Mon, 23 Mar 2026 07:36:27 -0400 https://ruralhealthpulse.buzzsprout.com en-us © 2026 Rural Health Pulse yes 7a74ce05-b721-5fd2-9d15-84b8daee9e86 IUP-IRMC episodic false Buzzsprout (https://www.buzzsprout.com) IUP-IRMC https://storage.buzzsprout.com/xg3bdqnn6sfh583kqqt1b288ij7y?.jpg Solving Rural Workforce Shortages: IRMC Medical Laboratory Science Program This episode of Rural Health Pulse, highlights a powerful example of rural innovation: the creation of the IRMC Medical Laboratory Science program. With medical laboratory scientists in critically short supply nationwide, Indiana Regional Medical Center partnered with Indiana University of Pennsylvania to build a local pipeline of highly skilled clinical laboratory professionals.  Dr. Jim Kinneer is joined by four guests—Jackie Sansig, Connie Zitterbart, Chris Baum, and recent program graduate Rebecca Hollobaugh—who share the story behind the program’s development, the evolution of laboratory science roles, and the impact this initiative is already having on the community and the healthcare workforce. 

]]> This episode of Rural Health Pulse, highlights a powerful example of rural innovation: the creation of the IRMC Medical Laboratory Science program. With medical laboratory scientists in critically short supply nationwide, Indiana Regional Medical Center partnered with Indiana University of Pennsylvania to build a local pipeline of highly skilled clinical laboratory professionals.  Dr. Jim Kinneer is joined by four guests—Jackie Sansig, Connie Zitterbart, Chris Baum, and recent program graduate Rebecca Hollobaugh—who share the story behind the program’s development, the evolution of laboratory science roles, and the impact this initiative is already having on the community and the healthcare workforce. 

]]> IUP-IRMC Buzzsprout-18891795 Mon, 23 Mar 2026 07:00:00 -0400 1617 4 2 full false Season 4: Seconds Matter - IRMC Advancing Stroke Care in Rural Communities In this episode, Sarah George, Stroke Program Coordinator at Indiana Regional Medical Center (IRMC), explains the crucial work of a Primary Stroke Center. She breaks down the different types of stroke, reveals why it's a leading cause of disability, and shares how interdisciplinary teams—from EMS to rehab—collaborate to give patients the best chance at recovery. This is your essential guide to understanding life-saving stroke care in your community.

]]> In this episode, Sarah George, Stroke Program Coordinator at Indiana Regional Medical Center (IRMC), explains the crucial work of a Primary Stroke Center. She breaks down the different types of stroke, reveals why it's a leading cause of disability, and shares how interdisciplinary teams—from EMS to rehab—collaborate to give patients the best chance at recovery. This is your essential guide to understanding life-saving stroke care in your community.

]]> Buzzsprout-18203347 Wed, 19 Nov 2025 07:00:00 -0500 1032 full false Full Circle: Reflections from the First Graduating Class of the IRMC Family Medicine Residency In this special episode of Rural Health Pulse, we reconnect with the inaugural class of the Indiana Regional Medical Center (IRMC) Family Medicine Residency Program as they prepare to graduate. Joined by Program Director Dr. Amanda Vaglia and residents Dr. Mohit Chhatpar, Dr. Tanvi Bharathan, Dr. Nawar Al Janabi, and Dr. Robin Rodriguez, we reflect on the growth, challenges, and rewards of practicing rural medicine. The residents share candid insights into what surprised them most, what they’ve learned, and how the experience has shaped their future paths—from addiction medicine to geriatrics to family medicine with obstetrics. Dr. Vaglia also discusses the program’s broader impact on the hospital and community, and the legacy this first class leaves behind. This conversation is a powerful look at the promise of rural medical education and the passion that drives tomorrow’s rural physicians.

