May Brings Special Recognition to Nurses and Patient Services Representatives

Celebrate

National Nurses Week, May 6-12

In 1993, the American Nurses Association declared May 6-12 as the national week to celebrate and elevate the nursing profession. Each year the celebration ends on May 12, Florence Nightingale’s birthday. Florence Nightingale was an English social reformer, statistician and the founder of modern nursing.

This year’s theme for Nurses Week is “The Power of Nurses”, which highlights the resilience, expertise, and heart nurses bring to their patients and communities every day.
At HPC we celebrate the important roles that nurses play on the frontlines of the healthcare system. Special thanks to our LPNs, Kelli Brower and Michelle Fleming, for all that they do to support our patients, medical providers, medical assistants and other HPC team members.

Additionally, we would like to thank Hannah Carlisle, RN, Clinic Director and Risk/Compliance Officer, for overseeing the nursing department, refining workflows and leading the charge in patient safety.

Hannah shared, “Since joining the HPC team, the nurses have been working hard to help adapt a nurse closure model. The nurse closure model provides more education opportunities for our patients regarding their chronic medical conditions, medication questions, and any other education they may need to better manage their health and comply with treatments. We have seen the positive outcomes of this, as patients have made statements of gratitude for the extra time and kindness, as well as some slow but positive improvements in patient health outcomes. At HPC, the nurses show up to give their best, help the team however they can, and acknowledge our patients’ questions and concerns with education and compassion. Daily we can see the effect of ‘The Power of Nurses’.”

Thank you, Kelli, Michelle and Hannah for all the great work you do to improve patient care at HPC!May Brings Special Recognition to Nurses and Patient Services Representatives

Patient Services Representatives Day/Receptionist Day, May 14

Since 1991, National Receptionist Day has been celebrated on the second Wednesday of May, this year falling on Wednesday, May 14. HPC would like to take this opportunity to recognize our Patient Services Representatives (PSRs) who fill the role of receptionist and so much more! They are the first smiling faces our patients interact with once they walk through the doors.

At first glance, you may think that our patient services representatives only check patients in and out of our clinics all day. But did you know that just at the Olathe location, the PSR staff receives over 5,500 calls on average per month? This would equal about 1,400 calls per week and 280 calls per day. The focus and diligence of our PSR staff allows them to perform each of the following tasks daily: taking payments, scheduling appointments, verifying insurance, scanning patient paperwork and completing pre-registration for their individual assignments.

Mayra Bocanegra, Manager of Billing & Patient Services, stated, “I am incredibly proud of our patient service representatives. Despite all the changes and what our everyday life outside of work throws at us, I love my job at HPC and the mission we strive for. I would not change it for anything.”

Thank you to our wonderful team of PSRs: Crystal Albarran, Anahi Bueno, Jean Cast-Martin, Diana Flores, Iliana Mejia, Karla Nunez and Natalia Rosales.

The PSRs are also part of the Revenue Cycle Management team and work closely with Mayra; Perla Cardenas, Women’s Health Coordinator; Jorge Larriba, Dental Coordinator; Billie Reese-Turner, Director of Billing and Patient Services; Yesenia Salazar, Billing Coordinator; and Diana Zamora, Enrollment Specialist.May Brings Special Recognition to Nurses and Patient Services Representatives

Health Partnership Clinic Promotes Chris W. Woodward to Substance Abuse Services Director

Health Partnership Clinic Promotes Chris W. Woodward to Substance Abuse Services Director

By Catherine Rice, Vice President of Marketing/Outreach at Health Partnership Clinic

Health Partnership Clinic Promotes Chris W. Woodward to Substance Abuse Services DirectorChris W. Woodward, MA, LCAC, KCGC-II, Substance Abuse Specialist, has been promoted to Substance Abuse Services Director at Health Partnership Clinic.

Since joining the clinic in June 2019, Chris has played a pivotal role in expanding our substance abuse services from just a few days a week to a full-time program. He also introduced DUI assessments and has consistently provided outstanding patient care. While serving as a substance abuse specialist, he was contracted with Heartland Regional Alcohol and Drug Assessment Center—one of our valued partners.

