419 South Coral Street, Kalkaska, MI 49646
For more information about senior living options: (844) 490-3973
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The staff were kind, calming, and caring. The ER team was wonderful, professional, and clearly explained everything. They turned a nerve-wracking experience into a positive and calm one. Dr. Cole and PAC Marissa Fischer make a good team in this community. The hospital and attached offices have the nicest people. Shirley was incredibly friendly and helped get patients back to their room quickly. The nurse Jennifer was absolutely wonderful and treated the patient well. The PA Kali was fabulous and offered clear treatment options. The ER was clean and quiet, contributing to a positive visit.
The staff are unfriendly and unhelpful, with administration described as rude. Nurses do not ask questions or gather correct information. Doctors spend only 5-10 minutes with patients, providing insufficient care. A PA allegedly labeled discharge papers as "pain-seeking behaviors." Front desk staff are condescending and unprofessional, adding stress in high-pressure situations. Patients feel disregarded and that the hospital cares more about money than people. Some nurses are mean and have poor attitudes. Lab check-in staff engaged in hate speech about transgender and gay people in front of patients. Patients are discharged too quickly or left waiting despite ongoing symptoms. ER nurses are described as having terrible attitudes and personalities.A mixed picture emerges from the many patient voices about the Kalkaska area emergency departments and the broader Munson system. Some visitors describe experiences that left them feeling genuinely cared for and guided through scary or stressful moments, while others recount encounters that felt brusque, disorganized, or dismissive. Taken together, the comments sketch a health-care landscape where moments of excellent service sit alongside persistent frustrations around communication, staffing, and how patients are treated once they walk through the door.
A common thread among the more negative notes is friction at the front end of care. Several reviewers complain about rude or unhelpful administrative staff and front-desk encounters that feel more like gatekeeping than welcome. One caller described a front desk employee as condescending, sarcastic, and dismissive, with eye-rolling and a general lack of empathy that set a tense tone for the visit. In another instance, a family recounted a confusing back-and-forth about who could accompany a patient, culminating in a single-person policy enforced by a staff member who seemed irritated by the family's presence. In these stories, the first impression - shaped by the people at registration and patient-relations desks - shapes the patient's stress level long before a clinician steps in.
On the clinical side, several reviews flag short appointment times and a perception that clinicians aren't fully listening or gathering complete information. The sentiment is that doctors in the ED are pressed for time - often only 5 to 10 minutes per visit - enough to read the reason for the visit, ask a few questions, and move on. This leaves some patients feeling rushed and underexamined, with nurses sometimes described as not following through to verify important details. There are also concerns about how pain, symptoms, and prior treatments are documented: a few patients report that discharge notes labeled them as "pain-seeking" or otherwise stigmatized their presenting concerns after telling clinicians that medications hadn't helped. The fear of being dismissed or mislabeled as drug-seeking adds emotional weight to the medical experience for these families.
The issue of discharge and continued care after the ER visit appears to be a particular sore point for several reviewers. One patient described a situation in which an elderly parent was discharged to the waiting room after an ambulance transport, despite weakness and ongoing symptoms. The sense of urgency and patient vulnerability in those moments clashed with the perception that care was being wrapped up too quickly, with a prescription already in hand before the family could arrive. Another review highlighted a frustrating pattern: parents or relatives repeatedly pleading for appropriate evaluation for a seriously unwell child or adult, only to be told that treatment was limited to fluids or to discharge, sometimes leaving families feeling dismissed and anxious in the parking lot or waiting room. The tension between expediency and thorough, compassionate care runs through many of these narratives.
