From left to right, Wende K. Dottor, Executive Health System Director; Alice Caldwell, RN, recipient of the Great Catch award; Miranda Rodgers, Nurse Manager; Kari Stokes, Assistant Nurse Manager; Stephen Dotts, Associate Director; and Chad Adams, Deputy Executive Director.
By Katie Hollingsworth, Public Affairs Specialist
Alice Caldwell, staff RN at the Malcom Randall VA Medical Center, was nominated and unanimously voted as the Great Catch Award Winner of 2025 Quarter 1 by the Office of High Reliability.
Caldwell received this award for demonstrating exceptional vigilance in observing medical changes in a Veteran's appearance. By promptly notifying the appropriate healthcare providers, she significantly contributed to the prevention of a potentially adverse event.
Caldwell has been a dedicated VA employee for over 13 years, consistently demonstrating her commitment to her patients. On a typical workday, she received notification that a new Veteran would be entering her care. As part of her standard procedure for new patients, Caldwell conducted a thorough assessment of the Veteran's skin. During her examination, she noticed some discoloration and a possible deformity of one of the Veteran's extremities. Recognizing the importance of prompt and accurate evaluation, she immediately contacted the doctor to assess the situation.
Caldwell practiced the High Reliability principle of “Duty to Speak Up” as demonstrated by her willingness and attentiveness to communicate with the providers. Caldwell's proactive approach is what earned her the "Great Catch Award." This award recognizes her diligence and dedication to ensuring Veterans receive healthcare in a safe and compassionate environment. The Patient Safety team and North Florida/South Georgia Veterans Health System (NF/SGVHS) leadership team truly appreciate her efforts in supporting exceptional Veteran-centered care.
When asked about how she felt being recognized with this award Caldwell explained “Receiving an award for the great catch is a privilege, but being selected and nominated for the Quarter was much more significant for me. When I first opened the email and saw my name recognized, I was taken aback. I recall the incident with the Veteran, but my actions were solely driven by a desire to act in the best interests of my patient.”
NF/SGVHS is fortunate to have an employee like Caldwell, who embodies our core values and plays a crucial role in helping us achieve our goals. Her unwavering dedication exemplifies our steadfast commitment to providing the highest quality of care to all Veterans.
