WE ARE PLEASED TO ANNOUNCE THE RELEASE OF THE FALL 2025 EDITION OF COVINGTONCARES, A PUBLICATION OF COVINGTON COUNTY HOSPITAL. In this issue, we are proud to share exciting leadership updates, highlight the continued development of Smith County Emergency Hospital, and celebrate the dedicated professionals who serve our patients every day. This edition features new leadership within our nursing team, with Danielle Berard, BSN, RN, stepping into her role as Chief Nursing Officer. Danielle brings a wealth of experience, strong clinical expertise, and a patient-first approach that will guide our nursing staff in delivering exceptional care across all areas of the hospital. Her leadership will ensure that our teams remain focused on safety, compassion, and quality outcomes for every patient we serve. We are also excited to announce that Sarah Don Lott, FNP, PMHNP, has been named Director of Nursing for the Senior Care Unit. Behavioral health services remain a cornerstone of our mission, and Sarah's vision and leadership will strengthen our ability to provide compassionate, specialized care to older adults in need of mental health support. Her commitment to advancing behavioral health aligns perfectly with our goal of meeting the growing needs of our community. Additionally, we are proud to provide an update on Smith County Emergency Hospital (SCEH). Since its opening, SCEH has established itself as a critical healthcare resource for Smith County residents, offering emergency services close to home. This facility not only expands access to lifesaving care but also contributes to the growth and stability of the local community. We remain deeply grateful to all who helped make this project a reality. As always, the stories in this issue of CovingtonCares highlight the people – patients, providers, and staff – who make Covington County Hospital a trusted source of care. Their dedication, compassion, and expertise are what allow us to fulfill our mission of improving the health and well-being of the communities we serve. Thank you for choosing Covington County Hospital. It is our honor to serve your healthcare needs. Gregg Gibbes, CEO LETTER FROM THE CEO CovingtonCares 1
06 IN THIS ISSUE 20 08 COVINGTON COUNTY HOSPITAL BEGINS $1 MILLION RENOVATION PROJECT TO ENHANCE PATIENT EXPERIENCE 12 MEDICAL LAB SERVES PROVIDERS AND PATIENTS 24/7 SMITH COUNTY EMERGENCY HOSPITAL: A PROMISE FULFILLED AND A BEACON OF CARE FOR THE FUTURE CARING CLOSE TO HOME: MEET SHELBY DICKERSON, FNP NEW CHIEF NURSING OFFICER EXPRESSES HER APPRECIATION 14 16 EXCLUSIVE! 24 27 28 30 HEART HEALTHY RECIPE YOUR HEALTH MATTERS STRONGER EVERY SEASON COMMUNITY BEHAVIORAL HEALTH PROGRAMS OFFER HOPE FOR ALL AGES
HELLO, FRIENDS I’m Dr. Kenneth Daughtrey, MD, and I have the honor of being the Chief of Staff here at Covington County Hospital. As a proud resident of Covington County, it feels amazing to be back home, serving the wonderful communities that helped shape who I am. Our dedicated team at Covington County Hospital is all about providing you and our community with exceptional care. We truly care about your health and well-being! We’ve had some exciting changes in the past few months that we believe will make a positive impact on our community. We’re welcoming Sara Lott, FNP, PMHNP, as our new Director of Nursing for the Senior Care Unit. I’ve seen her dedication and commitment to our patients firsthand, and I truly believe she’ll make a fantastic impact on our team. I’m also thrilled to introduce Kimberly Bennett, LSCW, CDP, ICST, who is joining us as the Director of Social Services. Her expertise and caring nature are going to be such a great addition. Additionally, we have a new Chief Nursing Officer! Danielle Berard, RN, BSN, has been an essential part of our nursing team for several years and is now taking the lead with a strong patient-centered approach. And let’s not forget about our exciting renovation project! We’re eager to create an even better patient experience, and we can’t wait to share the improvements with you. Thank you for being a part of our community. We look forward to continuing to serve you! Kenneth Daughtrey, M.D. LETTER FROM THE CHIEF OF STAFF 2025 Fall/Winter 4
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CovingtonCares 7 CARING CLOSE TO HOME MEET SHELBY DICKERSON, FNP At CCH Clinic Green Tree in Mount Olive, Mississippi, patients are welcomed with both professional expertise and a personal touch from Shelby Dickerson, FNP, a dedicated family nurse practitioner. Shelby is a proud member of the Mississippi Nurses’ Association and is accredited through the American Academy of Nurse Practitioners. Her journey in healthcare began at William Carey University, where she earned her Bachelor of Science in Nursing in 2016. She then gained valuable experience as a registered nurse, serving patients in home health across Covington, Jefferson Davis, Simpson, and Smith counties. Driven by a passion to expand her