Yet the record is not uniformly negative. There are standout tales of compassionate, high-quality care that counterbalance the less favorable experiences. A review from Kalkaska's emergency department paints a picture of professionalism and calm under pressure: staff who are kind, calming, and thorough, with clear explanations that build patient confidence. Another report praises the Er department as the "cleanest and quiet ER" they had ever visited, where the team's kindness and attentiveness created a noticeably different, more reassuring atmosphere. In particular, individual clinicians receive strong praise: one reviewer calls Dr. Cole and PAC Marissa Fischer an effective, collaborative team in a smaller community, while another patient recounts an exceptional bedside experience with Karen, Shirley, Jennifer, and Kali, highlighting attentive triage, smooth flow to the room, and options that prioritized the child's comfort and pain management. These accounts emphasize that when staff members take time to listen, explain, and involve families in decisions, the ER visit can feel like a lifeline rather than an ordeal.
There are also vivid, candid criticisms about everyday interactions that undermine trust. One family described lab experiences where patients felt neglected - sitting for hours in the lab area while staff discussed politics or expressed hostility toward LGBTQ+ people - conversations that were described as unprofessional and inappropriate, especially in front of patients and families. Another reviewer reported missteps in testing, including a mistaken blood draw that required the patient to return for a repeat draw, adding logistical and emotional strain. And in a more troubling note, a patient described a general sense that the hospital prioritizes procedures and throughput over the patient and family experience, sometimes to the point of feeling like unnecessary friction or miscommunication is introduced into the care journey.
Among the positive moments, however, there are enduring stories of urgent, compassionate care and practical help when families needed it most. A reviewer who tested positive for Covid described the Kalkaska ER team as "extremely professional, supportive, and knowledgeable," praising not only the medical staff but also the system's ability to coordinate care with local pharmacies, ensuring access to medications when time mattered most. One family highlighted how staff used kindness to ease a frightened child during a foot injury, with a triage nurse greeting with warmth, a nurse who treated the child with care, and a physician's assistant who explained treatment options in an approachable way. The recurring motif in these stories is simple: when staff members treat patients like people - acknowledging fear, explaining steps, offering choices, and managing pain with sensitivity - the experience feels fundamentally different.
Overall, the collection of patient voices suggests a health system that is capable of exemplary care in moments of real need, but that also struggles with inconsistent experiences and some persistent gaps in communication, staff consistency, and bedside manners. For patients and families, the takeaway is complex: there are occasions of outstanding professionalism and human-centered care, alongside episodes that leave patients feeling overlooked or misjudged. The path forward, as implied by these accounts, seems to lie in strengthening front-end communication, ensuring consistent, respectful interactions across all staff roles, and sustaining the kind of thorough, patient-focused care that makes a frightening medical episode feel manageable and safe.
104 resident community capacity
Skilled Nursing FacilitySkilled Nursing Facilities are crucial for seniors as they provide round-the-clock medical care, rehabilitation services, and assistance with daily activities. These facilities ensure that seniors receive the specialized care they need to maintain their health and well-being as they age.
Air-conditioningAir conditioning is important for seniors as they are more vulnerable to heat-related illnesses and may have underlying health conditions that make it difficult for them to regulate their body temperature. It helps to keep them comfortable, safe, and healthy in hot weather.
Beauty salonBeauty salons are important for seniors because they provide a space for them to feel pampered, socialize, and maintain their personal grooming and hygiene. Regular visits to a beauty salon can help boost seniors' self-esteem and overall well-being.
Cable or satellite TVCable or satellite TV is important for seniors because it provides entertainment, news, and companionship, helping to combat loneliness and boredom. It also offers a wide range of programming options tailored to different interests and preferences.
Computer centerA computer center is essential for seniors as it provides access to technology, communication tools, and resources that can enhance their daily lives. It allows them to stay connected with loved ones, engage in online activities, and learn new skills, ultimately promoting socialization and mental stimulation.
Dining roomDining rooms are important for seniors as they provide a space for socialization, connection, and nutritious meals. They offer opportunities for residents to bond over shared meals, foster a sense of community, and promote healthy eating habits. Dining rooms also ensure that seniors have access to well-balanced meals tailored to their dietary needs and preferences.
Fitness roomHaving a fitness room in a senior living community is essential for seniors to stay active, maintain their physical health, and improve their overall well-being. Regular exercise can help prevent falls, reduce the risk of chronic diseases, and promote mental sharpness. It also provides social opportunities for residents to connect with others and enjoy a sense of community.
