Banner Health

09/08/2026

Our Community Relations Luncheon on Wednesday, Sept. 2, brought together 37 community members for an afternoon of conversation, collaboration and updates from East Morgan County Hospital.

Chef Barry Strand and his culinary team provided the meal, followed by introductions from CEO Linda Thorpe. Dr. William McKay, neurosurgeon with CarePoint Neurosurgery and Spine, also introduced his team and shared more about the conditions they treat, including brain tumors, trauma, spine and CSF disorders, with a focus on minimally invasive approaches.

Linda also provided updates on the hospital and clinic, as well as current recruitment efforts. Community members then had an opportunity to share updates from their own businesses and organizations.
The luncheon wrapped up with a drawing for beautiful centerpieces provided by the EMCH Foundation and EMCH District employees Wendy Danielsen and Elise Gerken.

We’re grateful to the community leaders and organizations who continue to collaborate with and support East Morgan County Hospital. Thank you for being part of the conversation and for the work you do to make our community stronger.

A special thank-you to representatives from:
• Bank of Colorado
• Baby Bear Hugs
• CAHEC
• City of Brush
• Farmers State Bank - Brush
• Fort Morgan Police Department
• Growing Your Mind Set
• Morgan Community College
• Michigan Department of Health and Human Services
• Morgan County Government
• Morgan County Partnership
• Morgan County Sheriff's Office
• Fort Morgan Times
• NHP
• Red Point
• S.H.A.R.E
• United Way of Morgan County

09/07/2026

Everyone experiences difficult moments, but no one should have to face them alone.

During Su***de Prevention Week, we encourage our communities to check in with friends, family and neighbors. A simple conversation can make a meaningful difference.

If you or someone you know is struggling, support is available 24 hours a day by calling or texting 988 to reach the Su***de & Crisis Lifeline.

Together, we can help reduce stigma, encourage connection and remind one another that hope is always within reach.

09/06/2026

You shouldn't always have to travel far to see a specialist.

Throughout September, cardiology providers will be seeing patients at East Morgan County Hospital's Specialty Clinic in Brush, making it easier for patients in our community to access cardiovascular care closer to home.
September cardiology dates:

• Sept. 8 — Lynn Boyce, FNP
• Sept. 14 — Lin-Wang D**g, MD-PhD
• Sept. 21 — Brian Henry, MD
• Sept. 28 — Lin-Wang D**g, MD-PhD

📍 2400 W. Edison St., Brush
📞 1-800-845-4411

Appointments and specialty clinic availability can change, so please call to learn more or schedule care.

09/04/2026

We're proud to celebrate Valerie Eckhard, CRNA, of East Morgan County Hospital, as a Banner Health Hero. Valerie was recognized by grateful patient Linda Cundall, who made a philanthropic gift to the Banner Health Foundation in Valerie's honor.

Linda shared that what stood out most during her experience was the kindness and professionalism of the nursing team and the respect they showed one another. She described the team as working with seamless communication, genuine trust and support, creating an experience where she felt safe, heard, cared for and treated with compassion.

That kind of teamwork is what makes exceptional care possible.

Congratulations, Valerie! Thank you for the compassion, professionalism and dedication you bring to your patients and your EMCH team every day. We're proud to have you caring for our community.

09/03/2026

Taking care of your health doesn't have to wait until something feels wrong.

On the third Wednesday of every month, East Morgan County Hospital hosts Wellness Wednesday, giving community members access to several preventive health services without an appointment.

For September, stop by on Wednesday, Sept. 16, from 7-9 a.m. for:
🩸 Direct-access lab draws
🎀 Walk-in screening mammograms
⚖️ Biodex balance testing

Balance testing can help identify potential problems with balance, while screening mammograms can help with the early detection of breast cancer.
No appointments are required. Check in and register at the main hospital entrance.

📍 2400 W. Edison St., Brush

Direct-access testing does not require a physician's order and insurance is not billed. Payment is required at the time of service.

09/02/2026

Let's come together, start conversations and connect with resources that can make a difference.

East Morgan County Hospital will be at Break The Silence on Saturday, Sept. 5, sharing information and resources focused on su***de prevention. Our team will also be distributing Naloxone, generously donated through the Colorado Healthcare Initiatives Naloxone Project.

The event is free and open to all ages, with a full day of activities planned in Downtown Fort Morgan.

📅 Saturday, Sept. 5
⏰ 10 a.m.–10 p.m.
📍 Glenn Miller Park | Downtown Fort Morgan

Stop by our booth, say hello to our team and learn more about resources available in our community.

09/01/2026

September is Sepsis Awareness Month. Sepsis is a medical emergency that can happen when your body's response to an infection causes widespread inflammation. Recognizing the warning signs and getting medical care quickly can save lives.

Watch for:
• Fever or very low body temperature
• Fast heart rate
• Confusion or difficulty waking
• Shortness of breath
• Extreme pain or discomfort
• Clammy or sweaty skin

If you or someone you love is experiencing these symptoms after an infection, don't wait. Seek emergency medical care immediately.

Early treatment makes all the difference.

08/28/2026

Prepare to be amazed… ✨🪄

This year’s East Morgan County Hospital Foundation Fall Affair is bringing something truly unforgettable to the stage: Lou Serrano, Master Illusionist!

