Huseby returns to clinic

With the return of Kenda Huseby DNP-C to Sundance Clinic, the Board of Trustees is no longer seeking a new solution that will allow Crook County Medical Services District (CCMSD) to continue providing mental health support to its patients.

There was concern from members of the community earlier this year, when Huseby made the decision to leave the district. Huseby was recognized during the public comment period for her ability to offer mental as well as physical health support, and her patients asked what would happen in her absence.

Hearing this, the board recognized a need for these services and considered various options to continue providing it.

At first, the board considered introducing the Senior Life Solutions program to provide mental health care for residents aged 65 and above, with an eye to expanding this program to younger patients.

However, due to concerns over limiting the age groups to which mental health services would be available, the board changed lanes in April and opted to fill the nurse practitioner vacancy with a candidate who has a dual specialty that includes mental health.

Unfortunately, the candidate in question did not ultimately come to work for the district.

CEO Micki Lyons announced at last week’s meeting that Huseby will be returning to the clinic and will resume her provider duties as before.

Meanwhile, she said, it appears that a counsellor is considering opening a clinic in town, which would provide another referral option for patients in need of mental health care.

CCMSD also contracts with an outside service to provide counseling services for staff, Lyons said. This is available if, for example, a member of staff feels a need for support following a difficult EMS call.