Health and Wellness

Feeding families: The Food Group partners with SMH to provide pantry to Addiction Medicine patients

The Food Group partners with SMH to provide pantry to patients

When families or individuals struggle to afford food for the next meal, it becomes difficult to focus on

Wyoming Rehab’s, Justin Bridger & Lindsay Kinney, talk on Public Pulse

Sheridan Memorial Hospital’s Wyoming Rehab physical therapists, Justin Bridger and Lindsay

Sheridan Green House: A place to thrive

At Sheridan Green House, Sheridan Memorial Hospital’s long-term care facility, staff provide

Eating for Heart Health

When deciding to make healthy changes it can be hard to know where to start. While there are a variety of eating patterns individuals can use to

Benefits of activity as we age

As we age, it becomes increasingly important to engage in regular physical and mental activities. Regular exercise and physical activity can help us

Flu season reaches 15-year high

January through March usually marks the worst of cold and flu season in our community. Common viruses during this time are influenza, RSV, COVID-19

Sheridan Memorial Hospital expanding access to patient-directed blood draws

SHERIDAN - Sheridan Memorial Hospital will expand the times and locations patient-directed lab draws

Changing your mindset can increase resolution success

We often look at the New Year as an opportunity to make changes within our lives, with common areas

Dr. Christopher Prior and Dr. David Nickerson discuss SameDay Health & Imaging on Public Pulse

Dr. Prior and Dr. Nickerson discuss SameDay Health & Imaging

Discover how Sheridan Memorial Hospital’s Same Day Health & Imaging is redefining healthcare

Jason Ackerman, MD — Talks about addiction on Public Pulse

Dr. Jason Ackerman from Sheridan Memorial Hospital Addiction & Internal Medicine Clinic spoke

Is it time for long-term care?

One of the hardest conversations to have as a family occurs as our loved ones age. Some aging adults require additional caregiving, which at times can be

SameDay Health & Imaging now open seven days a week

SameDay Health & Imaging opened Dec. 3, welcoming patients seeking walk-in health care

SameDay Health & Imaging Opening December 3, 2024

SameDay Health to open Dec. 3, featuring extended hours throughout the week

SHERIDAN – The team at SameDay Health &

Worried about a loved one’s ability to drive safely?

For many individuals, driving represents freedom. The skill allows you to explore, run

Driving assessments now available at SMH

Driving assessments now available at SMH. Listen to what Kristopher Schamber, MD,

Lady Broncs discuss cancer prevention with SMH team

Last week, Dr. Emily Denney from Sheridan Memorial Hospital Primary Care,

Brent Weaver's story

Brent Weaver always wanted to experience things. After leaving a private parochial school and entering public school, he had a tendency

Dr. Emily Denney talks about keeping kids safe from common illnesses.

Ensure your kids are ready for the school year

Is it dementia?

Dementia is a prevalent disorder of the brain affecting a wide array of individuals, but the prevalence increases with the number of

Handwashing for health

School has begun and for many families that means the threat of illness has returned. The simplest way to limit your exposure to all

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When families or individuals struggle to afford food for the next meal, it becomes difficult to focus on much else. Dr. Jason Ackerman of Sheridan Memorial Hospital’s Addiction and Internal Medicine Clinic recognized that many of his patients experience food insecurity and sought ways to help address the concern.

“We know many of our patients struggle to afford transportation to appointments or medicines we prescribe,” Ackerman said. “We’ve also had patients say they sometimes have to choose between medications and groceries.”

With that barrier in mind, Dr. Ackerman and his team at the clinic opted to start a mini pantry within the clinic. The pantry includes both food and basic hygiene items. When it initially started, staff from the clinic kept it stocked from their own funds and with GAP funds, which come through the Sheridan Memorial Hospital Foundation.

“It really fits within our mission of serving the whole patient without judgement,” said Shilo Stainbrook, the clinic supervisor. “This is just another facet of that approach.”

The need for the pantry quickly became evident as patients utilized the goods kept in the clinic waiting room. As staff restocked the pantry, food and other items were typically utilized within a few days, making it difficult for staff to keep it stocked on their own.

Dr. Ackerman was aware of a nonprofit in the community, The Food Group, and its mission to alleviate childhood hunger in Sheridan County by providing nourishment to children. He reached out to see if a partnership would be possible.

Keri McMeans, The Food Group executive director, said the two entities discussed a variety of options, ranging from helping purchase food at discounted prices to adopting the pantry. Those conversations led to a partnership that has blossomed and The Food Group now works closely with the Addiction & Internal Medicine team at Sheridan Memorial Hospital to keep the pantry stocked.

“The Food Group provides food in our community so that every child who is hungry has access to healthy food,” said Jenny Tribley, program director with The Food Group. “The awesome part of this is that there are families who may not participate in our other programs for personal reasons. They go to their doctor for something other than food, and there it is – available. Available for everyone. If they need food, they may be more likely to grab something to feed themselves or their families.

“That experience,” she added, “potentially may loosen that person’s thoughts on getting a little extra help. If they have another chance to get some extra food next time, they may have softened just enough to take a little and realize they are still OK.”

The Food Group delivers boxes of food to the clinic each week now and the Addiction & Internal Medicine team has noted the difference the effort has already made for patients.

“We have heard patients and families comment on how nice the pantry is to have at the clinic,” Shilo said. “We don’t officially keep track of anything or anyone who takes the items, but we’ve observed mothers utilizing the pantry along with some patients who cannot work while they are in residential treatment, so they may be more in need of toiletries.

“We’ve noticed that most people aren’t shy about utilizing the pantry, which to us speaks to the fact that they don’t feel judged or shameful while they are in our office,” Shilo added.

To learn more about the Addiction & Internal Medicine Clinic at Sheridan Memorial Hospital, see https://www.sheridanhospital.org/medical-services/clinics/addiction-medicine/.

