YKHC is pleased to announce Rosemary John as the recipient of the 2024 Health Aide of the Year Award. The Health Aide of the Year Award establishes regional recognition and appreciation of a community health aide for their contribution, dedication, and sacrifice while in service. Recipients of this award demonstrate excellence on all levels as an employee and a member of this Tribal Health Organization. The Health Aide receiving this award embodies YKHC’s mission of “Working Together to Achieve Excellent Health.” This Health Aide also personifies YKHC’s values of optimism, compassion, pursuit of excellence, personal growth, importance of family, elder knowledge and, most of all, trust in their day-to-day activities. This Health Aide has established a noticeable, positive impact to the quality of care delivered in the region.
It has long been said that health aides are the backbone of YKHC, and health aides like Rosemary are why this still rings true. Rosemary began her journey with YKHC as a community health aide in Newtok in June 2006 and became a community health practitioner in 2011. Being a health aide is a significant responsibility that often comes with long hours and demanding challenges. Despite these realities, Rosemary consistently maintains a strong work ethic and a positive attitude.
Rosemary’s care for her patients extends beyond her own community. She provides on-call coverage for other unmanned villages, ensuring healthcare needs are met even in the most remote areas. She also volunteers for over-the-phone coverage, helping to bridge gaps in care for unmanned communities. Her dedication reflects YKHC’s mission to provide excellent healthcare services and improve the health outcomes of the region.
Rosemary was key in coordinating the transition from the old Newtok site to Mertarvik as the main point person for local logistics and coordination. She worked closely with the construction team to ensure needs were met from the corporate side. Her efforts helped made the transition seamless, showing her ability to navigate complex challenges with teamwork and precision.
In her day-to-day work, Rosemary is both caring and courageous. Her reliability and dedication make her a trusted and respected member of the YKHC team and a valued member within her community. She keeps the clinic and equipment in excellent condition, and provides thorough, high-quality care.
The YKHC’s Community Health Aide Program takes immense pride in presenting Rosemary John with the well-deserved Health Aide of the Year Award. Quyana! Dogidinh! Thank you for all your hard work!