RUMFORD — For the fifth consecutive year Rumford Hospital has named HEROES, or Healthcare Employees Reaching Out with Exceptional Service. 

The program was developed by the Central Maine Medical Family to honor employees who demonstrate the system’s core values of compassion, citizenship, integrity, service, excellence and commitment.

HEROES are nominated by their peers, and the nominations are reviewed by senior management who make the final decision. HEROES 2012 are Dr. Sean Callender, Jesse Heath, Dr. Larry Hoperstead and Kathy Hutchinson.

Callender, a family physician with Elsemore Dixfield Family Medicine, was cited for his abilities listening to patients and nursing staff.  “He makes sure residents and nurses are comfortable with the patient’s plan of care,” one nominator noted.  “He is very soft spoken and understanding with patients and the hospital staff,” wrote another.

Jesse Heath, distribution specialist, is always responsive when asked to do something or obtain something for his co-workers.  Jesse received four separate nominations.  One of the nominators wrote, “He is always upbeat; greets everyone with a smile; appears to be always happy…whatever is asked of him. Being constantly pleasant is a big plus we should all strive for and be appreciative of.”

Dr. Larry Hoperstead, a surgeon with Rumford Surgical Associates, was nominated for setting an example of how to interact with people.  “Some people you come across in your lifetime — you just know it’s a privilege to have met them,” said the nominator.  “He treats everyone with dignity and respect, whether he is speaking to a patient, a housekeeper or a fellow physician,” noted another.

Kathy Hutchinson, clinical coordinator of the OR, was noted for listening very well with a big heart.  “She is able to see situations from all sides and makes decisions without bias,” said one nominator.  “As Clinical Coordinator of the OR, she guides the staff well,” wrote another.  “We all look to her as a role model.”

The HEROES were feted with an afternoon social and received glass trophies.  Their names will be added to a slate plaque beside the first floor elevator doors at the hospital.