1D AGO

Understanding Physical Therapy

In this episode of Vitals & Voices, we explore a topic that impacts millions of Americans every year—physical therapy. Leeann Smith, Physical Therapist Assistant at Lexington Regional Health Center, explains what physical therapy is, why it’s so important, and how it helps people recover, manage pain, and improve mobility. She also shares insights into the different specialties within PT and even talks about a unique resource many people don’t know we have—a therapy pool! What You’ll Learn in This Episode: Why physical therapy is essential for recovery and long-term healthThe most common reasons people seek PT servicesHow physical therapy works in different settings—hospital, clinic, and schoolsThe benefits of aquatic therapy and why our therapy pool is a game-changerSpecialties within physical therapy and how they support diverse patient needs If you’re dealing with pain, recovering from surgery, or just want to improve your mobility, physical therapy can make a big difference. Reach out to Lexington Regional Health Center’s therapy department at (308) 324-8333 or visit our website www.lexingtonregional.org to learn more and schedule an appointment. Vitals & Voices is a podcast powered by Lexington Regional Health Center, offering meaningful health conversations that matter to you. Each episode features authentic stories and expert insights from the people behind the care — including healthcare professionals, wellness advocates, community leaders, and patients — all aimed at helping you live your healthiest, most informed life. Subscribe & Stay Connected: Follow Vitals & Voices for more health insights and practical tips to help you live well and stay connected. YouTube Apple Podcasts Spotify

28 min

12/30/2025

From Stress to Success: Tackling Feeding Challenges in Children

In this episode of Vitals and Voices, we explore a topic that affects many families—feeding challenges in children. Justine Bauer, Occupational Therapist at Lexington Regional Health Center, explains what occupational therapy is, how pediatric feeding therapy works, and why early intervention can make a big difference. She also shares practical tips for parents and signs that it’s time to seek professional help. What You’ll Learn in This Episode: What occupational therapy really means for kids and familiesThe difference between picky eating and feeding difficultiesHow the SOS approach helps children overcome feeding challengesSimple strategies parents can try at homeWhen to seek a feeding therapy evaluation and how to get started If mealtime feels overwhelming, you’re not alone. Reach out to Lexington Regional Health Center’s therapy department (308) 324-8333 or visit our website to learn more and schedule an evaluation. Vitals & Voices is a podcast powered by Lexington Regional Health Center, offering meaningful health conversations that matter to you. Each episode features authentic stories and expert insights from the people behind the care — including healthcare professionals, wellness advocates, community leaders, and patients — all aimed at helping you live your healthiest, most informed life. Subscribe & Stay Connected: Follow Vitals & Voices for more health insights and practical tips to help you live well and stay connected. YouTube Apple Podcasts Spotify

24 min

12/26/2025

Beyond Words: What to Know About Early Speech and Language Development

In this episode of Vitals and Voices, we dive into early speech and language development—what parents need to know and why early intervention matters. Aurora Grabenstein, Speech Language Pathologist at Lexington Regional Health Center, clears up common misconceptions about speech therapy, explains critical pre-verbal skills, and shares when parents should take action instead of “wait and see.” What You’ll Learn in This Episode: What speech-language pathologists really doRisk factors that can impact speech and languageWhy early skills matter before words emergeWhen to seek help and how to get started If you have concerns about your child’s communication, don’t wait—reach out to Lexington Regional’s therapy department today. Vitals & Voices is a podcast powered by Lexington Regional Health Center, offering meaningful health conversations that matter to you. Each episode features authentic stories and expert insights from the people behind the care — including healthcare professionals, wellness advocates, community leaders, and patients — all aimed at helping you live your healthiest, most informed life. Subscribe & Stay Connected: Follow Vitals & Voices for more health insights and practical tips to help you live well and stay connected. YouTube Apple Podcasts Spotify

