The American Heart Association’s Get With The Guidelines® - Stroke Rural Recognition Silver award recognizes efforts to address the unique health needs of rural communities
People who live in rural communities live an average of three years fewer than urban counterparts and have a 40% higher likelihood of developing heart disease and face a 30% increased risk for stroke mortality, according to an American Heart Association’s presidential advisory on rural health. Pinckneyville Community Hospital is committed to changing that.
For its efforts to optimize stroke care and reduce gaps in rural health outcomes, Pinckneyville Community Hospital has received the American Heart Association’s Get With The Guidelines® - Stroke Rural Recognition Silver award.
Pinckneyville Community Hospital recently welcomed 17 students for its first-ever Healing Hands Summer Camp, a one-day event designed to introduce local youth to the wide variety of careers available in healthcare.
Throughout the day, students participated in hands-on activities led by hospital staff and community partners, giving them an inside look at several healthcare professions
Pinckneyville Community Hospital proudly announces the adoption of a Resolution to formally recognize the Pinckneyville Community Hospital Auxiliary for ten (10) years of dedicated volunteer service and unwavering support to the hospital and community. The resolution, approved June 1, 2026, by the Hospital District Board of Directors, commends Auxiliary members—past and present—for their outstanding commitment to service and their lasting impact on healthcare delivery in the community. In honor of that recognition, Hospital staff surprised the Auxiliary with a celebration of their commitment and service.
Recently, the leadership team traded conference tables for team-building challenges. Throughout the retreat, leaders worked through a variety of hands-on activities that tested communication, trust, collaboration, adaptability, attention to detail, and accountability. From blindfolded obstacle courses and bike-building competitions, each activity reinforced lessons that translate directly back to the workplace.
Pinckneyville Community Hospital continues to invest in its workforce through its “Grow our Own” program, providing educational opportunities that help employees expand their skills while strengthening care for the community.
One of the program’s participants is Brooke Westenberger, a Registered Nurse who has been a valued member of the hospital team since 2016. Brooke currently works at the hospital as an RN, where she plays an important role not only in patient care but also in training and mentoring new nurses, helping guide the next generation of caregivers.
Brooke is currently enrolled in the Accelerated RN-to-BSN program at Southern Illinois University Edwardsville, where she is working toward her Bachelor of Science in Nursing degree.
