Outer Banks Health Says Goodbye to Healthcare Leader

Outer Banks Health's commitment to excellence in patient care during leadership transition

News Summary

Outer Banks Health is bidding farewell to Marcia Bryant, a distinguished healthcare leader with nearly 50 years of experience, who will retire in December 2024. During her nine years at the hospital, she made significant advancements in patient care, notably establishing a dementia-friendly environment. As a trailblazer recognized nationally, her legacy will be honored with the Seahorse Room dedicated to her contributions. Devereux Grindle is set to succeed her as Chief Nursing Officer, promising continued excellence in healthcare services for the Outer Banks community.

Outer Banks Health Bids Farewell to Healthcare Leader Marcia Bryant

In a bittersweet announcement, Outer Banks Health in the charming coastal city is preparing to say goodbye to one of its revered healthcare leaders. Marcia Bryant, who has been with the hospital for the past nine years and boasts a staggering 48 years of healthcare experience, will retire in December 2024. Her departure marks the end of an era filled with incredible achievements and significant advancements in the provision of healthcare services for the Outer Banks community.

Honoring a Trailblazer

Marcia Bryant’s journey in healthcare has not gone unnoticed; she was recognized as one of The North Carolina Great 100 Nurses for her outstanding contributions to the field. Since taking on the role of Chief Nursing Officer in 2015, she has spearheaded several initiatives that have transformed the quality of care provided at Outer Banks Health.

Creating a Dementia-Friendly Environment

Among her landmark accomplishments is the establishment of the Outer Banks Dementia Task Force in 2014, which set the stage for the hospital to become a leader in dementia care. By 2017, under Bryant’s guidance, Outer Banks Health proudly earned the title of the first dementia-friendly hospital in North Carolina. This pivotal shift has not only improved the hospital’s services but has also elevated the overall awareness and understanding of dementia within the community.

The “Purple Seahorse”, now synonymous with dementia-friendly care, emerged as an emblem of support for individuals living with dementia. This symbol serves as a reminder of the compassionate care that patients and families can expect at Outer Banks Health.

A Legacy of Influence

It’s important to point out that Marcia’s impact is not confined to the Outer Banks; she has shared her expertise on a national and international level, advising healthcare systems around the world on similar dementia-friendly practices.

Seahorse Room Tribute

To commemorate Marcia’s profound contributions to the hospital and the community, Outer Banks Health has dedicated the “Seahorse Room” within its medical office building. This special room features a commemorative plaque that reflects her incredible legacy and all that she achieved during her time at the hospital.

A Fresh Chapter Ahead

As Outer Banks Health prepares for this significant transition, Devereux Grindle has been chosen to succeed Marcia as the new Chief Nursing Officer. Grindle has been an integral part of OBH since 2017 and brings over 20 years of healthcare experience. Her previous roles include serving as the director of quality and leading important survey initiatives.

New Leadership with Proven Experience

Grindle played a key role in obtaining OBH’s Acute Stroke Ready accreditation and was actively involved in the hospital’s pandemic response efforts. Her dedication to healthcare also extends to fostering the next generation, as she established a Healthcare Careers Exploration Program with local schools, encouraging students to pursue careers in healthcare.

Grindle has made notable improvements to clinical practices using the Lean Six Sigma methodology, and her commitment to patient safety earned her the Salus Luminaire award. She is also dedicated to community health, contributing to various programs that focus on stroke education and prevention.

Commitment to Excellence

As Outer Banks Health transitions into this new chapter, the organization is unwavering in its commitment to providing high-quality, patient-centered care. With Devereux Grindle stepping into the role of Chief Nursing Officer, the hospital will undoubtedly continue to thrive under her capable leadership. The community can look forward to maintaining the excellent standards of care set by Marcia Bryant and enhancing the services offered to all.