Central Plains Home Health and Hospice, an important part of the Cozad Community Health System services, provides high-quality essential medical and hospice care directly to patients without them ever having to leave their home. Not only do they care for the Cozad community, but also the surrounding communities of Arnold, Callaway, Oconto, Lexington, Overton, Elwood, Eustis, Johnson’s Lake, Farnam, Curtis, Brady, and Gothenburg,
Home Health services provide skilled, rehabilitative care designed to help patients recover from illnesses, injuries, and surgeries. From nursing and lab work to specialized therapies and wound care, their goal is to help patients not just return to their usual selves, but potentially reach an even better state of well-being than before. With telehealth services also available, patients can access consultations and some types of care virtually, which reduces the need for travel while keeping them connected to their healthcare team.
In addition to rehabilitation, this experienced team also offers compassionate hospice services. Hospice care can take place at home, in a healthcare facility, or another setting that meets the family’s and patient’s preferences or medical needs. The goal of hospice is to provide comfort and dignity during the final stages of life, with a team that includes not only skilled nurses but also a bereavement coordinator and chaplain. This holistic approach ensures that patients and families receive emotional and spiritual support alongside physical care, creating a sense of peace during challenging times.
The Central Plains Home Health and Hospice team includes many long-serving professionals. Home Health Aides Tara Armagost and Wendy Walker provide daily support and comfort to patients. Business Office Manager Amanda Brockmeier keeps the operation running smoothly, ensuring efficient service delivery. Bereavement Coordinator Thea Cole and Chaplain Robert Litzenberger offer essential emotional support for families, while Social Services Director Dranoel Fleharty helps navigate healthcare and social services. Nurses Julie Griffis, Erin Horse, Jill Nelsen, Suzanne Ostergard, Lori Ann Scroggin, and Trish Sitorius bring both skill and compassion to every patient interaction. Nuse Tara Hudson serves as the Clinical Care Coordinator, overseeing clinical practices of the agency. All led by Director Julie Skala, who oversees operations with a focus on high standards of care.
Many of these professionals have served the area for many years, providing dependable, familiar faces for patients and families. Their long-standing commitment contributes to their reputation as a reliable and skilled healthcare resource, trusted by the communities they serve. The team’s experience and stability ensure continuity of care, a critical factor in both rehabilitation and end-of-life services.
As Cozad Community Health System celebrates Home Health and Hospice Month, we hope to raise awareness about the options available through Central Plains Home Health and Hospice. For those in need of home-based care, whether it’s rehabilitative or hospice support, remember Central Plains' reputation for compassionate, high-quality service tailored to the needs of our communities. To learn more, reach out to Cozad Community Health System or Central Plains Home Health and Hospice directly to discuss care options, available services, and how they can support you and your loved ones.