Prompt Care to come in for their appointment.

Patients are asked to come alone, with a parent/guardian or with their designated caregiver.

What Holiday precautions should individuals take?

Thanksgiving is just around the corner. The CDC has many helpful resources to ensure your family has a safe and healthy Thanksgiving.

Lower risk activities

Moderate risk activities

Higher risk activities

Avoid these higher risk activities to help prevent the spread of the virus that causes COVID-19:

For a message from our local business owners and officials please visit https://drive.google.com/file/d/1zqZJT7go8rSA05FIFiNbGeJnyJPapVkW/view?usp=sharing

What else can I do right now to help prevent the spread of influenza and the flu?

Daily COVID-19 update from Putnam County

Fri, 06 Nov 2020 01:48:00 GMT

891 cases

(Greencastle, Ind.) Putnam County officials announced today that there have been 891 confirmed cases of COVID-19 in the county since March. Putnam County is currently at a 5.4% positivity rate. For a further breakdown of cases please visit www.coronavirus.in.gov . The positive case number also may include positive cases at the state correctional facility located in Putnam County. To learn more, visit https://www.in.gov/idoc/3780.htm .

For a message from our local business owners and officials please visit https://drive.google.com/file/d/1zqZJT7go8rSA05FIFiNbGeJnyJPapVkW/view?usp=sharing

If you have been tested and are awaiting results please remember to follow the necessary precautions to help slow the spread. Here are some helpful tips and reminders from the CDC.

Stay home and away from others:

Monitor your health:

What else can I do right now to help prevent the spread of influenza and the flu?

Daily COVID-19 update from Putnam County

Fri, 16 Oct 2020 02:00:00 GMT

737 cases

(Greencastle, Ind.) Putnam County officials announced today that there have been 737 confirmed cases of COVID-19 in the county since March. Putnam County is currently at a 5.1% positivity rate. For a further breakdown of cases please visit www.coronavirus.in.gov . The positive case number also may include positive cases at the state correctional facility located in Putnam County. To learn more, visit https://www.in.gov/idoc/3780.htm .

Main Street Greencastle is sponsoring a drive by Halloween Trick or Treat at Big Walnut Sports Park from 4:00 pm to 6:00 pm on Saturday, October 31. Their safety plan has been approved by Board of Health.

The city is allowing neighborhood Trick or Treating from 6:00 pm to 8:00 pm on Saturday, October 31. Participating houses should turn their porch lights on. If a resident does not want to participate, they should NOT turn their porch light on. Citizens have been advised to follow our usual protocols on masks and social distancing.

We would like to remind the community that many traditional Halloween activities can be high-risk for spreading viruses. There are several safer, alternative ways to participate in Halloween. If you may have COVID-19 or you may have been exposed to someone with COVID-19, you should not participate in in-person Halloween festivities and should not give out candy to trick-or-treaters. The CDC has many recommendations on cautious ways to celebrate.

These lower risk activities can be safe alternatives:

Daily COVID-19 update from Putnam County

Fri, 16 Oct 2020 01:54:00 GMT

817 cases

(Greencastle, Ind.) Putnam County officials announced today that there have been 737 confirmed cases of COVID-19 in the county since March. Putnam County is currently at a 6.5% positivity rate. For a further breakdown of cases please visit www.coronavirus.in.gov . The positive case number also may include positive cases at the state correctional facility located in Putnam County. To learn more, visit https://www.in.gov/idoc/3780.htm .

If you have been tested and are awaiting results please remember to follow the necessary precautions to help slow the spread. Here are some helpful tips and reminders from the CDC.

Stay home and away from others:

Monitor your health:

Follow your health department’s guidelines when you receive your COVID-19 test result.

These lower risk activities can be safe alternatives:

Moderate risk activities

Higher risk activities

Avoid these higher risk activities to help prevent the spread of the virus that causes COVID-19:

For more information on precautions for the upcoming holidays please visit https://www.cdc.gov/coronavirus/2019-ncov/downloads/community/COVID19-events-gatherings-readiness-and-planning-tool.pdf

What else can I do right now to help prevent the spread of influenza and the flu?

568 cases

Fri, 25 Sep 2020 02:04:00 GMT

(Greencastle, Ind.) Putnam County officials announced today that there have been confirmed 568 cases of COVID-19 in the county since March. Putnam County is currently at a 6.6% positivity rate. For a further breakdown of cases please visit www.coronavirus.in.gov . The positive case number also may include positive cases at the state correctional facility located in Putnam County. To learn more, visit https://www.in.gov/idoc/3780.htm .

Governor Holcomb announced on Wednesday that Indiana will be moving to Stage 5 in Indiana’s Back on Track Plan on Saturday, September 26. What does moving into stage 5 look like for Indiana?

Putnam County 360 Coalition COVID-19 update

Do you, or someone you know, need help or support and don’t know where to turn? Do you feel isolated and don’t know who to contact to ask questions? The Putnam County 360 Coalition has developed this resource to help. Members of the 360 Coalition will help you or direct you to appropriate resources as best as we can to provide the support you need. REMEMBER: If this is an emergency, please call 911 for assistance.

The Putnam County 360 Coalition is a coalition of not-for-profit service providers, faith-based institutions, educational providers, city and county government, and the Putnam County business community. The goal is to provide pathways for all residents that lead to positive outcomes, including housing stability, education, health and well- being, economic security and mobility through collaboration, information sharing, and shared case-client management. All work we do is confidential. The help form can be found by going to https://putnamcounty360.org/request-help

Putnam County Hospital continues to offer curbside COVID testing. To schedule your appointment please go to https://scheduling.coronavirus.in.gov Testing hours are Tuesday-Friday 10:00am-6:00pm and Saturday 9:00am-2:00pm. If you have any further questions please call the COVID hotline at (765) 301–7019. Putnam County Hospital asks that patients arrive no earlier than five minutes before their scheduled test to help with the flow of traffic. When a patient arrives they will follow the COVID-19 testing signs. These signs will direct them to the proper testing area.

As a reminder, Putnam County Hospital will be holding flu shot clinics in the coming weeks. The flu clinics will be a drive thru flu clinic at Putnam Pediatrics and Internal Medicine, Family Medicine of Cloverdale, and North Putnam Family Healthcare. The clinics will be held on October 3, October 9 and October 24 for anyone wishing to receive the flu shot. On September 19, these locations will be offering the high dose flu vaccination for those that are immune compromised and/or senior citizens. These vaccinations are by appointment only. To schedule your appointment please call:

Putnam Pediatrics and Internal Medicine 765.301.7400
Family Medicine of Cloverdale 765.795.4242
North Putnam Family Healthcare 765.301.7679

Dr. Ceciley Casselman of North Putnam Family Healthcare would like to remind the community on the importance of the vaccine. “Vaccines are the best studied medicine ever developed. They have prevented more deaths than all the antibiotics in the world. I am more comfortable recommending immunizations than any other medication because the amount of research in and widespread use of vaccines bears evidence to them being incredibly safe. No other medicine has been used on such a large number and wide range of people over decades giving us a great amount of data and proving their safety and efficacy. Vaccines are continually monitored and like any medication, they can have side effects, but side effects are mostly minor and more severe side effects are very rare–much more rare than the risk of contracting the diseases that they prevent which can cause suffering at best and be deadly at worst.

Last year’s flu season, there were 39-56 million illness and 24,000–62,000 deaths. It was the worst flu season for children in a decade. The flu makes you miserable. It causes us to miss work and school. It can be deadly.”

Dr. Casselman went on to say “This year, with the ongoing COVID-19 pandemic, it is more important than ever to get your flu shot! With the overlapping symptoms between the 2 viruses, we want to cut as much confusion as possible by decreasing risk of falling ill with influenza and keeping our clinics and the hospital as free of illness as possible! That being said, if you develop symptoms, it is important to be evaluated. It is true that many people still contract influenza despite getting the flu shot, but it oftentimes does prevent the flu and any decreased risk of contracting it helps! Also, even if you get the flu, vaccinated patients have lower risk of having severe disease. Studies have shown less ICU admissions, shorter hospital stays, and lower risk of death in patients that got the flu and were vaccinated versus those that were not.”

Dr. Casselman ended by saying, “Get your flu vaccine before the end of October, which is when flu season starts to pick up; immunity lasts about 6 months.”

Cloverdale Drugs and Crossroads Care Pharmacies is also providing flu shots at both locations with no appointment necessary. Please call either location for further details.

For more information on the importance of getting the flu vaccine please visit https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=ahzJZ0hE2IQ&feature=youtu.be

What else can I do right now?

Wear a mask.

Use the #MaskUpHoosiers hashtag or icon to let your followers know you mean business about face coverings. There is a whole web page of resources to help you. Show how easy it can be—when you wear it the right way—to fight coronavirus with a face mask.

Stay away from crowds.

Social distancing works. For those back in the office, share pictures of how you have configured space to stay six feet apart. Remind people that—as hard as it is—events that limit attendance are designed to keep us all healthy.

If you do get sick, cooperate with contact tracing.

To date, the state has confirmed 3,300 cases through contact tracing. We encourage community members to answer calls from the contact tracers and respond to their messages. Answering your phone can help save a life.

477 cases

Fri, 11 Sep 2020 02:08:00 GMT

(Greencastle, Ind.) Putnam County officials announced today that there have been confirmed 477 cases of COVID-19 in the county since March. Putnam County is currently at a 4.45% positivity rate. For a further breakdown of cases please visit www.coronavirus.in.gov . The positive case number also may include positive cases at the state correctional facility located in Putnam County. To learn more, visit https://www.in.gov/idoc/3780.htm .

Last week, together with Governor Holcomb, the State Department of Health unveiled a color-coded system that lets local and school officials easily see the changes in community spread in their area by the number of new cases per 100,000 residents and the percent of positivity. The color system will help officials make decisions for the safety of students and residents:

Blue = minimal community spread. Encourage continued mask wearing, social distancing, and other precautions.

Yellow = moderate community spread. Determine if increased precautions and vigilance in distancing, hand hygiene, and masks are needed.

Orange = moderate to high community spread. Consider hybrid learning and limiting social and large group activities.

Red = high community spread. Consider hybrid or virtual learning, cancel large group activities, and discourage social events.

Operation food is an organization that is able to help those in need receive nutritional food options. Operation Food was established in March as a focused program to address food needs across the state during the pandemic. If you or an individual you know is needing assistance in this area please share the Food Map link with them. Operation Food maintains a Food Assistance Availability Map with places to source food around the state. Food Map

Putnam Pediatrics and Internal Medicine

765.301.7400 Family Medicine of Cloverdale 765.795.4242

North Putnam Family Healthcare 765.301.7679

Cloverdale Drugs and Crossroads Care Pharmacies will also be providing flu shots at both locations with no appointment necessary starting mid September. Please call either location for further details.

For more information on the importance of getting the flu vaccine please visit https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=ahzJZ0hE2IQ&feature=youtu.be

What else can I do right now?

Wear a mask.
Use the #MaskUpHoosiers hashtag or icon to let your followers know you mean business about face coverings. There is a whole web page of resources to help you. Show how easy it can be—when you wear it the right way—to fight coronavirus with a face mask.

Stay away from crowds.
Social distancing works. For those back in the office, share pictures of how you have configured space to stay six feet apart. Remind people that—as hard as it is—events that limit attendance are designed to keep us all healthy.

If you do get sick, cooperate with contact tracing.
To date, the state has confirmed 3,300 cases through contact tracing. We encourage community members to answer calls from the contact tracers and respond to their messages. Answering your phone can help save a life.

Daily COVID-19 update from Putnam County

Fri, 04 Sep 2020 14:10:00 GMT

427 cases

(Greencastle, Ind.) Putnam County officials announced today that there have been confirmed 427 cases of COVID-19 in the county since March. For a further breakdown of cases please visit www.coronavirus.in.gov . The positive case number also may include positive cases at the state correctional facility located in Putnam County. To learn more, visit https://www.in.gov/idoc/3780.htm.

Putnam County Hospital has begun a new scheduling process for curbside COVID testing. To schedule your appointment please go to https://scheduling.coronavirus.in.gov Testing hours are Tuesday-Friday 10:00am-6:00pm and Saturday 9:00am-2:00pm. If you have any further questions please call the COVID hotline at (765) 301-7019. Putnam County Hospital asks that patients arrive no earlier than five minutes before their scheduled test to help with the flow of traffic. When a patient arrives they will follow the COVID-19 testing signs. These signs will direct them to the proper testing area.

Putnam Pediatrics and Internal Medicine

765.301.7400 Family Medicine of Cloverdale 765.795.4242

North Putnam Family Healthcare 765.301.7679

For more information on the importance of getting the flu vaccine please visit https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=ahzJZ0hE2IQ&feature=youtu.be

What else can I do right now?

It is imperative individuals take action to avoid COVID-19 to prevent its spread. A number of preventive steps include:

-Wash your hands often with soap and water for at least 20 seconds. If soap and water are not available, use an alcohol-based hand sanitizer with at least 60% alcohol.

-Don’t touch your eyes, nose, or mouth, especially with unwashed hands.

-Avoid close contact with people who are showing symptoms of illness.

– Clean and disinfect frequently touched objects and surfaces.

-Cover your cough or sneezes with a tissue or sneeze into your elbow.

-Throw the tissue in the garbage and make sure to clean your hands afterwards.

-Stay home when you are sick.

-Wear face coverings in public when performing essential duties.

-We are all in this together.

The post Daily COVID-19 update from Putnam County first appeared on Putnam County Hospital .

427 cases

Fri, 28 Aug 2020 19:08:00 GMT

Wednesday the Governors office announced that they will extend the state’s face covering mandate and continue Stage 4.5 of the Back On Track Indiana plan until Sept. 25. Governor Holcomb has used data to drive decisions since the state’s first case of the novel coronavirus in early March and he continues to do so. The state continues to monitor and respond to these four guiding principles:

The Indiana State Department of Health is updating its color-coded county positivity map to evaluate each county based on three metrics. The tracker will score counties as blue, yellow, orange or red, more easily allowing local officials to determine the best course of action. A current map is available here . The map will go live on the dashboard next week and be updated weekly.

Governor Eric J. Holcomb signed Executive Order 20-40 on Wednesday to increase child care options for families seeking support during virtual school days. The executive order allows school corporations to contract with organizations, such as the Boys and Girls Club or a YMCA, to operate school-age child care programs in locations in addition to public school buildings to help families who need care while their students engage in e-learning. Additionally, the order increases from six to ten the number of school-aged children allowed to gather in a home on school days for e-learning without requiring the child care setting to be licensed. Click here to see the executive order: https://www.in.gov/gov/2384.htm

As the COVID-19 pandemic continues, the Request for Public Assistance application deadline has been extended to Sept. 30, 2020 . FEMA has not set an end date for the current disaster. The Federal Emergency Management Agency’s (FEMA) Public Assistance Grant Program provides assistance to:

A full list of eligible applicants and assistance can be found on the IDHS Public Assistance website .

With the help of the City of Greencastle and the Corporate Sponsors the Chamber wants to help you with a need you may have. If you are a small business in Greencastle and need a box of disposable masks just let us know we want to help. We have a total of 2500 masks to give away to local businesses. Please email briancox@goputco.com if you are interested in a box of free masks. Thanks to the businesses for all that you are doing for our community.

Putnam County Hospital is now offering curbside COVID testing by appointment only to schedule your appointment please call theCOVID hotline at (765) 301-7019. Please note that the hours of testing will change beginning on September 1, 2020. The curbside testing hours will be Tuesday thru Friday 10:00am-6:00pm and Saturday 9:00am-2:00pm.

As we are approaching flu season, Putnam County Hospital would like to announce that they will be offering a drive thru flu clinic at Putnam Pediatrics and Internal Medicine, Family Medicine of Cloverdale, and North Putnam Family Healthcare. The clinics will be held on October 3, October 9 and October 24 for anyone wishing to receive the flu shot. On September 19, these locations will be offering the high dose flu vaccination for those that are immune compromised and senior citizens. These vaccinations are by appointment only. The schedule your appointment please call Putnam Pediatrics and Internal Medicine at 765.301.7400, Family Medicine of Cloverdale at 765.795.4242, or North Putnam Family Healthcare at 765.301.7679.

Putnam County Hospital would like to remind the community members to mask up while in public settings. Putnam County is slowly reopening for business, but the fight against COVID-19 is far from over. While we encourage supporting our local businesses we encourage the community members to keep wearing a face mask. Wearing a face mask is one of the simplest, most effective ways to slow the spread of the virus, but we need everyone to do their part to keep our community safe. Wearing a mask helps prevent someone who unknowingly has COVID-19 from spreading the virus to others. That’s why we are asking the community members of Putnam County to mask up — and speak up about how wearing your mask can save lives.

What else can I do right now?

It is imperative individuals take action to avoid COVID-19 to prevent its spread. A number of preventive steps include:

398 cases

Fri, 21 Aug 2020 14:22:00 GMT

(Greencastle, Ind.) Putnam County officials announced today that there have been 398 confirmed cases of COVID-19 in the county since March. For a further breakdown of cases please visit www.coronavirus.in.gov . The positive case number also may include positive cases at the state correctional facility located in Putnam County. To learn more, visit https://www.in.gov/idoc/3780.htm.

Putnam County Hospital is now offering curbside COVID testing by appointment only to schedule your appointment please call the COVID hotline at (765) 301-7019.

As we are approaching flu season, it is important to remember the distinct differences between COVID-19 and influenza. Influenza (Flu) and COVID-19 are both contagious respiratory illnesses, but they are caused by different viruses. COVID-19 is caused by infection with a new coronavirus (called SARS-CoV-2) and flu is caused by infection with influenza viruses. Because some of the symptoms of flu and COVID-19 are similar, it may be hard to tell the difference between them based on symptoms alone, and testing may be needed to help confirm a diagnosis. Flu and COVID-19 share many characteristics, but there are some key differences between the two. The CDC has put together a fantastic resource to help individuals recognize the differences. For more information please visit https://www.cdc.gov/flu/symptoms/flu-vs-covid19.htm

Putnam County Hospital would like to remind the community members to mask up while in public settings. Putnam County is slowly reopening for business, but the fight against COVID-19 is far from over. Wearing a face mask is one of the simplest, most effective ways to slow the spread of the virus, but we need everyone to do their part to keep our community safe. Wearing a mask helps prevent someone who unknowingly has COVID-19 from spreading the virus to others. That’s why we are asking the community members of Putnam County to mask up — and speak up about how wearing your mask can save lives.

What should I do if I think I need a test or begin presenting COVID related symptoms?

If you think you have been exposed to COVID-19 and develop a fever and symptoms, such as cough or difficulty breathing, call your healthcare provider for medical advice. Putnam County Hospital will begin offering curbside COVID testing by appointment only. To schedule your appointment or for COVID related questions please call the COVID hotline at (765) 301-7019

What should I do if I have questions about protocols for county schools?

All of the county school systems have plans approved through the Putnam County Board of Health If you have questions regarding protocols related to COVID please visit your community school corporation websites. . Any specific questions should be directed to your specific school system.

What else can I do right now?

It is imperative individuals take action to avoid COVID-19 to prevent its spread. A number of preventive steps include:

– Wash your hands often with soap and water for at least 20 seconds. If soap and water are not available, use an alcohol-based hand sanitizer with at least 60% alcohol.
– Don’t touch your eyes, nose, or mouth, especially with unwashed hands.
– Avoid close contact with people who are showing symptoms of illness.
– Clean and disinfect frequently touched objects and surfaces.
– Cover your cough or sneezes with a tissue or sneeze into your elbow.
– Throw the tissue in the garbage and make sure to clean your hands afterwards.
– Stay home when you are sick.
– Wear face coverings in public when performing essential duties.
– We are all in this together.

378 cases

Wed, 19 Aug 2020 14:31:00 GMT

(Greencastle, Ind.) Putnam County officials announced today that there have been 378 confirmed cases of COVID-19 in the county since March. For a further breakdown of cases please visit www.coronavirus.in.gov . The positive case number also may include positive cases at the state correctional facility located in Putnam County. To learn more, visit https://www.in.gov/idoc/3780.htm.

Putnam County Hospital is now offering curbside COVID testing by appointment only to schedule your appointment please call theCOVID hotline at (765) 301-7019. Upon arriving for your scheduled COVID-19 curbside appointment please follow the COVID-19 testing signs to the appropriate testing area. Putnam County Hospital asks that you do not arrive more than five minutes before your scheduled appointment in order to keep the traffic to a minimum.

As a reminder, please continue to follow mask mandate when out in public. This includes high school, middle school, and youth athletics. Please continue to help keep our community safe.

What should I do if I think I need a test or begin presenting COVID related symptoms?

What should I do if I have questions about protocols for county schools?

What else can I do right now?

It is imperative individuals take action to avoid COVID-19 to prevent its spread. A number of preventive steps include:

-Wash your hands often with soap and water for at least 20 seconds. If soap and water are not available, use an alcohol-based hand sanitizer with at least 60% alcohol.

-Don’t touch your eyes, nose, or mouth, especially with unwashed hands.

-Avoid close contact with people who are showing symptoms of illness.

– Clean and disinfect frequently touched objects and surfaces.

-Cover your cough or sneezes with a tissue or sneeze into your elbow.

-Throw the tissue in the garbage and make sure to clean your hands afterwards.

-Stay home when you are sick.

-Wear face coverings in public when performing essential duties.

-We are all in this together.

332 cases

Fri, 14 Aug 2020 18:29:00 GMT

(Greencastle, Ind.) Putnam County officials announced today that there have been 332confirmed cases of COVID-19 in the county since March. For a further breakdown of cases please visit www.coronavirus.in.gov. The positive case number also may include positive cases at the state correctional facility located in Putnam County. To learn more, visit https://www.in.gov/idoc/3780.htm.

Putnam County Hospital is now offering curbside COVID testing by appointment only to schedule your appointment please call the COVID hotline at (765) 301-7019.

As we are approaching flu season, it is important to remember the distinct differences between COVID-19 and influenza. Influenza (Flu) and COVID-19 are both contagious respiratoryillnesses, but they are caused by different viruses. COVID-19 is caused by infection with new coronavirus (called SARS-CoV-2) and flu is caused by infection with influenza viruses. Because some of the symptoms of flu and COVID-19 are similar, it may be hard to tell the difference between them based on symptoms alone, and testing may be needed to help confirm a diagnosis. Flu and COVID-19 share many characteristics, but there are some key differences between the two. The CDC has put together a fantastic resource to help individuals recognize the differences. For more information please visit https://www.cdc.gov/flu/symptoms/flu-vs-covid19.htm

What should I do if I think I need a test or begin presenting COVID related symptoms?