Wyoming Rehab’s physical therapists, Justin Bridger & Lindsay Kinney, joined Public Pulse to talk about the power of physical therapy in recovery, injury prevention, and overall well-being. From getting back on the trails after winter to helping patients overcome injuries, their message is clear—staying active is the key to lifelong health!

Listen now by clicking below!

Learn more about the many services provided through Wyoming Rehab by visiting https://www.sheridanhospital.org/medical-services/rehabilitation-services/

Activities director Kim DeGraw fosters engagement, enrichment and community at Sheridan Green House

At Sheridan Green House, Sheridan Memorial Hospital’s long-term care facility, staff provide individualized care, foster meaningful relationships, and create a home-like environment—all to enhance the lives of residents. Engaging activities tailored to each resident’s interests and needs play a vital role in this mission, helping maintain cognitive function, emotional well-being and physical health as they age. Research shows that social interaction and mentally stimulating activities can slow cognitive decline, reduce feelings of isolation and improve overall well-being. At Sheridan Green House, activities are more than just entertainment—they are essential for keeping residents engaged, connected and thriving.

One of the most popular programs is Opening Minds through Art (OMA), an evidence-based initiative designed for individuals living with dementia. In OMA, trained volunteers—such as students, family members or caregivers—pair with residents to help foster creativity by focusing on imagination rather than memory. This program not only empowers residents to explore their artistic abilities but also encourages them to take on new roles as artists and teachers, creating a meaningful legacy of artwork.

In addition to OMA, traditional games like Yahtzee and Dominos have become favorites among residents, with regular gatherings for friendly matches. Family involvement is also a key element at Sheridan Green House, and staff actively encourage families to visit and spend quality time with their loved ones. Last Christmas, a cookie-decorating event brought families together for some festive fun, and upcoming events, such as family pizza nights, are in the works to further strengthen connections and deepen bonds between residents and their families.

Kim DeGraw, Sheridan Green House’s activities director, is the driving force behind these personalized individual and group activities. With a passion for creating meaningful engagement and improving life for residents, Kim’s background in education and her innovative approach to long-term care transform the experience for the residents she serves.

“Kim is such a great fit for this work,” said Tonya Carlson, executive director of Sheridan Green House. “She really understands the importance of life enrichment—really meeting people where they are and understanding what will add quality to their day-to-day lives. Of course, there are the parties and the big events, but she really pays extra attention to the more specific needs of the individuals that live here.”

Originally from northcentral Montana, Kim has spent much of her life balancing single motherhood with professional growth. She is the proud mother of two daughters—15-year-old Erykah and 9-year-old Abberdean—and has worked hard to build a solid foundation for them. Over the course of her career, Kim spent 15 years as a teacher and earned two master’s degrees—one in curriculum and instruction and another in management and leadership.

Kim’s move to Sheridan was both a personal and practical decision, as she saw the town as a great place for her children to grow up. Determined to secure a job before relocating, Kim discovered the activities director position at Sheridan Green House and recognized it as the perfect fit for her skills and educational background.

“With my master’s degrees in curriculum, management and leadership, it all just meshed,” she explained.

Under the guidance of Tonya Carlson, executive director of Sheridan Green House, Kim developed a deep appreciation for the elders at the facility and the impact of her work in helping them thrive.

“Tonya is an excellent administrator,” Kim said. “She’s a great fit for this facility because she’s incredibly patient and always willing to answer my questions with detailed explanations. It’s been wonderful to have someone so willing to educate me in so many different areas.”

Kim’s passion for dementia care, in particular, has grown significantly.

“I’ve fallen in love with caring for residents with dementia,” she says. “When people think of activities, they often picture birthday parties, games and fun all day. But if I could reclassify this department, I’d call it ‘Life Enrichment.’ You’re enriching these elders’ lives by offering personalized activities—whether it’s conversation, reminiscing or simply sitting with them.”

For Kim, connecting with residents, especially those with dementia, means stepping into their world.

“I’ve been coming in the last three nights to support a resident who needs a little extra care,” she shared. “We ‘built a fence’ across the living room together. We went mining. We went shopping for hats because he wanted a new one. It makes me feel like a kid again. It’s hard to put into words, but offering that compassion and being in their time—in their world—is so rewarding for me.”

When planning activities for all residents at Sheridan Green House, Kim emphasizes the importance of personalization. She regularly checks in with residents to ask what they would like to do and incorporates their preferences into the next activity schedule.

“I’ll go around and ask residents what they want to do and put it in my brain bank, and then I’ll try to put it on the next schedule,” she said. “Last month, a handful of ladies wanted to make jewelry, so I made sure to put that on this month’s schedule. I make sure to get my ideas from my residents. Sometimes I come up with activities that seem like they could be fun, and I’ll put it on the schedule and we give it a shot. Either the residents like it and we do it again, or it’s a flop and we move on to something else.”

One of the most successful large-group activities so far has been the winter carnival, where Kim and the Sheridan Green House staff brought traditionally outdoor games inside.

“It was a whole group effort,” Kim said. “Sabrina, our administrative coordinator, ran the cotton candy machine. We had games and popcorn. Everybody loved it! We’d love to do it again, maybe when the weather warms up, so we can take it outside next time.”

Looking ahead, Kim is eager to continue developing individualized activities for residents and further embrace the Green House model. Kim also hopes to continue strengthening family involvement and make Sheridan Green House a true extension of home for everyone involved.

“Once we get the word out about how Sheridan Green House is ran, we will not have an empty bed,” Kim said.

Sheridan Green House is comprised of four cottages, each with 12 rooms available for residents. If you or a loved one is considering long-term care, reach out to Sheridan Green House at 307.672.0600. For additional information, see sheridangreenhouse.org.

By Sarah Sommers, Diabetes Educator and Dietitian, Sheridan Memorial Hospital.

When deciding to make healthy changes it can be hard to know where to start. While there are a variety of eating patterns individuals can use to improve their health, a heart-healthy eating pattern is a great place to start. A heart-healthy diet is often recommended for individuals who need help controlling blood pressure, reducing cholesterol and generally promoting good heart health. The following tenants of a Mediterranean diet have been shown time-after-time to help contribute to heart health.

