SCOTTSBLUFF, Neb., – Mary Acosta’s positive, optimistic attitude and attention to customer service have led to statewide recognition for her as the winner of the Direct Care Staff Award from the Nebraska Health Care Association.

Acosta, a Certified Nurse Aide with the Restorative Care Unit at Regional West Medical Center, was presented with the Direct Care Staff Award at the recent Nebraska Health Care Association/Nebraska Assisted Living Association convention in Kearney, Neb.

“Mary was great. She would laugh with you or just listen to you. If she had you on her shift, she was right there to help if she could. She is a very good aide, she needs to be recognized.” This comment from one of Mary’s patients, along with many others, were submitted to the judges with Mary’s nomination.

According to her supervisor, Sarah Shannon, RN, BSN, director of Regional West RCU and ARU, “Mary is a prime example of someone who exhibits exemplary team work. This past year we found ourselves in need of a unit secretary and Mary immediately volunteered to cross train and help out,” said Shannon.

Acosta has been actively involved in developing the bowel and bladder program at Regional West Medical Center as it relates to her duties as a certified nurse aide. She is currently working on prerequisites to pursue an Associate’s Degree in nursing.

Regional West Health Services is the parent company for Regional West Medical Center and Regional West Physicians Clinic. These organizations, with over 1,800 employees, provide comprehensive and innovative health care services for the people and communities of western Nebraska and the neighboring states of Colorado, South Dakota and Wyoming. With over 110 active physicians, 95 percent of whom are board certified or board eligible, plus an additional 25 consulting specialists, the Regional West family of health care organizations offers care that spans more than 30 medical specialties.