Baptist Memorial Health Care facilities continued serving patients during Winter Storm Fern. That would not have been possible without the emergency preparedness of staff and the extraordinary efforts of team members to make it to work despite challenges. Team members supported each other and worked together to overcome obstacles, ensuring patient care continued without interruption.
“I’d like to thank all our Baptist team members and vendor partners who worked through the storm. I know your families, loved ones and homes are a top priority, but you sacrificed to get to work to serve our patients and communities, putting service before self,” said Nicholas Lewis, chief facilities and environmental safety officer for Baptist. “We get to witness the Lord’s grace, compassion and healing hand each day in our hospitals and clinics, but during emergencies our team’s dedication is highlighted in an inspiring way.”
Many Baptist clinic and hospital team members traveled on icy roads and juggled caring for patients and their own families. Some colleagues chose to stay overnight at their hospitals. Team members at Baptist Memorial Hospital-Memphis got creative finding places to sleep at the hospital, affectionately nicknamed “Hotel Baptist.” Some slept on stretchers, air mattresses or hospital beds so they could be there for their shifts, the community and each other.
Booneville, New Albany, Oxford and Southaven, Mississippi, experienced even greater challenges because of ice, but Baptist leaders and team members showed inspiring dedication and teamwork, making it possible to continue serving patients.
“We are incredibly grateful to every employee who braved the weather, adjusted schedules, took on extra responsibilities and supported one another during this challenging time. Their flexibility, teamwork and heart for service reflect the very best of our organization,” said Brian Welton, CEO and administrator of Baptist Memorial Hospital-North Mississippi.
Leaders of Baptist Memorial Hospital-DeSoto expressed gratitude for the willingness of team members to stay at the hospital or area hotels or navigate icy roads to ensure patient care continued without interruption.
“Despite extremely challenging road conditions, team members showed up for one another and for those who depend on us most,” said Brian Hogan, CEO and administrator of Baptist DeSoto. “Our team members not only took care of patients, but they helped get each other to and from the hospital, cleared campus roads and parking lots, and made sure we had all the supplies that were needed.”
Leaders of Baptist Memorial Hospital-Union County and Baptist Memorial Hospital-Booneville were inspired by the dedication of team members who came to work despite icy road conditions and power outages in the area.
“The teamwork and dedication shown during this challenging time truly reflects our mission and values,” said Ann Bishop, CEO and administrator of Baptist Union County and Baptist Booneville. “Thank you for supporting each other and making patient care a priority.”
