By Staff Reports

FORT PAYNE, Ala. — DeKalb Regional Medical Center has named Mr. Chris Orr as the 2019 Non-Clinical Employee of the Year and Mrs. Betty Smith, R.N. as the Clinical Employee of the Year. These individuals were chosen from among 500 employees at the DeKalb County facility.

"Healthcare requires a special blend of great people skills, tireless energy and the ability to work well under pressure," said Patrick Trammell, CEO of the hospital. "It's a pleasure to recognize our employees for their dedication to our patients and to providing outstanding care."

Employees are nominated for the award by their hospital peers, based on their commitment to patient care, professionalism and professional contributions to the organization.

Mr. Orr is currently serving as Supervisor of Environmental Services at DeKalb Regional Medical Center and has been with the organization since 2005. Throughout his tenure as DeKalb Regional, he has been known by employees and management for his selflessness, commitment to coworkers, strong work ethic and pride of workmanship.

Mrs. Smith currently serves as Perioperative Services Charge Nurse at DeKalb Regional and has been with the organization since 1981. Mrs. Smith is known by her hospital peers, management and physicians for her extraordinary compassion, commitment to excellence, focus on safety and general concern for others.

"Each of our employees has a specific role in the delivery of quality healthcare to the people who live and work in Northeast Alabama," said Trammell. "Meeting patient and guest wants and needs is completely dependant on the collaborative efforts of our team members. Our hospital and our entire community are the beneficiaries of Chris's and Betty's outstanding work and I am honored to have the opportunity to work with them."

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