Acute Care

If patients require a hospital stay, it is our goal to make that stay as pleasant as possible. There are no restrictions on visiting hours or the age of visitors.

What Type of Room is Available?

Our newly remodeled patient rooms are all private for your comfort. Rooms have spacious bathrooms and are furnished for the comfort of the patient and family and visitors.

What Amenities are Provided?

Flat screen cable televisions and clock radios are also provided in every room. Wireless internet service is available if you choose to bring a laptop computer. A sun room is provided for use by patients and their families as well. Phones are available at every bedside for patient use. Each patient will be given a direct dial phone number on admission to be shared with family and friends. Patients can also be reached by calling (402) 367-1200 and asking for the patient by name.

Clergy

Clergy from Butler County routinely make visits to the hospital to provide for our patients' spiritual needs upon their request.

We'll Answer Your Questions

As a patient, if you have any questions or concerns during your stay, we ask that you speak with your nurse. We will do our best to accommodate your requests in accordance with your physician's orders.

Emergency Services

Patients are able to seek care 24 hours a day in our emergency department. A physician from the Butler County Clinic, P.C., is on call at all times.

Newly Remodeled

The Emergency Room was recently remodeled for patient comfort and staff convenience. A new Cardiac Monitoring system was also installed. In addition, a new waiting room was completed adjacent to the ER and Outpatient areas.

Staff Training

Butler County Health Care Center staff and physicians are actively involved in the CPR, airway management, and defibrillation recertification of area Emergency Medical Technicians. Our hospital offers CPR training to EMT's and the general public. Last year our CPR instructors Sheryl Meister and Cindy Yound, held several classes to train others how to save a live with CPR. If you are interested in learning this lifesaving technique, call Central Communtiy College--Platte Campus at 1-800-642-1083 to schedule a class.

Transport Ambulance

For patients requiring care beyond our means, the hospital owns and operates a transport ambulance. Certified ambulance drivers are on call 24 hours a day. Patients can quickly be transferred to Lincoln, Omaha and Columbus, while continuing to receive care from nursing personnel. This transport ambulance routinely makes about 100 transport trips each year. The hospital has provided this transport service for more than 15 years. The hospital does accept Medicare reimbursement for this service. The ambulance is operated on a not-for profit basis, just like the hospital. If the hospital did not provide this service, the burden could fall on local, volunteer rescue squads. The other alternative would be to contract this service from a for-profit ambulance service 30 miles away.

Obstetrics & Newborn Care

Our obstetrics department provides labor and delivery services, C-sections and a newborn nursery. We routinely deliver about 100 babies each year.

Birthing Suite

New parents can enjoy their birthing experience in a comfortable, home-like environment. A beautiful birthing suite is available for moms and their partners to labor and deliver in. The room is private with a television and full bathroom. At the bedside you will find equipment to monitor the heart rate of your baby during labor. Our nursing staff is also available for support and coaching if needed.

Anesthesia

Whether or not to have anesthesia is a matter between you and your physician. Your wishes will be respected and the decision is a flexible one. All types of anesthesia are available upon your doctor's request and anesthesia providers are available to respond to your needs. In the event you would require a Cesarean Section, the surgical suites are located nearby.

After the Birth

After your baby is born, he or she will be monitored, weighed and measured, and given needed medications or assistance in the neonatal intensive care unit. We will also test your baby's hearing with a Natus Newborn Hearing Screener. Moms that choose to breastfeed may do so as soon after birth as possible. Not breastfeeding? Your baby will still be returned to you for some quiet, unhurried time together. This is the time to initiate bonding and to respond to the loving attachment already forming between you and your baby.

Recovery

Here, the goal is relaxation, convenience and education on caring for yourself and your newborn. While your baby may need to make short trips to the nursery, "rooming in" is a popular option. Your baby can stay with you in your room as long as you like so that you can begin caring for him or her right away. Need some rest? Our nurses are happy to care for your new little one in the nursery while mom catches a nap.

