by Two Caregivers Publicly Recognized with Health Care Awards
The Indiana Hospital Association (IHA) kicked off its annual Patient Safety Summit last week. The Patient Safety Summit provides a platform for patient safety and quality leaders to convene, exchange effective strategies, and share best practices aimed at enhancing patient safety across the state. Two caregivers were publicly recognized at the summit for their remarkable contributions in the health care field.
Amy Rayot Carpenter, RN, Certified Wound, Ostomy, and Continence Nurse at Community Hospital Anderson, and Carey Gurtner, a technician in the Radiology Department at Cameron Memorial Hospital, were awarded the Douglas J. Leonard Indiana Caregiver of the Year Award at this year’s summit.
The Douglas J. Leonard Indiana Caregiver of the Year Award recognizes an individual in the health care industry whose performance in the delivery of care is considered exemplary by patients and peers.
Carpenter was recognized for her strong leadership skills in her profession and as a respected expert in her field. She is a 2024 Daisy Award winner and is known for her patient-focused approach and unwavering dedication, frequently volunteering her free time to assist with patient care. Carpenter has participated in Community Health Network’s RN Professional Development program since its inception three years ago and is the only RN to date to achieve and maintain the Level 3 Expert recognition. She achieved this level the first year she participated. She currently sits on the program’s team and now mentors other nursing staff in achieving their goals.
Gurtner was recognized for her strong work ethic, her impactful positive attitude, and most importantly, her attention to detail when caring for patients. Gurtner’s attention to detail recently saved the life of a patient who came in for a routine scan, which led to a life-threatening diagnosis and open-heart surgery. Gurtner’s colleagues say after much determination and hard work, the patient was eventually discharged to be with her family—an outcome that may not have been possible without Gurtner’s intervention.
IHA Interim President Blake Dye said Carpenter and Gurtner are invaluable members of their hospital teams.
“We are honored to recognize Amy and Carey for their exemplary leadership, unparalleled expertise, and compassionate bedside manner,” said Dye. “Their efforts exemplify the highest standards of what it means to be a caretaker and serve as a testament to their skill and compassion. We are grateful to have them caring for patients in their communities.”