Chris recently earned his credential as a KCGC-II Kansas Certified Gambling Counselor II (clinical level)), allowing him to now treat gambling addiction—a significant step forward in broadening the scope of our services.

Under Chris’ steady leadership, he played a key role in addressing the surge in patients seeking substance abuse services during the COVID-19 pandemic. His flexibility and quick thinking allowed him to transition patients to Zoom, ensuring they could continue receiving critical support during a time when stress and isolation posed a heightened risk of relapse.

Chris’ diligence, self-motivation and unwavering dedication have been a source of inspiration for our entire team. His enthusiasm and commitment to excellence have raised the bar for the quality of care we provide. He has also been instrumental in the licensing process and is always willing to step in wherever needed.

We congratulate Chris on his well-deserved promotion and thank him for his invaluable contributions to expanding and enhancing HPC’s Substance Abuse Services.

To make an appointment or learn more about the clinic’s Substance Abuse Services, call 913-730-3664.

Learn more about our Substance Abuse Services (PDF).

Employee Spotlight – Roxanna Hawley-Webb

Employee Spotlight

We are very excited to highlight one of our most valuable assets, our employees! Each month, get to know the HPC team in a fun, new way!

EE Spotlight - Roxanna Hawley-WebbName: Roxanna Hawley-Webb

Department: Clinical

Title: Clinical Support Specialist

Primary work location: Olathe

How long have you worked at HPC? Since January 1, 2025

How did you get into your field of work?

I wanted to be in healthcare since I was a teenager. I started my career in healthcare when I was 16 years old.

Do you speak any other languages? If yes, which ones?

No

Do you have a favorite quote? If yes, what is it?

“The only way to do great work is to love what you do.”

What values are important to you?

Having ambition is important to me. Honesty and compassion are my two biggest values.

What is something about you that would surprise people?

EE Spotlight - Roxanna Hawley-WebbI love to be outdoors and spending time with my family.

What is on your “bucket” list?

Travel to historic places to learn more about history.

What is your favorite food?

Mediterranean

What is your favorite movie?

The Harry Potter movies.

What is your favorite hobby?

Walking

Are you an animal lover?  If yes, how many pets do you have and what kind are they?

Yes, two dogs. One pit bull and one Great Pyrenees.

Employee Spotlight: Jarquise Stowers

Employee Spotlight

We are very excited to highlight one of our most valuable assets, our employees! Each month, get to know the HPC team in a fun, new way!

Jarquise StowersName: Jarquise Stowers

Department: Human Resources

Title: HR Generalist

Primary work location: Olathe

How long have you worked at HPC? Nearly 1 month.

How did you get into your field of work?

Was recommended by a professor.

Do you speak any other languages? If yes, which ones?

Not internationally, but I speak Gullah Geechee.

Do you have a favorite quote? If yes, what is it?

“Keep your faith over fears.”

What values are important to you?

Compassion, Generosity, Gratitude

What is something about you that would surprise people?

I’m an excellent cook.

What is on your “bucket” list?

Visit all 50 states in USA.

What is your favorite food?

Cheese Pizza

What is your favorite movie?

Pursuit of Happyness

What is your favorite hobby?

Playing basketball.

Are you an animal lover?  If yes, how many pets do you have and what kind are they?

I do love dogs, but I don’t own any pets.

Employee Spotlight: Alexis Rickel

Employee Spotlight

We are very excited to highlight one of our most valuable assets, our employees! Each month, get to know the HPC team in a fun, new way!

Employee Spotlight: Alexis RickelName:  Alexis Rickel

Department:  Dental

Title: Dentist

Primary work location: Olathe

How long have you worked at HPC?  

I have been at HPC for four months.

How did you get into your field of work?

I was always fascinated by dentistry. As a kid I used to play “dentist” in my bedroom.

Do you speak any other languages? If yes, which ones?

No, unfortunately I do not. I am learning more Spanish every day, though!

Do you have a favorite quote? If yes, what is it?

“The willingess to show up changes us. It makes us a little braver each time.” – Brene Brown

What values are important to you?

Values that are important to me are dependability, consistency, integrity, and compassion to name a few.

Employee Spotlight: Alexis RickelWhat is something about you that would surprise people?