Fully furnishedFully furnished senior living communities are important for seniors because they provide convenience, comfort, and a hassle-free moving experience. Seniors can easily settle into their new living space without the stress of having to buy and move furniture. This allows them to focus on enjoying their new home and community.
Gaming roomGaming rooms are important for seniors as they provide a fun and engaging environment for socializing, cognitive stimulation, and physical activity. Games can improve memory, problem-solving skills, and overall mental well-being while fostering friendships and reducing feelings of isolation.
GardenGardens are important for seniors as they provide a peaceful and therapeutic environment for relaxation, physical activity, and socialization. Being in nature has been shown to reduce stress, improve mood, and promote overall well-being. Gardens also offer opportunities for seniors to engage in gardening activities, which can improve mobility, flexibility, and cognitive function. Additionally, gardens create a sense of community and connection with others who share a passion for plants and outdoor spaces.
Housekeeping servicesHousekeeping services are important for seniors because they help maintain a clean and safe living environment, promote independence, and reduce the risk of accidents or illnesses. Additionally, having assistance with household chores can alleviate physical strain and allow seniors to focus on other aspects of their well-being.
KitchenetteKitchenettes are important for seniors living in senior living communities because they provide the convenience and independence of being able to prepare simple meals and snacks in the comfort of their own living space. This can help promote a sense of autonomy and well-being for seniors, allowing them to maintain some level of control over their dietary choices and daily routines.
Move-in coordinationMove-in coordination is important for seniors because it helps ease the transition into their new living environment. It ensures that all logistics, such as packing, organizing movers, and setting up utilities are taken care of, allowing seniors to focus on settling in and adjusting to their new home. Having a smooth move-in process can alleviate stress and anxiety, making the transition smoother and more enjoyable for seniors.
Outdoor spaceOutdoor spaces are important for seniors as they provide opportunities for physical activity, social interaction, exposure to natural light and fresh air, and a sense of connection to nature. Having access to outdoor spaces can improve overall well-being and quality of life for older adults living in senior communities.
Private bathroomsPrivate bathrooms are important for seniors in senior living communities because they provide independence, dignity, and comfort. Having a private bathroom allows seniors to maintain their personal hygiene routines without the need for assistance, promoting a sense of autonomy and privacy. Additionally, private bathrooms help prevent the spread of infections and provide a safe and clean environment for seniors to navigate safely.
Restaurant-style diningRestaurant-style dining is important for seniors because it allows them to enjoy delicious, nutritious meals in a social and upscale setting. This enhances their dining experience, promotes healthy eating habits, and fosters socialization with fellow residents, ultimately contributing to their overall well-being and quality of life.
Small librarySmall libraries are important for seniors as they provide access to a variety of reading materials, including books, newspapers, and magazines. This can help stimulate their minds, keep them engaged, and provide a sense of community through book clubs and other social activities. Additionally, reading has been shown to improve cognitive function and overall mental well-being in older adults.
TelephoneTelephones are important for seniors as they provide a lifeline for communication with loved ones, emergency services, and healthcare providers. They offer a sense of security and independence, enabling seniors to stay connected and access assistance when needed.
Wellness centerWellness centers are important for seniors because they offer a variety of programs and services that promote physical, mental, and emotional well-being. These centers provide opportunities for exercise, socialization, education, and relaxation, helping seniors maintain their overall health and quality of life.
Wi-Fi/high-speed internet availableWi-Fi/high-speed internet is important for seniors to stay connected with loved ones, access online resources, and participate in virtual activities to combat feelings of loneliness and isolation. It also allows them to easily manage healthcare needs, access entertainment, and engage in lifelong learning opportunities.
