Jefferson Community Health & Life Wins Top Workplaces Culture Excellence Awards

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Jefferson Community Health & Life has earned three 2025 Top Workplaces Culture Excellence awards. JCH&L has been recognized with awards for Professional Development, Employee Well Being and Appreciation.

“Jefferson Community Health & Life is honored to be recognized for these Top Workplaces Culture Excellence awards,” said Holly Wolff, JCH&L CEO. “We have an excellent staff who are doing great things to help our patients, residents and customers – as well as our community.”

The Top Workplaces program has a 17-year history of surveying and celebrating people-first organizations nationally and across 60 regional markets. Top Workplaces awards are based on feedback from a research-backed employee engagement survey.

Top Workplaces Culture Excellence awards recognize organizations that excel in specific areas of workplaces culture.  Professional Development celebrates organizations who focus on developing their employees’ careers and enable them to grow professionally. The Employee Well-Being award celebrates organizations who put the health and wellness of their employees at the center of their workplace culture. The Employee Appreciation award celebrates organizations who demonstrate gratefulness for the efforts of employees, and that employees reciprocate by being motivated to give their best at work.

JCH&L has also recently been recognized as a Healthcare Top Workplace for 2025.

“Earning a Top Workplaces award is a badge of honor for companies, especially because it comes authentically from their employees,” said Eric Rubino, Energage CEO. “That’s something to be proud of. In today’s market, leaders must ensure they’re allowing employees to have a voice and be heard. That’s paramount. Top Workplaces do this, and it pays dividends.”

JCH&L participates in the Employee Engagement survey provided by Energage, a purpose-driven organization that develops solutions to build and brand Top Workplaces.

Rick Blum PA-C to Be Full Time Provider at JCH&L

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Rick Blum, PA-C, will soon be a full-time provider with Jefferson Community Health & Life. After caring for JCH&L patients since May 2024, he will increase his services at JCH&L and continue to care for patients in JCH&L Fairbury Clinic and in the Emergency Room. His full-time schedule will begin in November.

“We are thrilled to have Rick commit to our patients and our medical staff full time,” said Holly Wolff, JCH&L CEO. “Rick is an excellent provider, and we hear many positive comments from patients who have seen him in the clinic and ER.”

Blum received his undergraduate degree from UNO, and his PA training at Nebraska Med Center. He was a PA in Beatrice for 23 years, then served Friend and Valentine.

He and his wife, Michele, live near Beatrice and have 4 grown children.

Blum will accept new and established patients. To make an appointment, call 402-729-3361.

JCH&L Receives 5-Star Recognition from National Rural Rating System

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FAIRBURY, Neb. – Jefferson Community Health & Life has been recognized with a prestigious 5-star rating from the National Rural Rating System (NRRS) — a top-tier honor that celebrates excellence in rural healthcare delivery across the United States.
This distinguished award reflects the hospital’s steadfast dedication to providing exceptional care, earning high marks in patient satisfaction, quality outcomes, and overall performance. The NRRS 5-Star Rating highlights hospitals that go above and beyond in serving rural communities, often under challenging conditions where resources can be limited but compassion and commitment run deep.
“This recognition is more than just a rating — it’s a reflection of the trust our patients place in us every day,” said Holly Wolff, CEO. “We’re incredibly proud of our team for the care, skill, and heart they bring to every patient interaction. This 5-star designation affirms what we already know — that our community receives outstanding care, close to home.”
The NRRS star system was developed to showcase excellence among rural and critical access hospitals that may not qualify for traditional CMS star ratings due to smaller patient volumes. However, these facilities are still evaluated using rigorous standards, including data from certified patient satisfaction surveys (HCAHPS) and clinical quality indicators.
“This award is a reflection of the unwavering dedication and deep compassion these hospitals bring to rural healthcare,” said Brock Slabach, COO of the National Rural Health Association. “In communities where access can be limited and challenges are complex; these teams continue to deliver excellence with heart.”
Jefferson Community Health & Life is proud to serve Jefferson County and the surrounding area, offering 24-hour emergency care, surgical services, acute and swing bed care, family medicine clinic, behavioral health, outpatient specialists, long-term care, home health, occupational health, and a community fitness center. JCH&L has been a cornerstone of health and healing in the region since 1963. With a mission to provide exceptional care to every customer every time, JCH&L remains committed to meeting the needs of its community with compassion, innovation, and integrity.
This 5-star rating not only celebrates past accomplishments — it sets the tone for continued excellence and trust in rural healthcare.
Learn more about the NRRS and the Five-Star Rating System at FiveStarRatings.org.