What should I do if I have questions about protocols for county schools?

What else can I do right now?

It is imperative individuals take action to avoid COVID-19 to prevent its spread. A number of preventive steps include:

-Wash your hands often with soap and water for at least 20 seconds. If soap and water are not available, use an alcohol-based hand sanitizer with at least 60% alcohol.

-Don’t touch your eyes, nose, or mouth, especially with unwashed hands.

-Avoid close contact with people who are showing symptoms of illness.

– Clean and disinfect frequently touched objects and surfaces.

-Cover your cough or sneezes with a tissue or sneeze into your elbow.

-Throw the tissue in the garbage and make sure to clean your hands afterwards.

-Stay home when you are sick.

-Wear face coverings in public when performing essential duties.

-We are all in this together.

Putnam County Hospital to offer curbside COVID-19 testing

Mon, 10 Aug 2020 19:15:00 GMT

Putnam County Hospital will be offering curbside COVID testing beginning Monday, August 10, 2020. Testing is available by scheduling an appointment at (765) 301-7019, Monday-Friday 8am-4pm. Putnam County Hospital asks that you please register for an appointment in order to serve every patient at a scheduled time.

The staff of Putnam County Hospital ask that you arrive no earlier than five minutes before your scheduled appointment time and follow the signage to the Respiratory Symptoms parking area. This will help keep the traffic flowing smoothly.

What should I do if I have come in contact with someone with Covid-19 or feel like I have COVID related symptoms?

If you think you have been exposed to COVID-19 and develop symptoms, such as fever, cough or difficulty breathing, please call your healthcare provider for medical advice. Your provider may refer you to get a COVID-19 test. Please consider scheduling a curbside test at Putnam County Hospital by calling 75-301-7019. A curbside test is convenient and reduces the need for coming into our clinic and hospital facilities.

What should I do if I have questions about protocols for county schools?

All of the county school systems have had their school re-entry plans approved through the Putnam County Board of Health. If you have questions regarding school re-entry protocols related to COVID please visit your community school corporation websites. Any specific question should be directed to your school corporation contact.

What else can I do right now?

It is up to all of us to take action to stop the spread of COVID-19. Follow these simple steps to keep yourself and those around you safe:

We are all in this together.

277 cases

Thu, 06 Aug 2020 17:39:00 GMT

(Greencastle, Ind.) Putnam County officials announced today that there are currently 277confirmed cases of COVID-19 in the county. Of the 43 new cases 4 of those were Putnam County Community members. For a further breakdown of cases please visit www.coronavirus.in.gov. The positive case number also may include positive cases at the state correctional facility located in Putnam County. To learn more, visit https://www.in.gov/idoc/3780.htm. This information also may be accessed via the Putnam County Hospital or Putnam County Health Department’s websites.

Putnam County Hospital will begin offering curbside COVID testing by appointment only to schedule your appointment please call the COVID hotline at (765) 301-7019.

What should I do if I think I need a test or begin presenting COVID related symptoms?

What should I do if I have questions about protocols for county schools?

What else can I do right now?

It is imperative individuals take action to avoid COVID-19 to prevent its spread. A number of preventive steps include:

217 cases

Fri, 31 Jul 2020 20:58:00 GMT

(Greencastle, Ind.) Putnam County officials announced today that there are currently 217confirmed cases of COVID-19 in the county. Putnam County has had a total of 3,425 individuals tested for COVID-19. The last 7-day positivity rate is at 3.7%.

Governor Eric J. Holcomb announced the state will remain in Stage 4.5 of the Back On Track Indiana plan until Aug. 27. The executive order also extends the moratorium on evictions from rental properties and the prohibition on filing foreclosures through Aug. 14.

If you have COVID related questions Putnam County Hospital continues to have a COVID hotline. You can reach the COVID hotline at (765) 301-7019 The hotline is staffed from 8 a.m. – 9 p.m., seven days a week. Hospital staff can direct you to the nearest testing site, to keep potential COVID-19 patients from spreading the virus in health care offices.

August is National Immunization Month. Putnam County Hospital Primary Care Physician, Ceciley Casselman stated, “As a primary care physician it is important to prevent suffering, andvaccines are one of the best tools I have to do that. We have enough to worry about, get vaccinated and give yourself the peace of mind that you are protecting yourself and loved ones from communicable diseases.” For more information on the importance of immunization please visit https://pchosp.org/about-your-health/#single/0

Update from the city:

The City of Greencastle is now requiring the public to wear face coverings at all city offices. Persons entering city hall or other city offices must wear a mask unless accommodations are required under the ADA.

Citizens are strongly encouraged to wear masks in all city parks unless social distancing protocols can be followed.

When conducting business with city offices, citizens are encouraged to reach out by phone and e-mail for initial contacts. Meetings can be scheduled by appointment. Any meetings will require face coverings to be used by the participants.

Face coverings are now required at public meetings by the participants and members of the audience.

All Greencastle citizens are strongly encouraged to use face coverings, practice social distancing, and practice property hygiene to protect neighbors, friends and family. “Mask Up Greencastle!”

Information on utility payments

With the issuance of the Governor’s Executive Order 20-37 requiring the use of face coverings, the Greencastle Utilities would like to remind customers that utility bills do not have to be paid in person. The department offers four no or minimal contact ways to pay bills – on-line, by mail, by drop box, or by drive-up window.

Persons having trouble paying their bills should contact the Greencastle Utilities office at 765-653-2638 to work out a payment plan. Although the City Council has allowed for late fees to be waived, the actual utility bill must be paid to maintain service.

Additional updates:

202 cases

Fri, 24 Jul 2020 18:21:00 GMT

(Greencastle, Ind.) Putnam County officials announced today that there are currently 202 confirmed cases of COVID-19 in the county.

A site has been approved for the Optum Testing. Optum is finalizing their plans to ensure the process runs smoothly and once all of the final details are worked out there will be a separate press release to the community. In the meantime, if you need to be tested Optum has a site in Danville that Putnam County residents are able to use.

Governor Holcomb has announced that Hoosiers age 8 and older will be required to wear a face mask inside any public facility and on public transportation beginning July 27, unless they have a medical reason that keeps them from wearing one. And, if social distancing is not an option, they also need to keep on their face mask outdoors.

The Indiana State Department of Health wants to remind community members that children are always watching. Your voice is more powerful than you may realize. Young people trust the people they know and those they follow on social media. While the Governor mandated masks for school children in grades 3 and above, kids of all ages will be more likely to wear their own face mask if they see their role models wearing one. So will young adults, the group the least likely to currently wear a face mask.

Additional updates:

Contact Putnam County’s Masked Mommas if you need a mask. Our dedicated community volunteers have made and distributed thousands of masks. Visit https://www.facebook.com/Putnam-County-Mask-Mommas-Sew-Serve-100134314992282/ for a mask.

It is imperative individuals take action to avoid COVID-19 to prevent its spread. A number of preventive steps include:

-30-

186 cases

Fri, 17 Jul 2020 17:12:00 GMT

(Greencastle, Ind.) Putnam County officials announced today that there are currently 186confirmed cases of COVID-19 in the county, 2,953 individuals have been tested as of July 15, 2020.

Additional updates:

It is imperative individuals take action to avoid COVID-19 to prevent its spread. A number of preventive steps include:

172 cases

Fri, 10 Jul 2020 18:29:00 GMT

(Greencastle, Ind.) Putnam County officials announced today that there are currently 172confirmed cases of COVID-19 in the county.

Additional updates:

It is imperative individuals take action to avoid COVID-19 to prevent its spread. A number of preventive steps include:

Daily COVID-19 update from Putnam County

Tue, 07 Jul 2020 13:49:00 GMT

Optum Testing Sites still has multiple locations set up for testing. Locations are available in Hendricks, Greene, Vigo and Marion Counties. Please call 888-634-1116 to schedule an appointment to be tested.

Individuals may also refer them to the ISDH website at www.isdh.in.gov Click on the testing site tab and it will list all testing sites in the state of Indiana by county.

It is imperative individuals take action to avoid COVID-19 to prevent its spread. A number of preventive steps include:

165 cases

Thu, 02 Jul 2020 15:12:00 GMT

(Greencastle, Ind.) Putnam County officials announced today that there are currently 165 confirmed cases of COVID-19 in the county.

The Putnam County Health Dept. confirmed today the OptumServe testing site will remain open until July 3, 2020. COVID-19 testing, offered free of charge, is available for high-risk Hoosiers showing symptoms of COVID-19 or in direct contact with someone who has the virus.

Visit https://pchosp.org/testing-site-opens-may-13/ to learn who should be tested. Registration is required at https://lhi.care/covidtesting or (888) 634-1116. Testing is available Monday through Friday.

As a reminder Putnam Prompt Care will be operating within their normal business hours July 3rd, and through the holiday weekend. As a reminder, Prompt Care hours of operation are Monday through Friday 9am to 9pm, Saturday 10am to 5pm, and Sunday 12pm to 5pm. Putnam Prompt Care continues to provide exceptional healthcare close to home through the holiday weekend.

Updates from Putnam County Hospital of Visitor Restrictions:

COVID-19 Suspected or Confirmed Patients:

162 cases

Fri, 26 Jun 2020 15:52:00 GMT

(Greencastle, Ind.) Putnam County officials announced today that there are currently 162 confirmed cases of COVID-19 in the county.

Updates from Putnam County Hospital of Visitor Restrictions:

COVID-19 Suspected or Confirmed Patients:

One Visitor Allowed in the Following Circumstances:

Two Visitors Allowed in the Following Circumstances:

Additional updates:

It is imperative individuals take action to avoid COVID-19 to prevent its spread. A number of preventive steps include:

159 cases

Fri, 19 Jun 2020 17:23:00 GMT

(Greencastle, Ind.) Putnam County officials announced today that there are currently 159confirmed cases of COVID-19 in the county. There have been no new cases in Putnam County for three consecutive days.

The Putnam County Health Dept. confirmed today the OptumServe testing site will remain open until June 27, 2020. COVID-19 testing, offered free of charge, is available for high-risk Hoosiers showing symptoms of COVID-19 or in direct contact with someone who has the virus. Effective June 22, the testing site will move from its current location to Harris Hall at the Putnam Co. Fairgrounds.

The Optum Site has tested a total of 516 people as of June 14th with 16 tests coming back positive and 495 coming back negative. There are 5 results pending. The Optum site is looking for a new location as they want to continue testing until July 30th. They will need a new location beginning June 29th.

Visit https://pchosp.org/testing-site-opens-may-13/ to learn who should be tested. Registration is required at https://lhi.care/covidtesting or(888) 634-1116. Testing is available Monday through Friday.

Updates from Putnam County Hospital of Visitor Restrictions:

COVID-19 Suspected or Confirmed Patients:

One Visitor Allowed in the Following Circumstances:

Two Visitors Allowed in the Following Circumstances:

Additional updates:

It is imperative individuals take action to avoid COVID-19 to prevent its spread. A number of preventive steps include:

152 cases

Fri, 12 Jun 2020 18:20:00 GMT

(Greencastle, Ind.) Putnam County officials announced today that there are currently 152confirmed cases of COVID-19 in the county.

Visit https://pchosp.org/testing-site-opens-may-13/ to learn who should be tested. Registration is required at https://lhi.care/covidtesting or(888) 634-1116. Testing is available Monday through Friday.

Updates from Putnam County Hopsital of Visitor Restrictions:

COVID-19 Suspected or Confirmed Patients:

One Visitor Allowed in the Following Circumstances:

Two Visitors Allowed in the Following Circumstances:

Additional updates:

It is imperative individuals take action to avoid COVID-19 to prevent its spread. A number of preventive steps include:

142 cases

Fri, 05 Jun 2020 16:36:00 GMT

(Greencastle, Ind.) Putnam County officials announced today that there are currently 142confirmed cases of COVID-19 in the county. Of the 142 positive cases in the county, 121 have fully recovered.

Visit https://pchosp.org/testing-site-opens-may-13/ to learn who should be tested. Registration is required at https://lhi.care/covidtesting or(888) 634-1116. Testing is available Monday through Friday.

Since the OptumServe testing site opened on May 13, 405 people have been tested.

Additional updates include:

It is imperative individuals take action to avoid COVID-19 to prevent its spread. A number of preventive steps include:

136 cases

Fri, 29 May 2020 18:00:00 GMT

(Greencastle, Ind.) Putnam County officials announced today that there are currently 136confirmed cases of COVID-19 in the county.

Visit /testing-site-opens-may-13/ to learn who should be tested. Registration is required at https://lhi.care/covidtesting or(888) 634-1116. Testing is available Monday through Friday.

Since the OptumServe testing site opened on May 13, 253 people have been tested.

Additional updates include:

It is imperative individuals take action to avoid COVID-19 to prevent its spread. A number of preventive steps include:

There are currently 134 confirmed cases of COVID-19 in Putnam County.

Wed, 27 May 2020 19:19:00 GMT

There are currently 134 confirmed cases of COVID-19 in the county.

The Indiana State Dept. of Health’s dashboard is showing one new death from the virus;
however, the Putnam Co. Health Dept. has determined the individual was living outside the
county at the time of death. No further information about the individual will be released due to
privacy laws.

The Health Dept. also reports:

results that will be reflected in the coming days.

What do I need to know today?

There are two websites you can visit for updated information:

What else can I do right now?

It is imperative individuals take action to avoid COVID-19 to prevent its spread. A number of preventive steps include:

There are currently 127 confirmed cases of COVID-19 in Putnam County.

Fri, 22 May 2020 17:32:00 GMT

What do I need to know today?

There are two websites you can visit for updated information:

What else can I do right now?

It is imperative individuals take action to avoid COVID-19 to prevent its spread. A number of preventive steps include:

The post There are currently 127 confirmed cases of COVID-19 in Putnam County. first appeared on Putnam County Hospital .

One hundred twenty-six confirmed cases in Putnam Co.

Wed, 20 May 2020 18:33:00 GMT

(Greencastle, Ind.) The Putnam County Health Dept. announced today the sixth death of aPutnam County resident from COVID-19.

No further information about the individual will be released due to privacy laws.

Currently, there are 126 laboratory confirmed COVID-19 cases in Putnam County.

The 126 confirmed cases also may include positive cases at the state correctional facility located in Putnam County. To learn more, visit https://www.in.gov/idoc/3780.htm . This information also may be accessed via the Indiana State Department of Health or the Putnam County Health Department’s websites.

The Putnam Co. Health Dept. also is reporting, that, as of today:

Additional updates include:

It is imperative individuals take action to avoid COVID-19 to prevent its spread. A number of preventive steps include:

120 confirmed cases

Mon, 18 May 2020 17:53:00 GMT

( Greencastle, Ind .) Putnam County officials announced today that there are currently 120 confirmed cases of COVID-19 in the county.

Additional updates include:

It is imperative individuals take action to avoid COVID-19 to prevent its spread. A number of preventive steps include:

95 confirmed cases; 64 individuals have recovered

Fri, 15 May 2020 18:16:00 GMT

(Greencastle, Ind.) Putnam County officials announced today that there are currently95confirmed cases of COVID-19 in the county. According to the Putnam County Health Department, 64 people have recovered from the virus.

Additional updates include:

It is imperative individuals take action to avoid COVID-19 to prevent its spread. A number of preventive steps include:

93 confirmed cases

Wed, 13 May 2020 20:42:00 GMT

(Greencastle, Ind.) Putnam County officials announced today that there are currently 93confirmed cases of COVID-19 in the county.

Additional updates include:

It is imperative individuals take action to avoid COVID-19 to prevent its spread. A number of preventive steps include:

There are currently 90 confirmed cases of COVID-19 in Putnam County.

Mon, 11 May 2020 18:03:00 GMT

What do I need to know today?

There are two websites you can visit for updated information:

What else can I do right now?

Testing site opens May 13

Fri, 08 May 2020 18:00:00 GMT

(Greencastle, Ind) The Putnam County Health Dept. (PCHD), along with the Putnam CountyEMA, is working with OptumServe and the Indiana State Department of Health (ISDH) to offer additional testing for COVID-19 in the county.

The testing site will open May 13 at the Putnam County Fairgrounds in the York Automotive Community Building. The site will be open daily from 8 a.m. to 8 p.m. Registration is required.

Residents can register for a test at either https://lhi.care/covidtesting or (888) 634-1116. Residents will not be charged for testing and insurance is not required. Citizens with private health insurance should bring that information with them to their appointment.

The testing site will close June 5, 2020.

Who can get tested at this site? The ISDH and PCH are continuing to focus on testing our highest-risk Hoosiers to quickly provide results needed to protect the most vulnerable residents. Those individuals include:

What should I do if I think I need a test? If you think you have been exposed to COVID-19 and develop a fever and symptoms, such as cough or difficulty breathing, call your healthcare provider for medical advice. If you have a medical appointment, call your doctor’s office or emergency department, and tell them you have or may have COVID-19. This will help the office protect themselves and other patients. You can also consult a healthcare provider through telehealth.

It is imperative individuals take action to avoid COVID-19 to prevent its spread. A number of preventive steps include:

84 confirmed cases

Fri, 08 May 2020 17:53:00 GMT

(Greencastle, Ind.) Putnam County officials announced today that there are currently 84confirmed cases of COVID-19 in the county. The Putnam County Health Department reported that as of May 7, 52 people have recovered from the virus.

Additional updates include:

National Nurses Week and Teacher Appreciation Week. Nurses and teachers have been on the frontlines supporting our communities during this pandemic. Please recognize or thank the nurses and teachers in your life during their national appreciation weeks.

It is imperative individuals take action to avoid COVID-19 to prevent its spread. A number of preventive steps include:

Putnam County Hospital Celebrates National Hospital Week May 10-17

Fri, 08 May 2020 15:02:00 GMT

National Hospital Week 2020 highlights the adage of every hospital, health system and person involved in keeping our communities healthy – that health comes first.

Now more than ever, this important week gives us all the opportunity to highlight our hospital and health care workers and the innovative ways they are supporting the needs of our community members during this pandemic.

“ Putnam County Hospital is proud to be part of such an amazing and supportive community,” said Brooke Trissel, Director of Marketing and Community Relations. “We will continue to provide exceptional healthcare close to home.”

The hospital employs nearly 300 individuals, including physicians. The Hospital Board of Trustees includes Board President David Bray, Vice President Janice Fry, Secretary Fred Mann, Dr. Keith Ernst, Dennis O’Hair, Dr. Robert Heavin and Matthew Headley. (LINKS to each Board Member’s Photo/Page) The Board of Trustees holds the public monthly meeting at 1:00 pm on the third Wednesday of the month in the Hospital Board Room.

The Hospital provides services for residents of Putnam, and portions of Clay, Owen and Parke counties as well.

Eighty-one confirmed cases; PCHD is continuing to investigate all positive cases and notify direct contacts

Wed, 06 May 2020 18:19:00 GMT

(Greencastle, Ind.) The Putnam County Health Dept. announced today the fifth death of aPutnam County resident from COVID-19.

No further information about the individual will be released due to privacy laws. Currently, there are 81 confirmed COVID-19 cases in Putnam County. Additional updates include:

It is imperative individuals take action to avoid COVID-19 to prevent its spread. A number of preventive steps include:

78 confirmed cases; County and Greencastle offices continue to operate remotely

Mon, 04 May 2020 19:47:00 GMT

(Greencastle, Ind.) Putnam County officials announced today that there are currently 78confirmed cases of COVID-19 in the county.

Also today, the Putnam County Commissioners and the City of Greencastle have determined to continue to operate public business remotely.

For the County:

The Putnam County Commissioners strongly encourage citizens to wear a mask while in public and at the Courthouse, and to continue to practice social distancing.

For the City:

Putnam County officials, along with the Putnam County Health Department, Putnam County Commissioners, and a number of community stakeholders are continuing to analyze Governor Holcomb’s plans for implementation in the county. The five-stage plan to re-open Indiana is at www.backontrack.in.gov.

The Governor’s announcement underscored that citizens most vulnerable to COVID-19, Hoosiers 65 and over and those with high-risk health conditions, should remain at home.

Additional updates include:

It is imperative individuals take action to avoid COVID-19 to prevent its spread. A number of preventive steps include:

Putnam County Hospital loosening restrictions on elective services and procedures

Fri, 01 May 2020 16:50:00 GMT

Putnam County Hospital would like the community to know that the hospital and clinics are open, and
they are continuing to provide exceptional healthcare close to home. The providers of Putnam County
Hospital would like to urge our community to not delay needed care. PCH is offering both in-person and
virtual visits.

Dr. Lisa Martin, Putnam Pediatrics and Internal Medicine said, “As we move cautiously forward in this
new health care environment, it is important for us to take the next steps for our children’s wellness and
to get them caught up on their immunizations. Childhood vaccines protect our children from a variety
of serious and potentially fatal illnesses including measles, mumps, rubella, whooping cough and polio
(among many others). These vaccines are a vital step in protecting our youngest family members as
they grow. At the practices of Putnam County Hospital, we are committed to work hand in hand with
our community to provide the best of care each and every day, it is our mission and our privilege.”

Primary Care Offices are open and ready to serve you!

Putnam County Hospital Physician practices have served patients throughout the pandemic.
Each practice continues to operate normal business hours by seeing patients in person and through
telehealth visits.

Whether located inside our hospital facility or at our North Putnam or Cloverdale locations, each
practice will continue to screen patients at the entrance of their facility. All patients will be asked to
bring a mask or one will be provided to wear at all times inside the facility. We ask that patients come
to their visit alone unless they are a child under the age of 18 or the patient needs the assistance of a
caregiver or guardian.

Our offices are contacting patients to schedule appointments that may have been rescheduled after
May 18th, 2020 to accommodate the stay at home order. We welcome you to contact your provider
office to schedule your next visit. We are ready to serve you and look forward to taking care of you
soon!

Office Hours: Monday-Friday 7:00am-5:00pm
Putnam Pediatrics and Internal Medicine
North Putnam Family Healthcare
Family Medicine of Cloverdale

Putnam Prompt Care continues to have the same convenient hours!

Office hours are:
Monday – Friday 9:00am-9:00pm
Saturday 10:00am-5:00pm
Sunday 12:00pm-5:00pm

How do you make an appointment at one of our ancillary or specialty clinics?

Putnam Specialty Clinics located on the 3rd floor of the hospital will return to seeing patients on May
4th. Please see our May calendar by visiting www.pchosp.org for the specialist schedule. Specialists will
be returning on a limited basis.
Cardiopulmonary Rehab will resume services for Phase 2 rehab only on May 18th
. We will operate on
limited hours and will also limit the number of patients allowed in the clinic during any given hour.

