Columbus Regional Health’s Anthony Pope Named ‘Caregiver of the Year’

COLUMBUS, Ind. — Anthony “Tony” Pope, retired Chief of Police and Director of Emergency Management at Columbus Regional Health (CRH), was awarded the Douglas J. Leonard Indiana Caregiver of the Year Award by the Indiana Hospital Association (IHA) at the 20th annual Indiana Quality and Safety Summit, held June 18 at the Forum Events Center in Fishers, Indiana.

The award recognizes an individual in the healthcare industry whose performance in the delivery of care is considered exemplary by patients and peers. It was named in honor of IHA’s fourth president, Doug Leonard, who led IHA from 2007 to 2017 after a 30-year career at CRH, where he served as CEO. Pope has redefined what it means to be a caregiver in healthcare by demonstrating that safety, compassion and patient-centered service are inseparable.

CRH stated that Pope worked throughout his tenure side-by-side with caregivers in some of the organization's most challenging environments, fostering a culture where patients, families and healthcare workers feel protected, respected and supported. Through innovative workplace violence prevention initiatives, staff education, emergency preparedness leadership and a collaborative approach that bridges security and clinical care, Pope has improved the healthcare experience for countless individuals.

“Tony has earned the respect of colleagues throughout Indiana and across the healthcare field through a career defined by service, leadership and an unwavering commitment to others,” said IHA President Scott B. Tittle. “His work has demonstrated that every member of the healthcare
team plays an important role in caring for patients and supporting those who provide care. Tony's example has inspired fellow professionals and improved the healthcare experience for countless individuals, making him a highly deserving recipient of the Douglas J. Leonard Indiana Caregiver of the Year Award.”