I’ve solo traveled to Bora Bora, Ireland, US & British Virgin Islands, and Canada!

What is on your “bucket” list?

I’d like to travel to Greece and Switzerland.

What is your favorite food?

My favorite foods are Mexican and cheesecake.

What is your favorite movie?

“The Pursuit of Happyness”

What is your favorite hobby?

My favorite hobby is finding and trying new coffee shops on the weekends.

Are you an animal lover?  If yes, how many pets do you have and what kind are they?

Everyone thinks I’m crazy, but no I am not an animal lover. I know, I know… please don’t hold it against me!

Employee Spotlight: Joseph Gregory

Employee Spotlight

We are very excited to highlight one of our most valuable assets, our employees! Each month, get to know the HPC team in a fun, new way!

Employee Spotlight: Joseph Gregory Name:  Joseph Gregory

Department:  Admin/Medical

Title: Director of Quality/HIT

Primary work location: Olathe

How long have you worked at HPC?  

I’ve worked at HPC for four months.

How did you get into your field of work?

I was a researcher. I started mathematics research out of curiosity and one thing led to another.

Do you speak any other languages? If yes, which ones?

I don’t really speak any other languages. I studied German and Latin though.

Do you have a favorite quote? If yes, what is it?

“Travel is fatal to prejudice…” – Mark Twain
“If you don’t like change, you’ll like irrelevance even less.” – Eric Shinseki.

What values are important to you?

Values that are important to me are autonomy, justice, pragmatism and hedonism.

What is something about you that would surprise people?

It may surprise people that I haven’t broken a bone yet.

What is on your “bucket” list?

Employee Spotlight: Joseph Gregory - BattlehawksI’d like to see the northern/southern lights (closer to the poles of the earth).

What is your favorite food?

My favorite food is burritos, breakfast or otherwise.

What is your favorite movie?

“Lucky Number Sleven” or “The Watchmen”

What is your favorite hobby?

My favorite hobby is Ultimate Frisbee.

Are you an animal lover?  If yes, how many pets do you have and what kind are they?

Yes, I am an animal lover. I have a Bombay cat.

Employee Spotlight: David Merschbrock

Employee Spotlight

We are very excited to highlight one of our most valuable assets, our employees! Each month, get to know the HPC team in a fun, new way!

Employee Spotlight: David MerschbrockName:  David Merschbrock

Department:  Administration

Title: Operations Manager

Primary work location: Olathe

How long have you worked at HPC?  

I have been at HPC for two months.

How did you get into your field of work?

I have a degree in Business (Applied Organizational Leadership) from MNU. This degree pushed me into this line of work.

Do you speak any other languages? If yes, which ones?

Employee Spotlight: David MerschbrockI sadly do not. Only English for me.

Do you have a favorite quote? If yes, what is it?

You could be the master of your fate. You could be the captain of your soul. But you have to realize that life is coming from you, and not at you. And that takes time.

What values are important to you?

Values that are important to me are commitment, honesty, integrity, understanding and being a genuinely good person.

What is something about you that would surprise people?

I used to be a touring musician. I have a full album on Spotify and have played with many of the big name artists over the years.

What is on your “bucket” list?

I want to go to Europe and visit all of the different historical sites. I want to visit Austria where my grandma lived, The Coliseum, The Tomb of Christ and the concentration camps.

What is your favorite food?

Employee Spotlight: David MerschbrockMy favorite food is STEAK!

What is your favorite movie?

“Avatar” and “The Greatest Showman”

What is your favorite hobby?

My favorite hobby is coaching my sons’ sports teams.

Are you an animal lover?  If yes, how many pets do you have and what kind are they?

I am an animal lover! I have two puppies that are a Staffordshire terrier mix. Their names are Jefferson and Reagan, and they are brother and sister.

Employee Spotlight: Leigh Smith

Employee Spotlight

We are very excited to highlight one of our most valuable assets, our employees! Each month, get to know the HPC team in a fun, new way!

Employee Spotlight: Leigh SmithName:  Leigh Smith

Department:  Mobile Integrated Health

Title: Nurse Practitioner

Primary work locationOlathe

How long have you worked at HPC?  

