Podzimek Excels In New Role
In May, Freeman Regional Health Services proudly announced the promotion of Karissa Podzimek, RN to Clinic Manager. With more than 11 years of service at Freeman Regional, Podzimek entered her new role with a wealth of knowledge to excel in leading her team and improving the experience of our patients, which has helped implement some recent facility changes.
Podzimek attended the University of Sioux Falls where she received her BA in Business Administration and Management. It was the experience of her second child in the NICU that prompted her to return to school in 2010 to become a nurse. Podzimek attained her Associate of Science degree in Nursing in 2013, while working as a CNA for Freeman Regional. After graduation she was an RN at FRHS before holding the titles of Lead Nurse and Clinic Nurse Manager at FRHS Clinics. With guidance from Avera, FRHS restructured the clinical and business operations and made Podzimek the new Clinic Manager earlier this year.
“Freeman Regional is such a vital component to the betterment of the communities we serve. I’m thankful to be part of an organization that has the ability to impact the lives of so many. I am excited to use my knowledge and skills as I continue my career at Freeman Regional.”
Karissa Podzimek, RN, Clinic Manager
In the Clinic Manager role, Podzimek oversees clinic operations and provides leadership at our four clinic locations in Freeman, Bridgewater, Marion, and Menno, ensuring that patients receive comprehensive, patient-focused health care from providers and the care team. She has also worked diligently to improve efficiencies in clinic processes.
“We are fortunate to have Karissa lead our clinics. Her expertise in organizing and managing multiple roles has been vital. We are so pleased with the progress Karissa has already made in her role and look forward to what’s to come for FRHS.”
Courtney Unruh, CEO
Podzimek lives in rural Freeman with her husband and four children. She is a board member for Freeman Jr. Sr. High School and is involved with education at her church. Podzimek’s friendly, outgoing personality has helped to build relationships for future community outreach and has proved to be valuable in her role.
Facility Improvements
To improve our patient experience and streamline processes, we are optimizing the clinic entrances.
As of September 12, all clinic patients will enter through the main hospital entrance, off Wipf Street, regardless of symptoms. Hospital, Radiology and Laboratory patients and visitors will continue to enter here as well.
Specialist appointments with Cardiology, Orthopedics, or OB/GYN will now be seen at the Specialty Clinic entrance, off Walnut Street. This entrance will also be used for those needing a specialty service such as a Bone Scan (DEXA), MRI or ECHO, or have a Foot Clinic or Community Health appointment. The Specialty Clinic will be available by appointment only.
A map, detailing the above changes, is available below.
Those needing the business office, therapies, nursing home or emergency department at Freeman Regional will utilize current entrances for these services.
We will also be updating our phone system. New features, that allow you to contact a specific department, will be implemented soon with a goal of improving call handling.
Freeman Regional is making these improvements for the ease of our patients, residents and their families. Thank you for your patience as we work through these new processes!