HMC Employees of the Month

February 2012

Lisa Copeland

Hardin Medical Center proudly announces Lisa Copeland as the February Employee of the Month. Lisa came to HMC in 2008 as a registered nurse at HMC Home Health. She is now working in Telemetry (TLC) as the charge nurse.

Lisa was nominated for this honor because she continually strives to be the best caregiver possible; making sure she exceeds the needs of patients and co-workers alike. Lisa's excellent attitude toward all who work alongside her, her dependability, and her work ethic set her apart.

Lisa's supervisor, Shane McGee (right), commented that, "She is a team player and extremely dependable. She is punctual and totally committed to caring for her patients. She provides the quality care they deserve. Her commitment is unrivaled and she is truly an example to all."

Her Director said, "Lisa is kind and sensitive to her patients and their needs. The level of care she provides and the commitment she shows is truly an example for all. Lisa receives many compliments from patients and families for the great care she provides."

Lisa's work ethic and her willingness to do whatever is necessary to keep HMC a premier Healthcare facility is an example and definition of a great employee. It is obvious that Lisa truly believes our patient is whom our business revolves around.

Congratulations Lisa for being selected as the February Employee of the month at Hardin Medical Center. You are well deserving of the honor.

January 2012

Leigh Ann Hughes

Hardin Medical Center is proud to announce Leigh Ann Hughes as the January Employee of the Month. Leigh Ann began her employment with HMC in July of 2005 as the Accounting Supervisor and worked in this capacity until passing her CPA exam in 2008 when she became the Billing Office Supervisor in 2009. She was promoted in February 2011 to Controller and Billing Office Supervisor.

In 2010, Leigh Ann also assumed the responsibilities of Director of Physician Services. As HMC began to hire physicians, Leigh Ann's knowledge and experience was needed during the initial phase, which included opening physician offices, coordinating the new departments into the existing structure. Leigh Ann also had to ensure that requirements for credentialing, billing, and staffing were met. Leigh Ann handled the job well with her usual confidence, competence, and willingness to help.

Leigh Ann exemplifies the HMC standards of conduct in everything she does. She is intelligent, trustworthy and takes on new responsibilities with great enthusiasm and a winning attitude. She was nominated for employee of the month because of these characteristics and her ability to accept change with ease.

Her Director commented, "Leigh Ann took over as Billing Office Supervisor with little practical experience and has done a wonderful job. I can always trust that she will do a great job in a timely manner and do it with accuracy." As a CPA, Leigh Ann constantly takes advantage of opportunities to stay abreast of any new healthcare related finance information. She attends seminars and symposiums in order to gather knowledge and bring it back to her team, thereby serving Hardin Medical Center and our patients better.

Leigh Ann's work ethic and her willingness to utilize her skills where needed help keep HMC as the premier Healthcare facility in our area. She is an example to all of us and defines excellence in the workplace. Your hardwork is appreciated.

December 2011

Carla Goodlow

HMC proudly announces Carla Goodlow as the December Employee of the month. Carla began working at HMC in 2005, as a respiratory therapist. In addition to that role, Carla is also an HMC echocardiographer, in which she performs ultrasounds of the heart.

Earlier this year, in an effort to grow her position here at HMC and assist in providing the needed service, she returned for additional training for echocardiography. The training took her away from her family and job for two weeks, but the HMC assistant administrator commented that she is always willing to go the extra mile. He also added, "Carla is very professional and welcomes every opportunity to learn. She is an asset to the Respiratory Department and to HMC.

Carla exemplifies the HMC standards of conduct in everything she does and was selected for this honor because of her dedication, loyalty and her unwavering willingness to learn new things.
Carl

November 2011

Sonya Tate Burress

HMC proudly announces Sonya Burress Tate as the November employee of the month. Sonya joined the HMC team in 1999 as a medical lab technician.

Sonya was selected because of her continued dedication to customer service, commitment to her team, and the motivation she shows in solving problems with respect, patience and courtesy.

"Sonya is self-motivated. She has perfect attendance and punctuality for the year," her director said. "She volunteers, without complaint, for weekend shifts and jumps into any challenges with the drive it takes to get the job done," he added.

Sonya is diligent in keeping her assigned areas in good order, both physically and technically. This diligence was tested recently as CAP surveyors began their inspection in the HMC Laboratory. Every department knows this feeling of uncertainty and every employee wants a good outcome, knowing that outcome is dependent upon the things they have done up to that point. Sonya's area passed with no deficiencies cited in her area.

Sonya takes pride in her job and it was her decision to become a leader in customer service for the HMC Laboratory. She challenges herself to deal with each person or problem with patience, respect, and a polite manner.

Sonya defines excellence in the workplace. She exemplifies the HMC Standards of Conduct in everything she does. Congratulations Sonya on being chosen as the November employee of the month.

