Blanchard Valley Health System

Bluffton Hospital is a testing site

Blanchard Valley Health System is encouraging patients to schedule an appointment with their primary care provider (PCP) if they are symptomatic for COVID-19.

A PCP will determine if a COVID-19 test is needed and will place an order for testing at Bluffton Hospital or Blanchard Valley Hospital, Findlay. Appointments are required for COVID-19 testing. 

To receive testing at Physicians Plus Urgent Care, or through either of our emergency departments, patients must first be evaluated by a provider. A determination will be made if a COVID-19 test is required.

Folic acid is a human-made form of the B-vitamin folate. Our bodies use it to make new cells. Everyone needs folic acid to be healthy, but especially before pregnancy.

By Abigail Maas, NPRN-CNP
Certified nurse practitioner

Folic acid is a human-made form of the B-vitamin folate. Our bodies use it to make new cells. Everyone needs folic acid to be healthy, but especially before pregnancy.

Folic acid helps form the neural tube and is known to decrease the risk of major congenital disabilities of an unborn baby’s brain (anencephaly) and spine (spina bifida). 

Consuming a nutritious diet is important for cancer prevention

By Rachel Niermann, RDN, Licensed Dietician
Armes Family Cancer Care Center

When preventing a cancer diagnosis, there are many factors to consider, both in and out of our control.

An individual’s risk of developing cancer depends on age, gender, genetics, environment, socioeconomic status and lifestyle behaviors. The good news is that we can control the lifestyle behaviors in which we choose to partake.

Hospital provides funds for summer camp meal

Bluffton Hospital has donated funds to provide meals to the Bluffton Family Recreation 2020 Summer Kids’ Camp.

The meals will feed children ages 5-12 enrolled in BFR’s program, each week throughout the summer.

“BFR summer camp provides children with the opportunity to experience a variety of indoor and outdoor activities. Keeping the children active, it is important to have nutritious meals,” said Daniel Tinch, executive director of Bluffton Family Recreation. 

A series of conversations to help you reflect upon and discuss your goals and wishes around future healthcare decisions

By Amy Mills, RN
Bridge Home Health & Hospice

During this COVID-19 pandemic, multiple aspects of your life have been affected.

You may be thinking, “What kind of healthcare would I choose if I became ill? Who would make my decisions for me if I can’t speak for myself?” Advance care planning and completion of advance directives can ensure that your choices are explored, communicated and documented.

It is less restrictive than it sounds

By Jenna Cotterman MOT, OTR/L, COQS
Home Health Therapy Manager
Bridge Home Health & Hospice

Amidst the COVID-19 pandemic, being able to stay at home to receive nursing care and therapy services may be a newer thought to some.

Many aging individuals aren’t aware of the insurance benefits they already have that include in-home care. Those with Medicare as their primary insurance are typically covered 100 percent for home care services, as long as certain criteria are met.

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