]]> In this special episode of Rural Health Pulse, we reconnect with the inaugural class of the Indiana Regional Medical Center (IRMC) Family Medicine Residency Program as they prepare to graduate. Joined by Program Director Dr. Amanda Vaglia and residents Dr. Mohit Chhatpar, Dr. Tanvi Bharathan, Dr. Nawar Al Janabi, and Dr. Robin Rodriguez, we reflect on the growth, challenges, and rewards of practicing rural medicine. The residents share candid insights into what surprised them most, what they’ve learned, and how the experience has shaped their future paths—from addiction medicine to geriatrics to family medicine with obstetrics. Dr. Vaglia also discusses the program’s broader impact on the hospital and community, and the legacy this first class leaves behind. This conversation is a powerful look at the promise of rural medical education and the passion that drives tomorrow’s rural physicians.

]]> IUP-IRMC Buzzsprout-17576409 Tue, 29 Jul 2025 12:00:00 -0400 1879 3 8 full false Lifelines in the Region: Inside the IRMC Trauma Program In this episode of Rural Health Pulse, we speak with Emelia Rippen, Trauma Program Manager at Indiana Regional Medical Center (IRMC), about the journey to establishing a Level 4 Trauma Center in a rural community. A lifelong Indiana County resident and experienced nurse leader, Rippen shares how IRMC responded to a critical need for trauma care by launching a program that now plays a vital role in stabilizing patients and coordinating emergency care across a large geographic area. We explore the unique challenges of rural trauma response, the rigorous path to accreditation, and the power of partnerships with EMS, regional hospitals, and community organizations. 

]]> In this episode of Rural Health Pulse, we speak with Emelia Rippen, Trauma Program Manager at Indiana Regional Medical Center (IRMC), about the journey to establishing a Level 4 Trauma Center in a rural community. A lifelong Indiana County resident and experienced nurse leader, Rippen shares how IRMC responded to a critical need for trauma care by launching a program that now plays a vital role in stabilizing patients and coordinating emergency care across a large geographic area. We explore the unique challenges of rural trauma response, the rigorous path to accreditation, and the power of partnerships with EMS, regional hospitals, and community organizations. 

]]> IUP-IRMC Buzzsprout-17425518 Mon, 30 Jun 2025 15:00:00 -0400 1150 3 7 full false Inside Pennsylvania’s Healthcare Pulse: A Conversation with HAP President Nicole Stallings In this episode, we sit down with Nicole Stallings, President and CEO of The Hospital and Healthsystem Association of Pennsylvania (HAP), to explore her leadership role and the organization's vital mission in supporting hospitals, health systems, and patients across the Commonwealth. Stallings shares key facts about HAP’s statewide impact and dives into the major initiatives shaping healthcare delivery in Pennsylvania—from rural health equity and workforce development to policy advocacy and innovation. Whether you're a healthcare professional, policymaker, or community advocate, this episode offers essential insight into the organization at the forefront of Pennsylvania’s healthcare landscape.

]]> In this episode, we sit down with Nicole Stallings, President and CEO of The Hospital and Healthsystem Association of Pennsylvania (HAP), to explore her leadership role and the organization's vital mission in supporting hospitals, health systems, and patients across the Commonwealth. Stallings shares key facts about HAP’s statewide impact and dives into the major initiatives shaping healthcare delivery in Pennsylvania—from rural health equity and workforce development to policy advocacy and innovation. Whether you're a healthcare professional, policymaker, or community advocate, this episode offers essential insight into the organization at the forefront of Pennsylvania’s healthcare landscape.

]]> IUP-IRMC Buzzsprout-17265929 Mon, 02 Jun 2025 07:00:00 -0400 1217 3 6 full false Revitalizing Rural Communities: A Conversation with Commissioner Sherene Hess In this episode, we sit down with Indiana County Commissioner Sherene Hess to explore the intersection of rural revitalization and rural health. Commissioner Hess shares insights from her leadership role not only in Indiana County, but also through her work with the County Commissioners Association of Pennsylvania (CCAP). With a focus on collaborative efforts, she discusses the challenges and opportunities facing rural communities today—ranging from healthcare access and infrastructure to workforce development and quality of life. Whether you’re a policymaker, healthcare advocate, or community leader, this conversation offers valuable perspective on how you can drive meaningful progress in Pennsylvania’s rural regions.

