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Partnering with our community for better health

emily.griffin
Submitted by emily.griffin on

Healthy communities start with the people who live there. Across Southeastern Ohio, residents care deeply about the health of their families and neighbors.

To strengthen these efforts, Genesis HealthCare System partners with the Southeastern Ohio Health Improvement Collaborative, which includes the Zanesville-Muskingum, Perry, Noble and Morgan County Health Departments. Together, we use community feedback to identify and prioritize the health needs that matter most.

Listening to our communities

In 2024, residents, community partners and public health leaders participated in the Community Health Needs Assessment (CHNA) survey to identify the top health needs in our region. Their input guided the development of our 2025–2027 Community Health Improvement Plan (CHIP). The plan focuses on the health needs that matter most in Southeastern Ohio.

Genesis priorities for 2025 to 2027

Based on this feedback, we identified three priority areas where we can work together to make the greatest impact:

  • Behavioral health

  • Chronic disease

  • Access to healthcare

These priorities guide our efforts to build a healthier, better future for Southeastern Ohio.

Find out what needs you said matter most. Visit genesishcs.org/chna2024.

See how you are shaping a healthier community. Visit genesishcs.org/chip2025.

family posing for photo in their front yard with dog, two kids and parents

Three priority areas where we can work together to make the greatest impact.

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Make the call on your health

emily.griffin
Submitted by emily.griffin on

Pictured above: Stephen Knox, M.D., Primary Care Physician at Genesis Primary Care

When you’re not feeling your best, you want relief fast. Before you go to an Emergency Department (ED) or Urgent Care for a minor health concern, consider calling your Genesis Primary Care provider first.*

Why? Your Primary Care Physician or Provider (PCP) knows your health history and can provide guidance and reassurance. This saves you time, money and unnecessary worry. Genesis PCPs may even be able to see you in the office the same day you call.

If you do need to go to the ED or stay in the hospital, your care doesn’t end there. By calling your PCP afterward, you take an important step toward follow-up care, a strong recovery and a healthier future.

You’re in control

Schedule an appointment with a Genesis PCP using MyChart, online at genesishcs.org/schedule or call Genesis OneCall at 740-455-7500.

If you are experiencing an emergency, call 9-1-1.

Stephen Knox, M.D. Primary Care Physician at Genesis Primary Care siting with a patient

Schedule an appointment with a Genesis PCP using MyChart, online at genesishcs.org/schedule or call Genesis OneCall at 740-455-7500.

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How to stop muscle cramps from ruining your workout

emily.griffin
Submitted by emily.griffin on

Ah, muscle cramps. The charming surprise your body throws in the middle of a workout, a peaceful nap or walking into the store. Nothing says “your body is not as young as you used to be” like your calf locking up mid-stride.

So, how do we prevent these surprise attacks?

  • First, hydrate like it’s your job. Water is your best friend. According to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC), dehydration is a common cause of muscle cramps. When your body runs low on fluids, your muscles get confused and throw a temper tantrum. Drink up.

  • Second, don’t skip the warmup. You are not a car that can go from 0 to 60 in five seconds. Gentle stretching before and after physical activity can help keep your muscles calm and civilized. Medline Plus recommends doing basic flexibility exercises to reduce your risk of cramps and muscle strains.

  • Third, eat your bananas, spinach and sweet potatoes. Why? Because potassium, magnesium and calcium are key players in muscle function. Low levels of these can lead to cramps. If your diet consists mostly of coffee and hope, it’s time to rethink your grocery list.

  • Fourth, don’t overdo it. If you go from “Netflix marathoner” to “real marathoner” overnight, your muscles will revolt. Gradually increase activity and mix in rest days unless you enjoy waking up at 2 a.m. in a charley horse death grip.

  • Finally, listen to your body. If cramps persist or you’re starting to feel like a pretzel during yoga, check in with your healthcare provider. Some cramps can be signs of underlying conditions.

So, stretch, sip, snack smart and stay cramp-free.

 

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Genesis HealthCare System’s Health and Wellness content conveniently provides accurate and helpful information. Your health history and current health may impact suggestions provided through our Health and Wellness content. Although we hope this information is helpful, it is not a substitute for your doctor's medical advice. Before making any significant changes, please consult your doctor.

close up of man holding his calf muscle, representing a muscle cramp

Stretch, sip, snack smart and stay cramp-free.

