Joanne Lindholm photo Golden K Chairman Brett Calcari, left, introduces guest speaker Joe Rizzo, director of public relations and business development at Marshfield Medical Center-Dickinson, at the April 28 meeting.

By JOAN JOUPPI

For The Daily News

KINGSFORD — There are times when plans just seem to fall into place.

Golden K Chairman Brett Calcari rang the bell and Golden K seniors began the meeting April 28 with opening ceremonies. The “Pledge to the Flag” and singing of “God Bless America” have been part of the daily life for most seniors since early school days. Beginning with these traditions is a reminder of the country we are privileged to live in.

Singing the old tunes conjures up memories of yesteryear. Alyce Derwinski on piano with Lois Outcelt at her side led the group in the Golden K rendition of “April Showers,” hopefully bringing May flowers; “Blue Skies” waiting to brighten the day, and “Do Lord,” a higher power making it all come together.

Golden K welcomed guests Kathy Arnold, RSVP director; and Joe Rizzo, director of public relations and business development at Marshfield Medical Center-Dickinson. Other visitors were Bonnie Spanton and Lois Chartier. Sue Proudfit happily picked up winnings from the 50-50 drawing. Happy Dollars reflected a great visit with family in lower Michigan where Sarah Gospodarek’s son-in-law detailed her car.

Calcari’s advice for the day was “Don’t complain about the rain.”

Speaker for the day Joe Rizzo is no stranger to the Golden K and brings the latest information concerning the local hospital.

Sanford Health is the largest rural health system in the U.S., headquartered in Sioux Falls, S.D. Marshfield Clinic Health System is a physician-led health system headquartered in Marshfield, Wis., serving rural Wisconsin and Michigan’s Upper Peninsula. They have signed an affiliation agreement to combine their complementary assets and capabilities to create an integrated health system dedicated to advancing world-class care in the rural Midwest. Entering into the agreement with Sanford is a bold step designed to improve services rendered, keep up on technology, and bring medical professionals into this area.

Rizzo and Marshfield are consistently looking for ways to bring services closer to home. Many factors enter into the picture such as requirements, regulations, and our relatively rural location. It takes special people to live in the Upper Peninsula.

The first week of May is “National Patient Experience week.” Putting the patient first is a priority in the Sanford pledge. Their focus has three key ideals: Take time to listen to the patient, work well together as a team, and assure the patient knows what to do next in their treatment plan.

There are new procedures being developed including improved online records access for patients. New specialists and physician assistants are in the works. A need for treatment on mental health issues will bring a psychologist into the hospital.

Marshfield Medical Center-Dickinson has continued to grow and develop a facility that strives to meet the needs of its patients with the best care available. Affiliation with Sanford and the proposed E.P.I.C medical record system assures information is confidential and safe. It enables health care professionals access to records that can enhance well being. Whether you receive treatment online or while traveling, records access is vital for efficient treatment.

Rizzo welcomes questions, thoughts and ideas to improve services. ER wait time can be a frustrating experience. Unexpected events happen and may require priority attention. You may have to wait; however, do your best to be a “patient” patient. Your hospital staff are dedicated to helping.

Golden K meets at 10 a.m. Monday at the First Presbyterian Church in Kingsford. All are welcome.