Throughout her 33-year tenure at St. Francis Health, Sharon Jones has held several positions and loved them all.
“I’m dedicated to giving my best to anyone I encounter,” says Jones, who currently works as a clinical service representative in the occupational medicine department at St. Francis Health.
Choosing a Healthcare Career
Jones’ decision to pursue work in healthcare came easily to her.
“When I was a teenager my mother would have my sister and I go to a neighboring elder lady’s home to help with anything she needed,” Jones recalls. “Showing compassion and wanting to care for others came naturally.”
Jones says her mother has been the biggest influence in her career.
“She’s shown me how important it is to have compassion for others, be consistent, be honest and work hard,” Jones says. “My mother fed and raised four girls on her own while working multiple jobs to care for us. Her unconditional love and support are priceless. My mother fuels me every day.”
Workplace Diversity
Diversity in the workplace with people from different walks of life coming together is crucial, especially within healthcare.
“Diversity is representation and inclusion, being able to listen and learn from different cultures, ideas, experiences and viewpoints,” Jones says. “Diversity in healthcare is vital. Being able to identify with someone can make a difference in patient health outcomes and employee relationships.”
Equity in Healthcare
Access to transportation, healthy foods and safe living conditions are among the many factors that determine a person’s overall health. Screening for and addressing these social determinants of health is standard of care across our health system and part of our focus on health equity. As a nonprofit, mission-focused Catholic healthcare ministry, we are privileged to care for those most in need.
“In regard to health disparities, equal opportunity and health care for all is most pressing,” Jones says. “People need to have access to healthcare, affordable healthcare or the same quality healthcare.”
Cultivating Community
This year in recognition of Black History Month, our health system is reflecting on The King Center’s 2023 theme to celebrate Dr. Martin Luther King Jr.’s work and life: It Starts with Me: Cultivating a Beloved Community Mindset.
Jones cultivates her community through her presence in her church and engaging in community activities.
When reflecting on Black American history, Jones thinks of Dr. King and his contributions to equality to all, Tuskegee Airmen, Garrett Morgan, Sojourner Truth, Ruby Bridges and Charles R. Drew to name a few.
“Black history to me is perseverance, determination and strength,” Jones says. “It’s a reflection of the achievements and sacrifices of African Americans. It’s also a time of celebration of who we are and the excellence of Black culture despite our history.”
One of Jones’ favorite quotes is from Maya Angelou: “I’ve learned that people will forget what you said, people will forget what you did, but people will never forget how you made them feel.”
Our DEI Commitment
Our ministry’s commitment to diversity, equity and inclusion supports culturally competent care education for our team members all year long, including during Black History Month each February.