Pain Management: If you are an existing patient, please call our office to schedule your appointment. If
you are interested in becoming a patient of the Pain Management Center, please call your Primary Care
Provider and request a referral be sent to our office. Our office staff will call you to schedule your new
patient appointment after we receive your referral.

Putnam Women’s Healthcare, Putnam Surgical Specialties, Putnam Rheumatology, Putnam Occupational
Health continue their regular office hours Monday through Friday 8:00am – 5:00pm. Please contact
your specialty provider for an appointment.

Johnson Nichols Clinic will reopen to patients on May 18th
. The office will reopen at 8:00am. Please
contact the office to schedule your appointment – 765-301-7380.

WIC-will continue provide care via telehealth through May 31st. Patients may continue to contact the
main WIC phone number 765-301-7380 to speak to their WIC Care Coordinator.

Radiology: The radiology team is scheduling appointments in all modalities (Mammography, MRI, Cat
Scan, General X-ray, Ultrasound, Bone Density, Nuclear Medicine, etc.) between the hours of 8a-4p. All
procedures are being scheduled 30 minutes apart to ensure appropriate distancing. Patients are
screened for symptoms over the phone during the scheduling procedure. At the patient arrival for the
scheduled imaging exams a department representative will greet the patient in the parking lot and
escort patients to the department after a screening has been completed. The department
representative/escort will ensure appropriate distancing and appropriate safety measures throughout
the visit. The equipment is cleaned before and after each exam. Exam results will be provided to
patients providers immediately following each exam.

Surgery Center: Patients who have already seen the surgeon and need a procedure—The Surgery
Department will contact you to schedule your procedure date and time within the next couple of weeks.

How We Are Keeping You Safe

We are taking many precautions to keep our patients and staff safe throughout the hospital and
clinics.

– Masks are mandatory for all patients. If a patient does not have a personal mask we a providing a
complimentary mask for the patient to keep as their own.

-All Patients will get their temperature checked

-A staff member from PCH will escort the patients to the correct office or area of the hospital.

Putnam County Hospital would like to remind the community that it is imperative for
individuals take action to avoid COVID-19 and prevent its spread. A number of preventive steps
include:

The administration and staff of Putnam County Hospital would like to thank the community for
all of the love and support that they were shown over the last several weeks.
Putnam County Hospital; providing exceptional healthcare close to home.

Daily COVID-19 update from Putnam County 62 confirmed cases

Wed, 29 Apr 2020 19:54:00 GMT

( Greencastle, Ind .) Putnam County officials announced today that there are currently 62 confirmed cases of COVID-19 in the county.

Additional updates include:

It is imperative individuals take action to avoid COVID-19 to prevent its spread. A number of preventive steps include:

Putnam County is providing regular updates on COVID-19 to citizens as part of its effort to complement the daily updates from the Indiana State Dept. of Health. The updates can be accessed via www.coronavirus.in.gov. According to the ISDH, the number of tests is provisional and reflects only those reported to ISDH. Numbers should not be characterized as a comprehensive total.

Daily COVID-19 update from Putnam County 58 confirmed cases

Mon, 27 Apr 2020 19:16:00 GMT

( Greencastle, Ind. ) Putnam County officials announced today that there are currently 58 confirmed cases of COVID-19 in the county.

Additional updates include:

It is imperative individuals take action to avoid COVID-19 to prevent its spread. A number of preventive steps include:

Putnam County is providing regular updates on COVID-19 to citizens as part of its effort to complement the daily updates from the Indiana State Dept. of Health. The updates can be accessed via www.coronavirus.in.gov . According to the ISDH, the number of tests is provisional and reflects only those reported to ISDH. Numbers should not be characterized as a comprehensive total.

To learn more about Putnam County’s coordinated response to COVID-19, please visit the Putnam County Hospital at www.pchosp.org/covid-19-updates or the Putnam County Health Department at www.putnamhealthindiana.org.

Daily COVID-19 update from Putnam County 56 confirmed cases

Fri, 24 Apr 2020 18:31:00 GMT

(Greencastle, Ind.) Putnam County officials announced today that there are currently 56 confirmed cases of COVID-19 in the county.

Additional updates include:

It is imperative individuals take action to avoid COVID-19 to prevent its spread. A number of preventive steps include:

Putnam County is providing regular updates on COVID-19 to citizens as part of its effort to complement the daily updates from the Indiana State Dept. of Health. The updates can be accessed via www.coronavirus.in.gov . According to the ISDH, the number of tests is provisional and reflects only those reported to ISDH. Numbers should not be characterized as a comprehensive total.

54 Current Cases

Thu, 23 Apr 2020 18:07:00 GMT

(Greencastle, Ind.) Putnam County officials announced today that there are currently 54 casesof COVID-19 in the county. The number has not changed since yesterday.

Additional updates include:

It is imperative individuals take action to avoid COVID-19 to prevent its spread. A number of preventive steps include:

Putnam County is providing regular updates on COVID-19 to citizens as part of its effort to complement the daily updates from the Indiana State Dept. of Health. The updates can be accessed via www.coronavirus.in.gov . According to the ISDH, the number of tests is provisional and reflects only those reported to ISDH. Numbers should not be characterized as a comprehensive total.

Putnam County Hospital recognizes Occupational Therapy Month Awareness

Thu, 23 Apr 2020 13:25:00 GMT

What Does Occupational Therapy Look Like Amid Coronavirus and Stay at Home Guidelines

“ The philosophy of Occupational Therapy focuses on improving performance in all areas of occupation to facilitate health and promote growth through change &/or adaptation . The ultimate goal is the achievement of health, well-being and participation in life through engagement in occupation.” (AOTA 2014).

“ Occupational Therapy has a fundamental belief that a healthy lifestyle reflects the balance between work, play/leisure, self-care and rest activities.” (Journal of OT in Mental Health, Crist et al, Sept. 25, 2008).

A return to a balance in daily occupations can be achieved with Occupational Therapy through therapeutic exercise, therapeutic activities, activity modification and adaptation , when one is affected by undue stress, illness or injury, and by applying a similar philosophy in one’s own self care practices.

During this pandemic, how are we occupying our time? Everyone is currently affected by a significant amount of change, which requires the ability to adapt in a positive manner to maintain our own optimal health. This is a good time to take stock of our physical, mental, spiritual, as well as financial health. We have had to adapt the way that we are performing our daily routines. And by taking good care of ourselves, we are then able to engage with compassion toward others who need it…if you have 20 rolls of toilet paper and your neighbor only has 2 rolls left…kindly share!

Occupational Therapy problem solves to help people adapt to change. Currently, everyone’s lives are disrupted in one way or another and all are forced to adapt to the changes . By now, most of us have found ways to adapt and fill the increased hours spent at home, or you may be running out of ideas. There are many resources available online to combat the anxiety, depression, boredom, and the “couch potato” syndrome that is being experienced related to the Stay at Home guidelines.

The following are some resources and strategies to help adapt and remain positively engaged while staying at home:

Rather than binging on TV shows, we find ourselves coming up with other activities to occupy our time. Utilizing social media and video games, assembling puzzles, playing games, yard work, walking, biking, running, cooking, baking, arts & crafts, board games and cards have become increasingly popular, and quality time with family has become more important. Trying to maintain a sense of humor at this time, will also help to combat anxiety and depression. YouTube videos are a great source of humor. Even though at times it may seem like too much togetherness at home, we should cherish every minute that we have with our loved ones.

Change the way you look at things and the things you look at change.

Putnam County Hospital; providing exceptional healthcare close to home.

Erin Winters, OTR/L, PTA

Erin is an Occupational Therapist with Tx:Team at Putnam County Hospital. She is a graduate of the Indiana University Occupational Therapy Program. Erin has extensive experience in the treatment of adults with a variety of diagnoses from neurological, orthopedics of the upper extremity and hand, as well as chronic or acute conditions.

53 Current cases

Wed, 22 Apr 2020 19:20:00 GMT

(Greencastle, Ind.) Putnam County officials announced today that there are currently 53 cases ofCOVID-19 in the county. The number has not changed since yesterday.

Additional updates include:

It is imperative individuals take action to avoid COVID-19 to prevent its spread. A number of preventive steps include:

Putnam County is providing regular updates on COVID-19 to citizens as part of its effort to complement the daily updates from the Indiana State Dept. of Health. The updates can be accessed via www.coronavirus.in.gov . According to the ISDH, the number of tests is provisional and reflects only those reported to ISDH. Numbers should not be characterized as a comprehensive total.

53 total cases; Putnam Co. Health Dept. releases overview of cases, including data on recoveries

Tue, 21 Apr 2020 18:43:00 GMT

Click edit button to change this text.

(Greencastle, Ind.) Putnam County officials announced today that there are currently 53 cases ofCOVID-19 in the county.

The Putnam Co. Health Dept. (PCHD) yesterday compiled an overview of cases in the county. As of yesterday, April 20, 2020, the 51 confirmed cases were comprised of:

Four individuals have passed away; 27 individuals have recovered; 18 individuals are inisolation recovering at home; and two individuals are in area hospitals. The four individuals who passed away were over age 80.

The age breakdown of the confirmed cases is:

The PCHD plans to continue to provide regular data updates on confirmed cases. Please note,these are cases which were confirmed through testing only.

Additional updates include:

Food pantry support is available for Putnam County residents. Visit www.pchosp.org to access a list of pantries and their hours.

Governor Holcomb extends stay-at-home order through May 1, 2020. Please continue to stay at home if you can, and practice social distancing. To learn more, visit the Indiana

State Department of Health’s website at https://coronavirus.in.gov.

Family and Support Services of West Central Indiana (FSSWCI) is offering free support for victims of violence and families with young children . If you or someone you know are experiencing abuse, FSSWCI can help. Visit www.pchosp.org to learn more, and for a list of mental health resources.

It is imperative individuals take action to avoid COVID-19 to prevent its spread. A number of preventive steps include:

Wash your hands often with soap and water for at least 20 seconds. If soap and water are not available, use an alcohol-based hand sanitizer with at least 60% alcohol.

Don’t touch your eyes, nose, or mouth, especially with unwashed hands. Avoid close contact with people who are showing symptoms of illness. Clean and disinfect frequently touched objects and surfaces.

Cover your cough or sneezes with a tissue or sneeze into your elbow.

Throw the tissue in the garbage and make sure to clean your hands afterwards. Stay home when you are sick.

Wear face coverings in public when performing essential duties. We are all in this together.

Putnam County is providing regular updates on COVID-19 to citizens as part of its effort to complement the daily updates from the Indiana State Dept. of Health. The updates can be accessed via www . coronavirus.in.gov . According to the ISDH, the number of tests is provisional and reflects only those reported to ISDH. Numbers should not be characterized as a comprehensive total.

Daily COVID-19 update from Putnam County Fifty-one confirmed cases

Mon, 20 Apr 2020 17:33:00 GMT

( Greencastle, Ind .) Putnam County officials announced today that there are currently 51 cases of COVID-19 in the county. The number has not changed since Saturday, April 18.

The Putnam County Health Dept. is continuing to investigate all confirmed cases of COVID-19 and notifying individuals who have been in direct contact with the patient. If you do not get a call, then you are most likely not a direct contact during the infectious period, according to the Indiana State Dept. of Health guidelines.

Additional updates include:

Putnam County Hospital has identified ways to communicate with families who have friends and loved ones hospitalized during COVID-19 . PCH understands that the stress and worry of having a family member in the hospital and not being able to visit can cause a lot of anxiety. That’s why it has put into place a communication piece allowing families to receive updates directly from the hospital provider and allow individuals to speak to family members using a tablet provided by PCH if they wish. To learn more, email btrissel@pchosp.org .

Food pantry support is available for Putnam County residents . Visit www.pchosp.org to access a list of pantries and their hours.

Governor Holcomb extends stay-at-home order through May 1, 2020. Please continue to stay at home if you can, and practice social distancing. To learn more, visit the Indiana State Department of Health’s website at https://coronavirus.in.gov.

Family and Support Services of West Central Indiana (FSSWCI) is offering free support for victims of violence and families with young children. If you or someone you know are experiencing abuse, FSSWCI can help. Visit www.pchosp.org to learn more, and for a list of mental health resources.

It is imperative individuals take action to avoid COVID-19 to prevent its spread. A number of preventive steps include:

Wash your hands often with soap and water for at least 20 seconds. If soap and water are not available, use an alcohol-based hand sanitizer with at least 60% alcohol.

Cover your cough or sneezes with a tissue or sneeze into your elbow.

Throw the tissue in the garbage and make sure to clean your hands afterwards.

Stay home when you are sick.

Wear face coverings in public when performing essential duties.

We are all in this together.

Putnam County is providing regular updates on COVID-19 to citizens as part of its effort to complement the daily updates from the Indiana State Dept. of Health. The updates can be accessed via www.coronavirus.in.gov . According to the ISDH, the number of tests is provisional and reflects only those reported to ISDH. Numbers should not be characterized as a comprehensive total.

Putnam County Hospital gives thanks for National Laboratory Week

Mon, 20 Apr 2020 15:05:00 GMT

National Medical Laboratory Professionals Week April 19-25, 2020. National Medical Laboratory Professionals Week (NMLPW) is an annual celebration of the medical laboratory professionals and pathologists who play a vital role in every aspect of health care. NSH and other medical organizations wanted to show our support and gratitude for the hard work laboratory professionals do.

Putnam County Hospital would like to thank the Putnam County lab team. They have a combined experience of 258 years. In August of 2019, the PCH laboratory was inspected by COLA, to maintain their accreditation as a clinical laboratory. The surveyor, an experienced laboaratorian, performed an extensive review of policies, procedures, and processes to ensure that the laboratory and staff are in compliance with the requirements stated in the Federal Clinical Laboratory Improvement Amendments (CLIA). All areas of the laboratory process was examined, from collecting a specimen, testing, and reporting of results. In accordance with CLIA, the laboratory participates in this on-site inspection every two year, with a self-inspection in the intervening year. Putnam County Hospital’s Laboratory, are proud to announce that they have passed this rigorous inspection process with zero deficiencies.

Again, thank you to the Putnam County Laboratory for all of your hard work and dedication.

Putnam County Hospital, providing exceptional healthcare close to home.

https://pchosp.org/wp-content/uploads/2020/04/Samantha-Silver-Lab-e1587395167548.jpg

Fifty-one confirmed cases; PCHD is continuing to investigate all positive cases and notify direct contacts

Sun, 19 Apr 2020 17:03:00 GMT

(Greencastle, Ind.) Putnam County officials announced today that there are currently 51 cases of COVID-19 in the county.

Additional updates include:

Spring property tax installment is due May 11, 2020. Putnam County Treasurer Kathy Minnick is sharing how you can pay your spring property tax installment. Visit www.pchosp.org/COVID-19-resources for more information.

Stay at home if you can, and practice social distancing. With state and federal leaders forecasting a surge of COVID-19 cases in the coming weeks, please continue to stay at home when possible and practice social distancing. To learn more, visit https://coronavirus.in.gov .

It is imperative individuals take action to avoid COVID-19 to prevent its spread. A number of preventive steps include:

Wash your hands often with soap and water for at least 20 seconds. If soap and water are not available, use an alcohol-based hand sanitizer with at least 60% alcohol.

Cover your cough or sneezes with a tissue or sneeze into your elbow.

Throw the tissue in the garbage and make sure to clean your hands afterwards.

Stay home when you are sick.

Wear face coverings in public when performing essential duties.

We are all in this together.

Putnam County is providing regular updates on COVID-19 to citizens as part of its effort to complement the daily updates from the Indiana State Dept. of Health. The updates can be accessed via www.coronavirus.in.gov . According to the ISDH, the number of tests is provisional and reflects only those reported to ISDH. Numbers should not be characterized as a comprehensive total.

Forty-eight confirmed cases; PCHD is continuing to investigate all positive cases and notify direct contacts

Fri, 17 Apr 2020 18:09:00 GMT

(Greencastle, Ind.) Putnam County officials announced today that there are currently 48 casesof COVID-19 in the county.

Additional updates include:

It is imperative individuals take action to avoid COVID-19 to prevent its spread. A number of preventive steps include:

Wash your hands often with soap and water for at least 20 seconds. If soap and water are not available, use an alcohol-based hand sanitizer with at least 60% alcohol.

Cover your cough or sneezes with a tissue or sneeze into your elbow.

Throw the tissue in the garbage and make sure to clean your hands afterwards. Stay home when you are sick.

Wear face coverings in public when performing essential duties. We are all in this together.

Putnam County is providing regular updates on COVID-19 to citizens as part of its effort to complement the daily updates from the Indiana State Dept. of Health. The updates can be accessed via www.coronavirus.in.gov . According to the ISDH, the number of tests is provisional and reflects only those reported to ISDH. Numbers should not be characterized as a comprehensive total.

Forty-four confirmed cases; PCHD is continuing to investigate all positive cases and notify direct contacts

Thu, 16 Apr 2020 18:26:00 GMT

(Greencastle, Ind.) The Putnam County Health Dept. announced today the fourth death of aPutnam County resident from COVID-19.

No further information about the individual will be released due to privacy laws.

Additional updates include:

Some Putnam County offices are open for essential business tomorrow. Several county offices are open tomorrow for in-person contact. Please reach out to the office before heading to the Courthouse. Social distancing will be in effect. Visit www.pchosp.org/COVID-19-updates for the full list.

It is imperative individuals take action to avoid COVID-19 to prevent its spread. A number of preventive steps include:

Wash your hands often with soap and water for at least 20 seconds. If soap and water are not available, use an alcohol-based hand sanitizer with at least 60% alcohol.

Cover your cough or sneezes with a tissue or sneeze into your elbow.

Throw the tissue in the garbage and make sure to clean your hands afterwards. Stay home when you are sick.

Wear face coverings in public when performing essential duties. We are all in this together.

Putnam County is providing regular updates on COVID-19 to citizens as part of its effort to complement the daily updates from the Indiana State Dept. of Health. The updates can be accessed via www.coronavirus.in.gov . According to the ISDH, the number of tests is provisional and reflects only those reported to ISDH. Numbers should not be characterized as a comprehensive total.

Forty-two confirmed cases

Wed, 15 Apr 2020 17:29:00 GMT

(Greencastle, Ind.) Putnam County officials announced today there are currently 42 confirmed COVID-19 cases in Putnam County.

Additional updates include:

Some Putnam County offices are open for essential business on Friday. Several county offices are open tomorrow for in-person contact. Please reach out to the office before heading to the Courthouse. Social distancing will be in effect. Visit www.pchosp.org/COVID-19 -updates for the full list.

Mental health resources are available for county residents, including for those in situations involving domestic abuse. Putnam County Hospital’s team is sharing resources to help the community navigate these challenging times. Visit www.pchosp.org to learn more.

Tips for running essential errands. Essential errands, like grocery shopping and picking up prescriptions are still a necessity while we stay-at-home. The CDC has some helpful tips on ways to stay safe – including washing your hands after unpacking groceries – to protect yourself from COVID-19: www.cdc.gov/coronavirus/2019-ncov/daily-life- coping/essential-goods-services.html

It is imperative individuals take action to avoid COVID-19 to prevent its spread. A number of preventive steps include:

Wash your hands often with soap and water for at least 20 seconds. If soap and water are not available, use an alcohol-based hand sanitizer with at least 60% alcohol.

Cover your cough or sneezes with a tissue or sneeze into your elbow.

Throw the tissue in the garbage and make sure to clean your hands afterwards. Stay home when you are sick.

Wear face coverings in public when performing essential duties. We are all in this together.

Putnam County is providing regular updates on COVID-19 to citizens as part of its effort to complement the daily updates from the Indiana State Dept. of Health. The updates can be accessed via www.coronavirus.in.gov . According to the ISDH, the number of tests is provisional and reflects only those reported to ISDH. Numbers should not be characterized as a comprehensive total.

Thirty-eight confirmed cases

Tue, 14 Apr 2020 17:44:00 GMT

(Greencastle, Ind.) Putnam County officials announced today there are currently38confirmedCOVID-19 cases in Putnam County. The increase is likely due the closure of labs for the Easterholiday.

Additional updates include:

Cummins Behavioral Health Systems is open and accepting new patients. Virtual intakes, individual and family sessions, an IOT substance abuse group and Lasting Recovery group are among the services offered. Please call 888-714-1927 to schedule a virtual intake appointment.

It is imperative individuals take action to avoid COVID-19 to prevent its spread. A number of preventive steps include:

Wash your hands often with soap and water for at least 20 seconds. If soap and water are not available, use an alcohol-based hand sanitizer with at least 60% alcohol.

Don’t touch your eyes, nose, or mouth, especially with unwashed hands. Avoid close contact with people who are showing symptoms of illness.

Clean and disinfect frequently touched objects and surfaces.

Cover your cough or sneezes with a tissue or sneeze into your elbow.

Throw the tissue in the garbage and make sure to clean your hands afterwards. Stay home when you are sick.

Wear face coverings in public when performing essential duties. We are all in this together.

Putnam County is providing regular updates on COVID-19 to citizens as part of its effort to complement the daily updates from the Indiana State Dept. of Health. The updates can be accessed via www.coronavirus.in.gov. Accordingto the ISDH, thenumber of tests is provisionaland reflects only those reported to ISDH. Numbers should not be characterized as a comprehensive total.

Daily COVID-19 update from Putnam County Thirty-three confirmed cases

Mon, 13 Apr 2020 17:25:00 GMT

(Greencastle, Ind.) Putnam County officials announced today there are currently 33 confirmed COVID-19 cases in Putnam County. That number is anticipated to rise, as some private labs were closed for Easter and are being confirmed today.

Additional updates include:

County officials thank faith-based organizations for following local, state and federal guidelines. “We recognize that during a week that carries great significance for our faithbased communities, they were called upon to stay apart during a time when they traditionally come together,” said Dr. Robert Heavin “We are grateful for their willingness to follow the guidelines to slow the spread of COVID-19, and appreciate their commitment to the common good.”

It is imperative individuals take action to avoid COVID-19 to prevent its spread. A number of preventive steps include:

Wash your hands often with soap and water for at least 20 seconds. If soap and water are not available, use an alcohol-based hand sanitizer with at least 60% alcohol.

Cover your cough or sneezes with a tissue or sneeze into your elbow.

Throw the tissue in the garbage and make sure to clean your hands afterwards.

Stay home when you are sick.

Wear face coverings in public when performing essential duties.

We are all in this together.