28 min

12/16/2025

Navigating Health Coverage After Job Loss

In this episode of Vitals and Voices, we tackle a topic that’s on the minds of many families in our community—especially following the recent Tyson closure announcement: health insurance coverage after job loss. What happens when you lose your job? Should you apply for Medicaid right away? What if you get denied? And what exactly is the health insurance marketplace everyone talks about? To help us answer these questions, Brenna Bartruff sits down with Sandra Carvajal, one of LRHC’s bilingual financial counselors. Sandra and her team work every day to make sure patients understand their options and get the help they need. What You’ll Learn in This Episode: How LRHC’s financial counseling department supports our communityWhat to do first if you lose your job and health coverageMedicaid explained in simple terms: who qualifies and what benefits it providesWhy bilingual support matters for Spanish-speaking familiesThe difference between Medicaid and the health insurance marketplaceSpecial enrollment periods and how to avoid coverage gapsPractical steps for families feeling overwhelmed Key Questions Answered: What are the first steps to take after losing employer coverage?Can you apply for Medicaid while applying for unemployment benefits?What happens if your Medicaid application is denied?How does the 90-day window work for fixing coverage gaps?What should families look for when choosing a marketplace plan to keep care local at LRHC? Resources & How to Get Help: If you’re unsure where to start, LRHC’s financial counselors are here for you. Ways to connect: Call Family Medicine Specialists Clinic at (308) 324-8308 to schedule an appointment today. Closing Thoughts: Sandra reminds us that losing coverage doesn’t mean losing care. LRHC is committed to helping families navigate Medicaid, marketplace plans, and financial assistance options. If you found this episode helpful, please like, subscribe, and share with friends and family. Together, we can make sure everyone in our community knows about these important resources. Vitals & Voices is a podcast powered by Lexington Regional Health Center, offering meaningful health conversations that matter to you. Each episode features authentic stories and expert insights from the people behind the care — including healthcare professionals, wellness advocates, community leaders, and patients — all aimed at helping you live your healthiest, most informed life. Subscribe & Stay Connected: Follow Vitals & Voices for more health insights and practical tips to help you live well and stay connected. YouTube Apple Podcasts Spotify

9 min

12/12/2025

Lexington Rallies: Resources Regarding the Tyson Closure Announcement

In this episode, we sit down with Marni Baker, Welcome Center Coordinator for Lexington Public Schools, and Beth Roberts, Executive Director of the Lexington Community Foundation, to talk about how our community is responding to the Tyson plant closure announcement. What You’ll Learn in This Episode: What employees should do if they know they’re impactedWorkforce and unemployment resources for familiesFinancial guidance and career fair informationHow the Lexington Community Foundation is helping—and how YOU can give back Key Links: Lexington Community Foundation: https://www.lexfoundation.org/Give BIG Lexington: https://www.givebiglexington.org/Nebraska Department of Labor Resources: https://dol.nebraska.gov/Lexington Area Chamber of Commerce: https://lexcoc.com/Community Action Partners: https://communityactionmidne.com/ Let’s come together to support our neighbors during this transition. Vitals & Voices is a podcast powered by Lexington Regional Health Center, offering meaningful health conversations that matter to you. Each episode features authentic stories and expert insights from the people behind the care — including healthcare professionals, wellness advocates, community leaders, and patients — all aimed at helping you live your healthiest, most informed life. Subscribe & Stay Connected: Follow Vitals & Voices for more health insights and practical tips to help you live well and stay connected. YouTube Apple Podcasts Spotify

25 min

12/02/2025

Colon Cancer: What You Need to Know

Colon cancer is one of the most preventable yet serious health conditions affecting adults today. In this episode of Vitals & Voices, we sit down with Roger Wells, a seasoned Physician Assistant specializing in primary care, prevention, and chronic disease management. Roger shares essential insights on colon cancer—from risk factors and screening tools to prevention strategies and treatment options. If you’ve ever wondered when to start screening, what a colonoscopy involves, or how family history impacts your risk, this episode is for you. Early detection saves lives—don’t miss this important conversation. What You’ll Learn in This Episode: A brief history of colon cancer and why it matters todayCommon causes and key risk factorsThe most effective screening tools availableHow family history influences screening recommendationsColon cancer prevalence among adults over 40 in the U.S.Cure rates by stage and what outcomes look likePractical steps to reduce your riskWhat to expect when scheduling your first colonoscopyEmerging technologies and treatments on the horizonMeet the general surgeons serving Lexington and surrounding communitiesHow to connect with Roger Wells and the Family Medicine Specialists ClinicResources & Contact: For more information or to schedule a screening, visit https://lexingtonregional.org/ or call 308-324-8308. Vitals & Voices is a podcast powered by Lexington Regional Health Center, offering meaningful health conversations that matter to you. Each episode features authentic stories and expert insights from the people behind the care — including healthcare professionals, wellness advocates, community leaders, and patients — all aimed at helping you live your healthiest, most informed life. Subscribe & Stay Connected: Follow Vitals & Voices for more health insights and practical tips to help you live well and stay connected. YouTube Apple Podcasts Spotify

