19 Haywood Regional Medical Center employees pursue career growth through certified medical assistant program

Haywood Regional Medical Center (HRMC) is proud to announce that 19 team members across its employed physician clinics have earned their credentials as Certified Medical Assistants (CMAs), following the successful completion of a career development program held onsite in partnership with WNC Edutech.

WNC Edutech, a North Carolina-based education provider, offers hands-on training and national certification preparation in high-demand medical and IT fields. Through this partnership, the Clinical Medical Assistant program was brought directly into clinic settings, allowing participants to continue caring for patients while advancing their clinical skills.

Medical assistants (MAs) play a vital role in physician practices, supporting both clinical and administrative functions such as taking vital signs, preparing patients for exams, assisting providers, and managing patient flow. A Certified Medical Assistant (CMA) has completed an accredited training program and passed a nationally recognized certification exam, demonstrating a standardized level of knowledge and competency. This credential reinforces a commitment to quality, consistency, and patient safety in the care setting.

By offering this program locally, participants were able to complete their training and achieve certification without leaving the community, helping to strengthen the pipeline of skilled healthcare professionals.

“We’re incredibly proud of these team members for their dedication to both their patients and professional growth,” said Sue Shugart, FACHE, CPPS, chief executive officer of HRMC. “Opportunities like this reflect our ongoing commitment to investing in our workforce and ensuring our community continues to have access to high-quality care. We appreciate WNC Edutech for partnering with us to make this possible.”

The newly certified medical assistants and their respective practices include:

Waynesville Family Practice
Madelyn Gentry
Kendra Buckner

Mountain Medical Associates
Jamie Bullman
Jurnee Connor
Amelia Westhoven
Kelly Weldon
Teresa Wilkison

Western Carolina Orthopedics
Gloria Brown
Terri Few
Caitlin MacBlain

Mountain Spine
Lisa Beaupre Simpson
Hope Anthony
Cyndy Brown
Brittney Owen
Andrea Ferguson

Western Carolina Cardiology
Sarah Norwood
Jamie Burgess
Angela Saunders

Mountain Pediatrics
Richi Tannerhill