News

Box Butte General Hospital (BBGH) Board of Trustees met on Monday, December 22, 2025, in the Alliance Room. The hospital’s Board recognized staff achievements and received updates on hospital quality, facility improvements, and initiatives that support patient care and long-term organizational strength.

The Employee of the Month for December, Courtney Schnell, RN, was recognized at the meeting for her hard work and dedication. The board was also introduced to a new employee, Alaina Akey, OT. She is a recent graduate from Colorado who will be practicing as an Occupational Therapist in the Rehab Center. “We are excited to have her begin her professional career in Alliance and help strengthen our rehab services,” said Rehab Manager Tim Devlin.

Quality and Safety Report

Quality Management Specialist Summer Gonzalez presented the hospital’s Quality Assurance and Performance Improvement (QAPI) self-assessment, representing measurable progress over the past year. Key advancements included:

• Development of guiding principles to incorporate QAPI into the organization’s culture
• Utilizing and engaging QAPI in all departments and service lines
• Increasing Board involvement and support of quality initiatives
• Implementing the Quality Council to lead trainings and performance improvement projects

Overall, the majority of assessed areas showed improvement or were maintained, reflecting steady progress for the entire organization. Hospital policies reviewed through the Quality Council were also approved. Board Member John Annen thanked those on the council and individuals who helped to review and improve the policies noting that these efforts improve care and support safety standards.

Executive Staff Updates

Chief of Staff Dr. Timothy Narjes reported to the board that the clinics are seeing typical seasonal illnesses. Medical staff committees continue to review cases, update policies, and maintain credentialing standards.

Chief Medical Officer and Interim Chief Executive Officer Dr. Brian Shelmadine reported that recruitment efforts are ongoing to continue to support the Emergency Department and family medicine services.

Chief Operations Officer Gabriel Behling noted several facility improvement projects including:

• Ongoing renovations in the pediatric therapy areas
• Infrastructure upgrades aimed at improving long-term efficiency
• Planned expansion of diagnostic services including an additional ultrasound room to expand services
• Technology initiatives across clinical and operational systems

The meeting concluded with board members wishing everyone a Merry Christmas and thanking them for their devotion and excellent teamwork.

The meeting moved into executive session at 12:40 PM. The next board meeting is scheduled for Monday, January 26, 2026, at noon in the Alliance Room. The public is welcome to attend. Box Butte General Hospital is an equal opportunity provider and employer.