Olympic Medical Center CEO Eric Lewis presented the organization’s leadership award to Patti Haught, director of the patient experience program, at a recent management meeting for her efforts in advancing the initiatives that improve the experience for patients and engage employees in the work.

“Patti is the ultimate patient experience champion and over the last several years has taken our patient experience program to the next level,” Jennifer Burkhardt, chief human resources officer for OMC, said.

Patient experience staff act as a resource for best practices, provide data analytic, and collaborate with all Olympic Medical departments and clinics to ensure consistent patient-centered practices, OMC officials said.

Haught was also recognized for her work in developing a Patient and Family Advisory Council. Consisting of patients, family members, staff, clinicians and leadership, the council provides input on continuing improvement projects, and according to Burkhardt, the council’s infusion of new ideas and valuable perspectives have made a positive impact.

Haught began working at Olympic Medical Home Health in 2007 and transitioned to Olympic Medical Patient Relations Coordinator in 2010 and Patient Experience Manager in 2015.