Putnam County is providing regular updates on COVID-19 to citizens as part of its effort to complement the daily updates from the Indiana State Dept. of Health. The updates occur at 10 a.m. and can be accessed via www.coronavirus.in.gov . According to the ISDH, the number of tests is provisional and reflects only those reported to ISDH. Numbers should not be characterized as a comprehensive total.

Thirty-three confirmed cases; PCHD is continuing to investigate all positive cases and notify direct contacts

Sun, 12 Apr 2020 20:02:00 GMT

(Greencastle, Ind.) Putnam County officials announced today there are currently 33 confirmed COVID-19 cases in Putnam County. There are no new cases to report today.

No further information about the individual will be released due to privacy laws.

Currently, there are 33 confirmed COVID-19 cases in Putnam County

Additional updates include:

Stay at home if you can, and practice social distancing . With state and federal leaders forecasting a surge of COVID-19 cases in the coming weeks, please continue to stay at home when possible and practice social distancing. To learn more, visit https://coronavirus.in.gov.

It is imperative individuals take action to avoid COVID-19 to prevent its spread. A number of preventive steps include:

Wash your hands often with soap and water for at least 20 seconds. If soap and water are not available, use an alcohol-based hand sanitizer with at least 60% alcohol.

Cover your cough or sneezes with a tissue or sneeze into your elbow.

Throw the tissue in the garbage and make sure to clean your hands afterwards. Stay home when you are sick.

Wear face coverings in public when performing essential duties. We are all in this together.

Thirty-three confirmed cases; mental health resources are available for residents

Sun, 12 Apr 2020 03:26:00 GMT

(Greencastle, Ind.) Putnam County officials announced today there are currently 33 confirmed COVID-19 cases in Putnam County. There are no new cases to report today.

Additional updates include:

Virtual religious services are available in Putnam County. During this important week for many in the faith-based community, a number of Putnam County religious organizations are offering virtual religious services. Here’s a link for how you can participate: https://pchosp.org/virtual-religious-services/

The Indiana State Dept. of Health and Putnam County Health Dept. are following CDC guidelines for faith-based organizations. To learn more, visit www.cdc.gov/coronavirus/2019-ncov/community/organizations/guidance-community- faith-organizations.html

Mental health resources are available for county residents . Putnam County Hospital’s team is sharing resources to help the community navigate these challenging times. Visit www.pchosp.org to learn more.

It is imperative individuals take action to avoid COVID-19 to prevent its spread. A number of preventive steps include:

Wash your hands often with soap and water for at least 20 seconds. If soap and water are not available, use an alcohol-based hand sanitizer with at least 60% alcohol.

Cover your cough or sneezes with a tissue or sneeze into your elbow.

Throw the tissue in the garbage and make sure to clean your hands afterwards. Stay home when you are sick.

Wear face coverings in public when performing essential duties. We are all in this together.

Thirty-three confirmed cases; PCHD is continuing to investigate all positive cases and notify direct contacts

Fri, 10 Apr 2020 17:54:00 GMT

(Greencastle, Ind.) Putnam County officials announced today there are currently 33 confirmed COVID-19 cases in Putnam County.

The Indiana State Dept. of Health today reported a third death in Putnam County. After further review by the Putnam County Health Dept., this death was attributed to a neighboring county in the early reporting. Putnam County currently has had two deaths due to COVID-19 .

Additional updates include:

It is imperative individuals take action to avoid COVID-19 to prevent its spread. A number of preventive steps include:

Wash your hands often with soap and water for at least 20 seconds. If soap and water are not available, use an alcohol-based hand sanitizer with at least 60% alcohol.

Cover your cough or sneezes with a tissue or sneeze into your elbow.

Throw the tissue in the garbage and make sure to clean your hands afterwards. Stay home when you are sick.

Wear face coverings in public when performing essential duties. We are all in this together.

Thirty confirmed cases; PCHD is continuing to investigate all positive cases and notify direct contacts

Thu, 09 Apr 2020 18:42:00 GMT

(Greencastle, Ind.) The Putnam County Health Department announced today the second deathof a Putnam County resident from COVID-19. The individual was over the age of 60 and died on April 8, 2020.

No further information about the individual will be released due to privacy laws. Currently, there are 30 confirmed COVID-19 cases in Putnam County. Additional updates include:

The Putnam County Health Department is continuing to investigate all confirmed cases of COVID-19 and notifying individuals who have been in direct contact with the patient. If you do not get a call, then you are most likely not a direct contact during the infectious period, according to the Indiana State Dept. of Health guidelines.

Virtual religious services are available in Putnam County. During this important week for many in the faith-based community, a number of Putnam County religious organizations are offering virtual religious services. Here’s a link of how you can participate: https://pchosp.org/virtual-religious-services/

It is imperative individuals take action to avoid COVID-19 to prevent its spread. A number of preventive steps include:

Wash your hands often with soap and water for at least 20 seconds. If soap and water are not available, use an alcohol-based hand sanitizer with at least 60% alcohol.

Don’t touch your eyes, nose, or mouth, especially with unwashed hands. Avoid close contact with people who are showing symptoms of illness.

Clean and disinfect frequently touched objects and surfaces.

Cover your cough or sneezes with a tissue or sneeze into your elbow.

Throw the tissue in the garbage and make sure to clean your hands afterwards. Stay home when you are sick.

Wear face coverings in public when performing essential duties. We are all in this together.

Putnam County is providing regular updates on COVID-19 to citizens as part of its effort to complement the daily updates from the ISDH. The ISDH updates occur at 10 a.m. and can be accessed via www.coronavirus.in.gov . According to the ISDH, the number of tests is provisional and reflects only those reported to ISDH. Numbers should not be characterized as a comprehensive total.

Twenty-seven confirmed cases

Wed, 08 Apr 2020 17:57:00 GMT

(Greencastle, Ind.) Putnam County officials provided a daily COVID-19 update to the publictoday.

Currently, there are 27 confirmed cases in Putnam County. The Indiana State Department of Health (ISDH) has begun sharing the number of individuals who have been tested on its website. According to the ISDH, the number of tests is provisional and reflects only those reported to ISDH. Numbers should not be characterized as a comprehensive total.

Additional updates include:

The Putnam County Health Department is maintaining regular contact with people who have confirmed cases of COVID-19. This includes checking in with patients who are self-isolating to make sure they are staying home.

Putnam County Hospital would like to thank the community for their overwhelming support . “In recent days, our team at the hospital has been the recipient of community support that is both uplifting and sustaining,” said Dennis Weatherford, CEO. “From small businesses who are donating their time and services to individual citizens who are sending cards, we are so grateful for these generous deeds.”

Some Putnam County offices are open for essential business on Thursday. The following offices are open for essential business tomorrow, April 9, from 11 a.m. – 2 p.m.: Assessor’s Office, Plat Office, Auditor’s Office, Recorder’s Office, and Treasurer’s Office. The courthouse will be closed on April 10 for Good Friday.

The Putnam County Courthouse remains open, but only citizens who are performing essential business, such as court-related matters, are allowed past the first floor. The Courts are staffed in some capacity throughout the day, and the Prosecutor’s Office is open every day from 8 a.m. to 4 p.m. The Clerk’s Office is open every day from 8 a.m. – 4 p.m. by appointment only. While some offices may or may not have a “physical” presence, a representative is continuing to serve the public.

The City of Greencastle is closed on April 10 for Good Friday.

It is imperative individuals take action to avoid COVID-19 to prevent its spread. A number of preventive steps include:

Wash your hands often with soap and water for at least 20 seconds. If soap and water are not available, use an alcohol-based hand sanitizer with at least 60% alcohol.

Don’t touch your eyes, nose, or mouth, especially with unwashed hands. Avoid close contact with people who are showing symptoms of illness.

Clean and disinfect frequently touched objects and surfaces.

Cover your cough or sneezes with a tissue or sneeze into your elbow.

Throw the tissue in the garbage and make sure to clean your hands afterwards. Stay home when you are sick.

Wear face coverings in public when performing essential duties. We are all in this together.

Putnam County is providing regular updates on COVID-19 to citizens as part of its effort to complement the daily updates from the ISDH. The ISDH updates occur at 10 a.m. and can be accessed via www.coronavirus.in.gov . Please refer to the above statement regarding the number of tests the ISDH lists on its website.

The post Twenty-seven confirmed cases first appeared on Putnam County Hospital .

Twenty-five confirmed cases

Tue, 07 Apr 2020 18:31:00 GMT

(Greencastle, Ind.) Putnam County officials provided a daily COVID-19 update to the publictoday.

Currently, there are 25 confirmed cases in Putnam County. The Indiana State Department of Health (ISDH) has begun sharing the number of individuals who have been tested on its website. According to the ISDH, the number of tests is provisional and reflects only those reported to ISDH. Numbers should not be characterized as a comprehensive total.

Additional updates include:

Some Putnam County offices are open for essential business on Thursday. The following offices are open for essential business on Thursday, April 9, from 11 a.m. – 2p.m.: Assessor’s Office, Plat Office, Auditor’s Office, Recorder’s Office, and Treasurer’s Office. The courthouse will be closed on April 10 for Good Friday.

The Putnam County Courthouse remains open, but only citizens who are performing essential business, such as court-related matters, are allowed past the first floor. The Prosecutor and Courts are staffed in some capacity throughout the day. The Clerk’s Office is open every day from 8 a.m. – 4 p.m. by appointment only. While some offices may or may not have a “physical” presence, a representative is continuing to serve the public.

The City of Greencastle is closed on April 10 for Good Friday.

Governor Holcomb extends the stay-at-home order to April 2020, and introduces new restrictions . Visit https://calendar.in.gov/site/gov/event/governor-issues-new-stay-at- home-order/ for more information.

Mental health resources for county residents . Putnam County Hospital’s team is sharing resources to help the community navigate these challenging times. Visit www.pchosp.org to learn more.

The Putnam County Hospital website has information about:

How can you thank a healthcare professional? During this unprecedented time, thesupport and prayers that Putnam County Hospital has received is very much appreciated. For the safety of our staff, patients, and community we ask that you sent any thank you, videos, or signs via https://pchosp.org/thankyoupch. We will send these messages of encouragement out to staff and put them throughout the facility. Thank you to all of those that have reached out to show support for our staff, they are the heart of Putnam County Hospital.

Putnam County’s ‘Masked Mommas,’ have made nearly 2,000 masks for county healthcare professionals and essential workers. These dedicated volunteers are workingaround the clock to fulfill orders. Visit their Facebook page to learn more.

It is imperative individuals take action to avoid COVID-19 to prevent its spread. A number of preventive steps include:

Wash your hands often with soap and water for at least 20 seconds. If soap and water are not available, use an alcohol-based hand sanitizer with at least 60% alcohol.

Cover your cough or sneezes with a tissue or sneeze into your elbow.

Throw the tissue in the garbage and make sure to clean your hands afterwards. Stay home when you are sick.

Wear face coverings in public when performing essential duties. We are all in this together.

Putnam County is providing regular updates on COVID-19 to citizens as part of its effort to complement the daily updates from the ISDH. The ISDH updates occur at 10 a.m. and can be accessed via www.coronavirus.in.gov . Please refer to the above statement regarding the number of tests the ISDH lists on its website.

‘Masked Mommas’ make nearly 2,000 masks for Putnam County health professionals, essential workers

Mon, 06 Apr 2020 19:57:00 GMT

(Greencastle, Ind.) The ‘Masked Mommas,’ more than 20 Putnam County women, have filled nearly 2,000 orders for N95 style and protective masks since they started making them in their basements 15 days ago, and they are still accepting requests.

To date, they have provided masks for the entire Putnam County Hospital staff, as well as dietitians and pharmacists at the hospital. They have supplied masks for essential workers at Kroger in Greencastle and Mooresville, Wendys, all Putnam County nursing home facilities and in-home healthcare, gas stations, Cloverdale Police, Greencastle Police, Indiana State Police motorcycle troopers, Fillmore Volunteer Fire Department, the Putnam County Courthouse staff, Putnam County Comprehensive Services, the Putnam County food pantry, and Family Support Services. Additional mask recipients both in and outside of Putnam County are at the end of this release.

The genesis for the Masked Mommas began when Amy Clark learned her two daughters, who work in healthcare, were on the frontlines fighting COVID-19 without protection. Amy, along with Yolanda Goodpaster, Rashell Harcourt and Sandi Clark, got to work in their basements.

“I originally posted on Facebook that we were making masks to support my daughters, and we were literally inundated with requests,” said Amy Clark, Greencastle resident. “As we started running out of supplies, we turned to Facebook, and our growing network began providing us with more materials, and even more of our friends joined us in making masks.”

The Masked Mommas teamed up with Sew In Serve in central Indiana to meet a critical need for CDC-compliant masks. They restructured their system to increase productivity and reduce duplication of mask production. The Masked Mommas in return sent them requests that were out of county to free up more Putnam County requests and established Putnam County Mask Mommas – Sew & Serve on Facebook.

The Mommas’ assembly line, which is done remotely, involves cutting, assembling, laundering, sewing and replenishing supplies. The Mommas have perfected their mask pattern, and include a protective layer cotton/flannel/hepa furnace filters to ensure the mask’s effectiveness. They also deliver completed orders to individuals who can’t leave work.

“The Masked Mommas are a terrific example of how Putnam County residents have mobilized to support healthcare professionals and essential workers during this challenging time,” said Dennis Weatherford, CEO, Putnam County Hospital. “Our team is so grateful to them for putting us first as we all work together to fight this virus.”

In addition to the founders, the Masked Mommas include Rebecca Arnold, Jana Boggess, Lindsey Fenwick, Joanna Goldman, Meghan Miller, Mary Birt, Erin Miller, Katrina Henderson, Trudy Goodpaster, Teena Bryant, Suzanne Travelstead, Jill Albers, Sentra Sheldon, Valerie Weddle, Gail Patrick, Courtney Williams, Jinni Altman, Jenny Clark, Allyson TeGrotenhuis, Nat alie Pritchard, Kim Shinn, Narda Cotton, Peg Johnson, Gail Smith, Jenny Knoll, and Beverly Ross.

The Mommas are on Facebook at https://www.facebook.com/Putnam-County-Mask-Mommas-Sew-Serve-100134314992282/ , and are now sending masks to adjacent counties, as well as to Alaska.

“While three of the four original organizers have full-time jobs, and we are juggling virtual meetings, our kids and our daily lives, we are thankful for our ability to help,” Clark continued. “Every time we think we cannot do it any longer, we receive more requests, a positive story about our work, or donations to support this effort. We truly know we are doing what we are supposed to be to serve our community.”

Additional mask recipients include employees at: PMH Ambulance, Dave’s Heating and Cooling, Edwards Royal Comfort Heating & Air, Amazon workers, IU West, Hendricks Regional Hospital, IU Bloomington, healthcare professionals in Florida, Premier Hospice in Brownsburg, Cataract Fire Department, Opportunity Housing, Indianapolis Ambulance, Putnamville Prison, American Health Network, Rural Postal Carriers, Eskenazi Health, Tractor Supply in Greencastle and Danville, Westside Physicians, First Financial Bank, Proactive MD, Methodist Hospital, Bassett Air, Riverview Hospital in Alaska, Kentucky State Police, Hendricks Dispatching, various nursing students, and personal requests from individual families.

To learn more about the Putnam County Mask Mommas – Sew & Serve, visit https://www.facebook.com/Putnam-County-Mask-Mommas-Sew-Serve-100134314992282/.

Twenty-five confirmed cases

Mon, 06 Apr 2020 18:03:00 GMT

(Greencastle, Ind.) Putnam County officials provided a daily COVID-19 update to the public today, which includes an increase in confirmed cases.

Additional updates include:

How can you thank a healthcare professional? We’re working on a way to do it virtually! During this unprecedented time, the support and prayers that Putnam County Hospital has received is very much appreciated. For the safety of our staff, patients, and community we ask that you send any thank you, videos, or signs via (put the link in here). We will send these messages of encouragement out to staff and put them throughout the facility. Thank you to all of those that have reached out to show support for our staff, they are the heart of Putnam County Hospital. https://pchosp.org/thankyoupch .

It is imperative individuals take action to avoid COVID-19 to prevent its spread. A number of preventive steps include:

Putnam County is providing regular updates on COVID-19 to citizens as part of its effort to complement the daily updates from the ISDH. The ISDH updates occur at 10 a.m. and can be accessed via www.coronavirus.in.gov . Please refer to the above statement regarding the number of tests the ISDH lists on its website.

4/5/2020 Covid 19 Press Release

Sun, 05 Apr 2020 16:51:00 GMT

Daily COVID-19 update from Putnam County – April 5, 2020

There are currently 18 confirmed cases of COVID -19 in Putnam County.

What do I need to know today? Putnam County Hospital’s team is sharing mental health resources to help the community navigate these challenging times. Visit www.pchosp.org to learn more.

The Indiana State Department of Health (ISDH) has begun sharing the number of individuals who have been tested on its website. According to the ISDH, the number of tests is provisional and reflects only those reported to ISDH. Numbers should not be characterized as a comprehensive total.

Additional updates include:

There are two websites you can visit for updated information:

What else can I do right now? It is imperative individuals take action to avoid COVID-19 to prevent its spread. A number of preventive steps include:

4/4/2020 COVID 19 Update

Sat, 04 Apr 2020 19:02:00 GMT

The post 4/4/2020 COVID 19 Update first appeared on Putnam County Hospital .

Thirteen confirmed cases

Fri, 03 Apr 2020 18:20:00 GMT

(Greencastle, Ind.) Putnam County officials provided a daily COVID-19 update to the publictoday, which includes an increase in confirmed cases.

Currently, there are 13 confirmed cases in Putnam County. The Indiana State Department of Health (ISDH) as of today, is sharing the number of individuals who have been tested on its website. According to the ISDH, the number of tests is provisional and reflects only those reported to ISDH. Numbers should not be characterized as a comprehensive total.

Additional updates include:

Putnam County Hospital has created a COVID-19 hotline : The hotline is staffed from 8 a.m. to 9 p.m., seven days a week. Citizens can call the hotline at 765-301-7019 tospeak to a healthcare provider to address questions or concerns about the virus.

No visitor policy at Putnam County Hospital in place: Putnam County Hospital enacteda no visitors policy yesterday to protect patients and the hospital community from COVID-19. To learn more, visit www.pchosp.org.

Citizens should adhere to the CDC guidelines and practice social distancing when picking up groceries, getting gas or picking up prescriptions. A distance of six feet is required by the CDC. Visit www.cdc.gov for more information.

The Indiana Department of Education has cancelled all in-person K-12 classes for the 2019-2020 school year. To learn more, visit www.doe.in.gov/covid-19.

It is imperative individuals take action to avoid COVID-19 to prevent its spread. A number of preventive steps include:

Wash your hands often with soap and water for at least 20 seconds. If soap and water are not available, use an alcohol-based hand sanitizer with at least 60% alcohol.

Cover your cough or sneezes with a tissue or sneeze into your elbow.

Throw the tissue in the garbage and make sure to clean your hands afterwards. Stay home when you are sick.

We are all in this together.

Putnam County is providing regular updates on COVID-19 to citizens as part of its effort to complement the daily updates from the ISDH. The ISDH updates occur at 10 a.m. and can be accessed via www.coronavirus.in.gov . Please refer to the above statement regarding the number of tests the ISDH lists on its website.

Twelve confirmed cases; visitor restrictions in effect at Putnam County Hospital

Thu, 02 Apr 2020 18:11:00 GMT

(Greencastle, Ind.) Putnam County officials provided a daily COVID-19 update to the publictoday, which includes an increase in confirmed cases.

Currently, there are 12 confirmed cases in Putnam County. The Indiana State Department of Health reported 11 cases at 10 a.m.; however, the Putnam County Health Department confirmed the 12th case following the state’s update.

Putnam County Hospital also has created a COVID-19 hotline that is staffed from 8 a.m. to 9 p.m., seven days a week. Citizens can call the hotline at 765-301-7019 to speak to ahealthcare provider to address questions or concerns about the virus. At the end of this release is updated guidance from the hospital for citizens regarding testing.

Additional updates include:

No visitor policy at Putnam County Hospital in place: Putnam County Hospital enacteda no visitors policy today to protect patients and the hospital community from COVID-19. To learn more, visit www.pchosp.org.

With warmer weather on the horizon, citizens are encouraged to follow social and physical distancing when outdoors. Attached is a graphic from the National Recreation and Park Association outlining ways citizens can protect themselves and others.

Governor Holcomb announced the #INthistogether campaign to encourage Hoosiers to stay at home and flatten the curve. Citizens can join the campaign by visiting www.inthistogethercampaign.com .

Below is guidance from the Putnam County Hospital regarding COVID-19 symptoms and testing:

If you think you have COVID-19, based on CDC guidelines, and your symptoms are mild, quarantine at home following the CDC’s recommended instructions at www.cdc.gov .

If you meet one of the 7 high risk criteria listed below , you should seek early care and further testing even if you have mild symptoms.

Due to high demand, testing supplies and personnel resources are limited. Per the CDC/ISDH guidelines these resources are to be directed to the highest risk patients. As of April 1, 2020, those to be given priority for testing are:

Nine confirmed cases; Putnam County Hospital to enact no visitor policy on April 2 at 6 p.m.

Wed, 01 Apr 2020 18:03:00 GMT

(Greencastle, Ind.) Putnam County officials provided a daily COVID-19 update to the public today, which includes a new visitor policy at Putnam County Hospital and free testing for healthcare professionals and first responders by the Lilly Clinic.

The number of confirmed COVID-19 cases in the county still stands at nine. Earlier today, the Indiana State Department of Health reported 11 cases; however, according to the Putnam County Health Department, the two additional cases were from neighboring counties.

Effective April 2, 2020 at 6 a.m., Putnam County Hospital will enact a no visitors policy to protect patients and the hospital community from COVID-19. The hospital will be establishing ways for families and loved ones to communicate with patients, including designated apps and shared tools for patients who do not have access to personal technology devices.

The PCH hospitalist and leadership will apply their discretion to special circumstances involving minor children accompaniment and end of life care, to ensure patients, their families and loved ones are cared for in the most compassionate way during this time.

Additional updates include:

Governor Holcomb’s mandatory stay-at-home order directs Hoosiers to stay at home, unless they are traveling for an essential service or receiving an essential service, such as grocery shopping or picking up prescriptions. Residents can still go outside for exercise but should maintain a distance of six feet from others.

