DOBSON — Healthcare providers make differences in the lives of people every day, and one local nurse was recognized for her work with children and families.
Tiffany Bullins, a registered nurse who serves as the care management supervisor at the Surry County Health and Nutrition Center, recently received the GlaxoSmithKline Foundation’s Individual Recognition Award as part of the foundation’s Child Health Recognition awards for North Carolina.
In September, Bullins traveled to New Bern to receive her award, which the foundation explains as “designed to showcase exceptional and innovative programs that improve the lives of North Carolina’s children.”
“This year’s awards focus on programs that address evidenced-based issues of particular significance to the community being served and work in partnership with others to help improve health outcomes for children,” explains GlaxoSmithCline in a statement. “Key focus areas include asthma, dental health, environmental health (healthy homes), immunizations, low birth weight, mental health, nutrition and substance abuse, including drugs, alcohol and tobacco.”
Bullins said she has gotten other awards for her work in the past, but the GlaxoSmithCline award is definitely the biggest.
“It was very shocking and very wonderful,” said Bullins. “It is quite an honor.”
The nurse has been employed with the county health department for the past 12 years, but she hasn’t always served as the clinic’s care management supervisor. Prior to working in her current position, she worked in care coordination for children, something which played to her passion.
“I have a passion for families in general,” explained Bullins. “I enjoy connecting families to resources in the community — helping to meet the needs of the family as a whole.”
She said in every case she handles it is the optimal outcome for the family which she tries to achieve.
Bullins, who once served on the front lines of ensuring medical and other needs of children and families is achieved, has seen her role change in her supervisory position.
“I don’t get to work with them (children and families) as much as I used to,” said Bullins. “I help when employees are on leave.”
“Now I work behind the scenes, making it easier for our staff to help families. I’m in a role in which I can hopefully make a difference.”
Bullins’ work also hasn’t gone unnoticed at the center.
“We could not be more proud of Tiffany and all of her accomplishments. She is one of the most genuine and dedicated women I have had the pleasure of working with, and her kindness and desire to help others is unmatched,” noted Health Director Samantha Ange. “She is such an asset to our agency, and is truly deserving of the GSK Individual Recognition Award.”
While Bullins got the recent recognition, she said she doesn’t do the work on her own.
“My favorite part of supervising is being the voice and advocate for our whole team,” said Bullins.
It’s a team Bullins doesn’t plan to leave anytime soon.
“I’ll be here until I retire,” said Bullins.
