Kurt Stuenkel of Atrium Health Floyd Receives Coveted W. Daniel Barker Leadership Award from Georgia Hospital Association

The Georgia Hospital Association recently honored Kurt Stuenkel, president of Atrium Health Floyd, with the W. Daniel Barker Leadership Award. This award recognizes Stuenkel for his outstanding leadership and commitment to expanding healthcare access in Rome and surrounding areas.

Stuenkel has been with Atrium Health Floyd since 1981 and has led the organization since 1996. Delvecchio Finley, president of Atrium Health Georgia, praised Stuenkel’s dedication. He stated, “Kurt has worked tirelessly to ensure that residents in northwest Georgia and northeast Alabama receive quality healthcare close to home.”

Under Stuenkel’s leadership, Atrium Health Floyd has seen significant changes. Two major initiatives improved customer service and employee satisfaction, earning the organization multiple awards. Additionally, Stuenkel introduced Lean Six Sigma methods, leading to over 17,000 operational improvements and saving $200 million.

Stuenkel has also expanded health services in education. He secured contracts with local schools, establishing Atrium Health Floyd as their official healthcare provider. The organization now operates 47 school clinics, equipped with virtual care technology for easy access to doctors when needed.

His vision extends beyond immediate healthcare services. Atrium Health Floyd has partnerships with Georgia Highlands College and Georgia Northwestern Technical College, creating pathways for students interested in healthcare careers. The Atrium Health Floyd-Polk Foundation, also launched under Stuenkel’s guidance, has awarded $2.6 million in community grants and raised an additional $6 million for healthcare improvement projects.

Stuenkel is committed to rural health. Under his influence, Georgia opened its first stand-alone emergency department in rural Chattooga County in 2023. This department serves as a vital resource for residents who previously had limited emergency options. Atrium Health Floyd also manages rural hospitals and practices in Cherokee County, Alabama, and Polk County, Georgia.

“Kurt has made it his mission to help community members access the care they need,” said Caylee Noggle, GHA President and CEO. His contributions not only impact immediate healthcare delivery but also the broader health ecosystem in the region.

As healthcare evolves, it’s important to consider the increasing demand for quality care in underserved areas. A recent report indicates that around 20% of Americans lack adequate access to healthcare. Leaders like Stuenkel are crucial in addressing these gaps, ensuring that more people receive the care they deserve.

For more on innovations in healthcare and rural access, you can check this study on rural health initiatives.

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