We've known about Rodney Clark's financial and leadership skills for some time. Now, the rest of Mississippi is taking notice.
Rodney recently received a prestigious spot on the Mississippi Hospital Association's Board of Governors. He attended his first meeting last month. He says he's excited to share success stories from North Sunflower Medical Center as part of his service.
"We have an excellent reputation across the state, and I'm looking forward to highlighting our important role in serving the healthcare needs of the region," Rodney tells us. "My priority is making sure rural hospitals have a voice, ensuring that our issues are not forgotten."
The Mississippi Hospital Association advocates for strong healthcare policy in the state Legislature and tracks things like the economic impact of hospitals in the state. Most immediately, Rodney will be involved almost immediately, as the association seeks a new president and CEO.
"It's a critical time to be involved in planning for the future of health care. I'll be working with colleagues from around Mississippi on improving the well-being of hospitals," he says.
Rodney Clark Making a Difference
Just after his selection to the board of directors, Rodney received another appointment to the Mississippi Hospital Association Solutions, Inc. board of directors. His first meeting for that position is in 2024. That group vets products and vendors to help connect hospitals to effective and innovative business solutions.
Rodney will be celebrating his ninth anniversary as chief administrative officer at North Sunflower Medical Center this coming spring. He's known for his efficient leadership style and quiet intelligence. He's also just the type of person you want to spend time with.
"Rodney cares deeply about the North Sunflower Medical Center staff and patients. He makes a difference here every day," said Stacy Davis, associate executive director of the North Sunflower Medical Foundation. "We are not surprised that his insight is in demand. We appreciate his willingness to serve in these important jobs."
Rodney says he's planning his 2024 calendar around the additional meetings in the Jackson area and is humble about the opportunities.
"It gives North Sunflower Medical Center an immediate spot at the table to highlight our accomplishments and our needs in continuing to provide top-quality health care to the community," he says.
Arnold U. Luciano knows about quality health care. He invests in our hospital because he's seen over the past five decades what a thriving medical center means to the community.
Arnold's dad started work at North Sunflower Hospital as a radiologist fifty years ago. His mom spent time on the nursing team. He worked at the hospital during his high school years.
Arnold eventually chose a career in law, not medicine, but he honors his parents with his service on the North Sunflower Medical Foundation.
We are fortunate to have someone with a deep understanding of the Delta, its residents, and the importance of access to critical care. We talked to him about his years on the foundation – including serving as a founding member – and his hopes for the future.
Arnold Luciano's Story
"I have always loved that hospital and the people that worked there. I want to see that hospital succeed and was happy to be chosen to be a part of the foundation, whose purpose and mission is not only to assist and support the hospital but the surrounding community. Ruleville will forever be my "home" – just as that hospital will always be my choice for medical treatment," Arnold tells us.
Arnold's law practice is in Cleveland, but he grew up in Ruleville. His dad worked for North Sunflower Hospital from 1973 until his retirement in 2016.
We asked Arnold about the importance of a small-town thriving hospital.
"It is a must – growing up in Ruleville, the hospital was much smaller than it is now. It offered fewer services. If and when a deeper need for medical service arose, a patient was sent elsewhere. And more often than not, that elsewhere necessitated a long drive. In emergencies, that could be the difference between life and death.
Surviving, Growing and Flourishing
"In the late 90s and early 2000s, community hospitals faced closures due to lack of funds, high insurance costs, and a shortage of medical professionals (nurses and physicians). However, due to some wonderful people and innovative thinking, the hospital survived, grew, and flourished into what you see today. Without that, Ruleville would be just another of the `dying' towns of the MS Delta," he says.
Arnold was an original member of the foundation. Then, about two years ago, he generously agreed to return to service.
He believes in the hospital.
"Due to the growth of the hospital, NSMC now employs a great many people throughout the MS Delta and offers a superior level of medical care and services – not found in many of the surrounding towns and communities," Arnold said.
"Throughout the MS Delta, people might be closer to Greenwood, Greenville, Indianola, and/or Cleveland – the bigger towns of the MS Delta. However, they will still come to Ruleville for medical treatment – because I believe NSMC offers such a fantastic level of care and medical treatment," he tells us.
While many MS Delta towns and communities are shrinking, Ruleville and its numerous employees still thrive. And that is, in large part, because of the hospital," he says.