October 2011

Suzanne Stricklin

Hardin Medical Center proudly announces the selection of Suzanne Stricklin as the October Employee of the Month. Suzanne joined the HMC team in January 1997 as a Registered Nurse then became ED Supervisor in August 2005, a position which she currently holds and is now called ED Unit Manager.

Suzanne is a team player who is competent, resourceful, knowledgeable, and very organized. She is always willing to help others and lends a hand when other departments need extra help. Suzanne goes the extra mile for her patients and their families.

A "go to" person, Suzanne gets things done and is passionate about the ED, nursing on a whole, and is determined to be always on top because of her competitive spirit. Her team looks to her for direction and she exhibits great leadership.

Suzanne always tries to accommodate the needs of her co-workers and at times she has even worked odd hours to allow someone time off. She's always considerate of her co-workers, whether a work related issue or a personal matter, offering encouragement and advice.
Suzanne Stricklin takes pride in her work and exemplifies the HMC Standards of Conduct in everything she does. Congratulations Suzanne for being chosen as the October employee of the month.

September 2011

Jenna Foote

Hardin Medical Center proudly announces Jenna Foote as the September Employee of the Month. Jenna, a radiological technologist with HMC since 2005, was nominated because of the many compliments and accolades she receives. Jenna's dependability, knowledge, and superior attitude make her a great choice for the honor.

HMC wants every patient to have a positive experience. Jenna Foote exemplifies that every day by taking time to explain to her patients the procedure she is about to perform. By doing so, Jenna gently calms her patients and puts their minds at ease. Recently as a result of the kind, courteous, knowledgeable care received from Jenna at HMC, a patient made sure Jenna's Director knew about her positive experience and Jenna's outstanding work ethic.

Jenna's Director stated, "She is very professional and dependable. She is an expert at performing CT and she is completing her bachelor's degree in Radiologic Sciences." Her commitment to her patients and her co-workers is unparalleled.
Jenna Foote takes pride in her work and exemplifies the HMC Standards of Conduct in everything she does. Congratulations Jenna. We are proud of you!

September 2011

Jenna Foote

August 2011

Christie Davidson

Hardin Medical Center is proud to honor Christie Davidson as the August Employee of the Month. Christie, a member of the HMC team since 2005, is an office/billing clerk in the Nursing Home.

Nominated for this honor by her peers, Christie always does an outstanding job with anything that comes along. She is dependable, trustworthy and deserving of this honor.

During a recent survey audit, Christie’s supervisor was on vacation, but Christie was well trained and handled the situation well. After the survey was completed, it was noted that Christie did an excellent job by handling the situation efficiently and impressing everyone, including her supervisor.

Christie accepts ownership and has most recently done so with the new Nursing Home computer software. “Christie is really a help to me with her computer skills. Not only does she excel with the new system, but she has learned the billing side of the system and is a tremendous asset in that area as well,” said her supervisor.

Christie Davidson takes pride in her work and exemplifies the HMC Standards of Conduct in everything she does. Congratulations Christie. We are proud of you!

July 2011

Jacob Bomar

The Executive Council proudly announces the selection of Jacob Bomar as the July Employee of the Month. Jacob began his employment in July 2007, as the Information Technology Director, a position in which he currently holds.

Jacob has implemented and worked through many technological advances at Hardin Medical Center and was nominated partly because of those. His most recent accomplishment was spearheading the conversion from Citrix to a local environment and may be one that goes on record as monumental.

During the last couple of months, Jacob and his team have been on the move getting all users prepared for the conversion which took place on July 11th. He always makes himself available to answer questions that come along on a day to day basis, and he answers those calls quickly and with ease. With the increase of questions, calls, and problems during this conversion, Jacob’s quick response has continued with the same level of knowledge and skill that we have come to expect.

One Assistant Administrator commented, “This conversion will allow for more email users and save money as well.” That is important in this time when saving money is crucial. In addition, the new system should alleviate problems and provide a speedier process now that the conversion is complete.

We all know change is difficult, but when the person at the helm is willing to work hard and see it through to the end, the transition seems much smoother. Jacob’s dedication is appreciated. The sense of ownership he exhibits and the professional image he portrays is one of which HMC is proud. Congratulations on your honor of being chosen as July’s Employee of the Month!

June 2011

Michelle Cummings

The Executive Council proudly announces Michelle Cummings as Employee of the Month for June. Michelle began her employment with HMC on June 7, 2001, as an Outpatient Admissions Clerk. She transferred in 2007 to the Performance Improvement department where she is currently as the Quality & Safety Secretary.

