News

Stewart Memorial Community Hospital Celebrates Recovery Journey of Pam Laney During Patient Experience Week

As part of Patient Experience Week, Stewart Memorial Community Hospital is shining a spotlight on the remarkable care provided by its Physical Therapy Department and sharing the inspiring recovery story of Pam Laney, a patient who has made incredible progress after a serious health setback.

Stewart Memorial Auxiliary Makes Second Donation, Fully Funding New Surgical Table at Stewart Memorial Community Hospital

Stewart Memorial Community Hospital is proud to announce a second generous donation of $31,010.04 from the Stewart Memorial Auxiliary, completing the total funding needed for the purchase of a new surgical table for the hospital’s surgical department.

Why We Give: Stewart Memorial Employees Reflect on Organ Donation During National Donate Life Month

In honor of National Donate Life Month, Stewart Memorial Community Hospital raised the Donate Life flag this April and invited employees to reflect on a powerful question: Why did you choose to become an organ donor? The responses were moving, deeply personal, and a reminder of the incredible impact one decision can make.

Jody Windschitl’s Heartfelt Plant Donations to Stewart Memorial Community Hospital Continue to Flourish This National Volunteer Month

Have you noticed the beautiful plants in our patient waiting areas and throughout the hospital? These generous donations come from Jody Windschitl, a volunteer at the Heartstrings Gift Shoppe. After the loss of her son and father, Jody found comfort in caring for the plants from their memorials and began sharing that healing with others by donating them to the hospital.

Sara Holst Honored with Stewart Memorial's Path to Excellence Employee Recognition Award

Stewart Memorial Community Hospital is proud to announce that Sara Holst has been selected as the second recipient of the Path to Excellence Employee Recognition Award. This award celebrates employees who embody the organization’s core values, demonstrate exceptional leadership, and achieve significant growth throughout their careers at Stewart Memorial.

Free Foot Screening

Foot health is crucial for overall well-being, and even minor issues, like a callus, can escalate into serious problems if left untreated. Regular foot screenings can help detect potential issues early, ensuring better foot health for everyone.

History of the Stewart Memorial Auxiliary

On May 12, 1959, a group of dedicated volunteers organized to form Stewart Memorial Community Hospital Auxiliary. Mrs. S.M. O’Connor was the first president of the group of 49 members. Dues were set at $1 and remained that amount well into the 1990s. The organization of the Auxiliary came almost three years before the opening of Stewart Memorial Community Hospital and was a part of the community fund raising effort that made the hospital possible. The first Auxiliary bazaar in 1959 raised $350.

Applications for Foundation Scholarships Now Open!

The Stewart Memorial Community Hospital Foundation is proud to offer the opportunity of a $1000 scholarship to local students pursuing a career in healthcare. We are excited to support students from SCC, ESC, SEV, and MNW as they continue their education and work toward their career goals. This scholarship aims to recognize academic merit, leadership, and career aspirations, and we look forward to helping deserving individuals succeed in their healthcare careers.

Stewart Memorial Community Hospital leaders participate in IHA Hospital Day on the Hill to advocate for Iowa's healthcare systems.

On March 12, 2025, Stewart Memorial Community Hospital’s Chief Executive Officer Linn Block, Chief Nursing Officer Ann Lengeling, Chief Clinic Officer Melissa Wallace, and Stewart Memorial Board of Trustees member, Theresa Hildreth participated in the Iowa Hospital Association (IHA) Hospital Day on the Hill in Des Moines. The event brought together hospital leaders, trustees, and healthcare advocates from across Iowa to connect with legislators and advocate for policies that impact the healthcare system, and the patients served across the state.

Stewart Memorial Community Hospital Launches Medical Equipment Loan Closet for the Community

Stewart Memorial Community Hospital is proud to announce the launch of its new Medical Equipment Loan Closet, a vital resource aimed at supporting individuals in need of medical equipment.