Choose more fiber

Fiber is an essential element of a heart healthy diet. Fiber has been shown to help lower cholesterol as well as contribute to improved blood glucose control. Foods high in fiber are include whole grains like oats, brown rice and quinoa; legumes and beans; and many fruits and vegetables including squash, leafy greens, avocados and many more.

Increase unsaturated fats

Increasing your intake of unsaturated fats can promote improved cholesterol levels including helping to boost your HDL cholesterol and decrease LDL cholesterol, especially if these fats replace saturated fats. Unsaturated fats generally come from plant foods but also include omega-3 fats which can be found in fatty fish. Foods to choose that contain unsaturated fats include: olive oil, avocados, nuts, seeds, salmon, mackerel and sardines.

Fruits and vegetables

Fruits and vegetables are keys of any healthy eating pattern and eating for heart health is no exception. Antioxidants, vitamins, minerals and phytonutrients are just a few of the healthful components fruits and vegetables bring to your diet. Choose a variety of produce including leafy greens, berries, oranges, tomatoes, bell peppers and carrots. Try to incorporate some kind of fruit or vegetable at every meal, even filling up to half your plate with these foods.

Limit sodium

Decreasing sodium intake in the diet can positively impact blood pressure as well as overall heart health. Start to decrease sodium by avoiding adding sodium to your food. Most of the sodium we consume is already in foods we consume, including highly processed foods, so it can be helpful to choose lower sodium options when available. Avoid high sodium snack foods such as pretzels and potato chips. Also consider rinsing off canned foods prior to eating which will also help decrease their sodium content.

Limit added sugars

Too much added sugar in the diet can lead to increased triglycerides and also can increase blood glucose, especially in those who have diabetes. Foods high in added sugars include many processed foods such as sugar-sweetened beverages, baked goods and processed snacks such as chips and crackers. Try to avoid sugar-sweetened beverages and pick fruits and nuts for snacks instead of processed snack foods when possible.

While this list may seem overwhelming at first, it is helpful to start with small and maintainable changes to work toward success. A small change that you make every day such as cutting out your afternoon soda, can lead to surprising results in the long run. Pick one or two changes to start and work from there – your heart will thank you!

If you’re interested in meeting with a dietitian, start by calling your provider to request a referral. If you don’t have a primary care provider, you can call or text Sheridan Memorial Hospital’s Primary Care at 307.675.2690. A dietitian can provide expert guidance to navigate lifestyle changes, improve your quality of life, and support long-term health. It’s never too late to make positive changes!

This article also appeared in The Sheridan Press on March 1, 2025, as a Health Watch column. Sheridan Memorial Hospital appreciates the partnership with The Sheridan Press in helping to promote healthy living.

By Kim DeGraw, Activities Director, at Sheridan Green House, a long-term care facility managed by Sheridan Memorial Hospital.

Staying active – physically and mentally – key as we age

As we age, it becomes increasingly important to engage in regular physical and mental activities.

Regular exercise and physical activity can help us stay healthy and independent. While the term exercise can sometimes summon images of runners or cyclists, the activity doesn’t have to be that intense. Simple walks, swimming, chair exercises and stretching all can have huge health benefits as we age and are a little easier on our joints. The key is finding an activity you enjoy and that keeps your body moving. Work with your care team to ensure your activity fits your needs and current fitness levels.

Equally as important, cognitive activities are those that stimulate and challenge the mind. Engaging in regular cognitive activities has been shown to have a number of benefits for older adults.

Both physical and mental activities improve our overall quality of life.

Physical activities

Maintaining mobility: Regular exercise helps maintain joint flexibility and muscle strength, making it easier to move around and perform everyday tasks.
Preventing falls: Strong muscles and good balance can help prevent falls, a significant risk for older adults.
Cardiovascular health: Exercise can improve heart health by lowering blood pressure and cholesterol levels.
Bone health: Weight-bearing exercises like walking and running can help maintain bone density and prevent osteoporosis.
Energy levels: Exercise can boost energy levels and reduce fatigue.
Longer life expectancy: Studies have shown that people who are physically active live longer than those who are inactive

Mental activities

Cognitive function: Engaging in mentally stimulating activities like reading, puzzles and games can help maintain cognitive function and reduce the risk of dementia.
Mood regulation: Exercise and other activities can release endorphins, which have mood-boosting effects.
Social interaction: Participating in group activities and classes can provide opportunities for social interaction and combat isolation.
Purpose and fulfillment: Engaging in meaningful activities can give older adults a sense of purpose and fulfillment.
Stress reduction: Activities like yoga, meditation and deep breathing can help manage stress and promote relaxation.

By incorporating regular physical and mental activities into our lives as we age, we can maintain our overall health, well-being and quality of life.

If you’re unsure about what activities are best for you, consider talking to your primary care provider. They can help you create a safe, effective plan to stay moving. If you don’t have a primary care provider, call or text Sheridan Memorial Hospital’s Primary Care at 307.675.2690. If you need extra support, ask about a referral to Wyoming Rehab—a great resource for guided exercises and therapy tailored to your needs. Keeping active, both physically and mentally, is one of the best ways to enhance your quality of life. Take that first step today!

This article also appeared in The Sheridan Press on March 10, 2025, as a column on the Senior page. Sheridan Memorial Hospital appreciates the partnership with The Sheridan Press in helping to promote healthy living.

By David Nickerson, MD – physician at Sheridan Memorial Hospital’s SameDay Health & Imaging

January through March usually marks the worst of cold and flu season in our community. Common viruses during this time are influenza, RSV, COVID-19 and multiple other viruses that are not routinely tested for because they do not have a specific treatment.

This year, Influenza A levels are the highest they have been in 15 years. Influenza A typically begins to increase in our community toward the end of December and often peaks in January before gradually tapering off. In late February or March, there is usually a second wave of Influenza B. Influenza tracking information shows that as influenza began decreasing after its usual January peak that it suddenly spiked again to almost twice that level. We have seen that pattern in the Sheridan community, as many have likely noticed from school and work absences.