I started working at HPC in July.

How did you get into your field of work?

My grandfather and mother were both in the medical field, so from a young age I saw the value of having a medical advocate. I followed in their footsteps.

Do you speak any other languages? If yes, which ones?

I only speak English unfortunately. I am actively trying to become proficient in Spanish.

Do you have a favorite quote? If yes, what is it?

“It’s no use going back to yesterday, because I was a different person back then.” -Alice in Wonderland

Employee Spotlight: Leigh SmithWhat values are important to you?

Values that are important to me are integrity, truth and acceptance.

What is something about you that would surprise people?

I love Disney parks. My husband and I go to one of the parks nearly every year.

What is on your “bucket” list?

I would love to cage dive with great white sharks.

What is your favorite food?

I love Mexican food the most, but lately I haven’t been able to get enough acai bowls.

What is your favorite movie?

“Moana” I especially like the scene with the coconut pirates.

What is your favorite hobby?

My favorite hobbies are reading, collecting houseplants and traveling.

Are you an animal lover?  If yes, how many pets do you have and what kind are they?

I am an animal lover! We have three dogs: a Shih Tzu-Poodle mix, a Belgian Malinois and a black Labrador puppy. We also have two cats and seven chickens. These numbers fluctuate though.

Employee Spotlight: Stephanie Torres

Employee Spotlight

We are very excited to highlight one of our most valuable assets, our employees! Each month, get to know the HPC team in a fun, new way!

Employee Spotlight: Stephanie Torres Name:  Stephanie Torres

Department:  Medical

Title: Medical Records Specialist

Primary work locationOlathe

How long have you worked at HPC?  

I have been at HPC for five months.

How did you get into your field of work?

I started work in a medical office in 2001 and I have always loved it.

Do you speak any other languages? If yes, which ones?

I don’t speak any other languages.

Employee Spotlight: Stephanie Torres Do you have a favorite quote? If yes, what is it?

“Success is not the absence of failure, it is persistence through failure.”

What values are important to you?

Values that are important to me are honesty, caring, courage, respect, loyalty, family, freedom and forgiveness.

What is something about you that would surprise people?

I am not as quiet and shy as I seem at work. I can get a little wild at times.

What is on your “bucket” list?

I would like to visit Australia.

What is your favorite food?

My favorite food is BBQ or Rotisserie chicken.

Employee Spotlight: Stephanie TorresWhat is your favorite movie?

My favorite movies are “Breakfast Club”, “Sixteen Candles”, and “St. Elmo’s Fire”.

What is your favorite hobby?

I like to watch murder mysteries.

Are you an animal lover?  If yes, how many pets do you have and what kind are they?

I have three cats that I love to death! Their names are Malfoy, Graysen and Hermoine.

Employee Spotlight: Trish Fowler

Employee Spotlight

We are very excited to highlight one of our most valuable assets, our employees! Each month, get to know the HPC team in a fun, new way!

Employee Spotlight: Trish FowlerName:  Trish Fowler

Department:  Medical

Title: Nurse Practitioner

Primary work location: Paola

How long have you worked at HPC?  

I have been at HPC for four months.

How did you get into your field of work?

My dad was hospitalized and I was able to see what nursing was like and it made me realize I wanted to help people in the same way!

Do you speak any other languages? If yes, which ones?

Employee Spotlight: Trish FowlerI do not, but my next goal is to learn medical Spanish!

Do you have a favorite quote? If yes, what is it?

“If you keep your face toward the sunshine, you’ll never see the shadows.”

What values are important to you?

Values that are important to me are authenticity, communication and honesty.

What is something about you that would surprise people?

I have five-year-old identical twin girls.

What is on your “bucket” list?

A trip to Australia is probably the highest on my bucket list!

What is your favorite food?

My favorite kind of food is Italian.

What is your favorite movie?

“Forrest Gump”

Employee Spotlight: Trish FowlerWhat is your favorite hobby?

My favorite hobbies are crocheting or being at the lake with my family.

Are you an animal lover?  If yes, how many pets do you have and what kind are they?

Yes! We have two dogs (Pete and Norman) and eight chickens.