17 min

11/28/2025

Stay Well, Stay Prepared

In this episode of Vitals & Voices, we sit down with Nicole Chrisinger, one of our dedicated social workers, to explore what it truly means to “be well.” Wellness goes beyond physical health—it’s about planning ahead and being prepared before a crisis occurs. Nicole shares practical steps you can take today to feel secure about your future needs and highlights key community resources that can make a big difference for you and your loved ones. If you’ve ever wondered where to start or felt overwhelmed by planning, this conversation will give you clarity and confidence. What You’ll Learn in This Episode: What “being well” really means beyond physical healthWhy planning ahead matters for individuals and familiesCommon situations where preparation could have helpedSimple steps to start planning for future needs todayEssential community resources everyone should know aboutHow social workers can help connect you to supportNicole’s advice for anyone feeling overwhelmed by planningOne powerful message about wellness and preparednessVitals & Voices is a podcast powered by Lexington Regional Health Center, offering meaningful health conversations that matter to you. Each episode features authentic stories and expert insights from the people behind the care — including healthcare professionals, wellness advocates, community leaders, and patients — all aimed at helping you live your healthiest, most informed life. Subscribe & Stay Connected: Follow Vitals & Voices for more health insights and practical tips to help you live well and stay connected. YouTube Apple Podcasts Spotify

11 min

11/20/2025

Managing Holiday Stress: Practical Tips for Mental Health

The holiday season is often portrayed as joyful and magical—but for many, it brings stress, anxiety, and emotional challenges. In this episode of Vitals & Voices, we’re joined by Ann Young, a Mental Health Nurse Practitioner, to explore why the holidays can feel overwhelming and share practical strategies for coping with social overload, financial strain, grief, and those heavy end-of-year reflections. What You’ll Learn in This Episode: Why holidays amplify mental health strugglesSigns of social overload and how to set boundariesCoping with financial stressNavigating grief and lonelinessMaintaining balance amid disrupted routinesHealthy end-of-year reflectionsManaging holiday anxiety in the momentVitals & Voices is a podcast powered by Lexington Regional Health Center, offering meaningful health conversations that matter to you. Each episode features authentic stories and expert insights from the people behind the care — including healthcare professionals, wellness advocates, community leaders, and patients — all aimed at helping you live your healthiest, most informed life. Subscribe & Stay Connected: Follow Vitals & Voices for more health insights and practical tips to help you live well and stay connected. YouTube Apple Podcasts Spotify

16 min

11/14/2025

Bacterial vs. Viral Infections, What's the Difference?

In this episode of Vitals & Voices, we sit down with Leigh-Anne Lehmann, Physician Assistant at Family Medicine Specialists, to talk about her journey as a new provider in Lexington and her passion for patient care. We also tackle a timely topic: viral vs. bacterial sinus infections and colds—what’s the difference, when to seek care, and why antibiotics aren’t always the answer. Plus, Leigh-Anne shares practical tips for staying healthy during the winter months. What You’ll Learn in This Episode: Leigh-Anne’s experience joining the Family Medicine teamWhat makes practicing medicine in Lexington specialHow to tell the difference between viral and bacterial sinus infectionsWhen to seek medical care for sinus issues or coldsWhy antibiotics aren’t always the right solutionHome remedies and prevention tips for cold and flu seasonVitals & Voices is a podcast powered by Lexington Regional Health Center, offering meaningful health conversations that matter to you. Each episode features authentic stories and expert insights from the people behind the care — including healthcare professionals, wellness advocates, community leaders, and patients — all aimed at helping you live your healthiest, most informed life. Subscribe & Stay Connected: Follow Vitals & Voices for more health insights and practical tips to help you live well and stay connected. YouTube Apple Podcasts Spotify