Clinic visits for flu symptoms are at the highest level they have been in 28 years. There are likely multiple factors contributing to this. There are currently multiple strains of Influenza A circulating. You may have heard that a woman in Wyoming was hospitalized for bird flu earlier this week. Along with other hospitals in the state, Sheridan Memorial Hospital sends samples from patients hospitalized with influenza for subtyping and no other cases of bird flu have been identified in Wyoming. At present, bird flu does not appear to be contributing to the high number of Influenza A cases.

This is more likely related to the ongoing mutation of the influenza virus, which affects its infectivity as well as how sick it makes those infected with it. Seasonal influenza vaccines are directed against the strains that appear most likely to be the dominant infections. Some years this prediction turns out to be quite accurate, resulting in a fairly effective vaccine. Other years it is not a good match. The vaccination rate also has an effect. The rate of influenza vaccinations has been falling since the start of the Covid-19 pandemic and is currently at 46%. Seasonal influenza shots are not mRNA vaccines and have used other traditional methods for the past 70 years.

In addition, RSV, coronavirus and other cold viruses continue to be seen, though at a lower level than influenza.

If you become ill with fever, body aches, headache, sore throat or other cold and flu symptoms, it does make sense to see a doctor. While most illnesses will recover with rest, fluids and over the counter medications, antiviral medications may be an option if taken within the first few days of symptoms and can reduce the severity and duration of your symptoms.

Sheridan Memorial Hospital’s SameDay Health & Imaging offers urgent care services, including treatment and testing for respiratory illnesses and the flu. Walk-ins are always welcome or you can schedule an appointment at SheridanSameDay.com. We are now open Monday through Friday from 6:30 a.m. to 6 p.m. and weekends from 9 a.m. to 6 p.m.

SHERIDAN – Sheridan Memorial Hospital will expand the times and locations patient-directed lab draws are available to the community beginning March 1. Rather than being limited to once-a-month HealtheLife Fridays, patients will have access to patient-directed lab draws at three locations, with some availability seven days a week.

Patient-directed blood draws will be available at the following times and locations:

SameDay Health & Imaging –
1470 Sugarland Drive (between Walmart and WyoVision)
Monday through Friday: 6:30 a.m. to 6 p.m.
Saturday and Sunday: 9 a.m. to 6 p.m.
Sheridan Memorial Hospital Outpatient Center
1333 W. Fifth St., Suite 100
Monday through Thursday: 6:30 a.m. to 5 p.m.
Friday: 6:30 a.m. to 4 p.m.
Sheridan Memorial Hospital Primary Care Clinic
61 S. Gould St.
Monday through Thursday: 8:30 a.m. to 5 p.m.
Friday: 8:30 a.m. to 4 p.m.

In addition to the expanded access, SMH will create additional transparency and consistency in pricing for blood draws and testing. An updated list of patient-directed blood draws and pricing will be available at sheridanhospital.org by March 1.

“Sheridan Memorial Hospital consistently seeks to expand access for patients,” said Bryan Opitz, SMH Director of Professional Services. “This expansion of hours and locations for patient-directed blood draws adds convenience for our community.”

Scheduling for HealtheLife patient-directed blood draws is available online at sheridanhospital.org/health-e-life-blood-draws/ or by phone at 307.675.4675. Those scheduling a blood draw should take note of the time, day and location of their appointment.

As always, results from the blood draws will be available online via MySheridanHealth, the SMH patient portal. In addition, during their blood draw, patients may request a follow-up communication from one of the Sheridan Memorial Hospital clinics.

HealtheLife Friday will take place at Sheridan Memorial Hospital’s Primary Care clinic on February 21 and March 21. Following those events, patients will be encouraged to schedule their blood draws at their convenience.

For additional information about expanded access to patient-directed blood draws, tests available, pricing and to schedule your appointment, see sheridanhospital.org/medical-services/laboratory.

For additional information about expanded access to patient-directed blood draws, tests available, pricing and to schedule your appointment, see sheridanhospital.org/medical-services/laboratory.

By Jordan McCoy, MS, RDN, CDCES, LD—Registered Dietitian Nutritionist at Sheridan Green House, the long-term care facility operated by Sheridan Memorial Hospital.

We often look at the New Year as an opportunity to make changes within our lives, with common areas of change coming in the form of financial security, personal growth or a health. If you are making changes to your health in the new year, make 2025 the year of adding rather than subtracting, a tactic that can make you more successful in the long run.

If you’re planning to make a fitness goal, you’re already taking the first step toward making a change. What if, instead of making weight loss goals, we make goals centered around feeling strong, capable and confident? What if we make goals with the simple purpose of adding joy to our lives?

Take a moment to think about an activity that you would like to do this year that seems out of reach right now. Maybe your goal is to be able to ride bikes with your grandchildren to the park and play for an hour, or maybe it includes getting down on the floor with them to play with blocks or toy cars. Maybe your goal is to complete a 5k, a hike in the mountains or climbing the stairs at War Memorial Stadium to watch a game. Whatever meaningful goal you choose, make sure it adds to your life rather than deprives you of something.

With this mindset, you can also look to add in quality food choices that will properly fuel you for those goals. Over the next few months, focus on adding whole foods that are nutrient-rich rather than calorie-rich and nutrient-poor. Add whole foods in their natural forms such as meats, vegetables, fruits, naturally occurring carbohydrates such as sweet potatoes, regular potatoes, quinoa and rice (not instant), wholesome dairy products and healthy fats.

By focusing on adding these foods to your daily intake, you most likely will minimize some of the more unhealthy processed foods. Start by adding in a whole, nutrient-rich protein at breakfast, such as 2% or 5% Greek yogurt or two scrambled eggs. Add in hard-boiled eggs or a handful of raw almonds to a daily snack, rather than the vending machine choice of the day. Soon, by adding in some of these higher-quality foods, your food choices will transform into those nutrient-dense and real foods.

