Craig Harris, RN, BSN, MPH returns to WestCare as Director of Critical Care Services at MedWest-Harris

12/19/2012

Craig Harris, RN, BSN, MPH returns to WestCare as Director of Critical Care Services at MedWest-Harris

Sylva, N.C. – Swain County native Craig Harris, RN, BSN, MPH is returning to WestCare as Director of Critical Care Services at MedWest-Harris. Beginning January 7, 2013, he will oversee the emergency department and the intensive care unit. 

Harris has held clinical leadership roles at facilities throughout Western North Carolina, beginning his career as a bedside nurse in the emergency department at Harris Regional Hospital in 1993 after receiving his BSN from Western Carolina University. Harris went on to become director of the emergency departments, intensive care unit and occupational health at WestCare Health System. 

Harris served as director of the diabetes clinic at Cherokee Indian Hospital before becoming Director of Critical Care at Mission Hospitals where he also managed the cardiovascular intensive care, critical care, medical intensive care and cardiac step-down units. Through his leadership, Harris’ units received the prestigious Beacon Award for Excellence, a national recognition granted to critical care units by the American Association of Critical Care Nurses denoting exceptional and innovative quality in patient care. Most recently, he served as clinical director for Buncombe County for Four Seasons Hospice. 

A graduate of Swain County High School, Harris received a Master of Public Health from the University of North Carolina at Chapel Hill in addition to his nursing degree from Western Carolina University. He holds special credentials as a Critical Care Registered Nurse (CCRN) and as a Certified Emergency Nurse (CEN). 

“Craig’s knowledge will be key in leading us on our journey to a world-class patient experience in the Emergency Department,” said Patty Ward, Vice President of Nursing at WestCare. 

In his new role, Craig will lead a team of dedicated nurses and staff working with compassionate, skilled physicians providing emergency care for our community and visitors at MedWest-Harris.