Cherry Capital (20 miles away)
Community operated transportationCommunity operated transportation is crucial for seniors as it provides them with the means to access essential services, social activities, and medical appointments. It allows seniors to maintain their independence and quality of life by ensuring they can participate in activities outside of their homes. Additionally, community-operated transportation services offer a safe and reliable way for seniors to travel without having to rely on family or friends for assistance. Transportation arrangementTransportation arrangements are crucial for seniors as they may face challenges with driving, mobility, or access to public transportation. Having reliable transportation services ensures that seniors can easily attend appointments, social activities, and maintain their independence and quality of life. Transportation arrangement (non-medical)Transportation arrangements are essential for seniors as they provide access to essential services, activities, and social interactions outside the home. This service helps maintain independence, mobility, and overall well-being for seniors who may have limited transportation options. Transportation to doctors appointmentsTransportation to doctors appointments is crucial for seniors as it ensures they have access to necessary medical care and support, promoting their health and well-being. It allows them to receive timely treatment, monitor existing conditions, and address any new health concerns efficiently. Additionally, transportation services can help seniors maintain their independence and quality of life by enabling them to stay connected with their healthcare providers.
12-16 hour nursing12-16 hour nursing care is crucial for seniors in order to ensure around-the-clock monitoring, timely medication administration, and prompt response to any health concerns or emergencies. This level of care helps to promote the overall well-being and safety of seniors living in senior living communities.
24-hour call system24-hour call systems are important for seniors because they provide peace of mind and immediate assistance in case of emergencies. This technology ensures that help is always available, promoting safety and security for elderly individuals living alone or in assisted living facilities. 24-hour supervision24-hour supervision is important for seniors to ensure their safety, well-being, and access to immediate assistance in case of emergencies or health issues. This constant support provides peace of mind for both seniors and their loved ones, allowing them to age in place with dignity and security.
Activities of daily living assistanceActivities of daily living assistance are important for seniors because they provide essential support with tasks such as eating, bathing, dressing, and mobility. This assistance helps seniors maintain their independence, dignity, and overall quality of life as they age.
Assistance with bathingAssistance with bathing is crucial for seniors as it helps maintain personal hygiene, prevents infections, and ensures their overall well-being and comfort. It also provides a sense of dignity and independence for seniors who may struggle with this task on their own.
Assistance with dressingAssistance with dressing is important for seniors because it helps maintain their independence, promotes personal hygiene, prevents accidents and injuries, and improves overall quality of life. This service ensures that seniors can continue to dress comfortably and confidently, despite any physical limitations they may have.
Assistance with transfersAssistance with transfers is crucial for seniors as it helps prevent falls and injuries, maintains their independence, and ensures they can safely navigate their living environment. It also provides peace of mind for both seniors and their loved ones.
Diabetes dietA diabetes diet is crucial for seniors as it helps manage blood sugar levels, reduce risks of complications, and improve overall health and well-being. By following a balanced and nutritious diet tailored to their specific needs, seniors can better control their diabetes and enhance their quality of life. Meal preparation and serviceMeal preparation and service are crucial for seniors as they may have limited mobility or energy to cook nutritious meals. Having access to healthy and convenient food options can ensure they are getting the proper nutrition needed to maintain their overall health and well-being.
Medication managementMedication management is crucial for seniors to ensure they are taking the right medications at the correct dosages and times. This helps prevent adverse drug interactions, reduces the risk of medication errors, and promotes overall health and well-being. Proactive management also allows for adjustments as needed based on changing health conditions or new prescriptions.
Mental wellness programMental wellness programs are essential for seniors as they promote cognitive stimulation, emotional support, and social engagement. These programs help prevent isolation, depression, and cognitive decline, ultimately enhancing the overall quality of life for older adults.
