News & PR
Hammond-Henry Hospital recognized as a supporter for medical students and rural health professions
Hammond-Henry Hospital (HHH) has been recognized recently by the University of Illinois College of Medicine Rockford and its National Center for Rural Health Professions in supporting the Dale H. Flach, MD and Dennis M. Jones, MD Professorship in Interprofessional Education and Research. For many years, HHH and its’ physicians and staff have partnered with both the University of Illinois--Rockford and University of Illinois- Peoria medical schools by sponsoring medical students interested in rural medicine and having them actively participate in the care of patients in a hospital, ER, long term care and clinic setting. HHH and its staff also sponsor students from many clinical fields, including; certified medical assistant (CMA), nursing, advanced practice nursing, physical/occupational/speech therapy, social work, dietician, lab, imaging and other non-clinical programs, which include health information management and billing and coding.
By immersing medical students and other future clinicians in rural healthcare at an early stage in their professional development, the organization plays a vital role in training the next generation of caregivers. At HHH, students have an opportunity to learn, feel comfortable and then actively seek out positions in rural and underserved communities. “We are proud and privileged to partner with many institutions to give back and help train our future physicians, clinicians and other healthcare professionals. Sharing knowledge and interactive experiences is one of the most important building blocks we can offer to sustain, improve and show our commitment to rural healthcare,” said Lisa DeKezel, R.N., Vice President of Physician and Outpatient Services.
Pictured Right are Duane Olson, HHH Board of Directors President; Laura Knight, Director of Development from the University of Illinois, College of Medicine; Lisa DeKezel, HHH VP of Physician and Outpatient Services; Mark Kuhn, HHH CEO