]]> In this episode, we sit down with Indiana County Commissioner Sherene Hess to explore the intersection of rural revitalization and rural health. Commissioner Hess shares insights from her leadership role not only in Indiana County, but also through her work with the County Commissioners Association of Pennsylvania (CCAP). With a focus on collaborative efforts, she discusses the challenges and opportunities facing rural communities today—ranging from healthcare access and infrastructure to workforce development and quality of life. Whether you’re a policymaker, healthcare advocate, or community leader, this conversation offers valuable perspective on how you can drive meaningful progress in Pennsylvania’s rural regions.

]]> IUP-IRMC Buzzsprout-17151216 Tue, 13 May 2025 09:00:00 -0400 1187 3 5 full false Exploring Nursing Education at IUP In this episode, we sit down with Dr. Theresa Gropelli, Director of the Nursing Department at Indiana University of Pennsylvania (IUP), to explore the various nursing degree programs offered at IUP. Dr. Gropelli provides valuable insights into how IUP's nursing department blends immersive education with simulation labs and fieldwork experiences to ensure that students are well-prepared for successful careers in nursing. She also discusses the department’s commitment to meeting the growing demand for registered nurses and how the program continues to evolve to meet healthcare industry needs. Dr. Gropelli highlights the significance of hands-on learning in shaping the next generation of nursing professionals and shares the ways IUP is supporting students through innovative educational strategies. 

]]> In this episode, we sit down with Dr. Theresa Gropelli, Director of the Nursing Department at Indiana University of Pennsylvania (IUP), to explore the various nursing degree programs offered at IUP. Dr. Gropelli provides valuable insights into how IUP's nursing department blends immersive education with simulation labs and fieldwork experiences to ensure that students are well-prepared for successful careers in nursing. She also discusses the department’s commitment to meeting the growing demand for registered nurses and how the program continues to evolve to meet healthcare industry needs. Dr. Gropelli highlights the significance of hands-on learning in shaping the next generation of nursing professionals and shares the ways IUP is supporting students through innovative educational strategies. 

]]> IUP-IRMC Buzzsprout-16826421 Mon, 24 Mar 2025 07:00:00 -0400 1617 3 4 full false Regional Planning and Health: Insights from Indiana County In this episode, we delve into the intricacies of regional planning in rural communities with Byron Stauffer, Executive Director of the Indiana County Office of Planning and Development. We explore how regional planning and development influence social determinants of health. Byron shares insights into the multifaceted role of his department, which includes business attraction, retention, startup entrepreneurship, and administering loan and incentive programs. We also discuss the importance of community partnerships with organizations like the Indiana County Chamber of Commerce, the Indiana County Development Corporation, the Indiana County Tourist Bureau, and Indiana University of Pennsylvania in improving the quality of life for Indiana County residents. 

]]> In this episode, we delve into the intricacies of regional planning in rural communities with Byron Stauffer, Executive Director of the Indiana County Office of Planning and Development. We explore how regional planning and development influence social determinants of health. Byron shares insights into the multifaceted role of his department, which includes business attraction, retention, startup entrepreneurship, and administering loan and incentive programs. We also discuss the importance of community partnerships with organizations like the Indiana County Chamber of Commerce, the Indiana County Development Corporation, the Indiana County Tourist Bureau, and Indiana University of Pennsylvania in improving the quality of life for Indiana County residents. 

]]> IUP-IRMC Buzzsprout-16574266 Mon, 10 Feb 2025 07:00:00 -0500 1497 full false Bridging the Gap: Mental Health Challenges in Rural Communities In this episode, we explore the mental and behavioral health challenges faced by rural communities with guest Tammy Calderone, Administrator for the Armstrong-Indiana Behavioral and Developmental Health Program. Together, we discuss the growing demand for services, barriers to accessing care, and the collaborative efforts of agencies and organizations working to address these critical needs. 

]]> In this episode, we explore the mental and behavioral health challenges faced by rural communities with guest Tammy Calderone, Administrator for the Armstrong-Indiana Behavioral and Developmental Health Program. Together, we discuss the growing demand for services, barriers to accessing care, and the collaborative efforts of agencies and organizations working to address these critical needs. 