Special dietary restrictionsSpecial dietary restrictions are important for seniors because age-related changes in metabolism and health conditions can make it difficult for their bodies to process certain foods. By following a diet tailored to their specific needs, seniors can maintain their overall health and well-being, manage chronic conditions, and reduce the risk of complications such as malnutrition or food interactions with medications. Diabetes dietA diabetes diet is crucial for seniors as it helps manage blood sugar levels, reduce risks of complications, and improve overall health and well-being. By following a balanced and nutritious diet tailored to their specific needs, seniors can better control their diabetes and enhance their quality of life. Special dietary restrictionsSpecial dietary restrictions are important for seniors because age-related changes in metabolism and health conditions can make it difficult for their bodies to process certain foods. By following a diet tailored to their specific needs, seniors can maintain their overall health and well-being, manage chronic conditions, and reduce the risk of complications such as malnutrition or food interactions with medications. Community-sponsored activitiesCommunity-sponsored activities are important for seniors as they provide opportunities for social interaction, mental stimulation, and physical activity. These activities can help improve overall well-being, combat loneliness and isolation, and promote a sense of belonging and purpose among older adults.
Concierge servicesConcierge services are essential for seniors as they provide assistance with daily tasks and errands, enhance their quality of life by offering convenience and personalized care, and promote a sense of safety and security. Fitness programsFitness programs are crucial for seniors as they help improve strength, flexibility, balance, and overall well-being. Staying active can reduce the risk of chronic diseases, improve mental health, and enhance quality of life in older adults.
Planned day tripsPlanned day trips are important for seniors because they offer opportunities for socialization, mental stimulation, and physical activity. They provide a change of scenery and help seniors stay engaged and connected to their community, promoting overall well-being and quality of life. Resident-run activitiesResident-run activities are important for seniors as they encourage social interaction, creativity, and a sense of autonomy. These activities empower seniors to stay engaged and active in their community while fostering meaningful connections with their peers. Scheduled daily activitiesScheduled daily activities are important for seniors because they provide structure, socialization, mental stimulation, and physical activity. Engaging in regular activities can improve overall well-being and quality of life for seniors living in a community setting.The Kalkaska Memorial Health Center in Kalkaska, MI offers a comprehensive range of amenities and care services to create a comfortable and supportive assisted living community. The community features a beauty salon for residents' grooming needs, as well as cable or satellite TV for entertainment. Community operated transportation is available for non-medical purposes, and there is also a computer center for residents to stay connected.
Residents can enjoy meals in the dining room with restaurant-style dining or utilize the kitchenette in their fully furnished apartments. Housekeeping services are provided to ensure a clean and tidy living environment. The community also has outdoor spaces including gardens for residents to relax and enjoy nature.
For social activities, there is a gaming room, small library, and wellness center offering various fitness programs. Wi-Fi/high-speed internet is available throughout the community. Move-in coordination and transportation arrangements to doctors' appointments are provided for convenience.
In terms of care services, there is a 24-hour call system and supervision available to ensure the safety and wellbeing of residents. Trained staff assist with activities of daily living such as bathing, dressing, and transfers. Medication management is provided along with diabetes diet assistance and special dietary restrictions are accommodated.
The community offers concierge services to cater to residents' needs and planned day trips for outings. Residents can also take part in resident-run activities or scheduled daily activities organized by the staff.
The location of the Kalkaska Memorial Health Center provides easy access to nearby amenities such as parks, pharmacies, restaurants, places of worship, physicians' offices, and hospitals.
Overall, the Kalkaska Memorial Health Center provides an inviting assisted living community that prioritizes comfort, support, and engaging activities for its residents while offering convenient access to essential services in the surrounding area.
This area of Kalkaska, Michigan offers a variety of amenities and services that may be appealing for seniors considering the area for living. There are multiple family practice physicians and hospitals nearby for convenient healthcare access. Additionally, there is a selection of places of worship providing spiritual support. A range of dining options are available, including cafes and restaurants offering diverse menu choices. The presence of parks and recreational facilities offer opportunities for outdoor activities and leisurely walks. Pharmacies are easily accessible for medication needs, and transportation options such as U-Haul services are available for convenience. Overall, this part of Kalkaska provides a well-rounded community environment suitable for seniors looking to settle in a welcoming neighborhood with easy access to essential services.
Kalkaska Memorial Health Center is located at 419 South Coral Street, Kalkaska, MI 49646 in Kalkaska County, Michigan
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