Mckenzie County Healthcare Systems Long Term Care offers high quality skilled nursing care in a modern, home-like environment, reflecting a strong commitment to the needs and dignity of every resident. The facility, known as the Good Shepherd Home, has been a cornerstone of service for McKenzie County and surrounding communities since the early 1960s. It is situated in a rural setting yet offers comforts commonly found in larger community environments, combining the warmth of close-knit care with state-of-the-art amenities. The Good Shepherd Home operates with a person-centered philosophy, believing that each resident deserves individual attention within a supportive, family-like atmosphere.
The close integration of the Good Shepherd Home with the main hospital, rural health clinic, and specialty clinics within McKenzie Health enhances the resident experience, providing seamless access to a broad spectrum of healthcare services. Residents benefit from in-house laboratory services, on-site x-rays, and imaging scans, as well as easy access to specialists when needed. This comprehensive access not only supports residents' ongoing healthcare needs but also brings peace of mind to families, knowing their loved ones have robust medical support at hand.
Services within the long term care program are extensive, and care is delivered by a dedicated, fully qualified staff who are committed to compassionate, loving support. Residents have access to nursing care, social services, physical therapy, laundry, housekeeping, and beautician services. In addition, enriching activity programs form an integral part of daily life, and seasonal events are celebrated with enthusiasm, particularly during festive periods like Christmas. The care team, including a Minimum Data Set Team comprised of several departmental managers, collaborates to assess every resident’s care needs. They collect and evaluate detailed information on each resident’s physical, social, and mental health to help determine the appropriate level of care, ensuring all needs are addressed with a tailored approach.
Daily life at the Good Shepherd Home is designed for comfort, flexibility, and engagement. Each resident’s room is thoughtfully equipped, and the team provides guidance on what personal items can be brought to make spaces more home-like, such as mini fridges and reclining chairs. There are no scheduled visitation times, allowing guests to visit as long as the resident wishes, thus preserving privacy and fostering family connection. Residents enjoy three nutritious, balanced meals every day, with 24/7 snack availability to accommodate specialized diets. Loved ones are welcome to bring in food upon request. Transportation services cater to both local and distant medical appointments, including out-of-town trips up to 200 miles, ensuring that travel needs are supported.
Meaningful activities and spiritual support are integral elements of community life. A monthly calendar of events keeps residents informed of daily happenings, and the facility celebrates seasonal events with enthusiasm. Spiritual well-being is nurtured through regular chapel services, provided four days a week by an ELCA-affiliated Synodically Authorized Minister, and residents may access spiritual counseling, Bible study, and individual chapel services as desired. This holistic, person-first approach shapes the vibrant, caring community that defines McKenzie County Healthcare Systems Long Term Care, making it a place where every individual’s dignity, comfort, and joy are placed at the center of care.