LifeCare and Altru Announce Transition of Clinics in Northwest Minnesota

Grand Forks, N.D. – Altru and LifeCare Medical Center have agreed to transition clinic ownership in Roseau, Warroad and Greenbush from Altru to LifeCare. LifeCare will assume ownership of these clinics on July 15, 2024 and will continue to offer primary care and related services at all three locations.

“Altru firmly believes in keeping care close to home and understands the value of an integrated clinic and hospital model,” expressed Dr. Josh Deere, Altru’s President. “After evaluating many options, together with LifeCare leadership, we feel that LifeCare is best suited to deliver primary care and clinic services in these communities.”

Altru will continue to provide specialty services in Roseau within LifeCare’s clinic space. These services include cardiology, dermatology, ENT, nephrology, OB/GYN, oncology, orthopedics, urology and vascular surgery. Altru will also continue to provide dialysis services in Roseau.

“We are thrilled to officially announce the acquisition of Altru clinics in Roseau, Warroad, and Greenbush,” said Keith Okeson, President and CEO of LifeCare Medical Center. “This strategic move not only allows us to expand our presence and capabilities in these communities but also reinforces our dedication to delivering high-quality, patient-centered care. By integrating these clinics into LifeCare Medical Center, we are able to provide a seamless continuum of care to meet the diverse healthcare needs of our patients. LifeCare is committed to providing comprehensive and accessible healthcare to our entire service area, ensuring that every individual has access to the care they need, close to home.”

The ownership of Altru Clinics in Roseau, Warroad and Greenbush will transition to LifeCare on July 15, 2024. All clinic employees and providers will be offered a position with LifeCare. Residents can expect a seamless transition and can look forward to familiar providers and staff continuing to care for them moving forward.

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About Altru Health System

Based in Grand Forks, N.D., Altru is an independent, non-profit healthcare organization. We are physician-led, with over 300 providers and 65 specialties of care. Altru boasts an acute care hospital, specialty hospital, level II trauma center and more than two dozen practice locations throughout northwest Minnesota and northeast North Dakota. Altru was the first member of the Mayo Clinic Care Network, extending Mayo Clinic expertise to the patients we serve. Altru employs approximately 3,400 staff and providers who are empowered to fulfill Altru’s mission – making a difference for those we care for. For more information, visit altru.org.

About LifeCare Medical Center

Based in Roseau, M.N., LifeCare Medical Center is a non-profit health care organization serving the communities of Roseau County in Northern Minnesota employing close to 500 providers, health care professionals and support staff. LifeCare’s comprehensive services include a 25-bed critical access hospital, along with LifeCare Roseau Manor, LifeCare Greenbush Manor & Assisted Living, LifeCare Senior Living, LifeCare Warroad Wellness, as well as LifeCare Home Care and Hospice. With a committed team of physicians and providers, LifeCare’s Emergency Department is designated as a Level IV Trauma Center and Acute Stroke Ready Hospital. For more information about LifeCare Medical Center, please visit lifecaremc.org.

Major Upgrade for Roseau Manor

LifeCare breaks ground on $16.5 million expansion and renovation

Roseau Manor, one of LifeCare’s two nursing home facilities, is now in the beginning phase of a major expansion and renovation project.

Construction crews officially broke ground on September 26 and will require approximately 2.5 years to complete the $16.5 million project. When it is finished in early 2026, this state-of-the-art senior care facility will be well positioned for years to come, says Shannon Carlson, Chief Operating Officer at LifeCare Medical Center. “We’ve been planning this project for three years, but it was delayed due to the pandemic,” Carlson says. “We’re excited to see construction and renovation have begun.” When finished, the facility will offer several new services and upgraded accommodations. “One of the biggest changes to Roseau Manor will be the addition of a secured dementia unit,” says Carlson. “The need for dementia care in our area is critical and we’ll now be able to offer this level of care at Roseau Manor.” Located at the far end of the manor’s north wing, the dementia care unit will offer eight private rooms for residents, a dedicated dining area, and nurses station, all in a calming and quieter environment.

The full upgrade, which encompasses the entire facility, includes an updated heating/cooling and air conditioning (HVAC) system. The renovated manor will feature a new main entrance with easier access as well as dedicated activity space, a new chapel, and larger dedicated space for resident exercises. The facility also will feature new furniture and additional windows to allow more daylight into the building. The renovated Roseau Manor will offer residents a more homelike atmosphere with private rooms, several of them with showers.

