Patti Meehan (holding flowers) with coworkers and members of MaryEllen Reilly’s family.
Every year, HUP recognizes an employee whose leadership qualities emulate that of MaryEllen Reilly, the hospital’s former VP of Clinical and Administrative Operations. Reilly, who passed away suddenly seven years ago, had a profound impact on the many people who knew and worked with her. “Her unwavering leadership qualities encouraged us all to want to do just a little bit better every day,” said Regina Cunningham, PhD, RN, chief executive officer of the hospital. “She could always be counted on for hard work, energy, enthusiasm and a friendly style that saw the good in everyone. She loved her family, both at home and at work, and taught us all how to balance them.”
This year, the MaryEllen Reilly Leadership Award went to Patti Meehan, LSW, director of Social Work. As part of the Health System for more than 30 years, “Patti has molded our social work department into one of the best in the country,” Cunningham said. “She employs leadership attributes of persistence and creativity to advocate for the insured, the underinsured, and the uninsured.”
Meehan’s understanding of the many changes in health care policy and insurance coverage helps patients and providers through all phases of care. “Patti and her well-trained dedicated staff navigate patients through a complex system in an efficient and effective manner. And, in these difficult times with diminishing reimbursements, they do so while preventing unscheduled readmissions.”
Meehan employs strong team building skills and takes a personal interest in her staff, coordinating social events for her staff, such as the “ever popular” Valentine’s Day baking contest. “She understands that balance in the work place is vitally important.” Meehan is also a mentor to social workers throughout the Health System and beyond.
“Through her dedicated and selfless work for our Health System these past 33 years, Patti has professed – through action more than expression – the ideals and attributes, the grace, the enthusiasm, and the perseverance that are recognized by the conferring of this prestigious award,” Cunningham said. “Thank you for all your efforts over the past three decades.”