Hard worker recognised as Caregiver of the Year

Monday 8 March 2010

As part of St John of God Day celebrations, St John of God Hospital Murdoch announced the winner of its 2009 Caregiver of the Year Award, Emergency Department Patient Care Assistant Ricky Carpenter.

Leeming resident Ricky was chosen from the 12 caregivers who had been recognised as Caregiver of the Month throughout 2009.

Ricky came to work for St John of God Hospital Murdoch when he and his family relocated to Perth after eight years working at Port Hedland Regional Hospital. He brought with him great experience as a Patient Care Assistant, and commenced in the Emergency Department on in January 2008. Ricky’s wife Cynthia also works for St John of God Hospital Murdoch in the catering department.

The father of two was humble in accepting the accolade, and was genuinely surprised to be chosen as Caregiver of the Year.

“Listening to the stories of the others, I don’t think I deserve it. I just come into work and do my job,” said Ricky.

Ricky paid tribute to the winners of the Caregiver of the Month throughout the year, and those who nominated them. The Caregiver of the Year award recognises and acknowledges excellent service and care provided by Murdoch caregivers, and is aligned to the hospital’s Mission and Values.

St John of God Hospital Murdoch Chief Executive Officer Peter Mott said recognising and valuing the contribution of caregivers was an important part of the hospital’s culture and service ethos.

“Throughout the hospital our caregivers are providing excellent care and service to our patients and their families, and our recognition program is one way of recognising their contribution,” said Mr Mott.

“According to his colleagues and supervisor, Ricky is one of the best Patient Care Assistants they have worked with, and he is known as an extremely hard worker with a positive attitude. Ricky is truly committed to the Emergency Department and the services we provide, and we are fortunate to have him on our team.”

Mr Mott said, “While only 12 people are formally recognised each year, so many more of our caregivers provide excellence in care and service, and we thank them all for their ongoing dedication.”

Image caption: St John of God Hospital Murdoch 2009 Caregiver of the Year, Ricky Carpenter, with Chief Executive Officer Peter Mott.