Michelle was nominated for this honor because of her desire to make a difference in her job. Always striving to make her department a better place, she wants to help her co-workers by making their jobs easier along the way. By possessing these qualities, Michelle is the perfect choice for this Employee of the Month.

Michelle is humble and does whatever is asked of her and does it well. She never hesitates to fill in for someone at a moment’s notice and is always willing to go the extra mile.

Her supervisor said, “There are no adequate words to describe how sweet Michelle is and how much she helps the department. Michelle lives the example of one who wants our facility to be successful - she gets it! She walks the proverbial walk when it comes to setting a positive example for her peers, she added”

Michelle always lends a helping hand and one will regularly catch her escorting lost patients and visitors up and down the halls of HMC. It is clear she knows our patients are honoring us by seeking our help and it is our privilege to try to be of service.

Michelle's dedication and loyalty helps make HMC a premier rural healthcare system. The professional image portrayed by Michelle Cumming's is one of which HMC can be proud.

HMC Employee of the Year — 2011

Tammy Morris

Hardin Medical Center (HMC) CEO, Charlotte Burns recently announced Tammy Morris as the Employee of the Year for the 2010-2011 fiscal year. Tammy began her employment with HMC as a billing clerk in June 1996 and became a lead biller in 2009.

In February of 2011, Tammy was nominated and chosen by the Executive Council as the Employee of the Month and thusly eligible for the coveted title of Employee of the Year. Tammy was chosen by her peers from a group of twelve eligible HMC past Employees of the Month. “I was totally surprised, but it is such an honor and I am very pleased,” said Tammy of her award.

Tammy’s position with HMC involves the discussion and explanation of hospital bills with patients. At times this can be a stressful task especially with the complexity of healthcare billing. But Tammy is always very kind and understanding, while helping the patient to better understand the process.

On a daily basis, Tammy consistently exhibits great flexibility, skill and leadership in her position. She is conscientious to detail while maintaining compassion and understanding for those she interacts with on a daily basis.

Tammy’s director said, “She always does a great job. She knows all the technical aspects of her job and her co-workers rely on her as their go to person. She has picked up additional work due to departmental changes and has done so gracefully. She can always be seen with a smile on her face and she continues to have a cheerful attitude amidst what can sometimes be a chaotic environment. Tammy is the glue that holds things together during a trying time.”

Her supervisor said of her, “She takes her job responsibilities very seriously and accuracy is important to her. She is precise in everything she does. Tammy consistently supports her co-workers, the patients, and the mission and vision of HMC. The billing department is very fortunate to have her skills and expertise.”

Tammy lives in Savannah and is the wife of Jerome Morris. They have two daughters, Sarah (20) and Chelsea (15).

Hardin Medical Center strives to be a workplace that holds clear expectations and opportunities for growth while cultivating an atmosphere of respect and friendship. Tammy Morris is just one of many great employees that work to be a shining example of the HMC standard of conduct on a daily basis.

HMC Employee of the Month — May 2011

Darlene Terry

The Executive Council proudly announces the selection of Darlene Terry as Employee of the Month for May. Darlene began her employment with HMC in 1973 as a Medical Records Technician and over the years passed her CCS exam to become a Certified Coding Specialist II, the job she currently holds.

Darlene was nominated because she is dependable, knowledgeable, a team player and a “mother” to Health Information Management (HIM). All of these qualities make her a great choice for the honor.

Since Darlene started with HMC, right out of high school, she has been the embodiment of the HMC Standards of Conduct by demonstrating a sense of ownership in her work. She projects a professional image and one of which HMC and HIM can be proud.

When asked about Darlene’s teamwork, her co-workers quickly smile and tell you that she is the “mother of HIM.” Darlene is someone each one of them can count on and is quick to help with any request.

Her director commented, “Darlene has performed all the daily operations in medical records (assembly, analysis, transcription, tracking, retrieving, merging, purging, and coding) since 2006. She has been a departmental team leader, and in 2009, she completed her studies to become a Certified Coding Specialist (CCS), a major professional accomplishment.” HIM could not ask for a better person to work alongside.

Darlene’s dedication and commitment over the years as well as her willingness to continually go above and beyond is what helps to make HMC a premier rural healthcare system. The professional image portrayed by Darlene is one of which HMC is very proud.

HMC Employee of the Month — April 2011

Derick Benson

The Executive Council proudly announces Derick Benson as the April Employee of the Month. Derick began with HMC in March of 2005 in the Maintenance Department.

Derick was nominated for this honor because he is a conscientious employee who exhibits the right attitude. His self motivation and work ethic prove that Derick has HMC’s best interests in mind.
Derick always does his part and more to make certain things run smoothly in the Maintenance Department. His supervisor commented, “When Derick takes on a job, I never have to worry about it being completed on time or done well. I don’t have to keep checking with him to see it through. He is just that motivated.”

