Making a positive difference in patients’ lives is the ultimate reward for the nurses here at Community Care Physicians. They are dedicated to keeping their patients healthy and well. Nurses are members of your healthcare team who spend a large amount of their time performing bedside care, listening to your concerns and offering advice, advocating for you, and ensuring you’re receiving the best care possible. While they play a crucial role within our offices, nurses aren’t always acknowledged for the care they provide.  

That is why we are pleased to announce that one of our nurses has been recognized by the Times Union! Jo Ann Pierce, LPN from Latham Internal Medicine, has been named a 2019 Nurse of the Year. As a recipient of the Times Union’s “Salute to Nurses” award, Jo Ann is being acknowledged for her excellence in nursing. Jo Ann is a respected nurse with 48 years of experience in the field. She is committed to improving the health and wellness of not just her patients, but her co-workers, colleagues, and community as well. 

When Jo Ann heard she was a recipient of the Times Union’s “Salute to Nurses” Award, she was in shock and couldn’t believe she won. She felt very honored that she was selected and described how much this line of work has meant to her: “I enjoy the people most. I have been a nurse since I was 18 and it is certainly a challenge, in a good way, and so rewarding. I enjoy making patients feel better and seeing them smile when they leave. That’s the reward. It has been a very honorable profession for me.”

Jo Ann was nominated by two fellow co-workers at Latham Internal Medicine – Angela Barbera, Receptionist, and Francesca Lemorta, Medical Secretary. Angela and Francesca nominated Jo Ann because of her positive attitude and the energy that she brings with her to the office and their patients. Also because of her willingness to help anyone who needs assistance and how she always goes above and beyond. 

Angela reminisced of when she first joined Latham Internal Medicine: “[Jo Ann] made me feel welcome, taught me the ropes. [She] is always genuine, and willing to help you no matter what she’s doing. You can see the patients’ smiles when they leave the office. Her enthusiasm is contagious and helps the overall office environment.” 

“If you ask her to do one thing, she’ll do three,” said Laura Floge, Office Manager at Latham Internal Medicine. “Jo Ann will help anyone get through their day even if she’s having a hard day herself. She can work with any practitioner and jump in like it’s nothing.” When asked how Jo Ann makes in a difference in patients’ lives, Laura responded, “She is compassionate with her communication, and always puts her patients’ concerns first – reassuring that they are being taken care of.”

Community Care Physicians is proud to have nurses like Jo Ann who provide excellent patient care. If you would like to become a patient of Jo Ann and her care team, please call Latham Internal Medicine at (518) 783-3110. You can also visit their website for more information.