]]> IUP-IRMC Buzzsprout-16383684 Sun, 05 Jan 2025 09:00:00 -0500 1403 3 2 full false Season 3: A Conversation with the Founding Dean of the IUP Proposed College of Osteopathic Medicine  In this enlightening episode, we sit down with Dr. Miko Rose, the visionary founding dean of the proposed IUP College of Medicine. Dr. Rose shares insights into the mission and future of the college, including the exciting plans to launch Pennsylvania's first public Doctor of Osteopathic Medicine (DO) program. Listeners will gain a deeper understanding of the inspiration behind the initiative, Dr. Rose's passion for advancing medical education, and the unique opportunities this new program will offer to future healthcare professionals. Tune in for an engaging conversation about innovation, leadership, and the future of osteopathic medicine in rural Pennsylvania.

]]>  In this enlightening episode, we sit down with Dr. Miko Rose, the visionary founding dean of the proposed IUP College of Medicine. Dr. Rose shares insights into the mission and future of the college, including the exciting plans to launch Pennsylvania's first public Doctor of Osteopathic Medicine (DO) program. Listeners will gain a deeper understanding of the inspiration behind the initiative, Dr. Rose's passion for advancing medical education, and the unique opportunities this new program will offer to future healthcare professionals. Tune in for an engaging conversation about innovation, leadership, and the future of osteopathic medicine in rural Pennsylvania.

]]> IUP-IRMC Buzzsprout-16141751 Thu, 21 Nov 2024 00:00:00 -0500 2044 3 1 full false 2023 Pennsylvania Mountains Rural Health Conference Highlights - Part III This is the third and final installment of a special three-part series that will share highlights from the 2023 Pennsylvania Mountains Rural Health Conference.  In this episode we discuss the medical applications of Drones with Ms. Alice Griffith and Ms. Erica Tamburo of Airspace Link, Inc. We also speak with Mr. Matthew Capell of Mainstreet Health regarding innovative solutions to delivering value-based care in rural communities. 

]]> This is the third and final installment of a special three-part series that will share highlights from the 2023 Pennsylvania Mountains Rural Health Conference.  In this episode we discuss the medical applications of Drones with Ms. Alice Griffith and Ms. Erica Tamburo of Airspace Link, Inc. We also speak with Mr. Matthew Capell of Mainstreet Health regarding innovative solutions to delivering value-based care in rural communities. 

]]> IUP-IRMC Buzzsprout-16030572 Mon, 11 Nov 2024 00:00:00 -0500 1647 full false 2023 Pennsylvania Mountains Rural Healthcare Conference Highlights - Part II This is the second installment of a special three-part series that will share highlights from the 2023 Pennsylvania Mountains Rural Health Conference.  In this episode we discuss the PA Rural Health model with Jack Sisk, President of Punxsutawney Area Hospital, the role of Area Health Education Centers (AHEC) with Dr. Dennis Gingrich and reflections of a rural physician with Dr. Richard Whalen.  

]]> This is the second installment of a special three-part series that will share highlights from the 2023 Pennsylvania Mountains Rural Health Conference.  In this episode we discuss the PA Rural Health model with Jack Sisk, President of Punxsutawney Area Hospital, the role of Area Health Education Centers (AHEC) with Dr. Dennis Gingrich and reflections of a rural physician with Dr. Richard Whalen.  

]]> IUP-IRMC Buzzsprout-15993898 Tue, 05 Nov 2024 07:00:00 -0500 1694 full false 2023 Pennsylvania Mountains Rural Healthcare Conference Highlights - Part I This is the first installment of a special three part series that will share highlights from the 2023 Pennsylvania Mountains Rural Health Conference.  In this episode we discuss the concept of pathways and also the topic of equality vs. equity with Bergitta Cotroneo with the American Academy of Physicians and with Dr. Benjamin Frederick, Director at the Pennsylvania Area Health Education Center.  

]]> This is the first installment of a special three part series that will share highlights from the 2023 Pennsylvania Mountains Rural Health Conference.  In this episode we discuss the concept of pathways and also the topic of equality vs. equity with Bergitta Cotroneo with the American Academy of Physicians and with Dr. Benjamin Frederick, Director at the Pennsylvania Area Health Education Center.  