JCH&L Sports Medicine and Rehab Services Offers ReBuilder System

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Jefferson Community & Life Sports Medicine and Rehab Services has added the ReBuilder system to its large range of therapeutic services, offering new hope and relief to patients suffering with peripheral neuropathy.

Neuropathy, a condition that affects millions of Americans, often causes pain, numbness, and tingling in the hands and feet. The ReBuilder is an electrotherapy device designed to help alleviate these symptoms by stimulating nerve activity and improving circulation. It is FDA-registered and has been used successfully in clinical settings to help restore nerve function and reduce discomfort.

“We’re excited to bring this innovative therapy to our community,” said Amy Martin, Director of JCH&L Sports Medicine and Rehabilitation Services. “The ReBuilder offers a non-invasive, drug-free option for patients who may struggle to find relief through traditional treatments.”

JCH&L’s therapy team is experienced and highly qualified. Their expertise, dedication, and compassionate care ensure that every patient receives personalized, high-quality treatment tailored to their unique needs.

Patients interested in learning more or scheduling an appointment are encouraged to contact the therapy department at 402-729-6840. No providers order is required.

JCH&L Fairbury Clinic nationally recognized for efforts to improve blood pressure control

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The American Heart Association and American Medical Association presented the Target: BP Gold Award for commitment to prioritizing blood pressure control FAIRBURY, Neb. — Jefferson Community Health & Life has been recognized by the American Heart Association and American Medical Association for its commitment to improving blood pressure (BP) control rates, earning Gold-level recognition as […]

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Medicare D Review Event Set for Oct. 30

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A free Medicare D review event will be held at Jefferson Community Health & Life on Thursday, Oct. 30. The event will offer participants a free unbiased review of their Medicare D options with certified SHIP counselors.

Medicare D open enrollment is Oct. 15 through Dec. 7. This is the time that participant can review Medicare D available plans and change plans if needed. There have been several changes to plans for 2026 so it is a good idea to review your coverage to make sure you have the best possible coverage for the next year.

Appointments are required by calling 402-587-5184 and leaving a message with your name and a phone number where you can be reached. Participants must bring with them to the appointment their complete list of prescription medications including dosage and how often they take it. They will also be asked to bring their login credentials if they already have a Medicare online account.

Additional review sessions will be available on Wednesdays in November. Appointments are required.

Influenza Vaccinations Available at JCH&L

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Influenza vaccinations will be available to the public at special clinics Oct. 1 and 2 at Jefferson Community Health & Life Fairbury Clinic. October is the optimal time to receive your vaccination. The CDC recommends influenza vaccinations for everyone 6 months and older.

Special influenza vaccination clinics for the community will be offered at JCH&L Fairbury Clinic on Wednesday, Oct. 1, and Thursday, Oct. 2, from 7:30 a.m. to 3:30 p.m.

Appointments are required and can be made by calling 402-587-5188. Please be prepared to leave your name, a phone number where you can be reached, and which day you would like to have an influenza vaccine appointment.

When you arrive for your appointment, please use JCH&L’s main entrance, accessible from H Street.  Influenza vaccines will be given in the Clinic Conference room.

Influenza vaccines will also be available at JCH&L Fairbury Clinic at regular clinic appointments or at a vaccine appointment. Call 402-729-3361, option 1, for an appointment.