The Putnam County Health Department (PCHD) is the first agency to be notified once cases involving county residents are confirmed, setting in motion a process that involves the following:

The Putnam County Hospital is currently testing individuals who meet the criteria for COVID-19 testing. However, given the county’s proximity to the Indianapolis metro area, some residents are receiving tests in those communities. This is preventing county officials from obtaining an exact count of residents who have been tested.

It is imperative individuals take action to avoid COVID-19 to prevent its spread. A number of preventive steps include:

Putnam County is providing regular updates on COVID-19 to citizens as part of its effort to complement the daily updates from the Indiana State Department of Health (ISDH). The ISDH updates occur at 10 a.m. and can be accessed via www.coronavirus.in.gov .

Putnam County confirms nine cases of COVID-19

Wed, 01 Apr 2020 15:13:00 GMT

(Greencastle, Ind.) Putnam County officials announced today that nine cases of COVID-19 have been confirmed in the county.

The Putnam County Health Department (PCHD) is the first agency to be notified once cases involving county residents are confirmed, setting in motion a process that involves the following:

Putnam County plans to provide regular updates on COVID-19 to citizens as part of its effort to complement the daily updates from the Indiana State Department of Health (ISDH). The ISDH updates occur at 10 a.m. and can be accessed via www.coronavirus.in.gov .

“While Putnam County stakeholders, including the County Commissioners, PCHD, Putnam County Hospital, City of Greencastle, emergency management and law enforcement agencies, are aggressively mounting a coordinated response to COVID-19, we all must do our part to slow the spread of this virus,” said Dennis Weatherford, Putnam County Hospital CEO. “Following Governor Holcomb’s order to stay at home, as well as protecting yourself and others are essential during this critical time.”

Governor Holcomb’s mandatory order directs Hoosiers to stay at home, unless they are traveling for an essential service or receiving an essential service, such as grocery shopping or picking up prescriptions. Residents can still go outside for exercise but should maintain a distance of six feet from others.

It is imperative individuals take action to avoid COVID-19 to prevent its spread. A number of preventive steps include:

Putnam County Hospital Thanks Community

Sun, 29 Mar 2020 16:50:00 GMT

Putnam County Hospital would like to express our gratitude to the community businesses and members that have reached out and lent a helping hand as we prepare for COVID-19 while maintaining safety for our staff and community members.

Putnam County Hospital is grateful for the partnership with Area 30 and truly appreciates the time they spent identifying supplies and bringing them to the hospital. Your dedication to your staff, students, and our organization is valued. Your items will be able to assist many organizations in Putnam County as we all try to maintain appropriate levels of Personal Protective Equipment. Supplies were received from the Nursing Program, Health Careers, Auto Collision, Welding, Culinary Arts, and EMT programs.

Putnam County Hospital and the Putnam County Board of Health received and organized supplies from Dr. Hennette of Greencastle Pediatric Dentistry, Dr. Boatright of Boatright Dental Group, and Dr. Knuth of Greencastle Hometown Dental. Dr. Boatright reached out to others to help and we truly commend her efforts in spearheading these efforts. These supplies will be vital as we continue to prepare and help community members during this time.

Thank you to Sustainable Steam’s Rock Kaiser for making a long trip to retrieve material for Putnam County Hospital. Greencastle School Corporation and Cloverdale Schools have been a vital part of helping the hospital. Thanks to DePauw University for their continuing effort in being fantastic community partners and helping where needed.

We have been receiving homemade masks daily and would like to thank everyone that has continued to make and deliver the masks to the hospital.

Putnam County Hospital would like to thank Beau Baird, Jim Baird, Senator Rod Bray, and Senator Todd Young for their help and the time they took to take calls from the hospital. They listened to our concerns and helped strategize opportunities to receive the necessary PPE to keep our workforce safe.

We would like to thank the Banner Graphic, Hoosier Topic, WREB, and Distinct Web Design for helping Putnam County Hospital continue to get imperative information into the hands of our community.

Lastly, to the Putnam County Hospital staff, thank you is not enough for all of your hard work, dedication, adjustments, and hours that have been put into keeping our community healthy and safe. You, the staff, are the heart of Putnam County Hospital and true heroes. The staff has received meals from several local businesses as a thank you from our community. It is very much appreciated by all.

Putnam County Hospital is committed to continue making adjustments as needed and recommended by the CDC and Indiana State Department of Health. From the administration and staff of PCH, thank you to our community for your continued support. We are all in this together.

PUTNAM COUNTY HOSPITAL LAUNCHING COVID-19 HOTLINE

Wed, 25 Mar 2020 17:26:00 GMT

PUTNAM COUNTY HOSPITAL INTRODUCES COVID-19 HOTLINE

Putnam County Hospital has launched a community hotline to offer individuals in Putnam County a Coronavirus (COVID-19) hotline. The hotline will be staffed by physicians and providers, the hotline will screen patients from home, potentially eliminating the need to visit physician offices, prompt care or emergency departments.
Effective Thursday, March 26th 2020 all patients calling the hospital with questions or concerns about COVID-19 will be able to talk with a healthcare professional at one of our primary care practices. This service is available to everyone and not limited to our current patients.

Patients may call 765-301-7019 to be connected with a healthcare professional Monday – Friday 7:00am-5:00pm. We will place additional staff in our Prompt Care Clinic from 5:00pm-9:00pm for COVID-19 related patient phone calls. Weekend hours will be Saturday 10am-5:00pm and Sunday 12:00pm-5:00pm.

Our goal is to provide patients with current information on COVID-19 and what they can do to prevent the spread of the virus if they are sick. Our healthcare professionals will follow CDC guidelines in advising patients to stay home if they are sick with COVID-19 or think they might have it and to follow these important steps to protect other people in their home and community. Providers may also recommend patients seek additional care depending upon individual circumstances.

* Stay home except to get medical care
* Separate yourself from other people in your home, (self-isolation)
* Call ahead before your visit your doctor
* Wear a facemask if you are sick
* Cover your coughs and sneezes
* Clean your hands often
* Avoid sharing personal household items
* Clean all “high touch “ surfaces everyday
* Monitor your symptoms
* Call 911 if you have a medical emergency and put on a mask if possible

Here are two links from the CDC to help you learn more about what you can do to help yourself or your community.

https://www.cdc.gov/coronaviru s/2019-ncov/if-you-are-sick/ steps-when-sick.html

https://www.cdc.gov/coronaviru s/2019-ncov/downloads/2019- ncov-factsheet.pdf

The hotline will now run 7 days a week from 8am-9pm.

Putnam County Health Department and Putnam County Hospital Update on COVID-19

Thu, 19 Mar 2020 16:36:00 GMT

Putnam County Health Department and Putnam County Hospital Update on COVID-19

Putnam County Health Department and Putnam County Hospital continue to work together to keep the community informed during the COVID-19 pandemic.

Putnam County Health Department would like the community to know that at the time of this release there are no confirmed COVID-19 cases in Putnam County.

The following visitor restrictions will be put in place at Putnam County Hospital as of Wednesday, March 18, 2020. Inpatients, those individuals in inpatient, observation, or swing bed, will be allowed 1-2 visitors. These visitors must be put on a list that will be kept at the entry way. When a visitor enters the building they will be greeted by a screener and you are to give your name. If your name is not on the visitor list you will not be permitted to visit the patient at that time. There will be no visitors under the age of 18 permitted at this time. Individuals here for an outpatient appointments should plan to keep accompanying visitors to a bare minimum.

Putnam County Hospital new restrictions in place for the emergency room. As of March 19, 2020 there will be no visitors allowed in the Emergency Department. They are also discouraging Emergency Department visitors in the lobby. If a visitor must remain in the lobby they will be asked to observe social distancing by remaining at least 6 feet from other persons. Exceptions to the policy will include allowing ONE visitor for patients who are disoriented or require assistance for communication or safety. Children under the age of 18 may have ONE parent at the bedside. All traffic of visitors and control of the lobby will be managed by the nursing staff and the Emergency Department physicians. Family members and visitors of Emergency Department patients will be kept informed of their loved ones via cell phone according to patient wishes. We understand that it is difficult for families to be separated during times of illness. All visitors will be treated with respect and empathy.

Putnam County Hospitals updated visitor policy has been put in place to protect our community, employees and providers. Putnam County Hospital continues to follow CDC and ISDH recommendations. We appreciate your understanding of these many changes.

Putnam County Hospital Partners with Putnam County Health Department and DePauw to Set Plans in Place for COVID-19

Wed, 11 Mar 2020 18:21:00 GMT

Putnam County Hospital Partners with Putnam County Health Department and DePauw to Set Plans in Place for COVID-19

On Wednesday, March 11, 2020 members of the Putnam County Health Department, representatives from DePauw, and Putnam County Hospital faculty joined forces to host a teleconference for area stakeholders and businesses. The teleconference had over 60 members from local healthcare facilities, first responders, schools, elected officials, and business owners. The goal of the call was to discuss precautionary measures to ensure that our community is prepared for a potential outbreak related for COVID-19.

Vicky Trusler, PCH Infection Preventionist, provided those on the webinar with background information related to the Human coronaviruses. Although COVID-19 is similar to the other types of coronaviruses, it is unique in many ways and we are still learning more each day. COVID-19 is spread by close person-to-person contact from droplets from a cough or sneeze, which can get into your mouth, nose, or lungs. Close contact is defined as being within approximately 6 feet of another person. Trusler went on to explain that 80% of people with covid-19 have a mild form of the disease (cold or flu like symptoms). The population most likely to become seriously ill are those over the age of 60 and those with pre-existing health conditions.

Dr. Robert Heavin, Lisa Zeiner, and Sara Burnett, RN provided the group with an update from the Health Department perspective. The Putnam County Health Department has either emailed, mailed, or hand delivered education material to all area schools, health care facilities, law enforcement agencies, EMS, and Long Term Care Facilities. They will continue to work to Prevent, Promote, and Protect the community of Putnam County. The Putnam County Health Department is going to continue to be the first line of defense for our community. The health department will be notified by ISDH first of any suspected or confirmed case of COVID-19 in our community . They will continue to work with Health care providers, Schools, EMS, Law Enforcement, etc. as we monitor COVID-19. They will continue to be in contact on a daily basis with the Indiana State Health Department.

Putnam County Hospital gave detailed information to the group outlining necessary steps the community would need to take in the event they need to seek testing for the COVID-19 virus. Those being: after confirmation from ISDH, call ahead to 765-301-7300, stay in your vehicle, wait for a staff member to provide you with personal protective equipment, they will be in personal protective equipment gear as well. They will take you to the designated testing room, the specimen will be collected and the individual will be asked to return home to self-isolate, if they are not experience serious symptoms.

DePauw University representatives from the Critical Incident Management Team and DePauw Health medical director Dr. David Harsha, addressed the group by giving an update on the students and faculty of DePauw. For updates on DePauw’s COVID-19 planning, please visit their website at depauw.edu/preparedness/.

At this point the Putnam County Health Department can give best practices recommendations and guidelines, but cannot make private group policy decisions. Please seek out advice from the CDC.gov website as they continuously update related to the travel advisory.

COVID -19 is spread by close person to person contact from droplets from a cough or sneeze . The incubation period for COVID-19 is anywhere from 2-14 days. However, most develop symptoms 5-8 days after exposure . The CDC guidelines state: positive patients must be isolated for 14 days and must have 2 consecutive negative tests before isolation is discontinued. Therefore, i t is imperative that individuals remember that there are many things that can be done to avoid COVID-19 and keep it from spreading. Wash your hands often with soap and water for at least 20 seconds. If soap and water are not available, use an alcohol-based hand sanitizer with at least 60% alcohol. Don’t touch your eyes, nose, or mouth, especially with unwashed hands. Avoid close contact with people who are showing symptoms of illness. Clean and disinfect frequently touched objects and surfaces. Cover your cough or sneezes with a tissue or sneeze into your elbow. Throw the tissue in the garbage and make sure to clean your hands afterwards. Stay home when you are sick.

Putnam County Hospital; providing exceptional healthcare close to home.

Putnam County Hospital Expands with New Service Line

Tue, 14 Jan 2020 15:50:00 GMT

Putnam County Hospital has expanded once again, bringing even more healthcare options to Putnam County. Pulmonary Rehab is located on the 2nd Floor of Putnam County Hospital in conjunction with Cardiac Rehab. The Cardiac Rehab team is excited to bring Pulmonary Rehab to PCH and is excited to welcome Dr. Alawaht as the medical director and Chelsea Beasley to the team.

Pulmonary rehabilitation is a supervised program that includes exercise training, health education, and breathing techniques for people who have certain lung conditions or lung problems due to other conditions. Your doctor may recommend pulmonary rehabilitation to help you breathe easier and improve your quality of life for certain lung conditions such as chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD), asthma, pulmonary hypertension, and cystic fibrosis. It can also improve daily life for people who have scoliosis or other health problems that limit lung function. Pulmonary rehabilitation can help you gain strength, reduce symptoms of anxiety or depression, and make it easier to manage routine activities, work, and outings or social activities that you enjoy. Our program uses a multidisciplinary approach to reduce symptoms and improve quality of life in patients with compromised lung function.

You may benefit if you have been diagnosed with any of these conditions:

One common question is if Pulmonary Rehab is covered by insurance? Medicare and most other insurers provide reimbursement for pulmonary rehab. Check with our pulmonary rehab team and your insurance company to determine if pulmonary rehab is covered under your insurance plan.

For questions and more information please contact 765.301.7520. Putnam County Hospital; providing exceptional healthcare close to home.

Putnam County Hospital Receives AASM Accreditation

Tue, 14 Jan 2020 15:46:00 GMT

Putnam County Hospital continues to provide exceptional health care close to home with their sleep clinic. The Putnam County Sleep Clinic went through the AASM Accreditation last year. It is a long and vigorous process.

By achieving accreditation, a sleep center demonstrates a commitment to the provision of quality diagnostic services and the longitudinal management of sleep patients. AASM sleep center accreditation indicates to patients and referring physicians that a facility is dedicated to providing the highest patient care in sleep medicine. The AASM accreditation leads to improvements in patient care, public and private health insurance providers alike are requiring that sleep studies be performed at an accredited facility. The staff are trained not only to guide you through the accreditation process, but to assist you in meeting current standards even after you are approved for accreditation.

Since 1977, the American Academy of Sleep Medicine (AASM) Standards for Accreditation have been the gold standard by which the medical community and the public evaluate sleep medicine. Putnam County Hospital is excited to bring the knowledge and skill set to our community. To schedule an appointment please talk to your primary care physician or call 765.301.7300 for more information.

Putnam County Hospital; providing exceptional healthcare close to home.

PCH Taking Action in January for Cervical Cancer Awareness Month

Tue, 14 Jan 2020 15:44:00 GMT

January is Cervical Health Awareness Month, and Putnam County Hospital wants you to know that there’s a lot you can do to prevent cervical cancer. Each year, more than 11,000 women in the United States get cervical cancer.

HPV (human papillomavirus) is a very common infection that spreads through sexual activity, and it causes almost all cases of cervical cancer. About 79 million Americans currently have HPV, but many people with HPV don’t know they are infected.

The HPV vaccine (shot) can prevent HPV. Cervical cancer can often be prevented with regular screening tests and follow-up care.

In honor of National Cervical Health Awareness Month, Putnam County Hospital encourages women to start getting regular cervical cancer screenings at age 21. They encourage parents to make sure pre-teens get the HPV vaccine at age 11 or 12. Teens and young adults also need to get the HPV vaccine if they didn’t get it as pre-teens. Women up to age 26 and men up to age 21 can still get the vaccine.

Putnam County Hospital’s mission is to provide exceptional healthcare close to home and they continue to do just that with promoting annual screens and check-ups for women during Cervical Cancer Awareness Month. Any female that completes or schedules their annual check-up in the month of January will receive a special gift! Call Putnam Women’s Health today to schedule your appointment. 765-301-7440. Let them know that you would like to be part of the Cervical Cancer Awareness Month promotion and they will get you scheduled.

“It is extremely important to Putnam County Hospital to keep our residents educated on prevention and a healthy way of living. This is another example of how we are helping to promote a healthier community,” said Director of Marketing and Commuinty Relations, Brooke Trissel.

Putnam County Hospital; providing exceptional healthcare close to home.

PUTNAM COUNTY HOSPITALS SHOWS SUPPORT TO GREENCASTLE YOUTH FOOTBALL AND YOUTH LEAGUES ACROSS THE COUNTY

Thu, 08 Aug 2019 23:42:00 GMT

FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE

Media Contact: Brooke Trissel

btrissel@pchosp.org

765-719-5514

PUTNAM COUNTY HOSPITALS SHOWS SUPPORT TO GREENCASTLE YOUTH FOOTBALL AND YOUTH LEAGUES ACROSS THE COUNTY

Monday, August 5, Greencastle Youth Football kicked off the 2019 season with Monday Night Football. GYF hosted Cloverdale in a jamboree style scrimmage to get the kids ready for the upcoming season. The evening included three halves of football (one half per age group), Cloverdale Youth League raffled a Colts autographed helmet, Putnam County Hospital raffled two Colts tickets, the boys were all introduced by age group running through the large Tiger Cub helmet onto the varsity field. The evening was complete with an announcer giving play by plays of the game. It is exciting to see the young kids run onto the field smiling from ear to ear. Putnam County Hospital sponsored the event and is playing a huge part in sponsorships for GYF.

“These kids are our future. These are the kids that will compete in high school athletics, they are future nurses, doctors, elected officials, etc. Programs like GYF help kids develop social skills, get them off of video games, and keeps them active. Putnam County Hospital wants to support the youth in any way we can. Our sponsorships, not just to GYF, but to youth organizations across the county is extremely important to us,” said Brooke Trissel, Marketing and Community Relations Director from Putnam County Hospital.

Over the last 18 months, Putnam County Hospital has sponsored soccer, baseball, soccer, basketball, and football teams across the county. The funds help supply uniforms to the athletes, keep the fields game day ready, and help make it possible for our youth to get out and enjoy some healthy competition!

“On behalf of the Greencastle Youth Football League, we would like to give a huge thank you to Putnam County Hospital for their support now and in the future. It is organizations like this that keep the league going strong,” said GYF League President, Khris Tomasino.

Putnam County Hospital is currently sponsoring Putnam County Youth Soccer Association, Cloverdale Youth Football, South Putnam Youth Football, North Putnam Youth Football, along with GYF. If your organization is interested in inquiring about a sponsorship please contact Brooke Trissel at 765-301-7528 or email btrissel@pchosp.org .

Photo Credit: Lindsay Stone

Putnam County Hospital Recognized by The Chartis Center for Rural Health  as a 2019 Top 100 Critical Access Hospital

Wed, 24 Apr 2019 15:06:00 GMT

Putnam County Hospital in Greencastle, Indiana today announced it has been named one of the Top 100 Critical Access Hospitals in the United States by The Chartis Center for Rural Health . Regarded as one of the industry’s most significant designations of performance excellence, the annual Top 100 Critical Access Hospitals award is based upon the results of the Hospital Strength INDEX® from iVantage Health Analytics.

“PCH is dedicated to exceeding expectations of every patient every time. Our mission is to provide exceptional care close to home. “Said CEO Dennis Weatherford. He went on to state “It is the hard work and dedication of EVERY member of the PCH team that has contributed to this accomplishment and we want to extend a huge thank you to each and every one of them! This honor would not be possible without them.”

Hospitals recognized as a Top 100 facility scored in the top 100 among all Critical Access Hospitals nationally. Now in its ninth year, the INDEX leverages 50 rural-relevant indicators across eight pillars of hospital strength (i.e. Inpatient Market Share, Outpatient Market Share, Cost, Charge, Quality, Outcomes, Patient Perspective and Financial Stability) to determine an overall score for each hospital. Each of the INDEX’s 50 indicators is culled from publicly-available data sources.

“In an era of increased complexity and uncertainty, Top 100 hospitals have established themselves as a bellwether for rural provider performance,” said Michael Topchik, National Leader of The Chartis Center for Rural Health. “Top 100 status is a real indicator of how proactive these hospitals are when it comes to pushing for performance improvement in areas such as quality, outcomes, patient safety, market share and finance.”

Top 100 Critical Access Hospital Resources:
The list of this year’s Top 100 Critical Access Hospitals, as well as the 2019 INDEX methodology, can be found at www.ivantageindex.com/top-performing-hospitals .

To learn more about The Chartis Center for Rural Health or to speak with someone regarding the INDEX and the 2019 Top 100, please email Billy Balfour at wbalfour@ivantagehealth.com .

Please visit www.pchosp.org to learn more about the services that we offer.

Putnam County Hospital hosts 2019 Spring Guild Luncheon

Tue, 23 Apr 2019 14:39:00 GMT

FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE

Media Contact: Brooke Trissel

btrissel@pchosp.org

765-719-5514

2019 Service Awards included:

50 Hours

Susie Miller, Darlene Wall

100 Hours

Sherryl Berry, Leanna Hanners, Susan Hurst, Charlotte Jones, Anita McNulty and Darlene Wall

250 Hours

May Jo Dove, Betty Lancaster, Charlene Patterson, Donna Terry

1250 Hours

Phyllis Even, Regina King

1500 Hours

Jackie Sutherlin

Kathryn Eccles Award

This award is given to a volunteer for going beyond what is expected.

Doris Knauer

“The Putnam County Hospital Guild has an important role at the hospital,” said Joni Perkins, Director of Nursing at Putnam County Hospital. “The Guild has always had a special interest in how to make the hospital better. All of the funds raised through the gift shop and other fundraising events go toward equipment and/or items that improve patient care. They are an amazing, caring group.”

Serving on the Putnam County Hospital Guild not only supports our local hospital, it also is a group of caring individuals who support each other with friendship and fellowship throughout the year.

Those interested in learning more about the Guild or completing an application should visit the PCH Guild Gift Shop Monday-Friday 9am-4pm.

Craig Johnson, DO

Mon, 08 Apr 2019 14:37:00 GMT

Dr. Johnson is a graduate of Michigan State University where he received his medical degree.

Dr. Johnson completed his residency at Union Hospital, Terre Haute, Indiana in Family Practice. He is board certified by the American Board of Family Medicine.

He was previously a partner in group practice in Brazil Indiana where he provided comprehensive medical care including Obstetrics, Pediatrics, Adult and Geriatric Care in the outpatient clinic, nursing homes and hospital.

Dr. Johnson also practiced at Union Hospital in the Emergency Department, as Hospitalist and was a preceptor for Family Practice residents. He has served as medical director for several nursing homes in the area.

Dr. Johnson joined the medical staff at Putnam County Hospital in 2015 where he currently practices as a Hospitalist. He serves as the Vice President of the medical staff and sits on the Peer Review committee.

