The Utah Department of Health and Human Services (DHHS), awarded Eli Menet, and Aubrey Thompson with an Impact Award for their outstanding work in rural Utah.
Eli Menet, a Licensed Clinical Social Worker at Intermountain Garfield Memorial Hospital. He received this award for providing exceptional care to patients in Panguitch. He stands out for helping patients overcome transportation barriers.
“Eli always puts the needs of his patients first and often gives up his own time to help them,” says DeAnn Brown, President of Garfield Memorial Hospital. “Transportation can be an issue in our town, so Eli has spent many hours driving patients and their families where they need to go to access care.”
In one case, when a patient was transferred by air to a larger clinic, Eli drove more than three hours to meet their family, bringing them their luggage. He became their spokesperson at the new hospital and made sure they had the support and information they needed to feel safe.
Eli Menet’s efforts show how important rural healthcare workers are in providing access to care for Utah residents.
Aubrey Thompson, the second Impact Award winner, has multiple roles at Wayne Community Health Center. She is an outreach and enrollment navigator, a certified pharmacy technician, and billing and collections specialist for their patients in Bicknell. Aubrey is recognized for helping patients navigate the complex healthcare system.
Aubrey answers questions about prescriptions and helps those struggling with healthcare costs. She makes sure that all her patients get the support they need.
“Aubrey’s wide range of skills allows her to effectively serve the patients of Wayne County,” says Donovan Smith, CEO of Wayne Community Health Center. “From talking with patients who have concerns about prescription coverage to using her pharmacy knowledge to find better healthcare options. Aubrey makes sure that every patient gets the comprehensive support they need.”
About the awards:
Each year, the Office of Primary Care and Rural Health presents Impact Awards to honor healthcare workers on National Rural Health Day, celebrated on the third Thursday of November. Governor Spencer Cox has declared November 17-23, 2024, as Utah Rural Health Week to recognize the contributions of rural providers. For more information about rural health in Utah, visit https://ruralhealth.utah.gov/.