role in patient care, Shelby went on to earn her Master of Science in Nursing with a Family Nurse Practitioner focus from Chamberlain University in 2023. At CCH Clinic Green Tree, Shelby provides compassionate, comprehensive care for families throughout the community. Her patients benefit not only from her advanced training but also from her years of hands-on nursing experience in diverse settings. She takes pride in building lasting relationships with her patients and being part of their ongoing health journeys. Beyond her clinical work, Shelby is deeply rooted in Covington County. She and her husband, a small-business owner, are raising their three children in the community they love. Active outside the clinic, she volunteers with the Junior League of Covington County and serves in the children’s ministry at The Springs Church. When she has quiet moments to herself, Shelby enjoys reading – especially historical fiction. With her dedication to patients, commitment to her community, and passion for lifelong learning, Shelby Dickerson represents the heart of healthcare in rural Mississippi – caring close to home.
COVINGTON COUNTY HOSPITAL BEGINS $1 MILLION RENOVATION PROJECT TO ENHANCE PATIENT EXPERIENCE
“Support from the community is crucial for projects like this,” said Gibbes. “We are very grateful to the City of Collins and Covington County for their partnership and dedication to making these improvements happen.” – Gregg Gibbes, CEO CovingtonCares 9 Covington County Hospital is excited to announce a major construction project worth $1 million aimed at improving the overall experience for patients and visitors. This project will modernize key areas of the hospital and include updates like relocating the outpatient registration area, adding new covered drop-off areas, installing new windows, and giving the building a fresh coat of paint. The goal is to create a more welcoming and efficient environment. The hospital leadership understands that the entrance plays a big role in the first impression people have when they visit. By relocating the outpatient registration area, they hope to make check-in procedures smoother and more accessible, helping patients move quickly to the services they need. Two of the standout features of the renovation will be the added drop-off areas at both the outpatient registration entrance and the main entrance. These covered areas will protect patients and visitors from bad weather, making their arrival more comfortable. This improvement is part of a larger effort to enhance the hospital’s exterior, ensuring that convenience and care go hand in hand. Alongside practical changes, the hospital will also focus on making the building more visually appealing. New windows will let in more natural light, creating a bright and inviting atmosphere. A fresh paint job will help the hospital look modern and reflect its commitment to providing excellent healthcare. Gregg Gibbes, the CEO of Covington County Hospital, said these updates represent the hospital’s dedication to not only providing high-quality medical care but also ensuring that patients feel comfortable and satisfied. Every aspect of this project has been carefully planned with the needs of patients and the community in mind. The renovations aim to improve the flow of traffic in busy areas of the hospital. By moving the outpatient registration area, the hospital hopes to reduce wait times and enhance the overall patient experience. The new drop-off areas will provide safe and convenient access, which is especially important for older adults and those with mobility issues. The hospital has worked closely with local leaders to ensure that this project benefits the surrounding community as well. Special thanks go to Collins Mayor Hope Magee Jones, City Alderman, District 3 Supervisor Chris Brister and the Board of Supervisors of Covington County for their help in creating additional parking options during construction. Their support has been essential for a smooth renovation process, keeping access easy for everyone. “Support from the community is crucial for projects like this,” said Gibbes. “We are very grateful to the City of Collins and Covington County for their partnership and dedication to making these improvements happen.” Construction will take place in phases over the coming months, with careful planning to limit disruptions to hospital services. Patients and staff can look forward to a more efficient, attractive, and patient-friendly facility once the project is completed, further establishing Covington County Hospital as a top healthcare provider in the region.
2025 Fall/Winter 12 MEDICAL LAB SERVES PROVIDERS AND PATIENTS 24/7 Tanya Magee, MLS (ASCP), and her staff provide crucial patient-care information every day at Covington County Hospital. Magee directs the medical laboratory, which tests body fluids and tissues around the clock, helping doctors and other providers diagnose and treat patients.