When you come to your appointment, please wear clothing which allows easy access to your arm. Bring your health insurance card and a photo ID. Most major insurances and Medicare cover the influenza vaccine. There will be a fee the day of your vaccination if you are a private pay patient.

Children 18 and under covered by Medicaid can’t get their influenza vaccines at these clinics. Please contact Blue Valley Community Action’s vaccination program at 402-826-2141, extension 3, for information on flu shots at BVCA shot clinics.

If you have questions or need more information, please call JCH&L’s vaccine line at 402-587-5188.

Parkinson’s Support Group to Meet Oct. 29

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The Parkinson’s Support Group will meet on Wednesday, Oct. 29, at 2 p.m. in the Jefferson Community Health & Life Clinic Conference Room.

The program will be a video “What Is Parkinson’s” by The Parkinson’s Voice Project.

For easiest access, park in the H Street parking and enter through the JCH&L Main Entrance. Follow the signage to the Clinic Conference Room.

The Parkinson’s Support Group is a new opportunity for area residents to share their experiences with Parkinson’s disease. Those who have Parkinson’s Disease, caregivers of those with Parkinson’s Disease, and those who have family and friends with Parkinson’s Disease and want to learn and share are welcome. There is no cost or obligation. For more information, contact Lana Likens at Jefferson Community Health & Life at (402)-729-6855.

Caregivers Support Group to Meet Oct. 9

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The Caregivers Support Group offered by the Alzheimer’s Association will meet on Thursday, Oct. 9, at 4:30 p.m. in the Jefferson Community Health & Life Clinic Conference Room. The program will be a video on “The Latest Breakthroughs in Alzheimer’s Research” from the Alzheimer’s Association.

Easiest access will be by parking in the H Street parking and entering through the JCH&L Main Entrance. Follow the signage to “Caregiver’s Support.”

The Caregiver’s Support Group is a program of the Alzheimer’s Association. The group meets on the second Thursday of each month in the JCH&L Clinic Conference Room.

The support group is designed for those who are caregivers and family members of those who have Alzheimer’s Disease or other dementias.  The group provide an opportunity anyone interested to share their experiences with Alzheimer’s Disease and learn from other’s experiences. There is no cost, and no pre-registration required.

For more information, contact Lana Likens at Jefferson Community Health & Life at 402-729-6855.

JCHL Recognized for Cardiac Arrest Survival

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Jefferson Community Health & Life has received the American Heart Association’s Target: Survival quality achievement award for its commitment to treating in-hospital cardiac arrest, ultimately helping to improve survival rates.

Each year, more than 300,000 adults and children experience an in-hospital cardiac arrest.[1] Survival from cardiac arrest largely depends on timely medical emergency team response and effective CPR.

The Target: Survival program was developed to highlight the number of lives a hospital saved by following the most up-to-date, research-based guidelines for treatment as outlined by the American Heart Association. The program examines patient survival rates following in-hospital cardiac arrest and adjusts for multiple factors, including cardiac arrest rhythm, event location within the hospital, and prior illness severity. Awarded sites have a survival rate that places them in the top 40% of all Get With The Guidelines – Resuscitation participating hospitals in the United States.

“Jefferson Community Health & Life is committed to improving patient care by focusing on cardiac arrest survival and continuous quality improvement,” said Erin Smith, chief nursing officer. “The end goal is to ensure more people in Jefferson County can experience longer, healthier lives.”

“We are pleased to recognize Jefferson Community Health & Life for its commitment to improving survival rates for patients who experience in-hospital cardiac arrest,” said Paul S. Chan, M.D., MSc, volunteer chair of the American Heart Association Resuscitation System of Care Advisory Group. “Each life saved is a testament to this team’s timely, coordinated and high-quality care during an emergency.”

1 Annual Incidence of Adult and Pediatric In-Hospital Cardiac Arrest in the United States, 9 Jul 2019, Circulation: Cardiovascular Quality and Outcomes https://www.ahajournals.org/doi/10.1161/CIRCOUTCOMES.119.005580

 

2200 H St., PO Box 277, Fairbury, NE