]]> IUP-IRMC Buzzsprout-15854173 Wed, 02 Oct 2024 00:00:00 -0400 959 2 9 full false Preserving Our Waters: Dr. David Janetski on Freshwater Ecosystems and Conservation In this episode of the Rural Health Podcast, Dr. David Janetski, an expert in freshwater ecology and conservation, discusses the critical role that freshwater ecosystems play in every community. Dr. Janetski holds a BS and MS from Brigham Young University and a PhD from the University of Notre Dame (2012). His research focuses on improving the understanding and conservation of freshwater ecosystems, particularly macroinvertebrates and fish affected by human activities.

]]> In this episode of the Rural Health Podcast, Dr. David Janetski, an expert in freshwater ecology and conservation, discusses the critical role that freshwater ecosystems play in every community. Dr. Janetski holds a BS and MS from Brigham Young University and a PhD from the University of Notre Dame (2012). His research focuses on improving the understanding and conservation of freshwater ecosystems, particularly macroinvertebrates and fish affected by human activities.

]]> IUP-IRMC Buzzsprout-15665129 Thu, 29 Aug 2024 16:00:00 -0400 1849 2 8 full false Overcoming Challenges to Rural EMS Services Join us in this episode as we delve into the critical issues facing rural EMS services across the nation. Our guests, BJ Pino, Executive Director of Citizens Ambulance Service, and Dr. Reba Johnson, Director of Human Resources for Citizens Ambulance, provide firsthand insights into the challenges that are shaping the landscape of emergency medical services in rural communities.  BJ Pino shares his experiences navigating the complexities of budgetary constraints, highlighting the impact on service delivery and community outreach efforts. Dr. Reba Johnson brings to light the workforce challenges that are exacerbating the situation. 

]]> Join us in this episode as we delve into the critical issues facing rural EMS services across the nation. Our guests, BJ Pino, Executive Director of Citizens Ambulance Service, and Dr. Reba Johnson, Director of Human Resources for Citizens Ambulance, provide firsthand insights into the challenges that are shaping the landscape of emergency medical services in rural communities.  BJ Pino shares his experiences navigating the complexities of budgetary constraints, highlighting the impact on service delivery and community outreach efforts. Dr. Reba Johnson brings to light the workforce challenges that are exacerbating the situation. 

]]> IUP-IRMC Buzzsprout-15493346 Tue, 30 Jul 2024 00:00:00 -0400 1608 2 7 full false Genomics Revolutionizing Rural Healthcare Learn about the profound impact of genomics research on rural healthcare in our latest episode!   Genomics holds the key to advancing healthcare in rural areas by tailoring treatments to individual genetic profiles, thereby improving outcomes and access to specialized care.  Our guest for this discussion is  Nick Jacobs, a visionary leader in healthcare. Nick is the co-founder and president of the Windber Research Institute, now known as The Chan Soon-Shiong Institute for Molecular Medicine in Windber. He's also the founder of the Clinical and Translational Genome Research Institute, which is now part of Southern California University of Health Sciences in Los Angeles. 

]]> Learn about the profound impact of genomics research on rural healthcare in our latest episode!   Genomics holds the key to advancing healthcare in rural areas by tailoring treatments to individual genetic profiles, thereby improving outcomes and access to specialized care.  Our guest for this discussion is  Nick Jacobs, a visionary leader in healthcare. Nick is the co-founder and president of the Windber Research Institute, now known as The Chan Soon-Shiong Institute for Molecular Medicine in Windber. He's also the founder of the Clinical and Translational Genome Research Institute, which is now part of Southern California University of Health Sciences in Los Angeles. 

]]> IUP-IRMC Buzzsprout-15321676 Thu, 27 Jun 2024 07:00:00 -0400 1559 2 6 full false Talking about Ticks and Tickborne Diseases in Rural Communities Join us for an insightful conversation about tickborne diseases with an accomplished researcher in the field, Dr. Thomas (Tom) Simmons. Dr. Simmons, a biology professor at Indiana University of Pennsylvania (IUP), has conducted extensive research on this topic in partnership with key health organizations. He will share invaluable prevention and safety recommendations to help you stay safe. 