CovingtonCares 13 All hospital units, including the Emergency Department, use the lab. So do the CCH clinics. “Anything that they would need to treat that patient immediately, we provide that with in-house testing,” Magee said. Comprehensive Testing That includes blood tests, urinalysis, and tests of other body fluids and tissues. Chemistry analysis assesses kidney, liver, and thyroid functioning, monitors cardiac and therapeutic drug performance, and screens for diabetes. Molecular testing screens for COVID-19, flu, strep, and respiratory syncytial virus (RSV). And that’s just a partial list of the unit’s capabilities. The lab also handles inpatient transfusions and performs tests for some non-CCH medical practices. Patients who see a family doctor, pediatrician, or other specialist not affiliated with CCH can ask their provider to use the hospital for lab work so the patient can avoid driving to larger cities where labs may have longer wait times. Employers regulated by the U.S. Department of Transportation depend on the lab for employee drug and alcohol screening. “Any entity that comes in with their form and collection kit that needs a DOT test, we provide that service,” Magee said. School Testing The lab also serves other employers, including the Covington County School District, which tests bus drivers, teachers, and sometimes students. It all adds up to approximately 24,000 patient encounters a year. Covington County Hospital keeps its lab state-of-the-art. “We’ve continually changed our instrumentation to meet the latest technology,” Magee said. “For example, we brought in molecular testing during the COVID pandemic. That was huge, because one of the COVID strains could only be detected by molecular testing.” ‘Super Nice’ CCH opened its current lab facility in 2020. “I can tell you, because I’ve visited some other labs recently, that it is just super nice,” Magee said. “Everything is very userfriendly. It’s designed with a logical flow to it.” The lab has 10 full-time employees, including Magee, who is a medical laboratory scientist. The staff has four other medical laboratory scientists and a medical laboratory technician. Like Magee, they all have certifications from the American Society for Clinical Pathology. Phlebotomists, who draw blood, fill the rest of the positions. Magee began her career 29 years ago and has been at Covington County Hospital for seven years. She also directs the labs at CCH’s partner hospitals: Simpson General Hospital in Mendenhall, Magee General Hospital in Magee, and Smith County Emergency Hospital in Raleigh. Calibrating Equipment Her duties include calibrations to make sure all the equipment in all four hospitals adheres to federal standards set out in the Clinical Laboratory Improvement Amendments of 1988. Demand for lab scientists and technicians currently exceeds supply. Magee urges anyone interested in a good-paying healthcare career with regular hours to consider the medical laboratory technology program at CopiahLincoln Community College or the medical laboratory science program (which has an online option) at The University of Southern Mississippi. After all, how many professions allow you to help save lives every day? For information about laboratory services, call 601.698.0115 or scan the QR code. LEARN MORE Tanya Magee BSMLS, (ASCP) Director of Laboratory Operations
NEW CHIEF NURSING OFFICER EXPRESSES HER Appreciation As the new Chief Nursing Officer at Covington County Hospital, Danielle Berard, BSN, RN, lets the nurses know that she has their back: “A goal of mine is to make sure that the staff feel appreciated and acknowledged and told, ‘Hey, you did a good job there.’” She draws on experiences, some uplifting and some challenging, from her nearly 13-year career, especially the time she spent providing hospice care for end-of-life patients – “allowing people the space to feel what they’re feeling and giving them the grace and support that they need,” she said. “allowing people the space to feel what they’re feeling and giving them the grace and support that they need.”
