Split Rock Room

Fairview Range Medical Center in Hibbing has announced healthy aging as the new norm for the often "invisible" population of older adults living independently within small towns and rural communities. A family/geriatric medicine physician, a director of ambulatory care, a rehabilitation supervisor, and an older adult consumer will highlight preventive and wellness strategies that have improved health outcomes for their rural older adults. This breakout will describe the Healthy Aging Pyramid Model and how it impacts dialogue with the community, changes clinical practice, and promotes the development and enhancement of community programs for older adults. The presenters will also highlight qualitative feedback from older adult participants in their community programs as well as interact with attendees about strategies for their own home communities.

Kasey Kapella, MD

Geriatrician
Faiview Mesaba Clinic

Dr. Kapella is a graduate of the University of Minnesota Medical School. She completed her Family Medicine Residency at Park Nicollet's Methodist Hospital in St. Louis Park, Minnesota and is board certified in Family Medicine. She went on to complete her Geriatric Fellowship at Hennepin County Medical Center in Minneapolis, Minnesota and subsequently received a Certificate of Added Qualifications (CAQ) in Geriatrics. She is currently practicing at the Fairview Mesaba Clinic in Hibbing, Minnesota.

Picture of Heidi Lahti

Heidi Lahti, MHA

Vice President of Ambulatory Services
Fairview Range

Heidi Lahti, MHA, has been in health care for over 25 years; she currently serves as the Vice President of Ambulatory Care at Fairview Range in Hibbing, Minnesota, overseeing multiple clinics and service lines. Heidi is an American College of Healthcare Executives member of 10 years and also an active volunteer representing Fairview in the community.

Kelsey Sundquist

Kelsey Sundquist, DPT

Physical Therapy Supervisor, Physical Therapist
Fairview Range Health System

Kelsey Sundquist earned her Doctorate of Physical Therapy from the College of St. Scholastica and completed undergraduate work at the University of North Dakota. Her professional interests include orthopedic conditions, chronic pain, and community wellness. She is currently the physical therapy supervisor at Fairview Range Rehab Services in Hibbing, Minnesota.

Ann Bussey

Ann Bussey, MA

Member
MN Rural Health Advisory Committee

Ann Bussey, a retired health care leader, serves as a member of the College of Saint Scholastica (CSS) Rural Health Master of Business Administration Advisory Board, teaching as an Adjunct Faculty in the program from 2014-2017. Ann was appointed to the Minnesota Rural Health Advisory Board as a consumer member in 2016. Ann continues to serve as a Volunteer Community Facilitator on the Iron Range, advocating for older adults and the opportunity to live and grow old in an age-friendly environment.