]]> Join us for an insightful conversation about tickborne diseases with an accomplished researcher in the field, Dr. Thomas (Tom) Simmons. Dr. Simmons, a biology professor at Indiana University of Pennsylvania (IUP), has conducted extensive research on this topic in partnership with key health organizations. He will share invaluable prevention and safety recommendations to help you stay safe. 

]]> IUP-IRMC Buzzsprout-15161979 Fri, 31 May 2024 00:00:00 -0400 1505 full false IUP Graduate School and Research In this episode we will delve into the vital role of research at Indiana University of Pennsylvania (IUP) with Dr. Hilliary Creely, Dean of the IUP Graduate School and Research. Join us as we explore how research initiatives at IUP are shaping the landscape of healthcare in rural communities and highlight the significance of research in enhancing the quality and accessibility of healthcare services for rural populations.

]]> In this episode we will delve into the vital role of research at Indiana University of Pennsylvania (IUP) with Dr. Hilliary Creely, Dean of the IUP Graduate School and Research. Join us as we explore how research initiatives at IUP are shaping the landscape of healthcare in rural communities and highlight the significance of research in enhancing the quality and accessibility of healthcare services for rural populations.

]]> IUP-IRMC Buzzsprout-14957554 Thu, 25 Apr 2024 16:00:00 -0400 1552 full false IUP Institute for Rural Health and Safety The IUP Institute for Rural Health and Safety brings together university personnel from various disciplines and professional backgrounds to solve problems related to rural health and safety including first responder and emergency response training. In this episode we speak with the Institute’s director Dr. Lou Pesci to learn more about the programs and services offered. 

]]> The IUP Institute for Rural Health and Safety brings together university personnel from various disciplines and professional backgrounds to solve problems related to rural health and safety including first responder and emergency response training. In this episode we speak with the Institute’s director Dr. Lou Pesci to learn more about the programs and services offered. 

]]> IUP-IRMC Buzzsprout-14782621 Wed, 27 Mar 2024 18:00:00 -0400 2147 2 3 full false Breaking Down Barriers to Quality Healthcare in a Rural Health Setting Social determinants of health and other barriers such as food insecurity, transportation and insurance coverage significantly impact access to quality healthcare in a rural setting.  In this episode, we are joined by Rachel Grove, Director of Ambulatory Social Services and Jonathan Hunte, Clinical Care Coordinator at IRMC Physician Group  who are working on a daily basis to help breakdown these barriers enabling patients to overcome these challenges by accessing services and resources in the local community. 

]]> Social determinants of health and other barriers such as food insecurity, transportation and insurance coverage significantly impact access to quality healthcare in a rural setting.  In this episode, we are joined by Rachel Grove, Director of Ambulatory Social Services and Jonathan Hunte, Clinical Care Coordinator at IRMC Physician Group  who are working on a daily basis to help breakdown these barriers enabling patients to overcome these challenges by accessing services and resources in the local community. 

]]> IUP-IRMC Buzzsprout-14184285 Wed, 20 Dec 2023 21:00:00 -0500 1713 2 2 full false Season 2: Promoting Integrative Wellness in a Rural Community In this episode, our topic is promoting integrative wellness in a rural community. Our guest, Nick Jacobs, shares his insights from his personal experience as well as his professional experiences as the former CEO of Windber Medical Center to engage both community members and hospital employees in wellness initiatives.   Listen and learn  about benefits and challenges of introducing integrative medicine in a small Western Pennsylvania community.

]]> In this episode, our topic is promoting integrative wellness in a rural community. Our guest, Nick Jacobs, shares his insights from his personal experience as well as his professional experiences as the former CEO of Windber Medical Center to engage both community members and hospital employees in wellness initiatives.   Listen and learn  about benefits and challenges of introducing integrative medicine in a small Western Pennsylvania community.

]]> IUP-IRMC Buzzsprout-14000366 Sun, 19 Nov 2023 18:00:00 -0500 1432 2 1 full false Achieving Excellence in Rural Health Care The Punxsutawney Area Hospital (PAH) has been named a Top 100 Rural and Community Hospital for several years, in addition the National Rural Health Association (NRHA) recognized PAH as one of 20 highest-ranked rural and community hospitals in the country based on an evaluation by the Chartis Center for Rural Health. In this episode, our guest Katie Donald, Marketing and Public Relations Specialist at Punxsutawney Area Hospital, discusses these achievements along with other rural healthcare models and challenges.