While data shows the vast majority of New Year’s resolutions fail by the end of January, allowing yourself a growth mindset can help you stick with it and establish habits that will aid your health for months — and years — to come.

Interested in learning more? Ask your primary provider about your healthcare concerns and if you could benefit from meeting with a registered dietitian. If you don’t have a primary provider, check out Sheridan Memorial Hospital’s Primary Care or call or text: 307.675.2690

Do you need help with ADDING a fitness goal? Learn More about Wyoming Rehab and their services by following the link: https://www.sheridanhospital.org/wyomingrehab or call: 307.674.1632

Discover how Sheridan Memorial Hospital’s Same Day Health & Imaging is redefining healthcare convenience in Sheridan County. On the January 20th episode of Public Pulse, host Floyd Whiting sat down with Dr. Christopher Prior and Dr. David Nickerson to explore how this innovative clinic is bridging the gap between urgent care and primary care.

From walk-in and scheduled appointments to on-site imaging, lab services, and telehealth, SameDay Health & Imaging offers a comprehensive approach to patient-centered care. The doctors shared their unique professional journeys, insights on the differences between urgent and emergency care, and how modern technologies streamline communication across healthcare providers.

Dr. Prior emphasized, “SameDay Health & Imaging evolved to meet patients’ needs, providing timely, efficient, and comprehensive care without delays.” Dr. Nickerson added, “It’s a great starting point for anyone unsure where to go or unable to get into their regular provider.”

Key Services Offered:

Walk-in and scheduled appointments
Telehealth for added convenience
On-site imaging, lab draws, mammography, and more
Integrated care with Sheridan Memorial’s electronic medical records system

Same Day Health & Imaging ensures that care is both efficient and personal, making it easier for patients to access the services they need when they need them.

Listen now to what Dr. Christopher Prior and Dr. David Nickerson have to say on Public Pulse,
hosted by Floyd Whiting.

Dr. Jason Ackerman from Sheridan Memorial Hospital Addiction & Internal Medicine Clinic spoke with Floyd Whiting on Public Pulse about addiction and the support available to those struggling with it. Dr. Ackerman explained how addiction is more than just bad choices—it’s a medical condition that affects the brain. He also talked about the importance of breaking the stigma around addiction so people feel safe asking for help.

During the conversation, Dr. Ackerman shared how treatment can make a big difference. Using medicine to reduce cravings can help people focus on building better habits and relationships. He also talked about the role of family and support systems, especially during stressful times like the holidays, when many people face extra challenges.

Sheridan Memorial Hospital’s Addiction and Internal Medicine Clinic is ready to help, with a team of caring professionals who understand the journey to recovery. Dr. Ackerman encourages anyone struggling—or their loved ones—to reach out. There is hope, and there is help.

To get started, call 307.675-2674 or visit Addiction and Internal Medicine Clinic – Sheridan Memorial Hospital. Listen to the full podcast now!

Learn more at Sheridan Memorial Hospital Addiction and Internal Medicine Clinic or call today for an appointment at 307.675.2674.

By Tonya Carlson – Director, Sheridan Green House Living

One of the hardest conversations to have as a family occurs as our loved ones age. Some aging adults require additional caregiving, which at times can be too much for family members to handle on their own, or at all.

As a result, families often consider long-term care facilities designed to meet a person’s health or personal care needs. But how do you know when it’s time to consider a move?

Safety issues

Are you worried about your loved one — whether a parent or spouse —being home alone? If there is significant concern about an aging individual leaving stove burners on or locking doors at night, it may be time to consider additional support. Falls, burns and other injuries may prompt additional discussions about options, as could fears of a loved one becoming more agitated or restless, even wandering from the home due to dementia.

Hygiene issues

If you or your loved one has started neglecting personal hygiene, it may be a sign those tasks have become increasingly difficult. Whether it’s shaving, showering or toileting, as we age it can become harder to care for ourselves without assistance.

Weight loss

Whether due to dementia, lack of appetite or other causes, a drop in weight without trying may indicate additional health care assistance is needed.

Changes in behavior

According to the National Institute on Aging, loneliness and social isolation are associated with higher risks for health problems such as heart disease, depression and cognitive decline. Before these concerns arise, you may consider options that allow for more frequent interactions with others.

Caregiver burnout

If you or other family member are exhausted from providing the care your loved one needs, it may be time to discuss a sustainable path forward. Considering your options before a caregiver begins resenting a situation or before a loved one feels like a burden can help make the conversations easier.

Aging is part of life, and each of us will age differently. Often, though, adult children or spouses reach a point where they can no longer provide adequate care for an aging loved one. There are many ways to provide additional care, including in-home health services, respite care, assisted living or long-term care facilities. Most such services have case managers or resources to help you determine the best fit for you and your family.

Even if you aren’t in need of additional help yet, learning more about your options can prevent the need for decisions to be made under pressure.

Learn more about Sheridan Green House Living by visiting sheridangreenhouse.org or calling 307.675.1852.

Clinic offers walk-in appointments, lab and imaging

SameDay Health & Imaging opened Dec. 3, welcoming patients seeking walk-in health care appointments, imaging or lab services.

The new clinic, located at 1470 Sugarland Drive, Suite 1, between Walmart and WyoVision, is open Monday through Friday from 6:30 a.m. to 5:30 p.m. and Saturdays and Sundays from 9 a.m. to 4 p.m.

The new location provides additional options for community members to receive care. Those needing X-rays, lab services or a visit with a provider can walk in during office hours — no appointment needed. SameDay Health & Imaging staff look forward to providing excellent, patient-centered care to the community. Lab and Imaging orders from both Sheridan Memorial Hospital and Clinics and other providers around the region will be accepted and completed by the SameDay Health & Imaging team.

In addition, individuals seeking a screening mammography or DEXA bone scan can now walk in or schedule appointments at either SameDay Health & Imaging or the Outpatient Center at Sheridan Memorial Hospital’s main campus on Fifth Street.

