Haywood Regional Medical Center Builds Career Pathways for Local Healthcare Workers

Haywood Regional Medical Center (HRMC) is continuing to invest in the growth of its local healthcare workforce, with 11 additional team members across its employed physician practices recently earning their credentials as Certified Medical Assistants through an onsite career development program offered in partnership with WNC Edutech.

The achievement reflects HRMC’s ongoing commitment to supporting employees in advancing their careers while strengthening access to skilled, consistent clinical care across the community.

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 Certified Medical Assistant program was brought directly into HRMC’s clinic settings, allowing participants to continue serving patients while completing training and preparing for certification.

Medical assistants play an essential role in physician practices, supporting both clinical and administrative aspects of patient care. Their work may include taking vital signs, preparing patients for exams, assisting providers, helping manage patient flow, and supporting a positive, efficient experience for patients and families.

A Certified Medical Assistant 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.

“We are proud to celebrate these team members and the commitment they have shown to their patients, their practices and their own professional growth,” said Sue Shugart, FACHE, CPPS, chief executive officer of Haywood Regional Medical Center. “By making this opportunity available locally, we are able to invest in our employees while continuing to build a strong pipeline of skilled healthcare professionals for our region. We appreciate WNC Edutech for their partnership in helping make this possible.”

The newly certified medical assistants and their respective practices include:

Waynesville Family Practice Bailey Clark Jasmine Colclasure Madison Davis Mikenzie Mathis

Western Carolina Orthopedics Cindy Carlson

Mountain Medical Associates Iris Weldon Kara Mehaffey Kristen Ramsey Summer Case

Haywood Women’s Medical Center Kayla Martin

Haywood Family Practice – Canton Thelma “Tammy” Hoglen

This newest group joins a large number of clinic team members who previously completed the program and earned their CMA credentials earlier this year. Together, these achievements reflect HRMC’s continued focus on growing clinical talent from within and supporting the team members who help care for patients throughout Haywood County and the surrounding region.

Haywood Regional Medical Center is committed to fostering a culture where team members feel supported, valued and empowered to grow.

To learn more about career opportunities, visit MyHaywoodRegional.com/careers.