Arnold says the pharmacy and clinic are standouts at North Sunflower Medical Center. In addition, there's caring service.
"Many people complain about a lack of customer service or care in the industry – not at NSMC. Historically, there was always a complaint of waiting for hours in an emergency room, not at the after-hours clinic at NSMC. The ever-growing medical "arena" at NSMC offers a wide range of services - orthopedic/cardio/radiological/pulmonary. At one time, those services necessitated a trip to Jackson or Memphis," he says.
Running and Walking
When Arnold is not practicing law, spending time with family, or assisting with the foundation, you will find him outside walking or running. Each December, he participates in the St. Jude Marathon weekend.
"Running and walking is a great cardio and full body exercise that has a tremendous impact not only on your physical health but also on your mental well-being. I find a level of peace when running that I highly and consistently recommend to others. It becomes a great time to let the worries of the world pass you by. It's a great time to talk to God. . .to focus and relax. . .to almost meditate. . .we all need some form of physical activity, and for me, running/walking is when I'm at peace," he says.
As we approach the season of giving, Arnold says he's always been impressed by the number of NSMC employees who automatically deduct money from their paychecks to go to the North Sunflower Medical Foundation.
"From time to time, and over the years, we sometimes reach 100% employee giving. I believe that is a testament to the fact that the employees believe in the hospital," he says.
"It is not just a place to work. It's part of their livelihood. It's part of the community – that tells you that THEY believe in the hospital. They take pride in the hospital – and that is something I believe Ruleville, the hospital, and the Foundation, should be very of – because you do not see that very often."
Special note from Arnold:
After my father, Dr. Vicente C. Luciano, Jr., passed away on October 6, 2023, I received so many texts, messages, e-mails, and calls providing me with stories and praise for my father, recounting memories and how they missed him there. The one thing that stands out above all is how he greeted everyone with a smile and that everyone who encountered him – whether it be a patient, nurse, physician, or administrator – loved him and had the utmost respect for him. All the radiology technicians gave my family and me countless stories of how gracious and kind he was - even in the most difficult of times. He loved going to work there. He loved the nurses, physicians, and patients – even after his retirement, he consistently returned just to look around and say hello. When "telemedicine" became available, my father took part in it. But instead of just reading "on-line," the other doctors loved him because he was always happy and willing to go to the hospital in person to read the films, assist, or consult with the treating physician. His heart was in that hospital.
Cooler temperatures; changing seasons; kids and Halloween costumes. Around here, October is also the month we go all out to bring awareness to Breast Cancer.
Breast Cancer Awareness Month is a time to underscore the importance of early detection and prevention. So we didn't want the month to slip by without talking about the battle against breast cancer. One significant development in breast cancer screening is North Sunflower Medical Center's state-of-the-art 3D mammography technology. This advanced screening method offers improved accuracy and early detection. That can provide patients peace of mind and enhance their chances of successful treatment.
We’re pretty proud of the fact that NSMC was the first in the Delta to offer 3D Mammography. We knew then, just as we know now, that offering cutting-edge technology right here in Ruleville saves lives.
Breast cancer remains one of the most common forms of cancer among women worldwide. According to the American Cancer Society, it is estimated that more than 300,000 new cases of breast cancer will be diagnosed in the United States alone in 2023. Early detection is key to successful treatment and better outcomes for patients. Mammograms have long been the gold standard for breast cancer screening. North Sunflower Medical Center is taking it a step further with 3D mammography.
Benefits of 3D Mammography
Improved Detection: 3D mammography is more accurate in detecting breast cancer. It reduces false positives and false negatives, which means fewer unnecessary follow-up tests and less anxiety for patients.
Early Diagnosis: The earlier breast cancer is detected, the better the chances of successful treatment and recovery. 3D mammography can find cancers at an earlier, more treatable stage.
Enhanced Clarity: The 3D images allow radiologists to examine breast tissue layer by layer. This can provide a clearer picture of any abnormalities, even in dense breast tissue.
Greater Comfort: While mammograms can be uncomfortable, the duration of compression is reduced in 3D mammography. That can make the experience more comfortable for patients.
Our commitment is not limited to just technology. Our compassionate and supportive team of healthcare professionals understand the importance of early detection and the emotional journey that patients go through during breast cancer screening and treatment.
