Sarah Shepherd wins Award of Excellence

Sarah started her career with Hospice of Hope in 2007, just a year out of nursing school. On her application, she stated she wanted to ‘try hospice care because she desired to serve her community’. Throughout her 17 years at Hospice of Hope, Sarah Shepherd has accumulated a wealth of hospice knowledge. She started as a Case Manager, then moved on to an Admissions Nurse, Admissions Charge Nurse, Inpatient Center Coordinator and then Director of Regulatory Compliance. She is currently the Director of Clinical Services, overseeing all clinical staff and care provided.

Sarah is a born leader. She is encouraging, insightful and compassionate. She is a servant leader, not seeking accolades for herself, but desiring good outcomes for staff and patients. She has a very calm and logical demeanor, especially in times of crisis. She does not raise her voice or become agitated. She is very level-headed and composed in all situations. She is able to diffuse intense situations, including complaints from employees, patients, family members and facility staff by determining the root of the problem quickly. She is very educated on regulations and is able to offer patient care solutions that comply with the conditions of participation. Her concern for the patient is foremost, and she is able to provide solutions to issues a facility or family member may face in a way that best meets the needs of all.

Her methodical and consistent leadership, desire to learn and educate, and ability interpret and implement policies and regulations have paved the way for a successful experience for staff and patients. She is the “go to” person for all regulatory questions in the organization, and often for peers across the state. When presented with a problem, her first question is always, “What does our policy say?” She is always meticulous in following policy and creating a secure environment in which staff can express opinions, try new things, and learn.

As a newly minted nurse 17 years ago who wanted to ‘try hospice care because she desired to serve her community’, we think she has achieved that goal with flying success. From her initial hands-on positions, graduation to supervisory roles and now our expert in QAPI, COPS, Joint Commission, staffing, infection control and regulations, she is invaluable to the organization’s success.