]]> The Punxsutawney Area Hospital (PAH) has been named a Top 100 Rural and Community Hospital for several years, in addition the National Rural Health Association (NRHA) recognized PAH as one of 20 highest-ranked rural and community hospitals in the country based on an evaluation by the Chartis Center for Rural Health. In this episode, our guest Katie Donald, Marketing and Public Relations Specialist at Punxsutawney Area Hospital, discusses these achievements along with other rural healthcare models and challenges.

]]> IUP-IRMC Buzzsprout-13320272 Mon, 31 Jul 2023 07:00:00 -0400 1077 full false University-based Speech and Hearing Outreach in a Rural Community In this episode, we discuss the services offered by IUP's Speech and Hearing Clinic with our guest Erin Clark, clinic director at IUP’s Speech and Hearing Clinic and assistant professor in the IUP Department of Communication Disorders, Special Education.

]]> In this episode, we discuss the services offered by IUP's Speech and Hearing Clinic with our guest Erin Clark, clinic director at IUP’s Speech and Hearing Clinic and assistant professor in the IUP Department of Communication Disorders, Special Education.

]]> IUP-IRMC Buzzsprout-13316411 Sun, 30 Jul 2023 14:00:00 -0400 1539 1 9 full false Rural Health Model and Nursing Workforce The Pennsylvania Rural Health Model is an alternative payment model designed to address the financial challenges faced by rural hospitals by transitioning them from fee-for-service to global budget payments.  Pennsylvania is the first state in the country to design and implement a model that is focused entirely on rural hospitals. In this episode, Wendy Haislip shares experiences with the Pennsylvania Rural Health Model from her perspective as the Chief Nursing Officer at Indiana Regional Medical Center who is a participant in the program.    She also discusses how rural hospitals are responding to nursing workforce challenges. 

]]> The Pennsylvania Rural Health Model is an alternative payment model designed to address the financial challenges faced by rural hospitals by transitioning them from fee-for-service to global budget payments.  Pennsylvania is the first state in the country to design and implement a model that is focused entirely on rural hospitals. In this episode, Wendy Haislip shares experiences with the Pennsylvania Rural Health Model from her perspective as the Chief Nursing Officer at Indiana Regional Medical Center who is a participant in the program.    She also discusses how rural hospitals are responding to nursing workforce challenges. 

]]> IUP-IRMC Buzzsprout-13137832 Fri, 30 Jun 2023 06:00:00 -0400 1124 1 9 full false Kopchick Hall: A New Hub for Science and Mathematics at IUP Our guest Dr. Steve Hovan,  Dean of IUP John J. and Char Kopchick College of Natural Sciences and Mathematics discusses the construction of Kopchick Hall.  Once completed, the more than 142,000-square-foot Kopchick Hall will be the hub of activity for all things science and math at IUP and an important resource for rural health and medicine initiatives. 

]]> Our guest Dr. Steve Hovan,  Dean of IUP John J. and Char Kopchick College of Natural Sciences and Mathematics discusses the construction of Kopchick Hall.  Once completed, the more than 142,000-square-foot Kopchick Hall will be the hub of activity for all things science and math at IUP and an important resource for rural health and medicine initiatives. 

]]> IUP-IRMC Buzzsprout-12954345 Wed, 31 May 2023 13:00:00 -0400 1363 full false Breast Cancer Screening and Treatment in a Rural Setting Rural residents often face barriers to breast cancer screening and treatment.   In this episode, Dr.  Dan Clark,  Medical Director of the IRMC Comprehensive Breast Center , discusses the need for high quality, multidisciplinary breast care and the development of a nationally accredited breast center at Indiana Regional Medical Center. 

]]> Rural residents often face barriers to breast cancer screening and treatment.   In this episode, Dr.  Dan Clark,  Medical Director of the IRMC Comprehensive Breast Center , discusses the need for high quality, multidisciplinary breast care and the development of a nationally accredited breast center at Indiana Regional Medical Center. 