Stewart Memorial Wound Care Clinic at Stewart Memorial Community Hospital Receives Dual Recognition with Clinical Distinction and Excellence in Patient Satisfaction Awards

Stewart Memorial Community Hospital is proud to announce that its Stewart Memorial Wound Care Clinic has received dual recognition, earning both the Clinical Distinction Award and the Excellence in Patient Satisfaction Award from RestorixHealth.

Stewart Memorial Honors Klay Birkey as First Recipient of the Path to Excellence Employee Recognition Award

Stewart Memorial Community Hospital is proud to announce Klay Birkey, an Emergency Room (ER) Technician, as the first recipient of the Path to Excellence Employee Recognition Award. This recognition celebrates employees who exemplify Stewart Memorial’s core values and demonstrate significant growth throughout their time with the organization.

Healthcare Connection Winter 2025

The Stewart Memorial Community Hospital and McCrary-Rost Clinics Winter 2025 newsletter is here! The newsletter highlights several key topics related to healthcare in rural Iowa. It opens with mothers praising the high-quality obstetric care provided by Stewart Memorial Community Hospital, sharing positive experiences about their childbirth care. The focus then shifts to Jess Drees, a dedicated family care provider at the Lake View McCrary-Rost Clinic, who is playing a significant role in supporting local health needs. Additionally, the article emphasizes the importance of community generosity, showing how donations are helping keep rural Iowa healthy by sustaining essential health services. Finally, the piece touches on Seasonal Affective Disorder (SAD), raising awareness about the condition and its impact on individuals during specific seasons.

Quarter One Team Award Presented to Nutrition Services Team at Stewart Memorial

Stewart Memorial is proud to announce that the Nutrition Services team has been selected for the Quarter One Team Award, in recognition of their exceptional teamwork, unwavering dedication, and commitment to excellence.

Katelyn Brown, PA, Joins Stewart Memorial Team at Gowrie Clinic on March 13th

Stewart Memorial is excited to welcome Katelyn Brown, PA, to the Gowrie Clinic starting March 13th. With a focus on family medicine and pediatric care, Katelyn brings extensive experience and a patient-centered approach. Originally from Carroll, she has worked part-time at Stewart Memorial for three years and is now joining full-time. Katelyn is passionate about treating patients of all ages, particularly in pediatric care, and offers a wide range of services. The team is thrilled to have her back, and new patients are encouraged to schedule an appointment at the Gowrie Clinic.

Stewart Memorial Community Hospital Announces Q1 Exceptional Experience Award Winner Mackenzie Monahan

Stewart Memorial Community Hospital is pleased to announce that Mackenzie Monahan has been selected as the recipient of the Q1 Exceptional Experience Award. This recognition highlights outstanding individuals who go above and beyond in providing exceptional care and service to both patients and colleagues.

Stewart Memorial Delivers New Year’s Baby on January 1st

Lake City, IA – Stewart Memorial Community Hospital in Lake City is delighted to celebrate the arrival of the first baby of 2025. Madelyn Jane was born to Chandy and Sam Priebe of Rockwell City on Wednesday, January 1st at 2:21 am.

Jess Drees Providing Family Care at Lake View McCrary-Rost Clinic

Stewart Memorial Community Hospital and McCrary Rost Clinics are excited to announce that Jess Drees, ARNP, FNP-C, is now providing care at the McCrary Rost Clinic in Lake View as of January 1, 2025.

Carene Folden’s Gift to McCrary-Rost Clinic in Rockwell City

After experiencing exceptional care at McCrary-Rost Clinic in Rockwell City, Carene Folden’s family honored her legacy with a generous estate gift to Stewart Memorial Community Hospital. Their donation funded a new mobile vitals machine, ensuring other patients receive the same high-quality care that supported Carene throughout her 98 years.

Holiday Stress and Seasonal Affective Disorder

The holidays and winter months can strain mental health, especially for those with Seasonal Affective Disorder (SAD). Experts recommend staying active, setting realistic expectations, and seeking support when needed. Stewart Memorial and McCrary-Rost Clinics offer counseling and treatment to help the community thrive.