“Compassion” and “dedication” are the two defining attributes that encapsulate Teresa Cochran’s unwavering commitment to her role as a Nurse Manager. Her passion for her work is not just a professional obligation but a personal mission that she carries out with utmost sincerity and devotion. In the realm of leadership, she is often operating behind the scenes to drive her team towards excellence.

When posed with the question, “What makes Atrium Health Anson stand out?” my answer invariably circles back to Teresa's passion. Her dedication to her team, the patients they serve, and the community they’re a part of is truly remarkable. Engaging with Teresa is a breath of fresh air. She welcomes new ideas and projects, even those that others might dismiss as unfeasible. Her enthusiasm for rural health communities is palpable, and she consistently thinks outside the box to support her facility and deliver top-notch care and resources to the patients we serve. Teresa’s leadership style is characterized by high standards. Her team is well aware of these expectations and knows that she will maintain the quality that is anticipated. She relentlessly pursues quality in all her endeavors and has fostered a culture of unity and camaraderie that is truly invigorating at Anson.

In essence, Teresa Cochran embodies the spirit of Atrium Health Anson, and it is her unwavering commitment to excellence that sets them apart. Her efforts have contributed significantly to the back-to-back recognition from Leapfrog, a testament to her commitment to quality healthcare. Under her leadership, we have seen continuous improvement in our patient experience scores and the unwavering commitment to ensure the best possible care to patients.

Furthermore, Teresa has been instrumental in forging strong partnerships within our community, connecting with patients who might not have had the opportunity before. There was an instance when I had the opportunity to work alongside Teresa. We were discussing a particular situation involving a patient who required an expensive treatment. Teresa, being the compassionate professional she is, said, “You know me… I’m never going to deny a patient the care they need. Instead, I will collaborate with our partners to ensure the patient receives the best possible care.” This statement truly reflects her commitment to patient care and her dedication to working together for the benefit of our patients.

When I contemplate the DAISY Nurse Leader Award, it brings to mind an individual who profoundly influences patient care, leading with commitment and integrity. Teresa is such a person, whose influence extends beyond her immediate direct reports to encompass the entire community. It’s a privilege to work alongside her, and I wholeheartedly believe that her exceptional commitment to Atrium Health Anson deserves recognition. Her dedication is truly inspiring.