For more than 25 years, Lou has amazed audiences around the world with his unique blend of magic, storytelling, humor and audience participation. His performances aren’t just about the illusions, they’re about creating moments that bring people together.

Join us Saturday, Oct. 10, 2026, at the Morgan County Fairgrounds Event Center for an evening of incredible entertainment, great food, friends and community impact. And don’t forget to embrace this year’s theme, “Do You Believe in Magic?” Whether you’re inspired by Harry Potter, Merlin, Practical Magic or your own imagination, we can’t wait to see what you create!

A special thank you to Hubbard, an Alltech Company, for helping bring this magical experience to our community by sponsoring this year’s featured entertainment.

Ready to be part of the magic? For donations, tickets or questions, contact Wendy or Elise at (970) 842-4899.

✨ We’ll see you for a night you have to experience to believe!

08/25/2026

Your health needs change through every stage of life and having a trusted primary care provider can help you stay ahead.

From preventive screenings and yearly checkups to managing ongoing health concerns, primary care helps you build a foundation for long-term wellness.

Your health journey doesn’t start only when something feels wrong. We’re here to help you stay well along the way.

Find a primary care physician near you today at www.bannerhealth.com/physician-directory.

08/23/2026

Today we’re celebrating a special milestone for one of our own! 🎉

Congratulations to Paula Carlson, RN, in the operating room at East Morgan County Hospital, on her 5-year Bannerversary.

Our OR team plays a vital role in caring for patients, and team members like Paula help make that care possible every day.

Paula, thank you for the energy, teamwork and commitment you bring to East Morgan County Hospital. We appreciate all you do and are excited to celebrate this milestone with you!

08/23/2026

What are the benefits of infusion therapy? Andrea Serrano, FNP, breaks down the advantages this treatment can offer patients.

Schedule an appointment today: https://www.bannerhealth.com/physician-directory

08/23/2026

Why does anesthesia affect people so differently?

If you’ve ever heard someone say, “I woke up really quickly” or “Anesthesia made me so sick,” you may wonder why the experience can be so different from one person to another.

The truth is anesthesia is not one-size-fits-all.

Anesthesia is not one-size-fits-all. Banner Health explains why sleep apnea, genetics, medications, substance use and past reactions can affect your anesthesia plan.

08/22/2026

Can a mental health app or chatbot really help you feel better?

With so many mental health apps and AI chatbots just a few taps away, getting support can feel easier than ever. But are they actually helpful — and where should we draw the line?

You can download an app or chat with an AI bot and get help with your mental health. But is it safe to get such sensitive care this way? Here’s what to know.

08/22/2026

Could that rash be telling you something more?

A rash is easy to dismiss as irritation, an allergy or something that will simply go away. But sometimes changes in your skin can be a clue that something else is happening in the body.

Could your persistent rash be a sign of an autoimmune disease? Learn the warning signs, common conditions like lupus and psoriasis, and when to seek care.

08/22/2026

More adult children are moving back home than ever, and it's not a step backward. With rising costs and life changes, it's becoming the norm, not the exception.

Learn about tips on setting boundaries, having the right conversations and making the arrangement work for everyone: bannerhealth.com/healthcareblog/advise-me/when-an-adult-child-moves-home

08/21/2026

Wondering what a heart-healthy day really looks like? Kristina Bardwell, AG-ACNP, DNP, walks through practical, everyday habits that keep your heart strong. Small choices, big impact.

Schedule an appointment today: bannerhealth.com/physician-directory

08/21/2026

Are you a mosquito magnet? There may be more to it than bad luck.

Some people can spend an evening outside and barely notice a mosquito. Others? They become the main course.

So why do mosquitoes seem to have a personal vendetta against certain people?

Do you get bitten alive at outdoor events while your friends escape untouched? Find out the reasons behind your mosquito magnetism and how to fight back.

08/21/2026

Pain without an injury? Yes, it’s possible — and it’s not “all in your head.”

Ever wake up sore or achy and think, “But I didn’t do anything!”

Pain is real even when there’s no obvious injury. Understanding what may be influencing your pain can help reduce fear and may be an important part of recovery.

Pain is real even when tests are normal. Learn how pain signals work, what affects chronic pain and when to seek care from a health care provider.

08/20/2026

Balance problems aren’t just an issue for older adults. If you’re under 60 and feeling unsteady, it’s worth paying attention.

Maybe you’ve started holding onto walls when you walk, avoiding stairs or feeling off balance when you turn quickly. You might even be tripping more often or experiencing dizziness.

There are many possible causes and many are treatable. Balance depends on your inner ear, vision, nerves, muscles, joints and brain so an issue in any of these areas can affect how steady you feel. Medications, dehydration, low blood pressure, migraines, anxiety, poor sleep, injuries and inner-ear problems can all play a role.

Balance problems can happen before age 60. Banner Health explains the subtle warning signs, common causes and when adults under 60 should see a doctor.

08/20/2026

Is resentment quietly taking a toll on your relationship?

Resentment rarely appears overnight. It can build from unresolved arguments, feeling unheard, unequal responsibilities or repeatedly feeling like your needs aren't being met. Over time, those small hurts can create emotional distance and make even simple conversations feel difficult.

The good news? Resentment doesn't necessarily mean a relationship is doomed.

Resentment in a relationship can damage trust and emotional safety. Learn how resentment grows in relationships and ways you can rebuild trust and safety.