“I learned with hospice how to have hard conversations. I learned how to be direct, but also to do that with compassion and kindness and grace.” Nurses have the most bedside contact with patients – people who may be hurting, scared, wishing they were home in their own beds. They’re not at their best. Caring for them is why we are here. Nevertheless, nurses must remain positive and professional. “Those nurses are connecting with those patients,” Berard said. “You’re spending significant amounts of time with those patients, and those patients need you. They are looking to you for everything.” Restoring Faith So Berard makes sure her nurses uphold CCH’s high standards. And she makes a point of praising them when they do – especially those struggling with the demands of their profession. “Part of my goal is trying to restore people’s faith in their calling and in the nursing career. I want people to know they are appreciated.” Berard arrived at Covington County Hospital in December 2012, coming straight out of nursing school into the high-adrenaline setting of the Emergency Department. In 2016, she left for a few months at the Intensive Care Unit at a larger hospital. She returned that same year to work in the Emergency Department at Magee General Hospital in Magee and in surgery at CCH, eventually becoming nursing supervisor in surgery. In August 2019, she left for hospice care – keeping terminally ill patients as comfortable as possible in the last few months of life. She returned again to Covington County Hospital in May 2022. Until her May 2025 promotion to Chief Nursing Officer, she worked in case management, assessing patients’ needs, implementing care plans, and making sure patients had the resources and support they needed to put those plans into action. Hard but Rewarding “Hospice was the hardest but most rewarding part of my career,” Berard said. “I loved hospice. There’s something so peaceful about a prepared-for death. It can be such a beautiful experience for the families because you literally feel God in the room when somebody’s drawing their last breaths.” She said nurses and the healthcare system in general are still rebuilding public trust that eroded during the scary, uncertain months of the 2020 COVID-19 pandemic. Nurses, risking their lives and working grueling hours, felt unappreciated – and brokenhearted at losing so many patients despite their best efforts. “It takes a mental toll,” Berard said. That’s why she emphasizes positive reinforcement. “You can improve someone’s mental health by saying, ‘Hey, I see what you did there. You did a good job.’ It helps on those darker days where those feelings are overwhelming.” “I learned with hospice how to have hard conversations. I learned how to be direct, but also to do that with compassion and kindness and grace.” “Part of my goal is trying to restore people’s faith in their calling and in the nursing career. I want people to know they’re appreciated.” CovingtonCares 15
HOPE FOR ALL AGES Covington County Hospital is dedicated to continually improving our behavioral health services. We are excited to implement innovative therapies and to support the promotion of two esteemed leaders from within our hospital family. We are excited about the opportunities to better serve our community. Behavioral Health Programs Offer
CovingtonCares 17 Alyssa Mozingo, LMSW Charlie Crafton, DNP, PMHNP-BC Kimberly Bennett, LCSW, CDP, ICST Kimberly Bennett, LCSW, CDP, ICST, is now Behavioral Health Program Director, managing the Brightside Intensive Outpatient Program and Covington Place Therapy & Counseling. She has bachelor’s and master’s degrees in social work from the University of Southern Mississippi. Bennett came to CCH in 2022 as Brightside Program Director. Variety of Programs Here’s how Covington County Hospital provides behavioral care: Covington Place Therapy & Counseling, a clinic in Collins, offers individual counseling and therapy services and substance use treatment for those 6 years or older. The clinic accepts self-referrals as well as referrals from healthcare providers. “It’s just as essential to get treatment for mental health as it is for physical health,” Bennett said. “A lot of times, if you’re having physical health issues, it will cause your mental health to decline.” Life Events Covington Place treats issues such as depression, anxiety, bipolar disorder, borderline personality disorder, and anger difficulties, and problems triggered by life events, such as posttraumatic stress disorder (PTSD) and grief or depression following a death, divorce, or the departure of children from the nest. Addressing childhood problems can pay lifetime dividends, Bennett said. “Early interventions can teach children about emotional regulation, distress tolerance, and other techniques.” CCH counselors are committed to customizing treatment plans to address the unique needs of each individual. Bennett notes that sand tray therapy, typically used with children, can also yield positive results for many adults. This therapeutic method allows patients to arrange figurines in a scene that reflects their emotions, fostering a thoughtful exploration of their feelings in a safe and supportive environment. Mindfulness She also uses dialectical behavior therapy (DBT), which teaches mindfulness (“I try to incorporate being mindful into most every therapy that I do”), and is introducing eye movement desensitization and reprocessing (EMDR), which incorporates eye movements and other stimulations to help process disturbing memories. “It works really well with PTSD patients, but it can help with other conditions like depression and anxiety.” Mental health issues can strike anyone at any age, Bennett said. “Whether you’re 6 or 106, you deserve the support, the healing, and the hope to get better.” Brightside Intensive Outpatient Program provides outpatient mental health care on the hospital campus to patients 55 or older. “It’s just as essential to get treatment for mental health as it is for physical health.” – Kimberly Bennett, LCSW, CDP, ICST
