Swain Community Hospital honors Kayla Ledford, PharmD with 2025 Mercy Award

Swain Community Hospital is pleased to announce that Kayla Ledford, PharmD, has been selected as the recipient of the hospital's 2025 Mercy Award. The Mercy Award recognizes one employee from each of Lifepoint Health's facilities who profoundly impacts the lives of others and exemplifies the values on which the company was founded.

The Mercy Award was established in 2001 to commemorate the life and contributions of Scott Mercy, Lifepoint’s founding chairman and CEO. This prestigious award remains the highest honor a Lifepoint employee can receive.

“It is with great pride that we recognize Dr. Kayla Ledford for her exceptional contributions to patient care and her dedication to the Swain Community Hospital team,” said Ashley Hindman, CEO of Harris Regional and Swain Community Hospitals. “Kayla consistently goes above and beyond, not just in her clinical expertise but in the compassion and empathy she shows to every patient she serves. Her actions reflect the very best of our mission.”

Ledford is recognized for her keen attention to detail and vigilance in safeguarding patient safety. Her prompt action in identifying and resolving a critical medication interaction recently demonstrated her strong commitment to protecting patients and ensuring the best possible outcomes.

What truly sets Ledford apart, however, is her profound empathy. She doesn’t simply focus on correcting the clinical aspects of care but also ensures that the emotional needs of her patients are met. Ledford takes extra time to sit with patients, provide clarity on treatment plans, and address concerns.

“Kayla’s dedication to patient care goes beyond what is required,” said Al Newkirk, R.Ph., director of pharmacy at Harris Regional and Swain Community Hospitals. “She is not only an outstanding pharmacist but a compassionate advocate for our patients. Her contributions are invaluable, and she continuously leads by example.”

In addition to her clinical work, Ledford’s contributions to the hospital extend to her strong collaborations with providers and nursing staff to ensure coordinated, safe, and effective care. During the challenges of Hurricane Helene, she volunteered her time without hesitation, ensuring that patients had the medications and care they needed during a time of crisis.

Ledford’s selfless approach to patient care, her ability to remain humble in the face of challenges, and her commitment to those she serves make her a shining example of what the Mercy Award represents. Swain Community Hospital is proud to honor her for her exceptional work and dedication.

Ledford will be considered for the Lifepoint companywide Mercy Award, with the winner being announced this summer and honored at a ceremony in Nashville, TN.