Other amenities include advanced wi-fi technology, a robust nurse call system, completely new environmental controls, and more activity space for residents, family, and employees. Carlson describes the overall interior design as sleek, clean, modern, and calming. “We’ve taken great care in coordinating the construction in such a way as to minimize noise and disruptions,” Carlson says. “The project will be constructed in multiple phases so no residents will need to relocate.”

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To learn more about residential living at LifeCare Roseau Manor, LifeCare Greenbush Manor, LifeCare Greenbush Assisted Living, or LifeCare Senior Living, please call (218) 463-2500.

A rendering of the spacious accommodations in the memory care unit currently under construction at LifeCare Roseau Manor.
Nurse Station
Community Room
Hallway
Bathroom

What is EMDR Therapy and how does it work?

EMDR Therapy (Eye Movement Desensitization and Reprocessing) is a powerful and empowering psychotherapy approach which has helped over two million people or more of all ages to relieve many types of psychological trauma and distress. It has been used to treat the following conditions and/or disorders with success and proven research showing its effectiveness: Posttraumatic Stress Disorder; Personality Disorders; Panic Attacks; Grief; Dissociative Disorders; Body Dysmorphic Disorders; Disturbing Memories; Phobias; Eating Disorders; Performance Anxiety; Stress Reduction; Addictions; Sexual and/or Physical Abuse Issues; and Pain Disorders.

EMDR therapy is typically used for 6-8 therapy sessions though more or less depending on the issues and/or disorders to be treated and/or addressed by this modality. This approach uses cognitive-behavioral techniques as well as physical eye movement in various formats, which the therapist would provide information on during the first session. EMDR was developed in 1987 by Dr. Francine Shapiro who made the observation, by chance, that eye movements can reduce the intensity of disturbing thoughts, under certain conditions. It is not known exactly what makes this approach work or be more effective than talk therapy alone, though by incorporating thoughts, feelings and body sensations, people are able to integrate and work through trauma more easily and effectively by addressing all of these factors with EMDR.

If you or a loved one are ready to take the first step towards healing and reclaiming your well-being, discover the transformative potential of EMDR Therapy. 

To schedule an appointment, contact LifeCare Behavioral Health | 218.463.4732

ROBERT HONSTROM NAMED DISTRICT A CAREGIVER OF THE YEAR

Saint Paul – (February 8, 2024) – Robert Honstrom at LifeCare Roseau Manor in Roseau, MN, was recently honored by LeadingAge Minnesota with the District A Caregiver of the Year Award.

The District Caregiver of the Year Award honors individuals in older adult services who demonstrate exceptional commitment to older adults as well as enhance and enrich the quality of life of those in their care. Honstrom was one of seven caregivers selected for the regional award out of a field of 60,000 professional caregivers throughout the state.

“What truly sets Robert apart is his passion for making a meaningful impact on the lives of our residents. He is able to connect with every resident whether it’s talking, dancing, joking, laughing,” said Shelah Gust, Long-term Care Assistant Administrator. “On behalf of everyone who works and lives at LifeCare Roseau Manor, we thank Robert for his unwavering commitment to professional caregiving and improving the lives of the older adults who live here.”

LeadingAge Minnesota honored Honstrom and other Caregivers of the Year at its Institute & Expo, the state’s largest and most comprehensive aging services conference. More than 3,000 professionals in all aspects of older adult services attend the annual two-day event to learn about new and innovative programs, share best practices, and network with their peers.

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About LeadingAge Minnesota

Driven to transform and enhance the experience of aging, LeadingAge Minnesota is the state’s largest association of organizations serving older adults. Together with more than 65,000 caregivers, our members provide quality care, services, and support to nearly 65,000 older adults in independent living, assisted living, adult day, home care, and skilled nursing.

About LifeCare Medical Center 
Based in Roseau, M.N., LifeCare Medical Center is a non-profit health care organization serving the communities of Roseau County in Northern Minnesota employing close to 500 providers, health care professionals and support staff. LifeCare’s comprehensive services include a 25-bed critical access hospital, along with LifeCare Roseau Manor, LifeCare Greenbush Manor & Assisted Living, LifeCare Senior Living, LifeCare Warroad Wellness, as well as LifeCare Home Care and Hospice. With a committed team of physicians and providers, LifeCare’s Emergency Department is designated as a Level IV Trauma Center and Acute Stroke Ready Hospital. For more information about LifeCare Medical Center, please visit lifecaremc.org.