2025 Fall/Winter 18 Brightside accepts self-referrals and referrals from healthcare providers. Transportation services are available within a 50-mile radius. Patients must have a condition requiring a psychiatrist’s supervision and must have insurance. Individual, Group Therapy Participants receive individual and group therapy three days a week, usually for six months, plus psychiatric evaluations and medication management. “With group therapy, they find a support that they probably wouldn’t get elsewhere from other people going through similar problems,” Bennett said. Sarah Don Lott, FNP, PMHNP, a psychiatric mental health nurse practitioner, is the new Director of Nursing for the Senior Care Unit. A Covington County native who grew up in Sumrall, she became a registered nurse with a bachelor’s degree in nursing from William Carey University, then a family nurse practitioner with a master’s in clinical nursing from Southern Miss. She joined CCH in 2018 at the Family Care Express clinic in Collins. “I quickly realized that mental health resources were limited,” she said. “I made the decision to further my education and pursue the postmaster’s certificate in psychiatric mental health so that I could be a resource for those in need.” The Senior Care Unit provides compassionate short-term inpatient psychiatric care specifically designed for individuals age 55 or older. With an average length of stay of 14 days, this unit focuses on creating a supportive environment where seniors can receive the specialized attention they need. Referrals to the unit are welcomed from a variety of sources, including healthcare providers, counseling agencies, legal professionals, and concerned family members, all working together to ensure the well-being of their loved ones. For added convenience, transportation services are available to facilitate access to the facility, making it easier for seniors to embark on their journey toward improved mental health and emotional stability. Team Approach Covington County Hospital also offers psychiatric care for acute care and swing bed (short-term skilled nursing care) patients and residents at Arrington Living Center, a skilled nursing facility in Collins. “You don’t have to live with feeling bad,” Bennett said. Treatment can help. Sometimes, it can be lifechanging not only for patients but also for those around them. She recalled an 89-year-old man who came to the Brightside Intensive Outpatient Program. His anger had alienated his family. “He told me, ‘This has helped me so much. This is the first time in my life I have ever talked about my feelings.’” ‘Such a Difference!’ The therapy enabled him to mend his family relationships. “I got a call from his daughter, and she said, ‘I see such a difference in him!’” Covington Place Therapy & Counseling (mental health and substance abuse treatment; 6 or older), call 601.698.0263. Brightside Intensive Outpatient Program (mental health treatment; 55 or older), call 601.765.4600. Senior Care Unit (short-term inpatient psychiatric care; 55 or older), call 601.698.0158. Alzheimer's & Dementia Caregiver Support Group, (meets first Tuesday of each month), call 601.698.0128. LEARN MORE Sarah Don Lott, FNP, PMHNP
SMITH COUNTY EMERGENCY HOSPITAL: A PROMISE FULFILLED AND A BEACON OF CARE FOR THE FUTURE When Smith County Emergency Hospital opened its doors to the public on February 10, 2025, it marked the beginning of a new era in healthcare for the region. Nearly one year later, the impact of the hospital is clear: more than 2,000 patients have already received care, and the facility has become an essential part of the community it serves.
CovingtonCares 21 The response from local residents has been overwhelming. From the very first day, the hospital has been met with tremendous support. That support has not only validated the vision behind the facility but has also inspired the staff to work even harder. “The community support at SCEH is very humbling,” said Gregg Gibbes, CEO of Covington County Hospital. “We have exceeded the projections for year one largely due to the support and trust the community has placed in our hospital.” The hospital was designed to address a pressing need – bringing high-quality emergency services closer to home for Smith County residents. Before the facility opened, many patients were forced to travel long distances in critical situations, losing valuable time. Now, care is available right in their own backyard. The more than 2,000 visits in the first year underscore just how vital this access has been. While the hospital’s role as a provider of emergency care is at the forefront, stories of achievement and excellence have also emerged from within its walls. This year, two emergency department nurses were recognized with Trauma Pins from the Mississippi Trauma Foundation, a prestigious acknowledgment of their skills and dedication in lifesaving situations. Their recognition highlights not only individual excellence but also the culture of professionalism and compassion that defines the hospital’s staff. The achievements of the first year are a testament to the dedication of the physicians, nurses, and support staff who keep the hospital running day and night. Many of them are from the surrounding area, giving them a personal connection to the patients they serve. That sense of connection is one of the hospital’s greatest strength – neighbors caring for neighbors, friends helping friends. As the hospital looks toward the future, its leaders are eager to build on this foundation of success. Plans are underway to expand outpatient services, enhance trauma care capabilities, and strengthen partnerships with local clinics and emergency responders. The longterm goal is not only to respond to emergencies but also to become a trusted partner in prevention, wellness, and overall community health. The story of Smith County Emergency Hospital is still in its early chapters, but its impact is already undeniable. In just one year, it has cared for thousands, earned statewide recognition for its staff, and provided peace of mind to an entire county. Most importantly, it has shown what can happen when neighboring communities come together to support something bigger than themselves. Smith County Emergency Hospital is more than just a building – it’s a promise fulfilled, and a beacon of care for the future.
