LARNED — Jason Lemuz has been named the new facilities director at Pawnee Valley Community Hospital (PVCH). He will initially work hand-in-hand with Rex Meek who will retire from the position later on.

“Jason joined PVCH as a maintenance engineer II about 18 months ago and now he will be a great addition to our team of directors,” Meek said. “The PVCH administration is now giving me the time to teach him all the skills involved in this position for a smooth transition.”

Responsibilities of the facilities director include maintaining a safe environment for patients, visitors and staff, while ensuring federal, state and local regulations are followed at the hospital and Family Medicine Clinic.

Lemuz previously was employed at Larned State Hospital as facilities maintenance supervisor and carpenter/grounds department.

These positions resulted in extensive leadership experience in HVAC, electrical systems, fire safety and carpentry.

Today, Lemuz is learning the ins and outs of the job from Meek, who has been at PVCH for five years. Meek brought with him 20 years of experience in the electric and mechanical fields and 10 years in hospital maintenance and management.

“Rex has been in this line of work for quite some time and has vast knowledge of maintenance operations,” commented Lemuz, a Larned High School graduate. “He is willing to stay on the job and share this knowledge with me. I am truly grateful.”

Equally important, Lemuz said, “this hospital position is a good fit for me. I enjoy interacting with the public on a daily basis and being part of an integral team.” Meek will remain in his position until his retirement, no later than early next year.

“The staff at Pawnee Valley Community Hospital extend our congratulations to Jason and look forward to working with him in his new leadership role,” said Melanie Urban, PVCH administrator.

Pawnee Valley Community Hospital, 923 Carroll in Larned, is a 25-bed facility, offering many services not typically available in a smaller facility. Included are 24/7 emergency care; acute, skilled and specialized nursing; surgery; high-tech imaging and laboratory tests; wound care; rehabilitation; and sleep and diagnostic center. PVCH Family Medicine provides the full range of family-medicine services; physician-assisted weight loss; and women’s health services. The hospital’s number is 620-285-3161; the clinic’s number is 620-804-6007.