“We know accidents, illness and other healthcare needs don’t happen on a schedule or during a regular work week,” said Mike McCafferty, CEO of Sheridan Memorial Hospital. “SameDay Health & Imaging ensures individuals in our community have access to excellent, patient-centered care when they need it.”

The expanded access and convenience for the community is made possible by a collaboration between multiple departments at Sheridan Memorial Hospital coming together to create the new clinic. The team of providers at SameDay Health & Imaging includes Dr. Christopher Prior, who has spent five years with the SMH Primary Care/Internal Medicine Clinics, and Dr. David Nickerson, who has led the Urgent Care Clinic at SMH for six years. The two physicians will be joined by Wyatt Gardner, MSPA, PA-C, Claire Buckingham, DNP, FNP-C, along with highly-trained nursing and administrative teams joining together to expand hours and access for the community.

For additional information about SameDay Health & Imaging, call or text 307.673.2411 or visit sheridansameday.org. In-person and telehealth appointments are also available through sheridansameday.org.

SHERIDAN – The team at SameDay Health & Imaging will begin seeing patients Tuesday, Dec. 3, with expanded hours providing healthcare for the community seven days a week.

The new clinic, located at 1470 Sugarland Drive, Suite 1, will be open Monday through Friday from 6:30 a.m. to 6 p.m. and Saturdays and Sundays from 9 a.m. to 6 p.m. SameDay Health & Imaging includes an imaging center, laboratory draw stations and same-day care in one of Sheridan’s busiest hubs.

The expanded access and convenience for the community is made possible by a collaboration between multiple departments at Sheridan Memorial Hospital coming together to create the new clinic. The team of providers at SameDay Health & Imaging will include Dr. Christopher Prior, who has spent five years with the SMH Primary Care/Internal Medicine Clinics, and Dr. David Nickerson, who has led the Urgent Care Clinic at SMH for six years. The two physicians will be joined by Wyatt Gardner, MSPA, PA-C, Claire Buckingham, DNP, FNP-C, the entire team from the SMH Urgent Care Clinic and new staff who have joined the team to expand hours and access.

As the team at Sheridan Memorial Hospital’s Urgent Care Clinic prepare for the move to the new clinic on Sugarland Drive, hours at the current Urgent Care Clinic will be limited beginning next week. The Urgent Care Clinic located at 1435 Burton Street will close at 2 p.m. Monday, Nov. 25, and services will resume at the new SameDay Health & Imaging Clinic on Dec. 3 at 6:30 a.m.

Between Nov. 25 and Dec. 3, Sheridan Memorial Hospital’s Primary Care and Internal Medicine Clinics will have additional same-day appointments available to ensure access to care remains in place prior to SameDay Health & Imaging opening.

To celebrate the opening of SameDay Health & Imaging, the new clinic will host an open house Monday, Dec. 2 from 5:30-7 p.m. at 1470 Sugarland Drive, Suite 1. The event will include a ribbon cutting with the Sheridan County Chamber of Commerce, refreshments and tours.

By Rachel Fields, OTC/L, CDRS — Occupational Therapist at Sheridan Memorial Hospital’s Wyoming Rehab.

A driving risk assessment can take the guesswork away

For many individuals, driving represents freedom. The skill allows you to explore, run errands, visit friends and live independently. For a variety of reasons, the ability to drive safely may change during the course of a lifetime. This could be due to a change in health (such as a stroke or neurologic condition), a medical procedure or disability or the onset of dementia.

Healthcare providers often see and care for patients who are not safe to drive and as such put themselves and others at risk. Having the conversation about safe driving with family members, or even with ourselves, often presents challenges though. The process of evaluating someone’s ability to drive has often felt subjective, and many individuals may not notice a decline in their own abilities. So how do you objectively evaluate a driver?

Having a driving risk assessment completed by a certified driver rehabilitation specialist can help eliminate the guesswork.

A driving risk assessment is an outpatient evaluation completed by an occupational therapist through facilities such as Wyoming Rehab. The evaluation looks at one’s vision, physical abilities and cognitive-perceptual abilities – all very important for driving. We take into account one’s medical history, insight and current driving habits. The evaluation typically takes about an hour to an hour and a half and it provides objective measures to help guide decisions regarding one’s risk when it comes to driving.

If someone is having difficulty with other activities of daily living, continued occupational therapy may be appropriate to improve on those movements and may help someone regain their ability to drive safely. But, more often, a medical diagnosis is permanent or progressive and may result in a permanent inability to drive. Occupational therapists and healthcare providers work closely with families and patients to optimize individuals’ independence while also focusing on safety for the individual, family and community.

Prior to tools like the driving risk assessment, physicians and other healthcare providers would rely on clinical assessments, which sometimes made a risk clear, but other times were harder to gauge in an office visit. Having a more dedicated evaluation by a specifically trained professional will ensure individuals are given the best chance of maintaining independence while also remaining safe.

If you have questions or concerns about your or a loved one’s ability to drive safely, ask your primary care or internal medicine provider for a referral to a rehabilitation service like Wyoming Rehab for a driving risk assessment and remove the guesswork from the conversation.

Learn more by listening below to what Primary Care Medical Director Dr. Kristopher Schamber and Wyoming Rehab Occupational Therapist Rachel Fields have to say on Public Pulse with host Floyd Whiting.

Driving assessments now available at SMH. Hear what Kristopher Schamber, MD, FACP, and Rachel Fields, OTR/L, CDRS, have to say on Public Pulse radio.

Driving assessments now available at SMH. Listen to what Kristopher Schamber, MD, FACP, and Rachel Fields, OTR/L, CDRS, have to say on Public Pulse hosted by Floyd Whiting.

HPV common, but vaccines can prevent cancer

By Krista Frank, DNP, CNM, FNP-C — nurse practitioner at Sheridan Memorial Hospital’s Women’s Clinic

Last week, Dr. Emily Denney from Sheridan Memorial Hospital Primary Care, mammography technician Keshia Strauch, nurse navigator Lori Karajanis from the Welch Cancer Center and I had the pleasure of speaking with the Sheridan High School volleyball team, staff and family members.