Skilled Nursing Care

Butler County Health Care Center provides acute and transitional care, and ambulance transfer service. We seek to promote good health practices through wellness education and fitness activities. Our transitional care services are oriented to restore each patient to his or her highest level of independence and comfort. We offer nursing and professional support services to achieve this level of quality care.

Our Purpose

Transitional care serves to provide continued rehabilitation services and skilled nursing. Transitional care is provided to patients who are awaiting nursing home placement or until arrangements can be made for care in the patient's home. We develop social as well as physical activities based on each individuals' needs and strengths. Input from both the patient and family is appreciated and encouraged.

Types of Transitional Care:

There are two types of transitional care, skilled care and self-pay. Your level of care is determined by your physician.

• Skilled Care -- When a doctor certifies that you need skilled nursing or rehabilitation services on a daily basis, the hospital can receive reimbursement from Medicare, Medicaid or other insurance companies. It is very important to remember that the patient must need skilled nursing or rehab on a daily basis in order for Medicare or Medicaid to pay. If you have other insurance, you will need to confirm coverage with your company.
• Self Pay -- When a patient does not meet criteria for skilled care, the patient becomes financially responsible. The daily charge includes nursing care, room and board. There are additional charges for services and supplies such as medications. Medicare may make partial payment on physical therapy, x-rays, lab fees, and one visit per week by your physician.

Outside Support

Family and friends can make all the difference when it comes to helping patients recover. We encourage visits from family, friends, and patient's personal pastor, priest, or other clergy member. If their personal clergy is unavailable to visit, we will assist in introducing the patient to our local clergy. A chapel is available for use in the sun room as well. Family may be asked to provide the patient with transportation for medical appointments outside of the hospital.

Surgical Services

Many surgical procedures that once required a hospital stay can now be performed on an outpatient basis. Patients are able to check in in the morning, and in most cases, go home that same day.

Our surgery department provides surgical services on both an inpatient and outpatient basis. Patients scheduled for surgery are asked to come in a day or two prior to their procedure to complete any necessary paperwork and receive pre-op instructions from a registered nurse. The surgery department works cooperatively with the recovery room, the sterile processing unit, and anesthesia department. The day of surgery, patients report to the nurse's station, where care is coordinated throughout their stay.

Some surgeries that are routinely performed on an outpatient basis include:

• tonsillectomy
• insertion of eartubes
• knee scopes
• carpal tunnel surgery
• laparascopic gall bladder surgery
• hernia repair
• upper gastrointestinal endoscopies
• appendetomy

Surgical procedures requiring a longer stay in the hospital include:

• hysterectomy
• bowel resection
• cesarean section

For more information on Surgical Services, the Outpatient Services Department can assist you with any questions you might have. Please call 402-367-1265.

Laboratory

• Blood Lipids - this test provides an important look at LDL and HDL cholesterol and triglycerides
• Blood Chemistry Tests - these tests evaluate liver and kidney function; electrolyte balance; blood sugar level; protein and nutritional status
• Thyroid Function (FreeT4, TSH) - these tests check the level of thyroid hormones in the bloodstream, which control your body's metabolism
• PSA (Prostatic Specific Antigen) - screen for the presence of prostate disorders
• Cardiac Marker tests - quickly diagnose or rule out a heart attack
• Complete Blood Count - this test determines is anemia is present. A white blood cell count is taken, as elevated levels can indicate the presence of infection. The Abbott CellDyn 3200 is able to measure and differentiate thousands of blood cells in less than 2 minutes. The CellDyn uses laser technology to count and categorize cells. This technology is especially helpful with cancer patients undergoing treatments, and with patients suffering from infections and other blood disorders.
• Blood Transfusion Service - test for blood type and compatibility with donor blood products for transfusions
• Coagulation Tests - to monitor anticoagulant therapy or diagnose bleeding disorders
• Urinalysis

Radiology

Our Radiology staff is available 24 hours a day, seven days a week, to perform a variety of diagnostic services to both inpatients and outpatients of our facility. Our Services:

• CT Scanner
• Routine X-ray
• Ultrasound
• Mammography

In addition to these services, we also provide Mobile Diagnostic Services:

• Mobile Doppler & Echocardiograms
• Mobile Nuclear Bone & Cardiolite Scans
• Mobile Sleep Studies, EEG

For more information, please call (402) 367-1235. All radiology services require an order from your physician.

