The Island Hospital Employee of the Month for August is Care Management Social Worker Karla Smith MSW.

As a hospital social worker, Karla helps patients navigate the healthcare system in the hospital and after the patient’s release, including the need for home-based care and rehabilitative services. Her job is very challenging. Every day she is called upon to conduct some of life’s hardest conversations with both patients and families. She meets the pressures of these conversations with grace and professionalism. Karla is always willing to take time out of her busy day to assist others with advice, feedback or to help problem-solve any challenging situation. Her supervisor notes, “She does all of these things with warmth and humor which makes her highly respected and beloved by her co-workers.”

Since her arrival in 2013, Karla has characterized Island Hospital’s Promise to consistently provide the best customer service to our patients, families, guests and colleagues. Congratulations and thanks for being an inspiration, Karla!