Connie Hill
St. Bernards Medical Center
Cardiology Associates
Jonesboro
Like a lot of health care professionals, Connie Hill’s professional ambition was solidified in high school science classes. But what inspired her to become a nurse in the first place was something much more personal.
“No secret, I came from humble beginnings,” she said. “My paternal grandparents, and their parents, all died before the age of 65 from heart disease. My own father had his first round with heart disease at 40. I was determined to make a difference.”
Hill’s desire to improve the lives of people living with health risks and wellness issues was sharpened by a keen interest in science and a favorite teacher.
“My science teacher in high school presented the intricate workings of the human body in such a way that learning was effortless, interesting and fun,” she said.
After graduating from UAMS College of Nursing and Vanderbilt University School of Nursing, Hill got to live her passion. Moreover, she kept her commitment to cardiac care and is today director of the HeartCare Center at St Bernards Medical Center in Jonesboro, as well as administrator for Cardiology Associates there. Her unique background makes interaction with patients, particularly those of limited means, highly personal.
“Disparity in health care outcomes for diverse populations is still happening and it’s 2015,” she said. “There is still significant work to be done that addresses the effects of context on health care, context being where we live and work.”
Hill has little patience for the politicization of care, seeing firsthand what health care reform has yielded for the patients who need it most, yet are often the least able to afford it.
“The private option has been an important tool for our cardiac patients to access care easily,” she said. “At the end of the day, my wish is that everyone receives the highest quality care and when they return to their homes and communities they have the resources they need to carry out the home care and healthy habits they’ve been prescribed.”
Hill also said recognition and awards are a welcome and flattering endorsement of the work that she does every day. At the same time, she’s quick to share the limelight with her peers. For her, she said, working in the profession she loves is honor enough.
“Really, for me, this is not a job, it is a passion,” she said. “One can experience the most exhilarating moments and the deepest sorrow all within the span of a shift.”
Highlights:
» Inspired to become a nurse due to high incidence of heart disease in her family
» Graduated from UAMS College of Nursing and Vanderbilt University School of Nursing
» Currently director of the HeartCare Center at St. Bernards Medical Center and administrator for Cardiology Associates, Jonesboro
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