16 min

11/04/2025

Making the Most of Your Healthcare Before Year-End

As the year winds down, it’s the perfect time to talk about why scheduling healthcare appointments before December 31st can make a big difference. In this episode, we explore how insurance benefits work, highlight the specialists available at Lexington Regional Health Center (LRHC), and share tips for staying on top of preventive care. The Importance of Year-End Appointments Why now is the time to book your healthcare visits.Understanding your insurance: deductibles, coverage, and common misconceptions.Procedures and visits to prioritize before your deductible resets. Spotlight on LRHC Specialists Overview of outpatient specialists available locally.New services and providers you might not know about.How local access to specialists strengthens our community’s health. Preventive Care & Timely Checkups Why you shouldn’t delay care—even for minor symptoms.Screenings and checkups to consider before the year ends. How to Schedule & What to Expect Easy ways to book your appointment with a specialist.What to bring and how to prepare for a productive visit. 🎧 Tune in to learn how to take full advantage of your healthcare benefits before the year wraps up—and how LRHC is here to support your wellness journey. Vitals & Voices is a podcast powered by Lexington Regional Health Center, offering meaningful health conversations that matter to you. Each episode features authentic stories and expert insights from the people behind the care — including healthcare professionals, wellness advocates, community leaders, and patients — all aimed at helping you live your healthiest, most informed life. Subscribe & Stay Connected: Follow Vitals & Voices for more health insights and practical tips to help you live well and stay connected. YouTube Apple Podcasts Spotify

18 min

10/24/2025

Medicare Open Enrollment: What You Need to Know Before December 7th

Medicare Open Enrollment is here! From October 15th through December 7th, millions of Americans have the chance to review and update their Medicare coverage. But what does that really mean for you? In this episode, Chief Financial Officer Wade Eschenbrenner and Chief Compliance Officer/Director of Finance Tara Naprstek break down the essentials so you can make informed decisions. What Medicare Open Enrollment is and why it mattersKey dates you need to rememberCommon costs like premiums, deductibles, and coinsuranceQuestions to ask when choosing the right planWhere to find trusted help and resources Whether you’re considering Part B, Medigap, Medicare Advantage (Part C), or Part D prescription plans, this conversation will help you navigate your options with confidence. Helpful resources: Medicare.gov – Official Medicare informationState Health Insurance Assistance Program (SHIP) – Free local counselingCall 1-800-MEDICARE for personalized supportVitals & Voices is a podcast powered by Lexington Regional Health Center, offering meaningful health conversations that matter to you. Each episode features authentic stories and expert insights from the people behind the care — including healthcare professionals, wellness advocates, community leaders, and patients — all aimed at helping you live your healthiest, most informed life. Subscribe & Stay Connected: Follow Vitals & Voices for more health insights and practical tips to help you live well and stay connected. YouTube Apple Podcasts Spotify

27 min

10/01/2025

Pinktober Event and Breast Cancer Awareness Month

Welcome to the First Episode of the LRHC Vitals & Voices Podcast! Hosted by Brenna Bartruff, Chief Communications Officer, and Gena Carpenter, Director of Radiology, this episode dives into all things Pinktober—a beloved community event raising awareness for Breast Cancer. 💗 In This Episode: - The history of Pinktober (formerly “Drink for Pink”) - What to expect at this event - Insider tips for attendees - Vendor and food line-up - Raffle prizes + shoutouts to generous local businesses - How funds support Dawson County Cares - Ways to get involved - Special partnership with KRVN and Plum Creek Market Place - Live remote broadcast during the event - Music by Spencer Hansen - First 100 guests get a swag bag (yes, there’s a pink duck 🐥—but we’ve said too much!) 📍 Location: Plum Creek Market Place 📻 Live Remote: Tune in to KRVN throughout the night Whether you're attending in person or tuning in remotely, this episode will get you excited and informed for one of our favorite nights of the year! Vitals & Voices is a podcast powered by Lexington Regional Health Center, offering meaningful health conversations that matter to you. Each episode features authentic stories and expert insights from the people behind the care — including healthcare professionals, wellness advocates, community leaders, and patients — all aimed at helping you live your healthiest, most informed life. Subscribe & Stay Connected: Follow Vitals & Voices for more health insights and practical tips to help you live well and stay connected. YouTube Apple Podcasts Spotify

20 min

Vitals & Voices

Episodes

Understanding Physical Therapy

From Stress to Success: Tackling Feeding Challenges in Children

Beyond Words: What to Know About Early Speech and Language Development

Navigating Health Coverage After Job Loss

Lexington Rallies: Resources Regarding the Tyson Closure Announcement

Colon Cancer: What You Need to Know

Stay Well, Stay Prepared

Managing Holiday Stress: Practical Tips for Mental Health

Bacterial vs. Viral Infections, What's the Difference?

Making the Most of Your Healthcare Before Year-End

Medicare Open Enrollment: What You Need to Know Before December 7th

Pinktober Event and Breast Cancer Awareness Month

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