Lisa Swayze

Patient Access Manager – Baptist Emergency Hospital at Westover Hills


How long have you worked here?
I’ve been with Emerus for 3.5 years.

Before working here, what was the most unusual or interesting job you’ve ever had?
Previously, I was a US Navy omsbudsman on my husband’s ship, USS John Rodgers.

What is your proudest moment or experience treating our patients?
I actually have two (too tough to choose):
• When a young man’s father took a day to come in and meet the staff who saved his son’s life. He had been diagnosed with pneumonia a few times at other health care facilities, but our doctors discovered he had lung cancer at age 22.
• We had two patients in one day who miscarried/still born. The following week, we invited the Baptist Chaplain to come to the hospital, had a small gathering where we prayed with them, and were able to provide the families with keepsakes, like certificates with the footprints on them. It was an emotional, yet rewarding, day.

What are the top 3 things on your bucket list?
To visit New York City, see the musical WICKED, and to take my kids back to Okinawa, which was our first duty station when my husband was in the Navy, and where our second child was born.

What is your hidden talent, hobby or greatest interest outside of work?
I don’t have many “talents,” but I love crafting and sewing.

What are your top 3 life highlights?
My baptism, getting married and becoming a mom.

What is your dream vacation?
Visiting Dubai

If you could be anyone from any time period, who would it be and why?
Oprah Winfrey. Not because of her wealth, but rather the obstacles she has overcome in her life. She took her blessings and wealth and shared with those less fortunate. She has spent many years giving back to others, which is incredibly inspiring.

“Be thankful for what you have; you’ll end up having more. If you concentrate on what you don’t have, you will never, ever have enough.” – Oprah Winfrey (1954)

Favorite national observance/why?
As a Christian, I would say Easter and Christmas. We celebrate the birth of Jesus and the day he rose.

Favorite medicine-based movie or show/why?
“Patch Adams.” It’s based on a true story, and was such an inspiring movie. His approach, obstacles and perseverance to become a doctor and change the typical way of treating patients – which did not include empathy, humor or laughter – was captivating.

Complete this sentence about what your hospital brings to the community, or what you love about your hospital:
“My hospital…”

My hospital CARES. We serve with a happy heart. We are a family. We respect one another. We take care of each other, not just our patients. We strive to be the best at what we do, and our patients come back to us for that very reason.