By embracing these innovations, North Sunflower Medical Center is demonstrating its commitment to providing the best in breast cancer screening and supporting women in their journey to better health.
If you need a mammogram or know someone who does, contact the Sunflower Diagnostic Center by calling (662)756-2100.
Every year, our small town of Ruleville, Mississippi, comes alive with the mouthwatering aroma of slow-roasted barbecue, the sounds of live music, and the laughter of locals and visitors alike.Next weekend, September 29 and 30, the Great Ruleville Roast 2023 becomes a celebration of community, culture, and cuisine that has been a cherished tradition for generations.
At the heart of the Great Ruleville Roast is the barbecue. Pitmasters have perfected the art of slow-roasting meat over an open flame for generations. The Great Ruleville Roast Barbecue contest will feature an MBN Sanctioned Championship Division with whole hog, pulled pork, and ribs and a Patio Division featuring pulled pork, ribs, and pork loin. This event is a qualifier for the Delta BBQ Battle.
Music and More at the Great Ruleville Roast 2023
Food may be the star of the show, but the Great Ruleville Roast offers much more. Live music, often featuring talented local blues bands, fills the air with soulful tunes that pay homage to Mississippi's musical roots.
Friday starts with a free concert from the Krackerjacks starting at 6:00 p.m., followed by fireworks at 9:45 p.m. Saturday is a full day of fun, food, and music. The day starts with a pancake breakfast at Chamber Depot, sponsored by the Drew-Ruleville Rotary Club. Joe Garcia & The Big Guns Band will play throughout the day off and on from 9:00 a.m. to 2:00 p.m. The Williams Gospel Group starts things off at 9:00 a.m., followed by the Bayou Academy Band. Saturday is a full day of slow meat smoking, with winners of both divisions announced in the late afternoon.
One of the most endearing aspects of the Great Ruleville Roast is the sense of community it fosters. It's a time when neighbors come together, old friends reunite, and newcomers are welcomed with open arms. The event serves as a reminder of the importance of preserving traditions and creating lasting memories with loved ones.
In healthcare, there exists a place where compassion and comfort intertwine to provide solace during life's most challenging moments. Hospice of North Sunflower is a beacon of hope and support for individuals and families navigating the complexities of end-of-life care.
At the heart of this exceptional center is Wendy Gore, a dedicated healthcare professional whose commitment to holistic care has touched countless lives.
Wendy grew up here in Ruleville and moved away to raise a family in Brandon. When an opportunity to return to the Delta opened up, she jumped at the chance. "I wanted to come home to my roots. It feels like everybody's family here. That is comforting to me."
Wendy Gore's Life in Transition
But when the hospice center she had been recruited to run closed, Wendy went to Billy Marlow and convinced him to open Hospice of North Sunflower. "I've been here since the day it opened." Next March that will have been a decade.
For the families of the patients they have touched, the impact of Hospice of North Sunflower cannot be overstated. Facing the reality of a terminal illness can be overwhelming. Hospice care focuses on improving the quality of life for individuals with terminal illnesses while providing essential emotional and psychological support for their families.
"I like being around old people more than I like being with young people," Wendy told us. "They are real. They say what they feel and they don't sugarcoat. They've lived their life, and they are not afraid to tell you."
Wendy and her team's dedication, compassion, and support amplify this mission. They allow families to find solace in knowing their loved ones receive the best possible care.
"Hospice is hard," Wendy told us. "We are dealing with dying patients every day. The nursing staff and aides have to have kindred spirits. We are not trying to fix people. We are there to hold your hand when you die. It takes a very special person to do what we do. The people we have working with us are very genuine, and they are 100% dedicated to our patients. Most of them have been with us since the beginning."
Each patient's journey is unique, and their care plans reflect this individuality. From pain management to counseling, the center's multidisciplinary approach ensures that patients receive comprehensive care tailored to their needs and desires.
https://youtu.be/KuXCPBw1aIU?si=4llBqzq9gg_chqV6
To learn more about Hospice of North Sunflower, click HERE.
Hospice of North Sunflower
Like every other branch of the NSMC family, Hospice of North Sunflower is equipped with state-of-the-art facilities, ensuring that patients receive the best medical attention while maintaining the dignity and respect they deserve.
