ClearSky Rehabilitation Hospital of Elwood-St. Joseph

11/17/2025

According to the American Lung Association, about 11.1 million U.S. adults live with chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD), though many more may be undiagnosed. COPD, which includes emphysema and chronic bronchitis, is most often caused by long-term exposure to smoke, fumes, dust, or chemicals—most commonly from cigarette smoke.

Chronic bronchitis causes airway inflammation and mucus buildup. Emphysema damages air sacs in the lungs, reducing oxygen flow. Symptoms include shortness of breath, wheezing, chest tightness, fatigue, coughing with mucus, and frequent lung infections. While COPD is progressive, it is treatable with early care.

If you experience any symptoms, let your healthcare provider know.

11/14/2025

Therapy dogs Vinny and Bailey took over the hospital today!

We’re not saying the dogs healed everyone, but morale definitely jumped 200%.

Patients smiled. Staff members melted. Treats were consumed (mostly by the dogs).

11/11/2025

11/10/2025

Diabetes is often misunderstood and surrounded by misconceptions. It is not simply caused by eating too much sugar, nor is being overweight the only factor. Diabetes is a complex condition influenced by genetics, weight, activity level, age, and ethnicity.

Type 1 diabetes is an autoimmune condition where the body attacks insulin-producing cells. Type 2 diabetes results from a combination of factors, and people of any weight can develop it.
Managing diabetes involves more than diet. Carbohydrates and sweets can be included in moderation with portion control. Regular exercise improves insulin sensitivity and blood sugar control. Management often includes lifestyle changes, medication, and monitoring. Insulin is essential for type 1 and sometimes needed for type 2 as insulin production declines.

If you have diabetes, always follow your healthcare provider’s advice.

11/06/2025

We’re proud to celebrate our CEO, Debbie Hoffman, who was named one of the Top 50 Women Leaders of Kansas for 2025 by Women We Admire (https://thewomenweadmire.com/2025/10/the-top-50-women-leaders-of-kansas-for-2025/)!

Women We Admire is a national platform that recognizes women making an impact across industries. Their annual list honors leaders who inspire others through excellence, compassion, and innovation—qualities Debbie brings to our hospital every day.

We’re grateful for her leadership and commitment to advancing patient care, supporting our team, and strengthening our community. Congratulations, Debbie, on this well-deserved recognition!

11/03/2025

Being a family caregiver is rewarding, but it often comes with physical and emotional challenges. Caregivers may feel isolated as they step back from social activities to care for loved ones. Friends and family might not understand the demands or may withdraw out of uncertainty. Still, support doesn’t have to be complicated. Small, thoughtful gestures can make a meaningful difference.

• Offer to run errands or pick up groceries
• Bring over a meal or set up a meal train
• Help with chores like laundry, dishes, or yard work
• Stay with their loved one so they can take a break
• Assist with organizing medical or legal documents
• Share helpful tech tools for caregiving
• Check in regularly and listen without judgment
• Encourage caregivers to care for their own health

11/01/2025

Native American Heritage Month honors the history, culture, and lasting contributions of Indigenous people across the United States. It’s a time to recognize rich traditions, celebrate resilience, and reflect on the importance of preserving and respecting Native heritage for future generations.

11/01/2025

Look at all these cute and spooky characters.

Happy Halloween from the team at ClearSky Rehabilitation Hospital of Elwood–St. Joseph!

10/29/2025

Meet the Team Tuesday!
October is Physical Therapy Month, and we’re celebrating by highlighting our amazing physical therapy team all month long.

Last but not least, meet Nathan, our incredible Physical Therapist, Team Lead, and father of two.

We asked Nathan a couple of questions to get to know him better:

What’s one therapy goal that always makes you smile when patients achieve it?
“Getting a patient who has experienced a CVA (stroke) back to taking their first steps is extremely rewarding and fulfilling.”

How do you spend your free time outside of work?
“I spend my free time with my wife and kids and enjoy golfing with friends.”

Thank you, Nathan, for the compassion, skill, and leadership you bring to our team and patients every single day.

10/27/2025

Flu season usually starts in October and peaks between December and February. It’s spread mainly through respiratory droplets when we talk, cough, or sneeze. To protect yourself and others, be sure to get a flu shot. Wash your hands often and cover your coughs and sneezes. If you do feel sick, stay home and away from others. A few simple steps can keep you and others safter this season.

10/20/2025

Now Hiring: Full-Time Transportation Driver at ClearSky Elwood-St. Joseph

For the first time ever, ClearSky Elwood-St. Joseph is adding a full-time Transportation Driver to our team—and we could not be more excited!

This role is all about making a great first impression. We are looking for someone who is:
- Organized and punctual
- A strong communicator
- Compassionate and patient-focused

Key Responsibilities:
- Safely transport patients and equipment
- Maintain a clean, comfortable vehicle
- Support patient safety and comfort
- Communicate with hospital staff

Requirements:
- Basic Life Support certification
- Clean driving record
- Previous transport experience preferred

We offer competitive pay, excellent benefits, generous paid time off, a 401(k) match, and room to grow in a thriving organization.

Ready to drive your career forward? Apply today and be part of something new at ClearSky Elwood-St. Joseph.

Our hospital provides high-quality care that transforms the lives of those living with disabling injuries and illnesses. We distinguish ourselves through our commitment to excellence, to our patients, to our employees, and to the communities we serve. The Transportation Driver is responsible for tra...