CardioPulmonary Care

Breathing problems can be in the form of chronic lung problems like asthma, bronchitis, and emphysema, but can also include those who suffer from heart problems, cystic fibrosis, lung cancer or the after-effects of an accident.

Respiratory Treatment

Butler County Health Care Center has a Respiratory Therapist on staff who aids in the treatment of chronic lung illnesses. Upon physician referral, a respiratory therapist performs procedures that are both diagnostic and therapeutic. Treatment of patients with breathing disorders involves the use of equipment to administer oxygen. Treatment may also entail administration of medications in aerosol form.

Pulmonary Rehabilitation

Cardiopulmonary rehabilitation takes place on an individual basis. Patients suffering from chronic lung problems work to expand their lung capacity to its fullest potential so they can achieve an optimal lifestyle. This often involves low-impact aerobic exercise sessions and counseling. A physician's referral is necessary for this program. Please contact Cindy Yound, RN at (402) 367-1255 for additional information.

Physical Therapy

The physical therapy department at Butler County Health Care Center is served by Physical Therapists from East Central Nebraska Physical Therapists. John Makovicka, PT Mark Otte, PT Nathan Olson, PT Kellen Benes, PT Our Physical Therapists provide restorative care to patients requiring:

• Acute care & rehabilitation of orthopedic injuries, post surgery
• Therapy for sports related injuries
• Therapy for industrial and work related injuries
• Therapy for musculoskeletal injuries of the back or neck
• Rehabilitation following a stroke
• Pediatric consultations
• Nursing home and home health visits

If you would like more information, please contact the Physical Therapy department at (402) 367-1250.

Wellness Center hours and pricing

 Memberships

Thank you for your interest!

If you have any questions, please call us at 402-367-1256

Helping People to Achieve and Maintain Good Health.

Specialty Clinics

To bring health care services closer to home, Butler County Health Care Center offers specialized clinics. Upon referral from your family physician, the following specialized doctors provide consultations in the hospital's outpatient services department on a regular basis.

Visit our Specialty Calendar page to check upcoming clinic dates.

General Surgery - Dr. Daniel Growney & Dr. Ye Ye
A general surgeon does not limit treatment to a particular area of the body, but performs a wide variety of surgical procedures.
Dr. Growney comes to David City every Thursday to perform surgcial procedures and scheduled consultations.

Gynecology - Dr. Gregory Heidrick
An obstetrician/gynecologist provides health care throughout and after a woman's pregnancy, plus medical and surgical treatment for disorders and diseases of the female reproductive and urinary systems.
Dr. Heidrick comes to David City on alternating Tuesdays for scheduled gynecological consultations and surgical procedures. Please call the Outpatient Department at (402) 367-1265 to schedule an appointment.

Ophthalmology - Dr. Peter E. Diedrichsen
An ophthalmologist treats diseases and disorders of the eye with both medical and surgical treatment. An ophthalmologist may also evaluate vision and prescribe corrective lenses.
Dr. Diedrichsen comes to David City every other month to perform surgical procedures, primarily cataract removal with lens implants.

Orthopedic & Sports Medicine - Dr. Scott Bigelow
An orthopedist treats patients both surgically and medically for injuries or diseases of the bones, joints, spine and musculature.
Dr. Bigelow's clinic is scheduled every other week at Butler County Health Care Center. Please call the Outpatient Department at (402) 367-1265 to schedule an appointment.

Pain Clinic Consults & Procedures
This service is provided by the anesthetists as needed.

Urology - Dr. David B. Wiltfong
A urologist specializes in treating diseases and disorders of the urinary tract in men, women and children. The urologist also treats disorders affecting the male reproductive system.
Dr. Wiltfong's clinic is held on the third Tuesday of each month. He is available for patient consultations and scheduled surgical procedures. Please call the Outpatient Department at (402) 367-1265 to schedule an appointment.