New administrator at Wayne County Care Center

Veteran healthcare executive Judy Beichler has joined the Wayne County Care Center (WCCC) as administrator, according to an announcement by the Wayne County Commissioners. She has 35 years of experience in the healthcare field and has been a licensed administrator for 28 years.

“I began my career as a nursing assistant, and I have never forgotten that position, as it is the base and foundation of what I do,” she said about her new role.

Beichler realized her calling in life at a young age.

“Years ago, when I was growing up, my grandfather was diagnosed with what is now called Alzheimer’s,” she said. “There was only one very small care facility, and it was for people that were close to passing away. So, he ended up in a state hospital where he was drugged and tied down with four-point restraints for the last few years of his life.”

That experience resonated with Beichler, and she decided to dedicate her life to helping others.

“My grandfather died when I was 18 years old,” Beichler continued. “The experience took its toll on me, and I thought to myself that there must be a better way to treat people we love and that has provided so much for us.”

After attending Muskingum College and working as a nurse aide, she returned to the healthcare industry as a discharge planner for a care facility before eventually passing the state and national requirements to become a licensed administrator.

Beichler attributes much of her career success to her ability to figure out solutions to difficult problems.

“There are situations that aren’t addressed in a book,” she said. “You have to analyze the situation and determine what the best end-result should be.”

Beichler also determines the strength of her staff and works on ways to constantly improve.

“I have learned that you can’t come into a new position and start making changes right away,” she said. “You have to see how the staff interacts with each other; it is important to get to know them and build relationships.”

Beichler’s experience and management style will benefit the Wayne County Care Center residents, as well as employees.

“We are pleased to welcome Judy to the Care Center team. Her experience, expertise, and approach to working with employees, residents, and their families will serve us well,” said Ron Amstutz, President of the Board of County Commissioners.

The WCCC has served the area for more than 160 years providing the finest skilled nursing care, rehabilitation services, intermediate medical care, and assisted care. In 1852, the Wayne County Commissioners purchased 286 acres of land and built “The County Home” to house the sick, aged, and destitute families unable to care for themselves. During the 1930s, a hospital was added.

The center operated a large working farm maintained by residents through the 1970s. Many residents grew and maintained gardens and canned their harvest. In 1983, the name was changed to the Wayne County Care Center with the opening of a 50-bed Medicaid certified nursing home.

Learn more about the WCCC at www.waynecountycarecenter.com.