Mayers CEO Selected as one of 60 Rural CEO's to Know

Becker's Hospital Review has named the following CEOs to the 2017 edition of its list, "60 rural hospital CEOs to know."

 The 60 CEOs on this year's list possess extensive experience in healthcare management, demonstrating their commitment to offering high-quality, accessible care to rural populations. Under the CEOs' leadership, many of their institutions have earned recognition as top-performing rural hospitals in the nation.

For inclusion on this list, individuals must serve as CEOs of hospitals in "rural" areas, located outside major metropolitan areas. Becker's Hospital Review analyzed compilations by ranking and award agencies, such as The Leapfrog Group's listing of top rural hospitals and the National Rural Health Association's list of top rural community hospitals. The editorial team also accepted nominations for the list.

Note: Individuals cannot pay for inclusion on the list. This list is not a ranking. Names are presented in alphabetical order.

Louis Ward. CEO of Mayers Memorial Hospital District (Fall River Mills, Calif.). Mr. Ward became CEO of Mayers Memorial in November 2015 after spending time as the interim CEO, COO and director of support services. The critical access hospitals sits about 200 miles north of Sacramento, Calif. Mr. Ward holds a master of science in healthcare administration and interprofessional leadership from University of California, San Francisco.

Read CEO reports from the MMHD website - click here

Understanding Blood Pressure

We get it taken when we go to the doctor, we hear about it all of the time. What does it mean? Is the top number more important than the bottom? What should it be?

Your blood pressure is measured using two numbers. The first (systolic) number represents the pressure in your blood vessels when your heart beats. The second (diastolic) number represents the pressure in your vessels when your heart rests between beats. If the measurement reads 120 systolic and 80 diastolic, you would say "120 over 80" or write "120/80 mmHg."

High blood pressure is a common and dangerous condition. Having high blood pressure means the pressure of the blood in your blood vessels is higher than it should be. But you can take steps to control your blood pressure and lower your risk.

High blood pressure often has no warning signs or symptoms, and many people don’t know they have it. That’s why it’s important to check your blood pressure regularly. The good news is that you can take steps to prevent high blood pressure or to control it if your blood pressure is already high.

Simple steps can help you prevent high blood pressure:

• Eating a healthy diet and maintain a healthy weight
• Be physically active
• Don't smoke
• Limit alcohol use
• Check your blood pressure regularly

If you have concerns, consult your physician for more information.