Putnam County Hospital Recognized by The Chartis Center for Rural Health as a 2019 Top 100 Critical Access Hospital

Thu, 21 Feb 2019 13:24:00 GMT

FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE
February 15, 2019
Brooke Trissel
Director of Marketing
btrissel@pchosp.org

February 15, 2019 – Putnam County Hospital in Greencastle, Indiana today announced it has been named one of the Top 100 Critical Access Hospitals in the United States by The Chartis Center for Rural Health . Regarded as one of the industry’s most significant designations of performance excellence, the annual Top 100 Critical Access Hospitals award is based upon the results of the Hospital Strength INDEX® from iVantage Health Analytics.

Top 100 Critical Access Hospital Resources:

The list of this year’s Top 100 Critical Access Hospitals, as well as the 2019 INDEX methodology.

To learn more about The Chartis Center for Rural Health or to speak with someone regarding the INDEX and the 2019 Top 100, please email Billy Balfour at wbalfour@ivantagehealth.com .

Press Release

Fri, 29 Jun 2018 06:12:00 GMT

FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE
June 28, 2018
Media Contact: Brooke Trissel
btrissel@pchosp.org
765-719-5514

The Health Resources and Services Administration (HRSA) recognized 10 states for outstanding quality performance of their Critical Access Hospitals in achieving the highest reporting rates and levels of improvement over the past year, based on the Medicare Quality Improvement Project (MBQIP) performance measures. Indiana ranked 9th among Top Performing Rural Critical Access Hospitals! The Indiana State Office of Rural Health aspires to honor the Indiana Critical Access Hospitals for their performance and acknowledge the best of the best! In that regard, the CAH Award program was developed to stimulate quality improvement efforts and acknowledge distinguished members in the Indiana CAH community.

Putnam County Hospital is extremely proud of this achievement and will continue to strive to be the best healthcare option for our community.

Our mission is to provide exceptional healthcare close to home.

The post Press Release first appeared on Putnam County Hospital .

Dr. Vishwas specialized in areas of neurology, epilepsy, ADD/ADHD, headache, stroke…

Sat, 17 Mar 2018 08:01:00 GMT

Dr. Vishwas specialized in areas of neurology, epilepsy, ADD/ADHD, headache, stroke, dizziness, vertigo, spinal cord disease, autonomic dysfunction, neuromuscular disorders, neuro-immunology including M.S. and other autoimmune diseases, movement disorders, metabolic and other neurological disorders.

Dr. Vishwas is board certified in Neurology with special qualifications in Child Neurology. He earned his medical degree from Rajiv Gandhi University of Health Sciences, received his medical training as research fellow at Harvard Medical School and held his residency/internship at Wake Forest University of Medical Science.

Dr. Vishwas sees patients in the third floor Outpatient Specialty Clinic at Putnam County Hospital.

Robert Heavin, MD moves practice to expanded North Putnam Family Healthcare facility in Bainbridge

Mon, 15 Jan 2018 01:34:00 GMT

Dr. Robert Heavin will now be seeing patients at the newly expanded North Putnam Family Healthcare, located at 209 E Pay Rady Way in Bainbridge, IN. All of Dr. Heavin’s staff will make the transition, so patients can be greeted with and cared for by familiar faces.

Dr. Heavin has served Coatesville and surrounding community for over 37 years. North Putnam Family Healthcare is excited to welcome him, the staff and his patients to the new facility that now offers in-house labs, radiology and onsite pharmacy.

Dr. Heavin sees patients Monday-Thursday 9am to 5pm and Friday 9am to noon.

Local physicians come together to thank PCH staff and raise funds for community organizations

Mon, 15 Jan 2018 01:32:00 GMT

Physicians at Putnam County Hospital were in the holiday spirit, giving back to the staff at the hospital, while raising money for local organizations.

Each week, physicians donated prizes and sold raffle tickets to the staff. A winner was drawn each Friday, with proceeds going towards the organization(s) of the physician’s choice.

Week one featured a home audio system donated by Dr. Sreedasyam and $100 cash donated by First National Bank. Becky Hutcheson was the lucky winner, and a total of $353 will be donated to the Family Life Center at Riley Children’s Hospital.

Week two featured an iPad donated by Dr. Landry. Ray Jackson was the winner, while a a $545 donation will be made to Care Net Pregnancy Center in Putnam County.

Week three featured a $400 Amazon gift card donated by Dr. Mendelsohn. Breanna Burnham was the lucky winner. $848 was raised that will be donated to the Putnam County Library.

Week four featured $500 cash donated by Dr. Martin. The lucky winner was Jessie Lund, raising $1,100 for the Humane Society of Putnam County.

Week five featured a 55” TV and sound system donated by Dr. LG Palanca and Dr. Stella Palanca. The winner was the super lucky Becky Hutcheson, once again! This raffle raised $526 that will be donated to the Society of St. Vincent DePaul and Putnam County Humane Society.

Week five featured four prizes, including a $100 Visa gift card, $100 iTunes gift card, $100 Starbucks gift card and $100 cash, all donated by Dr. Johnson, Dr. Skrabak, Dr. Robert Heavin, Dr. Ahlawat and Dr. Szotek. Raising a total of $592, the winners include Shari Shepard, Victoria Mullins, Crista Miller and Katie Bennett.

A total of $3,964 will dispersed throughout Putnam County. A very special thank you to the physicians for giving back to the staff and community.

Partnership produces Bainbridge Integrated Healthcare Services

Tue, 12 Dec 2017 02:19:00 GMT

North Putnam Family Healthcare and Crossroads Care Pharmacy has announced the opening of its integrated care services to the Bainbridge community on Monday, Dec. 18 at its new location, 209 E. Pat Rady Way, Bainbridge.

North Putnam Family Healthcare hours will be Monday through Friday, 8 a.m. to 5 p.m. Crossroads Care Pharmacy hours will be Monday through Friday 8:30 a.m. to 5:30 p.m.

North Putnam Family Healthcare is a physician practice operated by Putnam County Hospital.

Previously located at 440 E. Pat Rady Way, the expanded space will now allow the practice to offer much-needed services such as lab services and radiology (coming soon), family practice, wellness physicals, DOT physicals and patient advocate services that assist patients with the enrollment in insurance and other family services offered in the community.

North Putnam Family Healthcare offers the community four providers — Robert Heavin, MD, Cathy Clodfelter, FNP-C, Alexandria Warren, FNP-C and Jacqueline Chandler, FNP-C.

Crossroads Care Pharmacy is new to the Bainbridge area, but not new to providing wellness and pharmacy needs. Crossroads Care Pharmacy is owned and operated by Ben and Amanda Laney who also own and operate Cloverdale Drugs Pharmacy in Cloverdale. Crossroads Care Pharmacy will offer the Bainbridge area a full-service, personalized pharmacy that includes services such as medication synchronization, medication dose packaging and delivery.

Together, the partnership allows North Putnam Family Medicine and Crossroads Care Pharmacy to give the community much-needed integrated clinical services.

An open house for the community is currently being planned. More information will be released as detailed are finalized.

For more information about North Putnam Family Medicine, or to schedule an appointment with a provider, persons may call 522-2556 or go to www.pchosp.org/north-putnam-family-healthcare.

For more information about Crossroads Care Pharmacy, persons may call 522-4300 or go to www.crossroadscarerx.com .

More than $30,000 raised for Cancer Center

Tue, 05 Dec 2017 02:20:00 GMT

More than 250 community members put on their best dresses and sharpest suits to raise awareness and funds for the local cancer center during the recent inaugural Putnam County Hospital Benefit Gala.

By the end of the night, spirits were high as generous donors rallied to raise more than $30,000 that will go directly to the PCH Cancer Center for the purchase of IV pumps to better care for cancer patients.

The gala was an overwhelming success from the release of the news just months before the event. Within two weeks of announcing the event, tickets sold out. Gala and after-party ticket sales generated more than $6,500 in revenue that will go directly to the cancer center.

Requests were made to community businesses, supporters and vendors asking for contributions, whether it be a financial sponsorship or as a donor to the silent or live auction. Responses from the community were humbling as the hospital began to see the personal impact its cancer center has made to so many in the community. More than 50 items/experiences were donated to the auction with more than $11,850 in sponsorships were raised.

The gala opened its doors to the Union Building Ballroom, donated by DePauw University at 6 p.m. Awaiting those that arrived were students from DePauw’s Phi Kappa Psi fraternity who also donated their evening for the cause, offering complimentary valet parking.

Upon arrival, guests were invited to have a professional portrait taken by Wilson’s Photography Studio. Fifty percent of the proceeds from the $10 photographs went to the PCH Cancer Center, with the other portion of the fee covering costs for production of the photos.

As attendees entered the ballroom, they were greeted with the sounds from DePauw School of Music’s string quartet. A complimentary wine tasting and cash bar accompanied the event as gala attendees enjoyed fellowship and bidding on the silent auction items. An elegant dinner was catered by Bon Appetit. Stunning table settings were topped off with centerpieces donated by Eitel’s Flowers and crisp white chair compliments of Mary Keck with Putnam County Hospital. Putnam County Hospital presented a program at 8 p.m. that educated and enlightened those in attendance of the impact that PCH Cancer Center has in our hometown. Hospital CEO Dennis Weatherford welcomed and thanked the community for its support and trust in the hospital and cancer services provided close to home.

Next, a touching testimonial video, featuring Jim Turpin, was shared with the crowd. The video shared Jim’s experience with the hospital’s Cancer Center as well as how the center’s partnership with Franciscan Health helped him received the very best in cancer care as he battled leukemia. Following the video, Turpin personally spoke of his experience and his heart-felt thanks for the care he received.

Dr. James Callaghan, Franciscan Health Indianapolis CEO, was next to speak to those in attendance about the partnership with Putnam County Hospital, expressing Franciscan Health’s dedication to giving Putnam County patients big city services close to home. Wrapping up the program was Mary Ann Birt. A breast cancer survivor, √Mary Ann spoke of her fight with cancer and how receiving her treatments close to home near family and friends impacted her healing.

Wrapping up the night, silent auction bidding closed and the live auction began. Local auctioneer Jeff Rich donated his talents for the event. Thousands of dollars were raised as bidders competed for the hot items.

As the night wrapped up, more than 100 community members continued the celebration at the after-party, fully sponsored by Bridges Craft Pizza and Wine Bar. Complimentary champagne and appetizers welcomed those who attended.

Putnam County Hospital recognizes that the benefit gala’s success was attributed to so many that donated their time and services, including its own staff. The hospital extends sincere gratitude to the following: Putnam County Hospital staff members: Margaret Crowley, Tammy Hunter, Lou Fordice, Jennifer Dunfee, Hope Cooksey, Brooke Plummer, Miranda Richardson, Ashton Higgins, Jenni McGaughey, Bill Dennis, Hannah Cline, Jeff Mace, Sharon Friday, Janet Foxx, Jane Littiken and Lori Lucas.

Extended thanks also goes out DePauw University, donation of the Union Building Ballroom; Bridges Craft Pizza and Wine Bar, donation of the gala after-party; Phi Kappa Psi fraternity, complimentary valet parking, Wilson’s Photography Studio, portraits and candid photos throughout the evening; Banner Graphic, print ads; WREB Radio; radio spots; Eitel’s Flowers, floral arrangements; Mary Keck, chair covers; DePauw School of Music, string music throughout the evening; Tabco Printing, bid sheets; Dennis Weatherford and Dr. Callaghan, speakers; Jim Turpin and Mary Ann Birt, testimonials.

The gala could not have taken place without the generous sponsorships. Sponsorship levels include Platinum for donations $1,000 and above, Gold for donations $500-$999, Silver for donations $250-$400 and Supporters for $25-$249. Sponsors of the evening were: Franciscan Health, Platinum; First National Bank, Platinum; Distinct Web Design, Platinum, Tx:Team, Platinum; Gobin Memorial Church, Gold; Array Architecture + Interiors, Gold; Blue & Co., Gold; CSO Architects, Gold; Edward-Rigdon Construction Co., Inc, Gold; Sustainable Steam & Water Solutions, Inc., Gold; HBG Insurance & Bonds, Gold; Dr. Warren and Connie Macy, Gold; Dr. Robert and Carole McCardle, Gold; Robert Sedlack in memory of Ellen Sedlack, Gold; True Rx Management Services, Inc., Gold; Adkisson Consulting, Inc., Silver; Creed Medical, Silver; Hamilton Center, Silver; Hickory Creek at Sunset, Silver; Sharon Walters, Silver; AA Huber & Sons, Supporter, Baker’s Septic Services, Inc., Supporter, Ann Dever, Supporter; Greencastle Lodge No. 1077, Supporter; Dr. Craig and Heidi Johnson, Supporter; OnCall Transcription, Inc., Supporter; Robert and Beverly Parsons, Supporter; Remax Cornerstone Realty, Supporter; Rotary Club of Greencastle, Supporter.

Silent and live auction items were instrumental in creating a fun atmosphere along with raising $14,815 alone.

Putnam County Hospital thanks the community for a memorable and meaningful evening and is looking forward to planning for 2018.

Putnam County Hospital Cancer Center, partnering with Franciscan Health, offers a peaceful setting for patients who are undergoing cancer treatments close to home. The center provides a comprehensive plan with holistic care that meets the medical, spiritual, and emotional needs of patients.

Dr. Sameer Ahmed, a physician with Franciscan Physician Network, joined the Cancer Center in 2015. The Cancer Center is also staffed by Registered Nurses who have been oncology trained. Continued education concerning cancer, the most up-to-date treatments, and symptom management is important to us. Registered nurses are oncology-certified through the Oncology Nursing Society (ONS), a national organization.

The Cancer Center is accredited by the American College of Surgeons.

For more information about the PCH Cancer Center, persons may call 301-7510 .

Endeavor donates record fundraising proceeds to Putnam Cancer Center

Tue, 21 Nov 2017 02:21:00 GMT

Courtesy photo Included in the presentation of the Monster Dash donation check are (from left): Rhonda McCammack, Cancer Center manager; Dennis Weatherford, Putnam County Hospital CEO; Endeavor employees Jacob O’Rourke, Amber Burgeson, Danielle Dobson, Endeavor President and CEO Darin T. LaCoursiere, and Lori Lucas, Putnam County Hospital director of community relations/marketing manager.

Endeavor Communications celebrated its continued support of the local communities it serves by making a donation of more than $5,000 to the Putnam County Cancer Center recently.

The funding includes donations collected as part of Endeavor’s third annual Monster Dash Family 5K Walk/Run at Cloverdale High School. This year’s event was especially notable as Endeavor’s total $5,236.44 donation directly benefits the residents of Putnam County.

The annual Monster Dash Family 5K Walk/Run event is organized and staffed by an energetic group of Endeavor Communications employee volunteers and Endeavor employee wellness committee members dedicated to helping raise funds for cancer prevention. The family-friendly event drew walkers and runners from throughout Putnam County and were encouraged to wear their favorite costumes –- providing opportunities for fun, ghoulish selfies and group pictures.

New this year was the inclusion of a new timing system giving participants the ability to track their official time which drew praise from the more seasoned, competitive runners.

“Endeavor’s generous donation will help provide gasoline, food and medicine for patients on our gift card program,” Rhonda McCammack, Putnam County Cancer Center manager, said. “It will also help us with our mission to educate area residents with programs on ways to prevent or find cancer in its earliest stages when it can be more easily treated.”

McCammack continued, “Some of these programs involve distributing sunscreen and providing the education needed help to prevent skin cancer. The proceeds will also provide skin screening and prostate screening programs — which are provided free to the public, and continuing education for those physicians, nurses, and medical personnel who care for our cancer patients. With your donations, we will also be able to purchase two wheelchairs that will be dedicated to any cancer patient to use when they come to the hospital.”

Events like Monster Dash wouldn’t be possible without the help of key local community organizations, including Cloverdale High School, Putnam County Hospital, York Auto Body and Glass, Hendricks Power Cooperative, Corragio Designs Inc., Rebecca Norlin Photography, Dennis Furr, Brad Tucker State Farm, Jeff Rich Auction Services, Monical’s Pizza, Putnam Inn, Hutch’s Body Shop and Graphic Shack Signs, along with all the local merchants who donated door

prizes, the event participants, volunteers, and everyone else who donated to the cause.

For more information about the event, persons may contact Tom Dougherty, Endeavor Communications, at 765-795-5554, ext. 254 or tdougherty@weendeavor.com .

Free prostate screening offered Nov. 28 at PCH

Tue, 14 Nov 2017 02:06:00 GMT

The Putnam County Hospital Cancer Center will be holding its annual free prostate screening on Tuesday, Nov. 28 from 9 a.m. to noon and 5-7 p.m.

Who should consider this free screening? If you are male, 50 years of age or older or African American male, 45 years of age or older, or are male and have a father/brother with prostate cancer and 45 years of age or older.

Included in this screening is a prostate exam at no charge. Individuals can also receive a PSA blood test for an additional fee of only $10.

The screening will be performed in the Cancer Center, located on the second floor of Putnam County Hospital.

Prostate cancer is the second-leading cause of male cancer-related death in the United States. About one in six men will be diagnosed with prostate cancer during their lifetime. Your chances increase if you have a family history of the cancer.

About one in three men with a close relative who has/had prostate cancer are diagnosed, and the risk jumps to 83 percent if two close relatives – father or brother — have been diagnosed. Early detection is key.

The Putnam County Hospital Cancer Center is dedicated to providing free screenings to help the community lead a healthier, more fulfilling life. Appointment times are limited. Call 301-7510 to schedule a screening today.

Tickets available for exclusive benefit gala after-party, sponsored by Bridges

Wed, 08 Nov 2017 02:05:00 GMT

Due to the sold-out response to the inaugural Putnam County Hospital Benefit Gala, tickets are now on sale for the after-party to be held at Bridges Craft Pizza and Wine Bar on the east side of the square. Doors will open at 10 p.m. the night of the gala, Nov. 18.

Tickets are $25 each. Tickets include complimentary welcome champagne, hors d’oeuvres and drinks, plus a night to remember at Bridges.

The after-party is a great way to extend your elegant evening out after attending the gala, or a perfect way to take part in the benefit if gala tickets were unable.

All money raised will go directly to the Putnam County Hospital Cancer Center.

Tickets can be purchased in the Putnam County Hospital Administration Office, located on the third floor, Monday-Friday 8 a.m. to 4p.m.

For more information, persons may call Margaret Crowley at 655-2626 or Lori Lucas at 655-2583.

PCH goes live with improved website

Tue, 17 Oct 2017 01:04:00 GMT

Putnam County Hospital went live with its updated website on Sept. 29.

Recognizing that the majority of people go online when first looking for resources, even for healthcare, PCH worked hard to update their site to be more user friendly, providing quick and seamless information for the user and potential patient.

The site makes finding a family doctor or specialist, paying your bill, viewing your medical records and learning what is new at the hospital easier than ever before.

Putnam County Hospital strives to not only be the community’s go-to facility, but also the trusted online healthcare resource.

Go to www.pchosp.org to browse the new site and see how Putnam County Hospital is continuing to grow for a healthier community.

Pink Message

Sat, 07 Oct 2017 01:03:00 GMT

Released into the Friday afternoon breeze, pink breast cancer awareness balloons begin to drift away from dozens of survivors, family members and Putnam County Hospital staff members. The balloon release capped a full day of breast cancer prevention and education events at Putnam County Hospital. Whether bearing a name or personal message (below) or elegantly unadorned, the balloons mark a way for survivors and those left behind to honor the struggle of the one in eight women who will develop invasive breast cancer over the course of her lifetime.

Inaugural PCH Benefit Gala set for Nov. 18

Tue, 03 Oct 2017 01:01:00 GMT

Putnam County Hospital has announced details of the upcoming Hospital Benefit Gala.

The hospital is hosting the gala to raise funds and awareness for the Putnam County Hospital Cancer Center with an inaugural event set for Saturday, Nov. 18 at the DePauw University Union Building ballroom.

The doors will open at 6 p.m. with complimentary valet parking. Cocktails, an elegant dinner catered by Bon Appetit and silent auction will begin at 6:30 p.m.

The evening will wrap up with a program at 8 p.m., followed immediately with the live auction. A free wine tasting will complement the night.

The Putnam County Hospital Benefit Gala is a cocktail attire event.

Tickets to attend the elegant event are now available to purchase. Individual tickets are $35 each and a table of eight is $280.

Tickets can be purchased in the PCH Administration Office, located on the third floor, Monday-Friday 8:30 a.m. to 4:30 p.m. Checks can also be mailed to Putnam County Hospital, Attn: Benefit Gala, 1542 Bloomington St., Greencastle, IN 46135. If sending in a check, please indicate the name(s) for the ticket(s) if different than the name on the check.

Individuals or businesses interested in becoming a sponsor for the event are asked to call 655-2583 or 655-2626. Sponsorship options are as followed: Platinum sponsor: $1,000 or more, Gold sponsor: $500-$999, Silver Sponsor: $250-$499, and Supporter: $50-$249.

Those who would like to donate a silent or live auction item may call 655-2583 or 655-2626 for details.

Tickets and sponsorships will be sold, and auction items accepted, until Wednesday, Nov. 15. All sponsors and donors will be recognized at the event as well as through press releases to the community.

The gala will be raising money for the Putnam County Hospital Cancer Center’s need of nine IV pumps, which totals $18,000. The IV pumps will help deliver chemotherapy in a safer and more timely manner to patients fighting cancer.

Putnam County Hospital Cancer Center offers a peaceful setting for patients who are undergoing cancer treatments. The partnership with Franciscan Health gives patients the advantage of receiving the care close to home, yet access to a larger facility if the care needs to extend to other resources.

The cancer center has seven infusion bays adjacent to the nursing stations and three private examination rooms. The cancer team provides a comprehensive plan with holistic care that meets the medical, spiritual and emotional needs of the patients.

Dr. Sameer Ahmed, a physician with Franciscan Physician Network, joined the Cancer Center in 2015. Dr. Ahmed sees patients at the Cancer Center on Mondays, Tuesdays and Thursdays.

The Cancer Center is also staffed by registered nurses who are oncology trained. Continued cancer education, the most up-to-date treatments, and symptom management are top priority. Registered nurses are oncology-certified through the Oncology Nursing Society (ONS), a national organization. Active membership in the local Illiana Chapter of ONS allows the nursing staff to attend monthly meetings to discuss new and current treatments.

The Cancer Center is accredited by the American College of Surgeons. Accreditation is renewed every three years by adhering to stringent guidelines that ensure clients receive the best care possible.