Our overall goal was to assist the team members in gaining some comfort with health care staff, while also educating them on preventative care.

My part in this team effort was to discuss cervical cancer screening. Some of the mothers and staff were surprised to hear that we start screening at age 21. Also, everyone was surprised to hear that a majority of women actually do contract HPV (Human Papillomavirus) sometime in their lives.

HPV is the virus that causes most cervical cancers, however, there are many strains, some of which are oncogenic and others non-oncogenic (cancer causing or non-cancer causing). Many people are able to overcome the virus naturally (immune systems are amazing) within two years of contracting it. However, with certain strains of HPV (12 of the strains that are the most oncogenic) the immune system has a hard time ridding the body of the virus, which eventually can cause changes to the cells of the cervix (cervical dysplasia). Over time, more severe dysplasia can lead to cancer. Annually, about 200,000 cervical pre-cancers are identified. More than 4,000 deaths occur annually due to cervical cancer.

The team and I had a great discussion about how to prevent HPV infections. First, we discussed that HPV is sexually transmitted. If you are sexually active, you are at risk. We discussed that condoms are helpful, but not 100% effective in inhibiting the transmission of HPV. Many people are passing HPV to their partners without knowing it.

Most importantly, we talked about Guardasil-9, the HPV vaccine. I think we all have known someone who contracted any type of cancer and we thought how much we wished for a cure or a way to prevent it. I told the team, “Here it is! exactly what we have been wishing for!” A vaccination that both males and females can receive prior to onset of sexual activity, around 11 or 12 years of age, that prevents 90% of cervical cancers.

Even more good news, the use isn’t limited to adolescents. Teenagers, young adults, and in some cases people up to age 45 can receive the vaccine. The vaccine is also effective in preventing genital warts (caused by non-oncogenic types of HPV).

We really enjoyed having the team come visit, and appreciate them listening and asking great questions.

Protect yourself and your loved ones with early prevention. Schedule your cervical cancer screening or inquire about the Guardasil-9 vaccine at Sheridan Memorial Hospital Women’s Clinic by texting or calling 307.672.2522. Your health is our priority!

Addiction Medicine patient overcomes challenges to serve as peer specialist

Brent Weaver always wanted to experience things. After leaving a private parochial school and entering public school, he had a tendency to rebel and experiment with limits – both his own and testing the limits of authority figures around him.

“This set me up to make a lot of bad decisions,” Weaver said. “I made them, I made those choices, but those really started me down a specific path.”

Weaver said he began gravitating toward the people who accepted him, including a group of individuals who partied and used controlled substances. He stopped prioritizing extracurricular activities like sports and agricultural organizations and started using alcohol and marijuana around the age of 15. Through high school, he experimented with hallucinogens, various street drugs and pharmaceuticals. By his early 20s, Weaver had become dependent on prescription pain medications, both due to his addictive thinking and a serious back injury that resulted in prescriptions for pain medications. Weaver said it was at that time he crossed the line in how he abused substances.

“In my own mind, when I started doing that, I saw myself as a junkie,” Weaver said. “I had always looked at people who did that as powerless, helpless.”

Weaver added that his opinion of himself shattered shortly after that.

“I wasn’t functioning as a person anymore,” he said. “Looking back at how fast it all happened, it hurts. I lost a lot of people. People were going to prison, overdosing or just disappearing. Interpersonal connections were fading away. I wasn’t spending holidays with my family. It was a dark, dark place for me.”

Weaver said he would have thought rock bottom was the day he had to serve time for a possession charge and found a good friend dead of an overdose, but it was actually six months later. He had what he described as a lightbulb moment – when he realized his life was not going to change only with his best intentions or will power. He needed help.

“I knew if I didn’t take some drastic action and get out of my existing situation, nothing was going to change,” Weaver said. “I knew it as clear as anything in my life – that the path I was on was destructive and I was going to either be dead soon or on a bus to prison.”

Weaver had heard about a local rehabilitation program and relocated to Sheridan to seek treatment. He went through about three months of inpatient treatment followed by three months in transitional housing focused on recovery. From ages 25-28, Weaver made it about 11 months at a time without using controlled substances, but found himself relapsing. He later found a medication assisted treatment program, but when that healthcare provider closed his office, Weaver again found himself struggling.

About 10 years ago, though, Weaver began working with Dr. Jason Ackerman in the Sheridan Memorial Hospital Internal Medicine and Addiction Medicine Clinic. Weaver said the clinic is different from others with which he had worked. It treats patients with compassion and empathy while providing structure and accountability. It also offers support for patients who have a setback rather than being punitive, Weaver said. The MAT program through SMH has helped Weaver remain sober and he began working to help others suffering with addiction or at-risk for substance abuse.

He earned a job at a court-ordered youth school where he discovered the key to his sobriety – paying it forward and helping others.

“I have to be active in my recovery,” Weaver said. “I have to be actively helping people find what works for them and advocating for others to find recovery.”

When a peer specialist he had leaned on asked if he’d ever considered taking on a similar role, Weaver jumped at the chance and earned the credentialing needed to work in the facilities he had first come to as a patient. He has worked as a certified peer specialist since 2021 and prior to that, beginning in 2014, he worked with at-risk youth doing similar work, helping others with empathy and understanding.

“When you first come into recovery, you’re a shattered person, he said. “There is so much guilt and shame that you carry into the doors when you first want help. If you’re sitting across from someone who has been in a similar position, who isn’t judging you, who understands, you have more belief in yourself that you can make a change. You don’t feel alone.”

Weaver now spends two days per week in the SMH Internal and Addiction Medicine Clinic, working with others receiving treatment for addiction. The clinic on average sees 292 patients per month, and peer specialists work with nearly all of them. While healthcare providers may have difficulty building relationships with patients undergoing treatment for addiction, peer specialists have the ability to create an empathetic bond through personal experience and knowledge of addiction and recovery.

