Paris, TN – Henry County Medical Center is pleased to announce that the Partner of the Month for June in the Stars of Excellence Program is Katlin Smith, 2 South. Four others were named Star Partners in the program.

Smith was nominated by her manager. She was working on the floor and taking care of the patients. There was a patient that was comfort measures only and in a lot of pain. Smith went in and checked on the family and patient numerous times to see if there was anything she could do to help them. The husband of the patient stated he needed to leave and take a shower, but he didn’t want to leave his wife, because he was scared she would pass while he was away. Smith offered to stay after her shift and help the patient’s husband into the shower and help give him a shower so he wouldn’t have to leave. The family was very grateful and expressed their gratitude toward Katlin for her willingness to stay and help their family. She showed empathy and patient centeredness. She is a wonderful partner that takes the time to always help any patient or coworker when they are in need.

HCMC also awards Star Partners each month. The Star Partners for June are Sherry Brock, Nursing; Donna Luther Coley, Nursing; Julie Brewer, Social Services; and Melissa Carpenter, HCHC Nursing. They were nominated for the following:

Brock was nominated by a partner for being a patient advocate when no one else seemed to be able to do so. She knew strongly that there was something wrong with one of her patients, yet no testing seemed to determine it and the physician was going to release the patient. After doing research into the patient’s history, she discovered the patient had a problem over 30 years prior that explained her current medical condition. After advocating and standing her ground for the patient, she was able to get the patient the care she needed. She was a hero for the patient!
Coley was nominated by a partner who was in need of treatment in which she went to the partner’s house and provided over Fish Fry weekend after seeing request for help on social media. Coley again returned on Monday and helped perform the treatment again. The partner was so thankful that she took time to care for her needs.
Brewer was nominated by her manager for the continuing education she obtained by attending webinars and off-site seminars to learn how to ensure the implementation and navigation of the PASRR program. She has made countless phone calls and tried to seek education in an effort to facilitate the transition of patients from the hospital to a SNIF in order to improve care for the patient after discharge with minimal delays.
Carpenter was nominated by her manager and the administrator at HCHC for the outstanding job she does as nurse staffing coordinator, filling in where she is needed without complaint, and for going above and beyond for her residents, partners, and visitors by volunteering with cookouts, partner breakfasts, and activities for the staff and residents. She also uses her creativity to be a resource for bulletin boards and LEAN projects.

To nominate a Henry County Medical Center partner for the Stars of Excellence program, send a note of appreciation to Tom Gee or utilize the Dear Tom or WOW cards located in the Partners in Your Care bags given upon inpatient admission to HCMC. Additionally, the Star Partner forms are available on our website under quick tabs – Healthcare Hero.

Located in Paris, TN, Henry County Medical Center is a progressive, integrated healthcare organization committed to serving the healthcare needs of Henry County and the adjoining region. Including a 142-bed hospital and other facilities, the medical center provides a variety of outpatient services, as well as inpatient care. Henry County Medical Center is a county-owned and operated nonprofit institution. For more information: www.hcmc-tn.org.