]]> IUP-IRMC Buzzsprout-12724602 Tue, 25 Apr 2023 22:00:00 -0400 1587 full false Rural Family Medicine Residents Share Experiences and Perspectives In this episode, the inaugural class of resident physicians at Indiana Regional Medical Center, Indiana, PA share their backgrounds, interests in rural family medicine and perspectives on their first year experience.   Guests include  Dr. Narinder Sangha, Dr. Mohit Chhatpar,  Dr. Tanvi Bharathan,  Dr. Nawar Al Janabi, and Dr.  Robin Rodriguez. 

]]> In this episode, the inaugural class of resident physicians at Indiana Regional Medical Center, Indiana, PA share their backgrounds, interests in rural family medicine and perspectives on their first year experience.   Guests include  Dr. Narinder Sangha, Dr. Mohit Chhatpar,  Dr. Tanvi Bharathan,  Dr. Nawar Al Janabi, and Dr.  Robin Rodriguez. 

]]> Buzzsprout-12527079 Mon, 27 Mar 2023 00:00:00 -0400 1123 full false Developing a Successful Robotic Surgery Program in a Rural Hospital Rapidly advancing technological developments are helping rural hospitals to improve the quality of care while decreasing hospitalization and recovery time.  In this episode, Dr.  Dan Clark, IRMC Director of Minimally Invasive and Robotic Surgery, discusses the adoption and growth of robotic surgery at Indiana Regional Medical Center.

]]> Rapidly advancing technological developments are helping rural hospitals to improve the quality of care while decreasing hospitalization and recovery time.  In this episode, Dr.  Dan Clark, IRMC Director of Minimally Invasive and Robotic Surgery, discusses the adoption and growth of robotic surgery at Indiana Regional Medical Center.

]]> IUP-IRMC Buzzsprout-12316876 Tue, 28 Feb 2023 00:00:00 -0500 1242 full false Using Wastewater Surveillance Data to Support the COVID-19 Response in a Rural Community In this episode, we discuss how wastewater surveillance was used to predict COVID-19 infection rates in a rural community setting.  Our guest is Dr. Rick Adkins, IUP professor of mathematics.

]]> In this episode, we discuss how wastewater surveillance was used to predict COVID-19 infection rates in a rural community setting.  Our guest is Dr. Rick Adkins, IUP professor of mathematics.

]]> IUP-IRMC Buzzsprout-12067964 Fri, 20 Jan 2023 00:00:00 -0500 1149 1 3 full false University and Rural Hospital Collaboration for COVID Testing In this episode, we discuss how an innovative partnership between Indiana University of Pennsylvania (IUP) and Indiana Regional Medical Center (IRMC) solved the challenge of having rapid turn-around for COVID testing during the height of the pandemic.  Our guests Dr. Narayanaswamy Bharathan and Ms. Jackie Sansig share how the partnership started and continued to evolve.

]]> In this episode, we discuss how an innovative partnership between Indiana University of Pennsylvania (IUP) and Indiana Regional Medical Center (IRMC) solved the challenge of having rapid turn-around for COVID testing during the height of the pandemic.  Our guests Dr. Narayanaswamy Bharathan and Ms. Jackie Sansig share how the partnership started and continued to evolve.

]]> IUP-IRMC Buzzsprout-11872470 Wed, 14 Dec 2022 13:00:00 -0500 1368 full false Starting a Rural Family Medicine Residency Program In this episode, our topic is the establishment of a rural family medicine residency program at Indiana Regional Medical Center, Indiana, PA.  After years of planning, the IRMC Family Medicine Program welcomed its first cohort of six residents in July 2022.    Our guest, Dr. Amanda Vaglia, shares insights into the motivation for starting this program, its philosophy and future vision. 

]]> In this episode, our topic is the establishment of a rural family medicine residency program at Indiana Regional Medical Center, Indiana, PA.  After years of planning, the IRMC Family Medicine Program welcomed its first cohort of six residents in July 2022.    Our guest, Dr. Amanda Vaglia, shares insights into the motivation for starting this program, its philosophy and future vision. 

]]> IRMC Buzzsprout-11704461 Wed, 16 Nov 2022 08:00:00 -0500 768 1 1 full false