INGREDIENTS (SERVES 4-6) For the roux: • 3 Tbsp olive oil (or avocado oil) • 3 Tbsp whole wheat flour For the gumbo: • 1 medium onion, diced • 1 green bell pepper, diced • 2 celery stalks, diced • 4 garlic cloves, minced • 1 medium tomato, diced (or 1 cup no-salt-added diced tomatoes) • 1 small red bell pepper, sliced • 1–2 small chili peppers, sliced (optional, for heat) • 4 cups low-sodium seafood or vegetable broth • 1 tsp smoked paprika • 1 tsp dried thyme • 1 tsp oregano • 2 bay leaves • ½ tsp cayenne pepper (optional) • Freshly ground black pepper, to taste • 1 lb shrimp, peeled and deveined • ½ lb crab meat or scallops (optional, for variety) • 1 cup okra, sliced • 2 Tbsp fresh parsley, chopped • Juice of ½ lemon To serve: • 4 cups cooked brown rice (or longgrain white rice) HEART HEALTHY RECIPE SEAFOOD GUMBO This lighter version of classic gumbo keeps all the deep, rich flavors of Louisiana cooking while focusing on heart-healthy ingredients. By swapping butter for olive oil, using less sodium, and filling the pot with nutrient-rich seafood and vegetables, this gumbo delivers comfort without compromise. Serve it over brown or white rice for a wholesome, satisfying meal. INSTRUCTIONS: Make the roux: In a large heavy-bottomed pot, heat the olive oil over medium heat. Whisk in the flour and stir continuously until it turns a deep golden brown, about 8–10 minutes. Be careful not to burn. Cook the vegetables: Add the onion, green bell pepper, celery, and garlic to the roux. Sauté until softened, about 5 minutes. Stir in the diced tomato and red bell pepper and chili peppers if using. Build the base: Pour in the broth. Add smoked paprika, thyme, oregano, bay leaves, cayenne pepper if using, and black pepper. Bring to a gentle boil, then reduce heat and simmer for 20 minutes. Add seafood and okra: Stir in the shrimp, crab or scallops if using, and okra. Simmer for 5–7 minutes, just until the seafood is cooked through. Finish with freshness: Remove bay leaves. Stir in parsley and lemon juice. Taste and adjust seasoning with more pepper or a pinch of cayenne, if desired. Serve: Spoon gumbo over warm rice. Garnish with parsley and chili flakes for a vibrant finish. 2025 Fall/Winter 24
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YOUR HEALTH MATTERS CovingtonCares 27 FLU SEASON IS HERE: WHAT FAMILIES NEED TO KNOW As temperatures drop and the leaves turn in Mississippi, another seasonal marker quietly arrives: flu season. Each year, influenza affects thousands of families across the U.S., and while it may seem like a routine part of fall and winter, the flu can be serious – especially for children, seniors, and individuals with chronic health conditions. At Covington County Hospital, we want our community to feel informed, protected, and prepared. Here’s what every family should know heading into flu season 2025. What Is the Flu, Really? Influenza is a contagious respiratory illness caused by influenza viruses. It comes on suddenly, often with fever, chills, cough, sore throat, muscle aches, and fatigue. While some recover in a few days, others – particularly the very young, elderly, or immunocompromised – can develop complications like pneumonia or require hospitalization. The Flu Vaccine: Your First Line of Defense The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) recommends that everyone 6 months and older get vaccinated annually. Getting your flu shot is one of the simplest but most powerful things you can do to protect your family and those around you. How to Protect Your Household Wash hands frequently with soap and water. Avoid close contact with anyone showing flu-like symptoms. Cover coughs and sneezes with a tissue or elbow. Stay home if you’re sick to prevent spreading the flu to others. For families with school-age children, be especially vigilant. Encourage mask use if flu cases rise significantly in your area, and teach good hygiene habits at home. When to Seek Medical Care If you or a loved one experiences high fever, difficulty breathing, chest pain, severe dehydration, or symptoms that worsen after improvement, it’s time to seek professional care. Our emergency and urgent care teams are fully staffed this season and ready to help. Together, we can make this flu season safer and healthier for us all.