Hospice of North Sunflower will grow its footprint in the coming months as Wendy opens a new facility in Greenwood. Their ability to personally connect with patients and their families will remain the same.
In a time when medical advancements are constantly evolving, it's easy to overlook the profound impact of compassionate care. Hospice of North Sunflower, along with the remarkable efforts of Wendy, stands as a testament to the importance of prioritizing quality of life, empathy, and human connection, especially during life's most challenging moments. They remind us that in our vulnerability, there exists a space where kindness and compassion can make a difference and that true healing encompasses the body, mind, and soul.
Zakiyo "Kiki" Jackson started her social work career focused on teens, and her grandmother gave her some good advice that changed her path and eventually led her to North Sunflower Medical Center as one of our valued new leaders.
This summer, Kiki Jackson joined the Walter B. Crook Nursing Facility as administrator.
She brings 15 years of experience in long-term care and aims to make life fun for the residents.
She's a natural party planner and is already lining up Southeastern Conference tailgate parties for the football fan residents this fall. She's adding flair to the décor.
But it all started at the University of Mississippi, where Kiki studied psychology and social work. She knew she wanted to help people. Her mom worked as a dental assistant in Mound Bayou, and her older sister was a nurse.
She first used her degree in a job with teens. "I told my grandmother, `With these kids, it's so hard for me to make a difference.' My grandmother told me, `You need to be working with the old people. You are great with old people like me!"
So Kiki changed directions, working in long-term care and then in long-term care management. Along the way, she collected many awards and accolades.
When NSMC reached out this year about joining us, she was ready to come home.
"I am from Sunflower County, grew up in Indianola, and graduated from Gentry High. I'm a Sunflower County girl, first and foremost," she says. "I've always had a high respect for NSMC and the quality of services they provide. It was a no-brainer to move here!"
In her first two months, she found just what she expected.
"The staff here, they care so much. They love the residents like they are their family. You don't get that everywhere," she says. "NSMC is extremely passionate about ensuring that the citizens of Sunflower County have quality health care in their homes and here in our facilities. You can see it as a patient. When you work here, you really get to see it."
She said her husband, Gregory, "supports my calling to work with the elderly" and even volunteers to help. Kiki also stays busy with church and community events and her sorority, Alpha Kappa Alpha.
Everywhere she goes, she fights misinformation about long-term care facilities.
"When people think of retirement homes, they think that people just go there to be until they die. That's not true. We provide people with new ways to live. Our residents have access to so much here in this facility. They eat wonderful soul food – that they don't have to cook! We have so many different activities and options."
"Families may worry they are throwing the care of their loved ones to someone else. Instead, they care about their loved ones so much that they are getting them the care they need," Kiki says.
Mike Gilbow has been with North Sunflower for the past 12 years. But that is just part of the story of his 43-year career as a pharmacist. So it's no real surprise that the leadership of our state wanted to learn a few things from Mike's decades of experience – and passion for patient care.
Last month, Mike was named by Governor Tate Reeves to the State Board of Pharmacy. The mission of the Board is to “protect and promote the health of Mississippi citizens by regulating and controlling the practice of pharmacy and the distribution of prescription drugs and devices.”
Last week, Mike told the Bolivar Bullet, “Here at North Sunflower, where I work, we have six pharmacists and I am very thankful to have their full support. And I also have the hospital administration’s support which means so much to me. To be able to do the service work for the state of Mississippi, the Delta, and for the pharmacy is just wonderful to me.”
The Important Challenges Facing Pharmacies
We asked Mike what he felt were some of the most important challenges facing pharmacies in Mississippi. He was happy to provide some thoughtful insights into the industry.
“Like a lot of other rural states, Mississippi faces a shortage of pharmacies. Many of the business factors of operating a pharmacy are really hurting small town, corner store pharmacies,” Mike told us. “A lot of the people we serve don’t drive. When a pharmacy in a small town shuts down, the patients they served now live even further from the pharmacist that has their medications. We have had to come up with some innovative solutions to get our patients the prescriptions they need to stay alive.”
Mike wants to bring some of the commonsense solutions North Sunflower Medical Center has pioneered to the state pharmacy board. “We had Mississippi Sports Medicine here in Ruleville recently. It was packed with people needing to have their knee or shoulder or any other ailment looked at,” Mike told us. “They were able to see some of the best orthopedists in the state without having to go to Jackson. We do the same with hearts. I want to take that kind of thinking to the state board to help address some of the challenges pharmacies all across our state are facing.”
