Staff
Bryant receives Patient Safety Award
Justin Bryant has been recognized for his commitment to patient and staff safety at Citizens Memorial Hospital. Bryant, supervisor for CMH Plant and Facilities, received the 2026 Patient Safety Award on March 13.
The award was presented during Patient Safety Awareness Week, March 8-14, a national observance that highlights safe care and recognizes efforts to protect patients and residents.
Bryant was nominated by colleagues who said his work plays a key role in maintaining a safe environment for patients, residents, staff and visitors.
Nicky Fisher, manager of Parkview Geriatric Wellness, said Bryant and his team have supported safety during work on the hospital’s new tower.
“Justin has gone above and beyond for all things safety with the new tower,” Fisher said. “He comes in early and often stays late. He and his crew conduct safety checks and drills and respond to issues ranging from water line breaks to power outages. Safety is always his top priority, and he is amazing to work with.”
Gail Coash, safety champion for Parkview Geriatric Wellness, said Bryant’s attention to detail stands out.
“Justin puts in long hours ensuring all safety checks are completed,” Coash said. “He monitors code blue and rapid response systems, checks on units after power outages and makes sure anyone entering construction areas has proper safety gear. …He never complains and continues to support other CMH facilities whenever they need help.”
Colin Jones, respiratory care manager, said Bryant’s work helps ensure patient care continues without interruption.
“Every day Justin does something to improve patient and staff safety,” Jones said. “Electricity, plumbing and HVAC are all integral to health care. …Justin makes sure those systems continue to function so patient care can go on without interruption.”
Jones also shared a personal example. When one of his employees was hospitalized and preparing to return home in a wheelchair, Bryant immediately offered to help remodel her bathroom at no labor cost to make it safer and more accessible.
“His willingness to step in and help without hesitation shows the depth of his commitment to the safety and well-being of both patients and staff,” Jones said.
At CMH, patient and resident safety remains a top priority as the organization works toward zero preventable harm. This commitment is reflected in its mission, vision and values and carried out by employees across the organization.
“Our vision and values emphasize serving others,” Bryant said. “That’s something my mom always taught me, to serve.”
Patient safety efforts at CMH include daily leadership safety huddles, a culture of safety action plans, safety champions, department huddles and vision boards that track progress toward safety goals.
Bryant’s recognition highlights how safety is supported by employees across the organization, not just those in clinical roles.
“Justin not only puts patient and resident safety first, but he communicates that priority as he coordinates work across departments,” said Kim Presley, patient safety and regulatory compliance coordinator. “His dedication reflects the culture of safety we strive to maintain every day.”
Presley also thanked employees across CMH for their role in creating a safe environment for patients, residents and co-workers.
