Laurie Thompson, a laboratory support technician for Day Kimball Hospital has been named employee of the month for January by Day Kimball Healthcare (DKH).

Thompson possesses extensive hospital laboratory experience and customer service skills and has been with DKH for nearly 20 years. She is responsible for processing specimens and lab samples and accurately dispatching them to the appropriate department. She also works closely with the DKH network of phlebotomists and handles phone calls from various providers, doctors and patients.

According to Patrice Bernier, director of lab services, “Laurie Thompson is an approachable, dedicated team player who consistently has a positive attitude and willingness to do whatever is necessary to ensure we provide the highest quality of service possible to our doctors, other community healthcare providers and most importantly, our patients. She always goes the extra mile, she exemplifies best practices for customer service and I am proud she is part of the laboratory team.” 

Thompson works in the lab’s central processing department, commonly referred to as “dispatch” among lab staff and a department Bernier likens to “Grand Central Station.” It is where all incoming lab samples – from Day Kimball’s own blood draw sites as well as nursing homes, in-home providers and other providers in the community - are triaged to the appropriate department of the lab for each type of test. 

At a celebration in Thompson’s honor at Day Kimball Hospital on Tuesday, January 26, DKH President and CEO Robert Smanik commented on the importance of Thompson’s role, saying “The incredible work that Laurie does is a perfect example of how excellent results are dependent on the quality of the work input. Laurie’s attention to detail and willingness to do whatever it takes to ensure high quality service and dependable results are exemplary, and serve to show how all of our efforts are linked together in providing the best possible healthcare for our community.” 

When asked what she enjoys most about her job and how she feels about this award, Thompson said, “The best thing about my job is my co-workers. I’m actually a little embarrassed by this recognition, but grateful that people think I deserve it.” 

Thompson, who grew up in South Boston, Mass., served three years in the United States Army and four years in the National Guard. She currently resides in Putnam, Conn., with her partner Frank and her beloved dog, “Coco Lopez.”