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Genesis HealthCare System Among the Top 8% in the U.S. To Earn 5 out of 5 Stars for Quality

Kyle.Norton
Submitted by Kyle.Norton on

Genesis HealthCare System announced today that they have once again been recognized with a Five-Star U.S. Centers for Medicare & Medicaid Services (CMS) Overall Hospital Quality Star Rating - the highest rating a hospital can receive. Genesis is among the top 8% of hospitals in the United States to earn 5 out of 5 stars in the 2026 CMS Hospital Quality Ratings.

“The Five-Star Overall Rating for quality is a testament to the persistent high-quality work and determination of our entire Genesis team,” said Scott Wegner, M.D., Chief Medical Officer for Genesis HealthCare System. “We strive for exceptional patient care and continuously implement innovative quality and safety practices. This recognition further highlights our community’s continued trust in choosing Genesis.”

CMS calculates the Overall Hospital Quality Star Rating using publicly reported quality measures grouped into five areas: mortality, safety of care, readmission, patient experience and timely and effective care.

The Overall Star Rating is published on Medicare.gov’s Care Compare to help patients and families compare hospitals based on consistent, national measures. Genesis remains committed to delivering compassionate, high-quality care and to continually improving outcomes and the patient experience across the communities it serves.

 

Genesis earned 5 stars from CMS 2026

From U.S. Centers for Medicare and Medicaid Services (CMS).

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Migraine mayhem

emily.griffin
Submitted by emily.griffin on

Why they pick on women ... seriously

Imagine your brain hosting a party. Suddenly, hormonal guests arrive uninvited, crash the mood and turns the dance floor into a migraine rave. That is often what happens to women because migraines strike roughly three times as often in women as they do in men.

Hormones, especially estrogen, are notorious mischief makers. When estrogen plunges just before a period or behaves erratically in perimenopause, the brain can overreact, triggering intense headache attacks and extra sensitivity to light and sound. The Illinois Department of Public Health states that about 60% of women with migraines suffer attacks that align closely with their menstrual cycle.

According to the U.S. Office on Women’s Health, roughly three out of four migraine sufferers are women and these headaches peak between ages 20 and 45. The prime time when many juggle work, social life and adulting in general. Additionally, the U.S. Centers for Disease Control and Prevention reports that in 2018, 20% of women had severe headaches or migraines in the previous three months compared to only about 10% of men.

It gets worse. Migraines are the fourth leading cause of disability in women worldwide, disproportionately disrupting daily life during midlife when hormonal swings hit hardest.

Migraines tend to pick on women thanks to hormonal roller‑coasters, genetic predisposition and brain chemistry under estrogen’s influence. Let’s hope that your next migraine misses the invitation to the party. 

 

Ready to get healthy?

Sign up for our digital newsletters to receive health tips, recipes, success stories for inspiration and information about new doctors to help you on your journey to better health.

 

 

Genesis HealthCare System’s Health and Wellness content conveniently provides accurate and helpful information. Your health history and current health may impact suggestions provided through our Health and Wellness content. Although we hope this information is helpful, it is not a substitute for your doctor's medical advice. Before making any significant changes, please consult your doctor.

woman suffering from a migraine, a red mark on her forehead against black and white photo symbolizes pain from migraine

Learn why migraines strike roughly three times as often in women as they do in men.

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Genesis HealthCare System Earns an “A” for Safety
from Prestigious Leapfrog Group

Kyle.Norton
Submitted by Kyle.Norton on

Genesis HealthCare System has earned an “A” Hospital Safety Grade from The Leapfrog Group for spring 2026, a national recognition awarded to hospitals that demonstrate excellence in patient safety and quality of care.

“This recognition demonstrates the high-quality care Genesis has achieved for our patients” said Matthew Perry, President and CEO of Genesis HealthCare System. “Every day, our physicians, nurses, clinical teams and support teams take extra steps to ensure patient safety. Earning an ‘A’ is vital because it represents the trust our communities place in us and the commitment our people have for delivering safe, high-quality care with compassion.”