For more information about the Putnam County Hospital Cancer Center, persons may call 301-7510 .

Go Pink Open House slated Friday at PCH

Tue, 03 Oct 2017 01:01:00 GMT

October is Breast Cancer Awareness Month and Putnam County Hospital is dedicated to educating the community about the top of the line resources available close to home to keep women proactive in their breast health.

Putnam County Hospital will be hosting a Go Pink Open House in the main lobby of the hospital on Friday, Oct. 6. From 9 a.m. to 2 p.m., the community is invited to enjoy sweet treats while browsing the gift baskets that will be raffled off at 2 p.m.

Raffle tickets can be purchased through Oct. 6 at the hospital Info Desk, Administration on the third floor of the hospital, Putnam Pediatrics and Internal Medicine, Prompt Care, Family Medicine of Cloverdale and North Putnam Family Medicine. Raffle tickets are $1 each or 6 for $5. Simply purchase raffle tickets to be eligible to win amazing prizes. Need not be present to win. All proceeds will go to the Putnam County Hospital Cancer Center’s Mammography Fund; a fund set up for individuals who cannot financially afford their mammogram. Also at the open house will be information about 3D mammograms, services provided by Lillian Pfister, FNP-C, WHNP-C and Putnam Women’s Health and the navigation program at Putnam County Hospital Cancer Center, which walks patients through the process of cancer care one step at a time to assure they receive the very best in care and guidance.

The annual Pink Balloon release will take place following the open house at 2:30 p.m. at the front lawn of the hospital.

The annual event, hosted by the Putnam County Hospital Cancer Center, honors those who have fought or are currently fighting breast cancer. Pink balloons will be provided. All are encouraged to attend.

Throughout October, those who schedule their mammogram will be treated with a special gift bag full of gifts every woman will love. With 3D mammograms now available at Putnam County Hospital, which detects 41 percent more invasive breast cancers, now is the time to schedule your exam close to home. To schedule your mammogram, persons may call 301-7310.

One out of eight women will be diagnosed with breast cancer at some point in their life. This can be a scary thought, but knowing what resources you have available is the best way to stay proactive in your health. Putnam County Hospital is dedicated to bringing big city specialties and services, such as 3D mammography, women’s health services and cancer navigation, close to home.

For more information about any of the services listed, go to www.pchosp.org or call:

Schedule your mammogram: 301-7310

Putnam Women’s Health: 301-7440

Putnam County Hospital Cancer Center: 301-7510 .

Putnam County Hospital hosts open house for breast cancer awareness

Fri, 29 Sep 2017 15:03:00 GMT

October is breast cancer awareness month and Putnam County Hospital is dedicated to educating the community about the top of the line resources available close to home to keep women proactive in their breast health.

Putnam County Hospital will be hosting a GO PINK Open House in the main lobby of the hospital on Friday, October 6. From 9am to 2pm, the community is invited to enjoy sweet treats while browsing the gift baskets that will be raffled off at 2pm. Raffle tickets can be purchased between Sept. 22-Oct. 6 at the hospital Info Desk, Administration on the 3 ^rd floor of the hospital, Putnam Pediatrics and Internal Medicine, Prompt Care, Family Medicine of Cloverdale and North Putnam Family Medicine. Raffle tickets are $1 each or 6 for $5. Simply purchase raffle tickets to be eligible to win amazing prizes. Need not be present to win. All proceeds will go to the Putnam County Hospital Cancer Center’s Mammography Fund; a fund set up for individuals who cannot financially afford their mammogram. Also at the open house will be information about 3D mammograms, services provided by Lillian Pfister, FNP-C, WHNP-C and Putnam Women’s Health, and the navigation program at Putnam County Hospital Cancer Center, which walks patients through the process of cancer care one step at a time to assure they receive the very best in care and guidance.

The annual Pink Balloon Release will take place following the open house at 2:30pm at the front lawn of the hospital. This annual event, hosted by the Putnam County Hospital Cancer Center, honors those who have fought or are currently fighting breast cancer. Pink balloons will be provided. All are encouraged to attend.

Throughout the month of October, those who schedule their mammogram will be treated with a special gift bag full of gifts every woman will love. With 3D mammograms now available at Putnam County Hospital, which detects 41% more invasive breast cancers, now is the time to schedule your exam close to home. To schedule your mammogram, call 765.658.2760.

One out of 8 women will be diagnosed with breast cancer at some point in their life. This can be a scary thought, but knowing what resources you have available is the best way to stay proactive in your health. Putnam County Hospital is dedicated to bringing big city specialties and services, such as 3D mammography, women’s health services and cancer navigation, close to home.

For more information about any of the services listed, please go to www.pchosp.org or call:
Schedule your mammogram: 765.658.2760
Putnam Women’s Health: 765.301.7440
Putnam County Hospital Cancer Center: 765.301.7510

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Adult and Child Neurology now at PCH

Mon, 18 Sep 2017 12:00:00 GMT

Referrals and appointments are currently being accepted, with his first day in the specialty clinic in Greencastle planned for Oct. 9.

Dr. Vishwas specialized in areas of neurologyepilepsy, ADD/ADHD, headache, stroke, dizziness, vertigo, spinal cord disease, autonomic dysfunction, neuromuscular disorders, neuro-immunology including M.S. and other autoimmune diseases, movement disorders, metabolic and other neurological disorders.

Board certified in neurology with special qualifications in child neurology, he earned his medical degree from Rajiv Gandhi University of Health Sciences, received his medical training as research fellow at Harvard Medical School and held his residency/internship at Wake Forest University of Medical Science.

Dr. Vishwas will be seeing patients in the third-floor Outpatient Specialty Clinic at Putnam County Hospital on the second and fourth Monday of every month. Referrals are required from a patient’s doctor. For more information about Dr. Vishwas and his services, persons may call 812-242-3125.

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Putnam Prompt Care After-Hours Clinic announces extended hours

Fri, 15 Sep 2017 12:00:00 GMT

Putnam Prompt Care After-Hours Clinic has been caring for patients in Putnam County and surrounding areas for a little over two years.

The service has been much needed to keep family and friends close to home for after-hours care. As the clinic continues to grow, Putnam Prompt Care announces that the clinic will now have extended the hours to accommodate last-minute health needs throughout the day.

Beginning Monday, Sept. 18, Prompt Care will now be seeing patients Monday-Friday 9 a.m. to 9 p.m. Weekend hours will continue to be Saturday 10 a.m. to 5 p.m. and Sunday noon to 5 p.m.

Putnam County Hospital encourages the community to establish a primary care provider to ensure the best in long-term wellness.

Questions? Call Putnam Prompt Care at 301-7440 or go to www.pchosp.org/after-hours-clinic .

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GPD Car Seat Clinic set Sept. 18 at PCH

Tue, 12 Sep 2017 12:00:00 GMT

The Greencastle Police Department (GPD) will conduct its annual Car Seat Clinic as a requirement for the Greencastle Police Department Permanent Fitting Station.

GPD is again partnering with Putnam County Hospital, (PCH) which will be the hosting site for the clinic.

The Car Seat Clinic will be conducted 5-7 p.m. Monday, Sept. 18 at PCH, 1542 Bloomington St., Greencastle.

The Greencastle Police Department will have certified car seat technicians on hand to check car seats.

Technicians will inspect car seats currently being used for the following issues: Does the child seat properly fit the child, is the child seat in good working condition, is the child seat on a recall list, is the child seat properly installed in the vehicle and if the child seat has gone past six years from the expiration date.

If a problem or defect is discovered with a child restraint seat, the technician can replace the seat.

If anyone has any questions regarding the Car Seat Clinic they can call 653-2925 and ask for Chief Tom Sutherlin or Capt. Chris Jones.

Child Passenger Safety Week, sponsored by NHTSA, is the week of Sept. 18-23.

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National Night Out says thank you

Thu, 31 Aug 2017 12:00:00 GMT

To the Editor:

On behalf of the National Night Out Committee we are proud to announce that over 1,500 community members participated in our 11th annual event on Tuesday, Aug. 1st from 5-8 p.m. at Greencastle Robe-Ann Park. The activities however were stopped a little short due to an impending storm.

Hot dogs, pizza, snow cones, apples, popcorn and drinks were again shared with all attending.

This event would not be possible without the sponsorship of so many community agencies. We continue to be humbled by their sincere and generous contributions: Anthony’s Pizza; Ashley Square Cinema; Big Bounce Fun House Rentals; Butler’s LP & Fertilizer; Casey’s General Store in Roachdale and Greencastle; Charlie’s Beefcake Burgers; Chicago’s Pizza; Children’s Bureau – Community Partners; Clark Brothers Farm; Culligan of Putnam County; Dairy Castle; Duke Energy; Eckrich; First Financial Bank; First National Bank; Flowers Bakery; Garls’ Bike Shop; Greencastle Kiwanis; Greencastle Parks and Recreation and Aquatic Center; Heather Taylor State Farm Insurance; Holiday World; Indianapolis Indians; Jedele Enterprises; Jean Holder, DDS; John Hennette, DDS; Kroger; Lou’s Diner; Monical’s Pizza; Papa Johns Pizza; Pizza Hut; Putnam County Hospital; Putnam County Comprehensive Services and Aktion Club; Noble Romans; Plaza Lanes – Ground Zero Laser Tag; Putnam County PIE Coalition; Stat Flight; Sky Zone; Splash Island, Plainfield; Taylor Made Awards; Terre Haute Children’s Museum; Tri-County Bank; United Way of Putnam County; Wonderlab of Bloomington and West Central Indiana Economic Development District.

Over 35 community organizations donated their time and energy in support of this powerful outreach and our mission of keeping Putnam County’s children safe and healthy. A special thank you to all of the wonderful volunteers who donated their time, you are the greatest. And, of course, to our National Night Out Knight, we appreciate you always making an appearance; James Figgy Hardwick and his wonderful service as the “DJ” and to the staff of Robe-Ann Park, your work throughout the entire process was a real blessing.

Words cannot begin to express our sincere appreciation and heartfelt thanks to the committee who willingly volunteered their time and energy: Christy Miller, Lyndsey Miller, Heidi Menzel, Pam Wade, Kerry James; Dominique Gibson, Sonny Stoltz, Chad Nunley, Lori Miller, Dan McMains, Kim McMains, Kari Plessinger, Bill Nunn, Jerrod Baugh, Rod Weinschenk and David Bault, Kayla Hens, Karen Martoglio, Joy Morris and Donna Russell, Jim Maxwell, Ryan Peschke, Lori Lucas, Jeff Mace, Elizabeth Butts, Renee Marsteller, Holly McFadden, Patti Harmless, Allison Creekmore and Kyle Gibbons.

We’re convinced this annual event is a night for the Putnam County community to stand together to promote drug and alcohol awareness, safety and unity. National Night Out showcases the fundamental importance of police partnerships and citizen involvement in our fight to build a safer community.

We look forward to our 12th annual fun-filled and exciting event in 2018. We hope to see you there.

Linda Merkel

Tom Sutherlin

NNO coordinators

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First Friday to again offer local ‘Taste’

Mon, 28 Aug 2017 12:00:00 GMT

Spurred on by the success of the 2016 partnership that brought Greencastle First Friday attendees to the annual Taste of Putnam County event, Main Street Greencastle and the Greater Greencastle Chamber of Commerce have teamed up again this year.

The upcoming First Friday event, set for 6-9 p.m. Friday, Sept. 1 in downtown Greencastle, will again feature the Chamber’s Taste of Putnam County event.

Along with the usual First Friday vendors, the Chamber event will feature about 20 food and drink vendors to sample.

Tickets will be available from the Chamber of Commerce for $1 each and these can be traded to food vendors for their samples.

Participants in the Taste of Putnam County include Almost Home, Blondies and Brownies Bakery, Bon Appetit, Charlie’s, Completely Nuts and Candy, Eitel’s & Co. Florist, Fluttering Duck, Harvest by Red Barn Farms, Hatchet House Barbecue, Moore’s Bar and Grill, Mill Pond Health Campus, Myers’ Market, Putnam County Hospital, Putnam Inn Family Restaurant, Scoops Ice Cream, Smoke House Barbecue, Starbucks, Tap House 24, Wasser Brewing Co. and others.

In addition to these, there will be music from The Flying Toasters, the MacDaddys, Blues Side Up and Legend Puncher and War Radio.

The schedule of bands is as follows:

North Side — Franklin Street

5:30 — Beth Anderson

7 p.m. — The Flying Toasters

9 p.m. – War Radio (inside Swizzle Stick)

South Side — Indiana Street

6 p.m. – ZooSoul Drum Circle

7 p.m. –Legend Puncher

8 p.m. — Blues Side Up

9 p.m. — MacDaddy’s

For the kids, Big Bounce Fun House Inflatables will be on hand with fun activities.

While all of this is going on, there will also be the Taste of Hogwart’s at First Christian Church across from the fire station.

This family event includes Harry Potter-based food and wands for a donation to local non-profits, as well as the Sorting Hat, card readings, potion making, a magic show and trivia for free.

Taste of Hogwart’s runs from 6-8:30 p.m.

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PCH leads efforts in quality improvement of regional long-term care facilities

Mon, 21 Aug 2017 12:00:00 GMT

In January 2015, ISDH launched the Regional Healthcare Quality Improvement Collaborative grant, a grant which has now funded nine Regional Collaboratives across the state with the goal of improving quality of care in Indiana long-term care (LTC) facilities.

Each collaborative will learn about and implement the Quality Assurance Process Improvement (QAPI) model – an initiative of the Centers for Medicare and Medicaid (CMS) to improve overall quality of care.

Putnam County Hospital (PCH) is leading efforts for the West Central Indiana Regional Collaborative (WCIRC) which includes long-term care facilities in Putnam, Clay, Parke, Montgomery, Vigo, Owen and Sullivan counties. The collaborative members meet regularly and will work to complete two quality improvement projects according to the QAPI guidelines.

QAPI is a nationwide program that aims to improve the quality of life, care and services in long-term care facilities with a data-driven, proactive approach. The program addresses all systems of care and management while focusing on clinical care, quality of life, and resident choice in each facility.

The leadership of Putnam County Hospital seeks input from facility staff, residents and families/representatives in order to improve outcomes within the region by analyzing and improving processes in the facility.

“The Collaborative provides the groundwork for facilities to implement or improve the QAPI process into their daily practices at their facilities,” Lesli Fordice, PCH post-acute quality coordinator and director of WCIRC, states. “It allows for best-practice sharing and continuity of care as we all strive to provide the highest quality of care to residents and families within our communities. I feel honored to lead this group of individuals that are committed and compassionate about the services they provide within their facilities.”

Mill Pond Health Campus Executive Director Rachel Frye is equally enthusiatic about the project.

“Mill Pond is excited to embark on this partnership of quality improvement along with other local healthcare providers so we may all better serve our community,” Frye said. “The vision of Mill Pond for continuous improvement is congruent with the goal of the collaborative – to build upon and improve our quality of care.

“Learning about different providers’ successes and opportunities and venturing into new solutions together helps us to overcome obstacles in the ever-changing healthcare field so that we can ensure excellent clinical outcomes and exceptional customer service,” Frye added.

Putnam County Hospital, a 4-Star Overall Hospital Quality facility, has been serving its community with patient-focused healthcare since 1924, offering state-of-the-art services and specialists, which once could only be accessed through larger healthcare facilities.

For more information on PCH services, persons may call 655-5121 or go to www.pchosp.org .

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3D mammography exams arrive at PCH

Sat, 19 Aug 2017 19:15:00 GMT

Putnam County Hospitalwill offer Genius 3D Mammography exams, developed by Hologic Inc., a worldwide leader in Women’s Health.

Utilizing advanced breast tomosynthesis technology, Genius exams are clinically proven to significantly increase the detection of breast cancers, while simultaneously 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.

The Hologic system is a clinically superior breast tomosynthesis system as approved by the FDA in 2013. The new system is recommended for women of all ages and breast densities. The system allows radiologists to more effectively pinpoint the size, shape and location of abnormalities. This leads to better detection and greater peace of mind for our patie

Large clinical studies in the U.S. and Europe have demonstrated the positive benefits of a Genius 3D Mammography exam. The largest study to date on breast cancer screening using the Genius exam was published in the June 25, 2014 issue of the Journal of the American Medical Association (JAMA).

Findings include:

• A 41 percent increase in the detection of invasive breast cancers.

• A 29 percent in the detection of all breast cancers.

• A 15 percent in women recalled for additional imaging.

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

“We are very excited to bring this advanced cutting edge technology that allows for earlier detection of breast cancer with fewer false positive findings, further improving the care available to Putnam County residents,” radiologist Joseph Hunt, M.D., said.

Persons who would like to schedule a Gennius 3D Mammography exam, or have questions about this important breast health procedure, may call Putnam County Hospital Central Scheduling at 301-7310.

PCH Cancer Center offering navigation program to patients

Sat, 19 Aug 2017 19:13:00 GMT

The care team members at Putnam County Hospital Cancer Center have developed a Breast and Lung Cancer Navigation Program.

Navigation is a process of care management that begins when a person receives a suspicious finding on their mammogram, nodule in their lung or a cancer diagnosis. This one-on-one assistance helps to ensure timely diagnosis and treatment by addressing needs that may arise during this experience.

Dedicated cancer navigators are nurses with specialized training and knowledge of specific cancers and a great compassion for those struggling with cancer. The nurse navigator is a liaison to enhance quality and continuity of care and help guide through all of the complexities that a diagnosis of cancer can create.

The navigators at Putnam County Hospital Cancer Center currently specialize in breast and lung cancers.

The Navigation Program is free to patients. For more information, persons call 301-7510 .

PCH Cancer Center has provided cancer care for more than 30 years with an American College of Surgeons Commission on Cancer accredited cancer program.

Partnering with Franciscan Health, and utilizing the same treatments recommended by the National Comprehensive Cancer Network (NCCN), the Putnam County Hospital Cancer Center offers nationally renowned cancer care.

For more information on the program or other services offered at the PCH Cancer Center, go to www.pchosp.org/cancer-care or call 301-7510 .

AAA screenings now available at Putnam County Hospital

Sat, 19 Aug 2017 19:11:00 GMT

Putnam County Hospital is now offering Abdominal Aortic Aneurysm screenings, hospital officials have announced.

An Abdominal Aortic Aneurysm (AAA), a specific kind of aneurysm, is the swelling of the body’s largest artery. AAA typically has no symptoms, which is why having a screening is important.

While AAA is a potentially life-threatening condition, the good news is that this simple and non-invasive screening is key to effective AAA treatment.

“Putnam County Hospital is proud to provide excellence in clinical care and offers sophisticated, accurate diagnosis and leading-edge treatments for patients with all types of aortic disease, close to home,” PCH officials said in a press release. “Our partnership with Franciscan Health gives our community access to vascular and heart surgeons who are recognized for innovation and expertise in the evaluation and management of aortic diseases and are national leaders in the repair of aortic aneurysms using minimally invasive or endovascular techniques.”

Should you consider an AAA screening? Below are the risk factors that make this Medicare-covered screening beneficial:

— Men ages 65 to 75 who have ever smoked (at least 100 cigarettes).

— Men and women ages 65 to 75 years with family history.

AAA screenings require a referral from your primary care provider.

Women Walk Putnam County stepping up for fourth season

Sat, 19 Aug 2017 19:08:00 GMT

The American Heart Association reports heart disease is the No. 1 killer of women in the United States of America. Reports show heart disease causes one in three deaths each year.

The American Heart Association also reports since 1984, more women than men have died each year from heart disease and the gap between men and women’s survival continues to widen. Research also shows that heart disease affects the cardiovascular system and blood vessels. While we know that some individuals are more at risk for heart disease, we know incorporating healthy lifestyle changes positively affects the longevity of one’s life. For instance, the Center for Disease Control and Prevention suggests not smoking, and limiting alcohol helps in prevention of heart disease.

We also know research proves adapting exercise and healthy eating into our lifestyle helps in preventing heart disease.

Therefore, in efforts of addressing the dietary and exercise aspect of health disease in women we would like to introduce Women Walk Putnam County.

Women Walk Putnam County, a group of empowered women who walk together weekly.

Women Walk Putnam County is a free walking program sponsored by the Purdue Extension Office and Putnam County Hospital. Working together for a healthier Putnam County; one-step at a time. We strive to encourage women to walk into a healthier life decreasing the prevalence of heart disease in women.

The kickoff luncheon for another season of walking is set for Tuesday, Aug. 29 from noon to 1:30 p.m. in the Putnam County Hospital classrooms, located on the third floor of the hospital.

The luncheon will include a meal catered by Putnam County Hospital Dietary Department, along with special speaker Jennifer Cannon, Extension educator with Purdue Extension Office of Putnam County.

Women Walk Putnam County packets that include the calendar of walking days and locations (every Wednesday through October) will be distributed during this time. Complimentary blood pressure checks will also be available at the luncheon.

RSVP deadline for the Aug. 29 luncheon is Aug. 22 by calling Jennifer Cannon at Purdue Extension Office at 653-8411.

While this particular program is for women in decreasing heart disease, a host of programs and literature from everyone all of genders is also offered.

Free wellness screening at Aug. 5 Farmer’s Market

Sat, 19 Aug 2017 19:07:00 GMT

Be Well, the Putnam County Hospital wellness team, will be offering free wellness screenings to the community at the Greencastle Farmer’s Market on Saturday, Aug 5 from 8:30 to 11:30 a.m.

The complimentary screening includes the opportunity for individuals to learn their vitals such as height, weight, BMI and blood pressure. Glucose and cholesterol will also be tested with a simple finger-prick (no fasting is required).

Education and the opportunity to sign up for a cardiac score, lung cancer screen, AAA screen or a 3D mammogram that can have life-changing benefits will also be available.

The hospital’s registered dietitian will also be on hand with some nutritional tips and tricks to eat healthier.

When the screening is complete, individuals have the opportunity to meet one on one with one of the PCH certified wellness coaches. The coach will review all of the numbers from the screening to help persons understand where they are doing well and how to do better in areas that could use improvement.

The wellness coach can also forward the screening results to the individual’s primary care provider if they would like them to be a part of their medical records.

For questions about the screening persons may contact Lori Lucas at PCH at 655-2583 or llucas@pchosp.org .

Aug. 28 luncheon to kick off Women Walk Putnam County

Sat, 19 Aug 2017 12:00:00 GMT

Incorporating physical activity into your everyday routine is important for good health. Physical activity helps weight management, reduces risk of cardiovascular disease, and strengthens bones (Center for Disease Control and Prevention, 2015).

