Dennis Harden, M.D., a Piedmont Physicians Group primary care provider with over 26 years of clinical experience, has been recognized as Encompass Health’s Medical Director of Year.

Dr. Harden, who is based in Phenix City, Ala., part of Piedmont’s Columbus clinical hub, was selected out of 27 medical directors in the south-central region. He was recommended for the award by Encompass Health regional president Brad Kennedy due to his positive impact on many physician-driven quality metrics, such as timely discharge medication reconciliation, opioid stewardship and timely medical record completion. Making it a priority that patients receive the highest quality care, his work has ensured that over eighty percent of patients were discharged home and satisfied with the treatment they received.

On a personal level, Dr. Harden is known for sitting down with each patient when he rounds, taking time to connect with them on a personal level and learn about their specific situation. And, despite a packed schedule, he also makes himself available to talk to staff and families.

“He is also very organized and methodical in his approach, modeling best practices for our medical staff, and as a result, is a very valued member of our leadership team— with several leaders pointing to Dr. Harden’s visibility and engagement as one of the key contributing factors to their success in the past year,” said Encompass Health area CEO Lora Davis.

Dr. Harden also uses his influence to help ensure efficiency in resource utilization.

“He helped establish protocols for blood utilization during a time of a national blood shortage, and he even prompted the organization to host a blood drive,” Davis adds. “Dr. Harden is not only concerned for every patient individually, but also for more global healthcare issues.”

Having made a positive difference in the community, as well as for both the Piedmont and Encompass teams, Dr. Harden has demonstrated great leadership in medical services.