He is an asset, not only to his department, but to the hospital as a whole. Recently a the heating system in a patient’s room failed after normal work hours. Even though Derick’s job doesn’t require him to take calls when he is off duty, he was notified of the problem and chose to come in and fix the heater rather than have the patient inconvenienced by moving to another room. This type of dedication and compassion is what makes him a great choice for Employee of the Month.

Derick’s willingness to go above and beyond for both the patients and co-workers is a great example of a Port of Excellence employee. We salute you as Employee of the Month and thank you for your great attitude and dependability.

HMC Employee of the Month — March 2011

Naomi Staggs

The Executive Council is proud to announce the selection of Naomi Staggs as Employee of the Month for March. Naomi began her employment with HMC in June of 2004 as a Certified Nursing Assistant and is currently a Monitor Tech.

Naomi was nominated for this honor because she is an excellent employee. Her attitude and work ethic prove daily that Naomi believes our patients are the central people around whom our business revolves.
The word “Go-Getter” is a word used to describe Noami. She always lends a helping hand to her co-workers, filling in whenever and wherever needed. If you ask those co-workers, they will say she works circles around them and she keeps them on their toes.

Her Supervisor said “Naomi wears many hats - unit secretary, monitor tech, and CNA. Having recently added monitor techs to the floor, Naomi took on this job full force!” Her excitement about the additional training catapulted her to excel in that position, but she hasn’t stopped there. She does every job with enthusiasm and dedication. She is truly an asset to the department and a blessing to the team.”

The Director of Nursing said, “Naomi is a great team player. I have seen Naomi sitting at the desk answering the phone, then get up and ask someone to take her place while she goes to help a CNA bathe a patient. She is highly motivated and takes initiative in her job. She does this with a cheerful and pleasant attitude which is contagious to her co-workers.”
Naomi excels in her job and demonstrates the Standards of Conduct in all she does. She serves her patients with kindness, understanding, and quality care. HMC is proud to say Naomi Staggs is the March Employee of the Month.

HMC Employee of the Month — February 2011

Tammy Morris

The Executive Council proudly announces the selection of Tammy Morris as the February Employee of the Month. Tammy began her employment with HMC as a Billing Clerk in June of 1996 and became a Lead Biller in 2009.

Tammy was nominated because she demonstrates great flexibility, skill and leadership in her job. She is able to balance conscientiousness and attention to detail in her work with compassion and understanding.
Most of Tammy’s day involves explaining and discussing hospital bills with patients which can be very stressful due to the complexity of healthcare billing. Many times patients might not be very happy at the beginning of the conversation, but Tammy is always kind, patient and understanding and is usually able to turn the conversation around.

Her Director said, “She always does a great job. She knows all the technical aspects of her job and co-workers rely on her as their go-to person. She has picked up additional work due to departmental changes and has done this gracefully. She can always be seen with a smile on her face and continues to have a cheerful attitude amidst a sometime chaotic environment.”

Her Supervisor said, “She takes her job responsibilities very seriously and accuracy is important to her. She consistently supports her co-workers, patients and the mission/vision of HMC. The billing department is fortunate to have her skills and expertise.

Tammy has an invaluable work ethic and with the positive attitude you portray and the attention to detail, it is fitting that she is the February Employee of the Month. Thank you for demonstrating the HMC standard of conduct in all that you do!

HMC Employee of the Month — January 2011

Lisa Murphy

The Executive Council proudly announces the selection of Lisa Murphy as Employee of the Month for January. Lisa has been a Licensed Physical Therapy Assistant and with HMC since January 1996.

Nominated for the honor because of the compassionate care she provides and the skill she demonstrates every day with patients. She has the ability to make her patient feel that each accomplishment, no matter how small, is a great one. In her type of work, that says everything.

One of her patients said, “ Lisa is a compassionate caregiver who helped my experience in PT be a positive one. She always greeted me with a smile and was sensitive to my pain level. She communicates easily, and some days it felt like I was visiting with an old friend. Perhaps best of all is that Lisa made me feel like I was her only patient. She gave me her full attention at each visit. I also watched Lisa and her coworkers help each other to provide a smoother treatment session for their patients.”

Lisa’s Director commented, “She’s always willing to work wherever there is a need and has demonstrated that flexibility by working in Home Health as well. She is liked by her patients and we receive nice compliments about Lisa. She is dependable and competent in her job. We are fortunate to have Lisa at HMC.”

HMC is proud to have an employee like Lisa who has an invaluable work ethic. Through her dedication to her patients and the quality care she provides, Lisa Murphy is a great choice for the January Employee of the Month. Thank you Lisa for demonstrating the HMC standard of conduct in all that you do.

HMC 2010 Employees of the Month

HMC 2009 Employees of the Month