Oftentimes when individuals think of physical activity our minds automatically think of running and/or jogging. However, did you know that walking produces some of the same benefits as running and/or jogging?

The American Heart Association reports walking briskly can lower your risk of high blood pressure, high cholesterol, just as much as running. In fact, research conducted at Lawrence Berkeley National Laboratory, Life Science Division in Berkley, Calif., concluded that the same energy used for moderate-intensity walking and vigorous-intensity running resulted in similar reductions in risk for high blood pressure, high cholesterol, diabetes and possibly coronary heart disease over the study’s six years.

This correlates with the Center of Disease Control and Prevention recommendations stating adults need at least 150 minutes per week of moderate exercise or 75 minutes per week of vigorous exercise (or a combination of moderate and vigorous activity). Thirty minutes a day, five times a week is an easy goal to remember. As means of providing an outlet for physical activity the Purdue Extension Putnam County office and Putnam County Hospital have teamed up to launch the fourth annual Women Walk Putnam County.

Women Walk Putnam County is a program geared toward women in Putnam County. The group will meet every Wednesday at 8 a.m. for a 30-minute walk at a new venue every week. Goals will be set and healthy challenges will be made as the program progresses.

To kick off the program the annual luncheon is scheduled for noon Tuesday, Aug. 28 at Putnam County Hospital. At the luncheon, participants will receive their walking calendar, pedometers and other pertinent information.

The luncheon and program are free of charge. However, you must RSVP for the luncheon by contacting Jennifer Cannon, 653-8411, no later than Aug. 25.

While the Women Walk Putnam County program is tailored to women, everyone is encouraged to stay connected with the Purdue Extension Office. Several upcoming health programs are geared toward individuals and families, including Healthy Cooking 101, Dining with Diabetes, Where Does Your Money Go and much more.

Visit www.extension.purdue.edu/putnam or contact the local Purdue Extension Office by calling 653-8411 for more information regarding this week’s column topic or to RSVP for upcoming events. It is always best to call first to assure items are ready when you arrive and to RSVP for programs. While many publications are free, some do have a fee.

Upcoming Events

Aug. 4-20 — Indiana State Fair.

Aug. 24 — Indiana Extension Homemakers Leader Lesson, 2 p.m., Extension Office.

Aug. 29 — Women Walk Putnam County Luncheon, Putnam County Hospital (registration required by Aug. 23).

Sept. 4 — Labor Day, office closed.

Putnam County Hospital earns 4-Star quality rating

Wed, 16 Aug 2017 22:23:00 GMT

Monday, January 16, 2017

Putnam County Hospital has earned a 4-Star Overall Hospital Quality Rating, based on data collected on Hospital Compare. The ratings for hospital facilities throughout the nation were released to the public in December 2016.

How did Putnam County Hospital earn the 4-Star rating?

The new Overall Hospital Quality Star Rating summarizes data from existing quality measures publicly reported on Hospital Compare, an online tool where consumers can view the quality of facilities, into a single star rating for each hospital.

The data tracks areas such as patients’ experiences, timely and effective care, complications, readmissions and deaths, use of medical imaging, and payment and value of care.

Based on the results of the data, more than 4,000 Medicare-certified hospitals are rated on a 5-Star system. Putnam County Hospital is one of only 20 percent out of 4,598 hospitals to earn the 4-Star rating.

Why is the star rating important for consumers and patients?

Think of it as the same process individuals use when looking online at hotels. Most go to a travel site and narrow down their search for the highest-quality hotel room based on its star rating. The star rating for hospital facilities is a similar tool to help consumers and patients choose the highest quality of care.

“It’s very gratifying to have external validation and public knowledge of the quality of care we give to every patient, every time,” Dr. Lisa Martin, a primary care physician with Putnam Pediatrics and Internal Medicine, said. “Our patients can be reassured that they are receiving the very best in healthcare when they walk in our doors.”

Putnam County Hospital is a critical access hospital committed to providing affordable, high-quality healthcare close to home.

For more information about Putnam County Hospital and the expanded services and specialties now being provided, click here to visit Putnam County Hospital .

Registration (PT w/Ben) – 3.10.17

Fri, 10 Mar 2017 14:16:00 GMT

Registration (PT w/Ben)

March 10, 2017

We are looking for a friendly, outgoing mature person who is responsible for greeting incoming patients with a smile, distributing paperwork to the necessary departments, entering pertinent information in the patients account; including insurance and demographic, and being a team player who works well with co-workers as well as other departments. You must be flexible to fill in extra shifts when necessary.
PRIMARY RESPONSIBILITIES
• Handle inquiries and patients coming in for services
• Ensure all papers are properly filled out and input into system.
• Enter and verify that all patient demographics and billing information correctly entered/verified at time of check in.
• Process encounters daily for and balance to co-payments.
• Collect balances due at time of check in.
• Direct patients to relevant areas of building.
• Answer phones and transfer calls to appropriate departments successfully
• Obtain signed statements.
• Store patients’ valuables.
• Record payments.
• Keep admission desk clean and organized.
• Perform insurance data entry.
• Follow all Hospital and Departmental Policies and Procedures

• Perform admissions and transfers in a very timely manner
We are currently hiring for a PT (Benefits Eligible) shift working Sunday 12pm – 7pm, Monday 8am-6pm, Tuesday, Wednesday, Thursday and Friday 10am – 2pm.
Required:
 Customer-Service Skills: A successful admitting clerk will be friendly, organized and knowledgeable about the health care procedure.
 High School diploma
 Computer Skills: Admitting clerks will need to process insurance information and medical records, use the phone system, and learn industry specific software.
 Communication Skills: Listening to customers and hospital staff, speaking in a clear and friendly way over the phone and face-to-face are essential skills.
 Organization: Admitting clerks need to stay organized as each client or customer that is admitted creates a paper trail that needs to be in order.

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2 – Lab: MLT/MT (PT w/Ben) – 3.6.17

Mon, 06 Mar 2017 21:18:00 GMT

2 – Lab: MLT/MT (PT w/Ben)

March 6, 2017

Our Laboratory Department is currently seeking an MT/ MLT to perform testing in all areas. This associate will also be required to perform venipuncture as needed and to hold a current MLT (ASCP/AMT) certification or obtain within one year of hire. This position involves rotating weekends and holidays. This is a part time and benefit eligible position.

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Housekeeping (FT w/Ben) – 3.3.17

Fri, 03 Mar 2017 16:58:00 GMT

Housekeeping (FT w/Ben)

March 3, 2017

We are looking for a housekeeper to clean and service building areas, move furniture, equipment and supplies in and around the facility. Perform a variety of environmental services duties to maintain the facility in a neat, orderly and sanitary condition.

Regulatory Requirements:
• Some related experience in the healthcare setting preferred.
• Must have knowledge of proper housekeeping technique and procedures.
• Must know appropriate house cleaning equipment and supplies used to complete assigned duties.
• Must be a High School Graduate

Physical Demands:
For physical demands of position, including vision, hearing, repetitive motion and environment, reasonable accommodations may be made to enable individuals with disabilities to perform the essential functions of the position without compromising patient care.

This is a full time, benefit eligible position working 2nd shift from 2:30 – 9:30 pm. Every other weekend and rotating holidays are mandatory.

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Gastroenterology care now available at Putnam hospital

Sun, 26 Feb 2017 17:33:00 GMT

Sunday, February 26, 2017
Putnam County Hospital has announced that gastroenterology specialists with Meridian Medical Group, PC are now seeing patients in the newly renovated third-floor outpatient specialty clinic.

Dave Thomas, MD, Olajide Odelowo, MD, Kashif Ahmed, MD, Mehul Patel, MD and Wen Boynton, MD, all board certified in gastroenterology, currently provide quality gastroenterology care at Methodist Hospital, I.U. West Hospital in Avon and are now expanding their specialty to serve Putnam County.

The physicians with Meridian Medical Group, diagnose and treat diseases such as GERD (and Barrett’s esophagus), Crohn’s and ulcerative colitis, liver diseases (including Hepatitis C), pancreatic diseases, irritable bowel syndrome and internal hemorrhoids.

Meridian Medical Group performs procedures such as colonoscopy, upper endoscopy and dilations, as well as more specialized procedures including ERCP, endoscopic ultrasound, small bowel capsule endoscopy and internal hemorrhoid banding.

Call your doctor for a referral or call 800-474-0190.

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(2) RN – Emergency (FT w/Ben) – 3.1.17

Fri, 17 Feb 2017 15:40:00 GMT

(2) RN – Emergency (FT w/Ben)

March 1, 2017

We are looking for Two Registered Nurses for our Emergency Department available immediately. These are Full Time positions, benefits eligible.

1: Full Time – night shift (7p-7a), 2: Rotating shifts including weekends

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Lab – Phlebotomist (FT w/Ben) – 2.16.17

Thu, 16 Feb 2017 15:07:00 GMT

Lab – Phlebotomist (FT w/Ben)

February 2, 2017

We are currently seeking a Phlebotomist to perform venipuncture blood collection, urine collection, urine drug screen collection and glucometer operation. Assists with other duties as requested. Previous work experience and medical assistant training helpful but not required.

Under the general supervision of the laboratory director and bench supervisor, the phlebotomist assumes the responsibility for performing venipuncture and related procedures according to established hospital and departmental policies and procedures on patients ranging in age from newborns to geriatrics. Venipuncture and skin punctures are performed competently and expediently using aseptic technique. Has thorough knowledge of test specimen requirements including fasting and dietary requirements.

Position Requirements: 1. High School graduate or equivalent. 2. Medical assistant or phlebotomy certification preferred. 3. Experience as a phlebotomist in a hospital setting preferred. 4. Excellent customer relation’s skills/able to deal effectively and tactfully with patients and visitors of all ages, with co-workers, physician’s, and physician office staff. 5. Mathematical, verbal, written skills at the high school level. 6. Ability to read and communicate effectively in English. 7. Basic computer knowledge required.

This is a full time, benefit eligible position. Rotating weekends and rotating holidays mandatory.

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Dine with a Doc set for Monday, Feb. 27

Thu, 09 Feb 2017 17:37:00 GMT

Thursday, February 9, 2017

Hannah Cline
Dine with a Doc is a free community-based program that welcomes the local senior public to hear an educational topic and ask questions while enjoying a complimentary lunch. This month’s speaker is registered dietician Hannah Cline.

Cline was born and raised in Putnam County. She graduated from South Putnam High School in 2010 and has a bachelor’s degree from Indiana State University in dietetics.

Her first position after college was with WIC, a supplemental nutrition program, in Terre Haute doing nutrition assessments and education for women, infants and children. Since June 2015, she has worked at Putnam County Hospital as the dietitian in the clinical and community wellness capacity.

Pursuing a career as a dietitian was not a tough choice for Cline. She spent the better part of her childhood and adolescence struggling with weight. Her junior year of high school she wrote her own diet and exercise plan and lost 65 pounds. After that, she knew she wanted to help people achieve that same goal and better their life.

The lunch will be courtesy of Home Instead Senior Care.

Various health care providers will share information about their services and provide door prizes for participants to win.

Hickory Creek at Sunset will offer a complimentary wellness clinic (blood pressure screening).

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Annual Greencastle Sustainability Awards announced

Thu, 09 Feb 2017 17:36:00 GMT

Thursday, February 9, 2017

Prior to Thursday evening’s City Council session at City Hall, Greencastle Sustainability Committee member Steve Fields (left) and John Garner (third from left) present the annual Sustainability Awards. Winners were (from left) Putnam County Hospital, represented by Jeff Mace; Wasser Brewery, represented by owners Chris and Angie Weeks; Youth Leader of the Year, Madeline Piscetta of DePauw University; ETA International, represented by Teresa Maher; and Citizen of the Year Anthony Baratta.
Banner Graphic/ERIC BERNSEE
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The Greencastle Commission on Sustainability honored three businesses and two individuals Thursday night prior to the Greencastle City Council meeting.

The Commission on Sustainability honored ETA International, the Putnam County Hospital and Wasser Brewery, as well as Madeline Piscetta and Anthony Baratta for their efforts to make Greencastle and Putnam County a more environmentally friendly community.

The line between Business of the Year and Best Practices becomes blurred when looking at the efforts of ETA International, the Putnam County Hospital and Wasser Brewery.

The Putnam County Hospital and ETA International are being honored as Businesses of the Year.

Putnam County Hospital is once again a leader in sustainability in Greencastle and Putnam County.

During the past year PCH updated all lighting, inside and out, to LED. Also upgrades to air handlers settings have saved thousands of dollars each month. Motion sensors were installed in closets and various rooms throughout the health care facility. Water savers were installed on faucets.

Putnam County Hospital also opened its grounds for community gardens.

Recognizing the public’s desire to learn about renewable energy and its technology, as well as employment opportunities, ETA International hosted solar panel (photovoltaic) installation certification workshops in Greencastle.

ETA will have another workshop in March 2018. This sustainability workshop is designed for beginners and those experienced with electronics/electricity. The class will receive hands-on experience with a working PV system to conceptualize a design, compare costs of various sustainability products, dismantle, trouble shoot and reinstall to ensure proper operation, along with an emphasis on electrical and rooftop safety.

Wasser Brewery, located on the corner of East Franklin and North Vine streets, is being honored for best practices.

Wasser founders Chris and Angie Weeks have repurposed a structure that has housed an auto parts store and an auto dealership, among other things over the last 50-plus years.

Wasser received a grant from the Department of Rural Development to install high-efficiency windows. The restaurant and brewery depends on local food sources for its menu and has tables and a bar built from local lumber.

Wasser Brewery also donates spent grain used in the production of beer to local farmers, avoiding hundreds of pounds of waste.

A year ago, Anthony Baratta presented these awards as chairman of the Greencastle Sustainability Commission. Now he is being recognized as Outstanding Citizen of the Year.

Baratta served on the Greencastle Sustainability Commission from 2013-16. He helped create the Office of Sustainability at DePauw University and has been on the staff since 2012.

The Greencastle resident helps oversee a number of successful initiatives at DePauw that reach out to the community, including the DePauw Campus Farm and Move Out — a partnership with Putnam County Family Support Services to donate or sell discarded items — and the Sustainability Leadership Program.

Over the past two years, the Sustainability Leadership Program has grown from a small cohort to 60 students, the largest program of its kind in the country and an innovative opportunity for students to implement sustainability initiatives in Greencastle and at DePauw.

A 2010 DePauw graduate, Baratta and two dozen DePauw students spoke to more than 1,000 students across regional high schools and debuted a 20-student “Sustainability Leadership Institute” summer high school workshop.

Baratta is currently pursuing a master’s degree in sustainability from Harvard Extension School.

Madeline Piscetta, a senior at DePauw University, is the Young Leader of the Year.

Piscetta has been instrumental in a number of sustainability projects at DePauw.

She is in DePauw’s interdisciplinary program, is an Environmental Fellow as well as the co-curricular Sustainability Leadership Program, where she serves as a “student project manager.” Her current project focuses on “zero waste” initiatives. Piscetta and her team oversaw the implementation of the “Green-to-Go” reusable food container initiative in DePauw dining halls. The goal is to eliminate more than 244,000 disposable containers per year.

During her time at DePauw Piscetta has planned a “Water Music” concert, which brought together art and science to raise awareness for water quality and water scarcity issues. She has also worked on the campus farm and worked with DePauw Greek houses on recycling initiatives.

Piscetta interned last summer at the World Wildlife Fund at its U.S. headquarters in Washington, D.C., where she helped plan the annual Fuller Science for Nature Symposium, which was conducted in November.

The Greencastle Commission on Sustainability meets at 5 p.m. on the third Tuesday of each month at Greencastle City Hall. All meetings are open to the public.

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RN – Infection Control (Exempt w/Ben) – 2.7.17

Tue, 07 Feb 2017 15:12:00 GMT

RN – Infection Control (Exempt w/Ben)

February 7, 2017

We are seeking an energetic individual who is willing to oversee Infection Control/Employee Health/Housekeeping/Linen Departments. Must have Bachelor’s Degree or currently enrolled in program. Prefer individual who has previous Infection Control experience with CIC. Full Time Management position. Salary individualized per level of experience. Competitive benefit package.

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The post RN – Infection Control (Exempt w/Ben) – 2.7.17 first appeared on Putnam County Hospital .

CMA/LPN – Cloverdale (FT w/Ben) – 2.6.17

Mon, 06 Feb 2017 16:52:00 GMT

CMA/LPN – Cloverdale (FT w/Ben)

February 6, 2017

Certified Medical Assistant Family Medicine of Cloverdale (full-time) 02/06/2017

We are currently seeking a friendly, patient-focused Certified Medical Assistant or Licensed Practical Nurse for our busy family practice in Cloverdale, Indiana. Must be willing to work front and back office. This is a full-time, day shift and benefit eligible position. Certification is required and medical office experience is preferred.

Experience for this position includes:

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Free wellness screening offered at Mill Pond to Senior Center members

Mon, 30 Jan 2017 17:38:00 GMT

Sunday, January 29, 2017
Mill Pond is partnering with Putnam County Hospital to bring a free wellness screening to members of the Putnam County Senior Center.

The screening will take place on Thursday, Feb. 9 from 11 a.m. to 1 p.m. at the Mill Pond Health Campus.

Individuals who participate will receive a complimentary packet to take home with the results from their screening. The wellness screening includes:

— Vitals, including height, weight, blood pressure and pulse oximetry.

— Glucose (finger stick).

— Cholesterol.

— Bone density.

— Nutritional education and recipes from a registered dietician.

— Opportunity to schedule a mammogram, cardiac score or lung cancer screen at the hospital.

— Education on services and specialties that are now offered locally.

— Review of results with a certified wellness coach.

— Flu shots available for $20.

Registration for the general screening is not necessary. If you would like to receive the flu shot, reserve your vaccination by calling 720-4706 by Feb. 2.

The wellness screening is to be used as a tool to help individuals understand their current health and become more proactive in ways to make themselves healthier. Putnam County Hospital encourages those participating to share their results with their primary care provider.

If you have questions regarding the wellness screening, call Brooke Trissel with Mill Pond Health Campus at 720-4706.

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Open house for free tobacco cessation effort Jan. 30 at PCH

Sun, 22 Jan 2017 23:21:00 GMT

Sunday, January 22, 2017

The Putnam County Hospital (PCH) is celebrating the Aspire Tobacco Free Program now available at the hospital.

The open house will take place 4-7 p.m. Monday, Jan. 30 in the Medical Office Building, located inside PCH.

PCH, in partnership with Franciscan Health, is dedicated to helping neighbors, family and friends kick the habit for good. And thanks to a grant from the Putnam County Health Department, this program, along with the Quit Now program, is offered for free (a $50 value) to all Putnam County residents.

Dr. Vijay Rao, Franciscan Physician Network Indiana Heart Physicians, is passionate about the Aspire program and is dedicated to helping the community reduce its smoking statistics. He will be available at the open house to talk about the program and to answer any questions.

Individuals will also have the opportunity to meet the Aspire coordinators who will be working one-on-one with those who choose to participate in the program.

For more information about the open house or the Aspire program, persons may call 658-2779 Monday-Friday, 8 a.m.-4 p.m.

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RN Case Manager (FT w/Ben.) – 1.13.17

Fri, 13 Jan 2017 20:25:00 GMT

RN Case Manager (FT w/Ben.)

January 13, 2017

Requirements: BSN or ASN with equivalent experience; Indiana RN license; Case Manager Certification preferred; 3-yr. case management experience; 2-yr. recent acute clinical practice.

Full-time salaried position. Competitive salary and benefits.

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CMA / LPN (North Putnam/Bainbridge) (01.12.17)

Thu, 12 Jan 2017 18:44:00 GMT

CMA / LPN (North Putnam/Bainbridge)

January 12, 2017

Medical Assist or LPN – North Put
We are currently seeking a friendly, patient-focused Medical Assistant or LPN for our North Putnam Family Healthcare Clinic in Bainbridge, Indiana. Must be willing to work front and back office. Certification is required and experience preferred. Full-time, benefit eligible M-F 8-5.
Experience for this position includes:
• Electronic Medical Records (Allscripts)
• Insurance, recertification and authorizations
• Triage of telephone calls and scheduling
• Rooming patients and taking medical history
• Updating Medications
• Phlebotomy and giving injections
• Obtaining prior authorizations
• Assisting with Procedures
• Working directly with a Physician and/or Nurse Practitioner

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Hospital announces update on Pain Management Center

Thu, 29 Dec 2016 23:26:00 GMT

Thursday, December 29, 2016

Dr. Danielle Turnek
With 2016 coming to an end, Putnam County Hospital this week released some statistics regarding the first 18 months of operations at the Putnam County Pain Management Center.

The center opened in June 2015 as a balanced pain management center at the Putnam County Hospital Surgery Center and Outpatient Clinic area inside the hospital.

Staffed by Dr. Danielle Turnak, the Pain Management Center diagnoses acute and chronic pain and creates individualized treatment plans for patients based on a number of considerations, including the cause and level of pain.

“The support of area physicians and those that live and work in Putnam County and surrounding areas have allowed the Pain Management family to care for its patients while feeling right at home,” the PCH statement read. “Over the previous year we have had great success in providing high-quality care to our patients who suffer from chronic pain.”

Some results from the program include (January through Aug-ust 2016):

• 87 percent of patients report moderate to significant improvement following a procedure from Dr. Turnak.

• 90 percent of patients were compliant with their established care plan; meaning patients followed the physician’s plan of care that was prescribed.

• Less than 0.8 percent of patients showed up in the emergency department for the same issue they were being treated for in the pain center.

• 97.5 percent of patients report that their RFA was beneficial.

Dr. Turnak works with referring physicians to care for patients with a balanced pain treatment program. Treatments typically include the tailored use of physical therapy and medication management while common interventional procedures include epidural steroid injections, facet joint injections, selective nerve root blocks and radiofrequency ablations.

Dr. Turnak will also refer patients to alternative treatment in the community.

The overall goal is to get the patient back to living a normal, pain-free life without the dependency of medication.

Putnam County Pain Management welcomes referrals or self-referrals of those suffering from acute or chronic pain who would benefit from a balanced approach to treatment.

Those who feel they would benefit from the program are encouraged to call their doctors or for more information, call Putnam County Pain Management Center at 301-7450 .

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Hospital announces update on Pain Management Center

Thu, 29 Dec 2016 08:57:00 GMT

Thursday, December 29, 2016

Dr. Danielle Turnek
With 2016 coming to an end, Putnam County Hospital this week released some statistics regarding the first 18 months of operations at the Putnam County Pain Management Center.