LIFECARE EXPLORING ENHANCED HEALTHCARE FOR NORTHERN MINNESOTA

Grand Forks, N.D. – Altru and LifeCare Medical Center have signed a letter of intent to explore opportunities for a new healthcare delivery model in Roseau, Warroad and Greenbush. Altru currently operates the clinics in these communities, while LifeCare owns the hospital located in Roseau. The letter of intent gives the organizations the ability to explore options for aligning hospital and clinic services.

“At Altru, we feel that an integrated hospital and clinic model can benefit patients, offering seamless care transitions and providing efficiencies for both patients and providers,” shares Dr. Josh Deere, President of Altru. “We care deeply about the residents in these communities and want to ensure that they are offered care close to home as often as possible. Partnering with LifeCare provides opportunities to expand those possibilities.”

Altru and LifeCare will work together over the coming months to determine what this path forward will look like. The goal will be to ensure that the residents of these communities maintain the quality of care they deserve, with accessible providers close to home, and ultimately benefit from this collaboration.

“As the local hospital in our region, our primary goal is ensuring our residents can receive care that is of high-quality, easy to access as often as possible, and is provided locally,” expressed Keith Okeson, CEO of LifeCare. “We feel confident that continuing a relationship with Altru, we can continue to provide exceptional care and are dedicated to finding opportunities to enhance it.”

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About Altru Health System 

Based in Grand Forks, N.D., Altru is an independent, non-profit healthcare organization. We are physician-led, with over 300 providers and 55 specialties of care. Altru boasts an acute care hospital, specialty hospital, level II trauma center and more than two dozen practice locations throughout northwest Minnesota and northeast North Dakota. Altru was the first member of the Mayo Clinic Care Network, extending Mayo Clinic expertise to the patients we serve. Altru employs over 3,400 staff and providers who are empowered to fulfill Altru’s mission – making a difference for those we care for. For more information, visit altru.org. 

About LifeCare Medical Center 

Based in Roseau, M.N., LifeCare Medical Center is a non-profit health care organization serving the communities of Roseau County in Northern Minnesota employing close to 500 providers, health care professionals and support staff. LifeCare’s comprehensive services include a 25-bed critical access hospital, along with LifeCare Roseau Manor, LifeCare Greenbush Manor & Assisted Living, LifeCare Senior Living, LifeCare Warroad Wellness, as well as LifeCare Home Care and Hospice. With a committed team of physicians and providers, LifeCare’s Emergency Department is designated as a Level IV Trauma Center and Acute Stroke Ready Hospital. For more information about LifeCare Medical Center, please visit lifecaremc.org.

Roseau County’s First Baby of 2024

Welcome to the world, Millie Esther Novacek! Born on Tuesday, January 9th at 8:07 a.m. weighing 9 pounds, 6 ounces and 21 ½ inches long, she is the first baby of 2024 born at the LifeCare Birthing Center. Proud, new parents, Grace and Owen Novacek of rural Greenbush, are excited to welcome Millie as their first baby.

They are thankful to all the wonderful LifeCare Birthing Center staff for making such a positive impact on their experience. Congrats to the Novacek family!

Roseau County’s First Baby of 2023

Welcome to the world, Avery Paul Goodin! Born January 4th at 5:01 a.m. weighing 5 pounds, 15 ounces and 18 1/4 inches long, Avery is LifeCare’s first baby of 2023. His parents, Shantay Nygaard and Brent Goodin of the Salol area, are excited to welcome Avery as the first baby of the year at LifeCare Medical Center. Avery was initially transferred to a NICU out of the area but is back home and doing well.

They are thankful to all the wonderful LifeCare Birthing Center staff for making such a positive impact on their experience!

LIFECARE MEDICAL CENTER ACQUIRES SENIOR LIVING FACILITY 

September 28, 2022 | Roseau, MN — LifeCare Medical Center is excited to announce the acquisition of Oak Crest Senior Housing into their family of healthcare services in Roseau County.

Oak Crest Senior Housing is a 42 unit apartment complex located in Roseau, MN. Since 2006, Oak Crest has played a vital role in providing quality assisting living services to the region.

