KHA Patient Safety Hero Award
The KHA Patient Safety Hero Award is granted to individuals in our Kentucky hospitals who have performed at a high level of accountability and have been instrumental in one or more of the following areas:
- Uncovered new methods of quality improvement and patient safety
- Trained staff member(s) on the importance of patient safety
- Prevented harm from a patient at risk
- Executed other safety or quality improvement activities that deserve recognition
2024 Award Recipients
Lisa Lockhart, Nursing Quality Manager/Patient Safety Officer, Ephraim McDowell Regional Medical Center
Lisa Lockhart was nominated by a few colleagues who noted her exemplary “qualities of a Patient Safety Officer with her exceptional contributions to improving patient outcomes and fostering a culture of safety for patients, visitors and associates. While holding many titles within the organization she has been a driving force for transparency of safety issues and a leading force in changing policies and education. Her dedication to ensuring the wellbeing and care of patients and associates is evident on a daily basis. She has worked tirelessly to find training programs that fit their employees’ needs as well as their organization’s values that train and teach staff how to take the utmost care and concern for safety for all. Lockhart’s ability to facilitate open communication has helped foster a culture of safety where associates feel empowered to voice their concerns on patient care issues without fear of repercussions. Her efforts have not only improved patient outcomes but have inspired others to prioritize safety in their daily practices. Since her hire with this organization, Lockhart has spearheaded a new de-escalation program with plans to extend to the creation of Behavioral Response Teams to keep both staff and patients safe in times of crisis. She also led the way to the adaptation of safety huddles on each unit twice a day for staff to utilize and communicate any safety concerns they are having for each shift. She reintroduced open round table discussions with associates when outcomes of care are not what they expected without fear of retaliation for the associates. She has been able to take those associate concerns to several leadership committees to advance communications towards finding quality improvements in patient care. Lockhart whole heartedly embodies the values of excellence in patient care and safety.”
KHA is grateful to Lisa Lockhart and other patient safety leaders whose commitment to the care they provide makes a difference for their patients and their communities!
Dr. David Worthy, Vice President and Chief Medical Officer, Baptist Health Corbin
Dr. Worthy was nominated by a colleague who noted his “exceptional leadership in advancing patient safety at Baptist Health Corbin.” Through the development and implementation of a hospital-wide safety program, Dr. Worthy has significantly enhanced the safety culture across the facility. He makes it a priority to foster collaboration and communication, ensuring that every team member has a voice in identifying safety concerns and contributing to solutions. Part of this program helps new hires understand the importance of patient safety. In addition, as a leader, Dr. Worthy is a constant presence on the units, frequently rounding to observe daily operations, engage with staff, and understand areas where safety measures can be strengthened. The nomination continued, “This hands-on approach demonstrates a genuine commitment to continuous improvement and creates an open channel for addressing potential safety risks in real-time. Dr. Worthy’s visionary leadership has not only improved our safety outcomes but has also empowered staff across the hospital to take ownership of patient safety.”
KHA is grateful to Dr. Worthy and other patient safety leaders whose commitment to the care they provide makes a difference for their patients and their communities!
Heather Hope, Quality Improvement Specialist, Owensboro Health Muhlenberg Community Hospital
Submitted by one of Heather’s peers, the application for this award identified that, “Heather not only promotes quality and patient safety in her job, but she goes out into the organization and looks for any issues that may need addressed. If an issue is found or suspected, she immediately wants to form a meeting with the subject matter experts to find out why the event did happen or to prevent an event from happening. This is done to promote a safe and healthy culture for all patients now and in the future. Heather also is always looking and educating herself so she can increase her knowledge and job performance.”
Heather, it was our absolute privilege to recognize and celebrate your excellence in Quality health care with you and your colleagues. Thank you for your commitment to the care you provide for your patients and your community!
Past winners, clockwise from top:
Brenda Johnson, UofL Health – Jewish Hospital
Amy Griffith, Rockcastle Regional Hospital
Cheyenne Hutchins, Flaget Memorial Hospital
Ashley Renee Phillips, Continuing Care Hospital