The team in the SMH Internal and Addiction Medicine Clinic have noted that patients who connect with peer specialists are more likely to stick with their treatment, have fewer or less intense relapses and follow through with their recovery process.

While Weaver has lived experiences that some would struggle to understand, his journey now provides hope and encouragement for those who continue to struggle with addiction.

To learn more about the Sheridan Memorial Hospital Internal and Addiction Medicine Clinic, see https://www.sheridanhospital.org/medical-services/clinics/addiction-medicine/

Listen to what Dr. Emily Denney shares about keeping kids safe from common illnesses.

Ensure your kids are ready for the school year ahead by staying informed about illness prevention. Schedule a wellness check-up at Sheridan Memorial Hospital’s Primary Care clinic today, and protect your family with expert care! Text or call 307.675.2690 to make an appointment. Your child’s health starts with prevention!

Is it dementia?

By Derek Redinger, DO, Internal Medicine physician at Sheridan Memorial Hospital

Dementia is a prevalent disorder of the brain affecting a wide array of individuals, but the prevalence increases with the number of birthdays we have. Decline in cognitive function defines dementia but depending on the timing, the disorder can also be associated with a number of other effects including physical and behavioral changes.

There are a number of different causes of dementia but the most common cause is something called Alzheimer’s dementia. A few others include vascular dementia, frontotemporal dementia, dementia with Lewy bodies and a number of much less common causes such as progressive supranuclear palsy, Huntington’s disease, multisystem atrophy and cortical basilar degeneration. Vascular dementia is caused by disease of the small vessels in the brain. Frontotemporal dementia affects the frontal and temporal lobes of the brain and can be associated with prominent mood and behavior changes, which may be characterized by changes even in personality.

Alzheimer’s disease is the most common cause for dementia. Alzheimer’s disease is unusual before the age of 60 and typically occurs in those older than that. The prevalence doubles every five years after the age of 65. Alzheimer’s is defined by changes in memory with other executive function and judgment/problem solving changes tagging along. It can also mean some changes in mood and personality, especially in the middle and late phases of the disease.

In order to diagnose dementia, the most common tools include labs and imaging such as CT scan or MRI as well as a neuropsychological evaluation. Frequently, family members and those close to the individual experiencing the cognitive decline are first to identify the signs and symptoms. These changes are different from normal age-related memory changes, which involve a decline in recall especially for proper nouns such as names and names of places. Caretakers and family members should keep an eye out for difficulty doing complex tasks that a person was previously able to perform. Tasks that take multiple steps and planning can be the first affected, such as balancing the checkbook. Other ways that dementia can affect a person is difficult learning new information, difficulty with reasoning or coping with unexpected change, difficulty with spatial orientation, difficulty finding words and changes in behavior.

Ultimately, prevention is much more effective than treatment after the disease has developed, as our treatments are quite limited. The best thing we can do to prevent dementia is to keep medical problems such as high blood pressure, diabetes and kidney disease well controlled and do what mom and dad always told us: eat our fruits and veggies and exercise. As we age, exercise can move down the priority list but it is very important and is also important for reducing risk for dementia. Both mental and physical exercise are important for the aging brain. It is also helpful to have strong social and interpersonal relationships as part of an engaged and happy life.

Dementia is a scary diagnosis but is also something we can all learn to live with. Most everyone has been touched by dementia in some way and family members and caretakers end up taking on a large role; their efforts should be acknowledged and commended, as it is not always an easy adjustment.

Dr. Derek Redinger is a physician with the Internal Medicine team at Sheridan Memorial Hospital. Getting routine preventive care can help you stay well and catch problems early. Check out our Primary Care and Internal Medicine clinics if you or your loved one are in need of a have a primary care provider.

By Emily Denney, DO – SMH Primary Care

Handwashing key to reducing illness

School has begun and for many families that means the threat of illness has returned. The simplest way to limit your exposure to all those back-to-school germs is easy, yet few of us do this everyday act properly. So what’s the trick? Wash your hands.

Washing your hands means more than dipping your hands under the faucet for a few seconds and shaking them dry, though. Effective handwashing includes several key steps, including letting the soap itself work its magic.

Let’s start with key steps of handwashing:
Wet your hands with clean, running water.
Lather your hands by rubbing them together with the soap. Lather up the backs of your hands, between your fingers and under your nails.
Scrub your hands for at least 20 seconds. If you need an easy timer, sing “Happy Birthday” to yourself twice or whistle the ABCs. If you need something more familiar for adults, try the chorus for “Jolene.”
Dry your hands using a clean towel or an air dryer.

Skipping any of these steps can reduce the effectiveness of handwashing, as the time the soap is on your hands and the friction created by scrubbing is key. While antibacterial soap can kill the germs on your skin, basic soap and water is just as effective when used properly and not as hard on your skin.

So how does soap work? It’s cooler than you might imagine. Regular soap is designed to decrease water’s surface tension and lift dirt and oils off surfaces so it can be more easily washed away, making it very effective in getting rid of bacteria and other virus-causing germs. Regular soap also won’t kill healthy bacteria on the skin’s surface or dry out the skin. Just be sure you take those 20 seconds to thoroughly scrub and lather the soap.

Knowing when to wash your hands can also help. Be sure to utilize soap and water after sneezing or blowing your nose, after using the restroom, before and after eating as well as periodically throughout the day if you’re touching a lot of common surfaces such as doorknobs, desks or handrails.

Other steps you can take to reduce your risk of illness this fall include:

Ensure you’re up-to-date on routine vaccinations like flu shots, etc.
Practice positive self-care by eating well, getting enough sleep, managing stress when possible and exercising. All of these practices can boost your overall health and immunes system.
Stay home if you’re sick. If those who are ill stay home, it reduces the risk of exposure for everyone.
Cover your mouth and/or nose when you sneeze or cough, but use your elbow so you aren’t getting those germs on your hands, which touch many other surfaces.

The return of cooler weather and additional interactions with people can mean more germs in the air, but proactive steps can help reduce your risk of illness.