Mike Gilbow is Part of An Amazing Team
But don’t worry about all the accolades going to Mike’s head. “I am lucky to be part of an amazing team. Some of the biggest names in pharmacy are on that board. I’m going to work hard and study hard and do my very best.”
The more you talk with Mike, the more you see why our world needs more Mike Gilbows. “The opportunity to help the State of Mississippi just fills my heart with joy. I love what I do. I believe in what goes on around here at North Sunflower. It’s not always easy, but what we’re doing is what I love. Taking care of friends and family and new acquaintances daily – it’s just right down my alley.”
Mike’s term officially started on the first of July. So if you see him around Ruleville, tell him to keep up the good work.
Over the past few years, it has been increasingly clear that mental health plays a crucial role in a person's overall well-being. We were way out in front of that trend at North Sunflower Medical Center (NSMC).
Fifteen years ago, NSMC established an outstanding behavioral health program that prioritizes the mental well-being of its patients. Through an innovative and comprehensive approach, NSMC's behavioral health program offers hope, healing, and support to individuals seeking assistance with mental health challenges.
Since its founding, Leslie Warrington has been the Behavioral Health Director at NSMC. During her impressive tenure, she has worked to develop a team approach that brings together health professionals from various backgrounds. This program includes psychiatrists, psychologists, licensed therapists, and nurses working together to provide personalized care to each patient.
https://youtu.be/5f1RMdH3KJE
Dr. Margaret Cassada is part of our incredible behavioral health team. Learn more about her by watching this video.
Three Behavioral Health Programs in One
"Leslie is the program's backbone," Celeste Wolfe Lofton, Community Educator for Senior Care and IOP told us. "She built the program into what it is today. It's her baby."
The behavioral health program caters to different levels of care required by patients - from outpatient therapy to inpatient care. But the program at NSMC is three programs in one – targeted at helping older adults cope with the changes they face in the aging process. These services include psychiatric evaluations, individual and group therapy, and medication management.
Ginny Pantin runs the individual therapy practice. This is for patients to come and see a therapist once a week or a couple of times a month. They talk about the mental and emotional ups and downs that come with getting older.
Leslie WarringtonGinny Pantin
Helping Seniors
The Sunrise Program is an outpatient center that caters to senior adults to help them return to emotional and physical well-being. Patients come two to four days a week to participate in group sessions with a licensed professional – and enjoy snacks and lunch. This is good for people who are suffering from grief or loneliness or those who are starting to struggle with their mental health.
Senior Care is an inpatient program for patients 55 and older whose behavior is getting harder to manage at home. The typical length of stay is between 5 to 14 days. Sometimes this is related to dementia or other age-related illness. Usually, patients must come in and be evaluated, have their medication updated, and talk with a licensed professional. The program provides recreational activities for the patients, gives them a comfortable place to recover, and allows the family to talk with a licensed professional.
The behavioral health program also works closely with other departments in the medical center to bring a complete approach to patient care. This allows our healthcare professionals to treat underlying physical health issues often contribute to mental health challenges.
Helping the Community
But what the behavioral health program does inside the walls of North Sunflower is just part of the equation. Celeste is the pied piper of NSMC's behavioral health program. She conducts community meetings to discuss the importance of mental health education. This also reduces the stigma frequently associated with seeking psychiatric help – especially with older patients.
"By getting people to talk about mental health, we try to contribute to building a more compassionate and understanding community here in Ruleville and across the Delta," Celeste tells us.
The behavioral health program is rooted in patient-centered care, focusing on the individual's unique needs and goals.
"The team makes listening closely to our patients our top priority," Celeste says. "We bring empathy to those conversations and work with patients so they take an active role in their recovery. By involving patients in the decision-making process, we want to ensure that the treatment plan aligns with the patient's and their family's values and preferences."
Over the past decade and a half, North Sunflower Medical Center's behavioral health program has become a beacon of hope. Individuals seek effective mental health care thanks to the hard work of people like Leslie, Ginny, Celeste, and many others. Through its innovative approach, NSMC demonstrates its commitment to fostering healthier, happier, and more resilient communities – here in Ruleville and throughout the Delta.