The Leapfrog Hospital Safety Grade is one of the nation’s most respected measures of patient safety. Hospitals are evaluated using up to 32 evidence-based measures, including rates of preventable errors, injuries, accidents and infections.

Grades are assigned twice each year to general acute-care hospitals nationwide and are widely considered a gold standard for hospital safety performance.

For Genesis, the recognition reflects an ongoing commitment to excellence in patient care, from emergency services and surgery to inpatient care and recovery.

The Leapfrog Hospital Safety Grade is cited nationally by organizations and publications, including MSNBC, The New York Times and AARP The Magazine.

Leapfrog A Grade

Recognition reflects a commitment to safer care for the communities Genesis serves.

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Community generosity is strengthening healthcare

emily.griffin
Submitted by emily.griffin on

A message from the Genesis HealthCare Foundation

In 2025, the dedication of our community continued to advance healthcare across the region by supporting the Genesis HealthCare Foundation.

10,000,000+

Raised for healthcare

These funds were reinvested into Genesis HealthCare System to support innovative equipment, safety tools, patient assistance programs and services that improve care for patients and team members.

Foundation support also helped families with transportation, essential needs and access to care. Investments continued to strengthen key services, including cancer care, hospice and palliative medicine, heart and vascular care, women’s and children’s services and surgical care.

Major highlights included progress on the Genesis Hospice Care Capital Campaign and successful events like the annual Genesis Foundation Pro-Am, which supports advanced equipment and program needs.

Expanding hospice care for our community

The new Genesis Hospice Care facility, opening in 2026, is made possible through support from our community, the Franciscan Sisters of Christian Charity, the J.W. & M.H. Straker Charitable Foundation and Genesis team members.

The new facility will replace the Morrison House, which has cared for families for more than 35 years and must now be replaced. It will feature private rooms, peaceful garden spaces and larger areas where families can gather and spend time together.

These improvements will help ensure compassionate end‑of‑life care continues for people throughout our region.

Thank you to our community

Thank you to everyone in our community for your support, kindness and trust. Your generosity helps make our region healthier and stronger.

We’re also grateful to the Genesis Board and Foundation Board members for their leadership and guidance. Thank you to the Franciscan Sisters of Christian Charity and Bethesda Care System for their continued support and commitment to our mission of caring for our communities.

Kelly Ashby 
Executive Director, Genesis HealthCare Foundation

Rendering of Genesis Hospice Care facility

In 2025, the dedication of our community continued to advance healthcare across the region by supporting the Genesis HealthCare Foundation.

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Spotlight on Derrick L. Reedus, Sr., M.D.

emily.griffin
Submitted by emily.griffin on

Urology

When urinary or kidney problems arise, it’s helpful to talk with an experienced doctor. Expert guidance is important to help patients understand their options and take control of their health.

Continuing our dedication to high-quality patient care, Derrick Reedus, Sr., M.D., joined Genesis Urology Group, specializing in general urology.

With over 20 years of experience, Dr. Reedus arrives at Genesis to care for patients with kidney stones, urinary tract infections, incontinence and cancers.

He focuses on guiding patients and answering questions, helping them feel confident in their care.

Dr. Reedus chose urology because of its focus on kidney and urinary health, and his desire to help patients maintain function and overall wellness.

“My calling was to become a physician. At Genesis, patients have a great team behind them every step of the way. I’m here to help them get back to living the life they love.”

When not seeing patients, Dr. Reedus enjoys exploring the outdoors, rooting for Ohio State football and spending time with his wife.

Dr. Reedus is accepting patients at Genesis Urology Group, 751 Forest Ave., Suite 301, Zanesville. Patients can schedule appointments by calling 740-455-4923.

Doctor Image 

Doctor of Medicine 

Northeast Ohio Medical University

Rootstown, Ohio

Residency 

Urology

Akron General Medical Center/Summa Health System

Akron, Ohio

Derrick L. Reedus, Sr., M.D. headshot

Continuing our dedication to high-quality patient care, Derrick Reedus, Sr., M.D., joined Genesis Urology Group, specializing in general urology.

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Well-being for the future

emily.griffin
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 A healthy community needs a strong local economy. Genesis supports both.