HOLIDAY HUSTLE: BURN CALORIES, NOT OUT The holiday season in Mississippi, is filled with joy – and usually a lot of delicious food. From Thanksgiving feasts to Christmas cookies, it’s easy for health goals to slip into hibernation mode. But the good news is: You can enjoy the season and still feel strong, energized, and in control. Here’s how to stay active and well without overdoing it – or burning out. 1. Set the Bar Low (on Purpose) Let’s be honest – between holiday shopping, family visits, and chilly weather, your normal routine might take a hit. That’s OK. Instead of aiming for perfection, aim for consistency. Try this: • Take a 10-minute brisk walk after lunch or dinner. Do a set of squats, lunges, and stretches during TV commercials. • Dance while cleaning or wrapping gifts. • Even short bouts of movement add up! 2. Be Mindful, Not Miserable No need to skip the sweet potato casserole. Instead, focus on portions and pace. Eat slowly, enjoy every bite, and fill half your plate with veggies when possible. Pro tip: Staying hydrated helps curb cravings and improves digestion. 3. Make It a Family Affair Get everyone moving with activities that don’t feel like workouts: • Play family football in the yard. • Walk to see Christmas lights. • Lead post-dinner stretching with the kids. • Fun and connection count just as much as calories burned. 4. Prioritize Sleep and Recovery Lack of sleep can lead to overeating and skipped workouts. Try to stick to a sleep schedule, even during holiday excitement. And remember – rest days are part of a balanced routine. 5. Listen to Your Body, Not Guilt Holiday wellness isn’t about punishment. It’s about balance. Move your body because it feels good, not to “earn” your dessert. Let joy – not guilt – lead the way. LEARN MORE For information about Covington Fitness, visit CovingtonCountyHospital.com/ covingtonfitness. Call 601.698.0320 to learn more. STRONGER EVERY SEASON 2025 Fall/Winter 28
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Wayne-Sanderson Farms Health and Benefits Fair EMS Week CovingtonCares 31
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8/22/2023 DISCRIMINATION IS AGAINST THE LAW Covington County Hospital complies with applicable Federal civil rights laws and does not discriminate on the basis of race, color, national origin, age, disability, or sex. Covington County Hospital does not exclude people or treat them differently because of race, color, national origin, age, disability, or sex. Covington County Hospital provides free aids and services to people with disabilities to communicate effectively with us and access our services, such as: • Written and spoken information in other formats (large print, audio, accessible electronic formats, interpreters, etc.) • Handicap parking, curb cuts and ramps, elevators, etc. Covington County Hospital provides free language services to people whose primary language is not English, such as information written in other languages. • Name: Lynn Scott • Mailing Address: 701 South Holly Avenue, Collins, MS 39428 • Telephone number: 601-765-6711 • Email: lscott@covingtoncountyhospital.com If you believe that Covington County Hospital has failed to provide these services or discriminated in another way on the basis of race, color, national origin, age, disability, or sex, you can file a grievance with Covington County Hospital’s Compliance Officer. You can file a grievance in person or by mail, or email. If you need help filing a grievance, Covington County Hospital’s Compliance Officer is available to help you. You can also file a civil rights complaint with the U.S. Department of Health and Human Services, Office for Civil Rights, electronically through the Office for Civil Rights Complaint Portal, available at https://ocrportal.hhs.gov/ocr/portal/lobby.jsf or by mail or phone at: U.S. Department of Health and Human Services, 200 Independence Avenue, SW, Room 509F, HHH Building, Washington, D.C. 20201, 1-800368-1019, 800-537-7697 (TDD). Complaint forms are available at https://www.hhs.gov/civil-rights/filing-a-complaint/complaint-process/index.html CovingtonCares 33
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