Gundersen Palmer Most Improved award

Pictured is: Mary Lampson, LISW; Ashley Lundstrom; Patrice Kuennen, CEO, LMSW; Rachel Winker, RNBSN Program Director; Jessica Beeh, Office and Patient Coordinator; and Carol Langerman, Office Assistant.

Gundersen Palmer Lutheran Hospital’s Senior Life Solutions Program has been named the 2024 Most Improved Two Track Program of the Year Award by Psychiatric Medical Care, which manages the program.

Psychiatric Medical Care (PMC) partners with more than 250 hospitals and health systems across the country to provide behavioral healthcare services. Top-performing employees and Senior Life Solutions programs are recognized annually based on their excellence in demonstrating PMC’s values of care, compliance, and community. Award recipients were chosen for providing outstanding patient care, excellent comprehension and execution of compliance regulations, and strong community engagement.

“This recognition is a testament to the dedication and passion of our team,†said Rachel Winkler, program director of Senior Life Solutions. “Over the past three years, we’ve worked to grow this program, ensuring that older adults in our community have access to compassionate and effective mental health care. Seeing the impact on our patients’ lives has been incredibly rewarding.â€

Patrice Keunnen, Gundersen Palmer Lutheran Hospital’s CEO, commended Rachel and her team for their efforts in expanding the program: “Rachel has built this program from the ground up, and in just three years, the number of participants has nearly tripled. Her leadership and commitment to patient care have truly transformed Senior Life Solutions into an essential service for our community.â€

Gundersen Palmer Lutheran Hospital’s Senior Life Solutions program supports the unique needs of individuals, typically 65 and older, experiencing symptoms of depression, anxiety, grief and other mental health challenges that are often associated with aging. Senior Life Solutions program staff includes a board-certified psychiatrist, a nurse practitioner, a licensed therapist, a registered nurse, and other trained professionals to ensure each patient receives the best possible care.

Families, friends, community members, physicians, self-referrals, or other health professionals can refer people to the program.

For more information, education, or if you would like to discuss support, please call 563-422-9722.