“For over 15 years, Oak Crest Senior Housing residents have had the opportunity to live in a warm and supportive environment, while receiving exceptional, companionate assistance,” says Keith Okeson, President/CEO of LifeCare Medical Center.  “We look forward to continuing Oak Crest’s current services of caring for seniors in our community.”​

LifeCare Medical Center is a not-for-profit organization, with services in Greenbush, Roseau and Warroad.

 

New General Surgeon joins LifeCare Medical Center

LifeCare Medical Center is pleased to announce Dr. James Cain, General Surgeon, has joined their medical team in Roseau, Minnesota.

Dr. Cain attended Medical School at the University of Washington School of Medicine, Seattle, WA. and General Surgery Residency at Kern Medical Center, Bakersfield, CA. Cain practiced in Seattle, WA and Wyoming, MN before coming to Roseau. He also spent ten years in the Navy flying F-14s (1991 Gulf War, TOPGUN grad) and ten years in the Army as a surgeon (Iraq & Afghanistan).

“I really have enjoyed the warm, welcoming staff at LifeCare Medical Center,” said Dr. Cain, “and look forward to offering high quality surgical care, close to home in Roseau County.

“We are so fortunate to have Dr. Cain practicing here in Roseau. Having a general surgeon on staff at LifeCare means we have the ability to provide advanced surgical care when someone needs it most,” said Keith Okeson, President & CEO.

LifeCare Medical Center is Northern Minnesota’s regional provider of quality health care. We believe it is a privilege to serve the health care needs of our communities here in northern Minnesota. We take great pride in our compassionate staff, dedicated physicians and modern facilities. Our LifeCare facilities include a 25-bed, critical access hospital, LifeCare Roseau Manor, LifeCare Greenbush Manor & Assisted Living, LifeCare Rehabilitation Services, LifeCare Public Health and LifeCare Home Care and Hospice.

 

LifeCare’s Milk Depot Celebrates World Breast Feeding Week

As a leader in rural healthcare, LifeCare Medical Center prides itself on setting the bar in making a positive impact on others.

Today, LifeCare celebrates World Breast Feeding Week by featuring the “Milk Depot”. LifeCare lead the way by becoming the first Minnesota hospital north of Wadena to open a human milk collection site.

Simply put, this effort, known as a Milk Depot, is a place where women can bring extra breast milk to donate for other babies.

“The goal is to ensure that vulnerable babies can get safely pasteurized human donor milk when a mother’s own milk is unavailable or in low supply,” say LifeCare’s Certified Lactation Consultant (CLC), Alicia Huston, RN.

As often happens with premature births, medically fragile infants require supplemental milk when a mother has not yet started producing milk in the first critical stage of the baby’s life, according to Huston.

“Breast milk is frequently prescribed since it is easier to digest and helpful to a babies immune system,” she says.

The result is a need for donors!

Mom’s are required to go through a specific process in order to become a human milk donor. There is a strict screening process which includes a health and lifestyle screen and blood test. After approved, the donors milk is brought frozen to LifeCare’s Milk Depot, and is later transported to the Minnesota Milk Bank for Babies in Golden Valley, MN. From there, the breast milk is distributed to medically fragile infants in NICU’s, Special Care Nurseries, and other inpatients settings.

“Since the inception of the program, about three years ago, our community has really done a great job of putting LifeCare on the map as one of twenty-nine Milk Depots in the state of Minnesota,” says Heidi Lien, RN, CLC.

Thanks to this program it is now convenient for women, like LifeCare’s Laboratory Assistant, Ashley Tesarek to make breast milk donations. “It is so rewarding to know that through my milk donations, I am able to help babies that are in critical need of my gift,” says Tesaerk.

“Five moms from throughout Roseau County have dedicated their time to supply breast milk to the Depot,” says Sarah Picard, RN, CLC. “We are so grateful for all of our donors. So far we have been able to deliver 17,561 ounces of milk to the Minnesota Milk Bank,” says Picard.

“It is a huge commitment and it takes much effort to pump breast milk,” says Lien. “However, it can be very gratifying too. We encourage women, not only in Roseau County, but throughout the region, who have extra breast milk beyond what their children need, to consider donating to the LifeCare Milk Depot. Every ounce counts.”

To become a breast milk donor or to learn more about LifeCare’s Milk Depot, contact a Certified Lactation Consultant at 218-452-0591 or go online to www.mnmilkbank.org.

Pictured is LifeCare’s Laboratory Assistant, Ashley Tesarek, who poses with some of the Milk that she has donated to the LifeCare Milk Depot.