Thanksgiving Message to Health Care Heroes from Chief Medical Officer, Dr. Randy Roth
To Our Invaluable Employees and Medical Staff:
As we approach Thanksgiving of 2020, I realize how hard it may seem to give thanks for everything that has been laid upon our laps so far this year. But despite the numerous amount of turmoil we have witnessed, I have also observed some of the most unbelievable acts of kindness and caring I have ever seen in my 20 years of medical practice. I just want to reach out to everyone and thank them for their tremendous efforts so far this year.
Our awesome frontline healthcare workers risked their own wellbeing and family safety to take care of a patient population that was isolated, lonely, and scared. Our guests were not the only ones that were scared; at some point, everyone that walked into these rooms was scared because as we were dealing with something that was novel and fluid. Despite the fear of the unknown, great care was given to our patients. The quality of care was great, but the compassion and empathy shown toward these patients and their families were unprecedented. I especially thank everyone that transitioned those patients at the end of life during this pandemic, allowing their families to be with them at this precious moment. I also thank the ones that were in the room with these patients as we pledged that no one would die alone. There were many powerful moments that I will never forget, and I am thankful for having been a small part of this effort.
I also want to thank our other frontline workers that risked their health to keep our hospital clean, safe, and protected. I witnessed several of our environmental service employees going out of the way to make sure our guests were comfortable. Our phlebotomist and lab personnel stepped up and were a large part of our plan of care. Nurses aides, techs, respiratory therapists, physical therapists, and so many others all stepped up and put our guests’ needs in front of their own. Included are special thanks to all of our registration personnel and finance team. They worked hand-in-hand with our leadership and frontline healthcare providers to safely put our guests in the right place.
Our finance team also worked very hard navigating all the federal and state policies regarding Covid and reimbursement. Without them, we would not have the financial stability that we have now for the longer term. Human resources have also done a tremendous job, punctuating that our employees are our most valuable asset. With their help, we will continue to recruit and retain this fine team of healthcare workers. Facilities and support never told me no when asked for negative pressure rooms or entire floors. The way they got to yes quickly, allowing our staff to work in a safe environment during uncertain times, was amazing. Special thanks to our medical staff who came together in a very tough time to continue to provide Leapfrog A level care despite the distractions of COVID-19.
In closing, as we move into the holiday season, I ask all of our team members to take care of yourself mentally, physically, and emotionally. Please be safe and remain thankful for all of God’s great gifts, one of which is being a part of the Singing River Health System family.
I am thankful to be a part of this dynamic team that is providing compassionate care during unprecedented times. I am thankful for my faith, my family that will continue to support and love me through these times, and all my colleagues whose work makes my job much easier. With that in mind, despite the pandemic around us, I consider myself blessed.
Have a Safe and Happy Thanksgiving!
Randy C. Roth, MD