Genesis is one of the largest employers in Southeastern Ohio. Our team members live, work and raise their families here, helping support local businesses, schools and public services across the region.

$354.6 MILLION 

In payroll

$16 MILLION

Supporting public services through local and state taxes

4,400+

Team members

This investment supports jobs, strengthens public programs and improves the quality of life across our communities.

Expanding workforce development through educational partnerships

Genesis partners with Muskingum University and Zane State College to grow the healthcare workforce in our region. These partnerships expand access to healthcare education and create pathways from the classroom to clinical care.

The next generation of healthcare

The Future Healers program launched in 2025 and introduces high school juniors to healthcare careers through hands-on learning and career exploration. The program is part of our broader effort to build the future healthcare workforce through job shadows, internships and learning opportunities.

Dr. Chad Brown, Zane State College President, with Matt Perry, Genesis President & CEO 

2025 education impact

11,459 

People served through education programs

460

High school students in the Future Healers program

2025 team member impact

4,692

Volunteer hours, helping 165 local nonprofit organizations

$46,000

Given to United Way of Coshocton, Muskingum, Perry and Morgan Counties by team member and corporate sponsorship

315 

Units of blood donated during Genesis blood drives, saving nearly 900 lives

Dr. Chad Brown, Zane State College President, with Matt Perry, Genesis President & CEO

 A healthy community needs a strong local economy. Genesis supports both.

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Your health. Your way.

emily.griffin
Submitted by emily.griffin on

Q&A with Genesis Women’s Health Specialist Kelli Gevas, M.D.

Genesis HealthCare System can help you connect with care on your schedule. Kelli Gevas, M.D., Board-certified Obstetrician, Gynecologist and Obesity Medicine Physician at Genesis Women’s Health Specialists in Perry County, meets with patients in person and through video telemedicine visits, making care more convenient.

Dr. Gevas answers your common questions about telemedicine visits, women’s health and obesity medicine.

Who can schedule a telemedicine visit?

“No prior diagnosis is needed. Patients can schedule telemedicine visits with me for weight management, menopause and perimenopause concerns, hormonal concerns and reproductive counseling. Like in-person visits, you can share any changes in your health, ask questions and receive guidance to help create a care plan that fits your needs.”

How can I schedule telemedicine visits?

“You can call my office, 740-900-0066, and a team member will help you schedule.”

How should I prepare for a telemedicine visit?

“Before your visit, write down your current medications and questions. Find a comfortable, private space and make sure your smartphone or tablet has a good internet connection. When you’re ready, open MyChart and join the call.”

Fact or fiction?

Weight loss is a common symptom of menopause.

“Fiction. Many women gain weight or notice changes in where their bodies distribute weight because of hormone changes.”

Obesity can only be treated with medication.

“Fiction. Obesity medicine treats a long-term condition, focusing on healthy habits, behavior changes and medications when needed.”

Obesity can impact fertility in women and men.

“Fact. Weight can affect hormones and reproductive health, making it harder for some couples to have a baby.”

Whether you meet with Dr. Gevas in person or through a secure telemedicine visit, your care is centered on your goals. You’ll receive clear guidance and support to help you move forward with confidence.

 

Kelli Gevas, M.D., FACOG, ABOMD, NCMP 

Board-certified Obstetrician, Gynecologist and Obesity Medicine Physician

Genesis Women’s Health Specialists

Fellow of the American College of Obstetricians and Gynecologists (FACOG) 

The American Board of Obesity Medicine (ABOMD) 

National Certified Menopause Practitioner (NCMP)

 

Ready to get healthy?

Sign up for our digital newsletters to receive health tips, recipes, success stories for inspiration and information about new doctors to help you on your journey to better health.

 

 

Genesis HealthCare System’s Health and Wellness content conveniently provides accurate and helpful information. Your health history and current health may impact suggestions provided through our Health and Wellness content. Although we hope this information is helpful, it is not a substitute for your doctor's medical advice. Before making any significant changes, please consult your doctor.

woman on her laptop, smiling in a kitchen at home

Dr. Gevas answers your common questions about telemedicine visits, women’s health and obesity medicine.

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