Shoshone Medical Center in Kellogg recognized Katie VanHoose as its 2026 Employee of the Year during a monthly board meeting, honoring her two decades of work managing the hospital’s health information and medical records operations.
VanHoose, who has served in her role as health information management and medical records manager for 24 years, received a $500 bonus alongside the award. CEO Shane Sanborn and Board Trustee Andy Helkey presented the recognition.
In her position, VanHoose oversees the maintenance, security, and accuracy of patient information while ensuring compliance with healthcare regulations governing medical records access and storage. The role demands strict adherence to federal and state privacy standards and requires coordination across multiple hospital departments.
“Throughout her career, Katie has played a vital role in ensuring the integrity, security, and accessibility of our patients’ medical records while overseeing the many complex functions of the HIM department,” Sanborn said.
VanHoose acknowledged the distinction with characteristic humility, noting that many colleagues at the facility also merit recognition for their contributions. “I’m very thankful for this recognition,” she said. “I also think there’s a lot of other people at SMC who deserve to be recognized, but I’m very grateful. I love working at Shoshone Medical Center.”
Service Anniversaries Recognized
Beyond the top honor, the hospital board also acknowledged eight employees for service anniversaries during the same meeting. Hayle Thompson, Bryan Humphrey, Amy Paul, Erin Jerome, Randie Melton, Ana Campo, Annette Nevills, and Emma Marlow were recognized for their tenure at the facility.
The annual employee-of-the-year award reflects Shoshone Medical Center’s practice of recognizing staff contributions to patient care and hospital operations. As the region’s primary healthcare provider serving Wallace, Kellogg, Osburn, and surrounding Silver Valley communities, SMC relies on a stable workforce to maintain clinical and administrative functions.
VanHoose’s quarter-century tenure at the hospital underscores the importance of long-term institutional knowledge in healthcare settings, particularly in roles managing sensitive patient data and regulatory compliance. Her longevity in a specialized management position reflects both her expertise and commitment to the organization’s mission.
What Comes Next
Shoshone Medical Center continues to strengthen its workforce through recognition programs and employee engagement initiatives. The hospital’s focus on honoring staff contributions supports retention and workplace culture in a region where healthcare staffing remains a persistent challenge. Future board meetings will likely continue the tradition of recognizing employee milestones and service anniversaries as part of the hospital’s commitment to acknowledging the teams that sustain patient care across Shoshone County.
For more on the hospital’s operations and community health initiatives, see the recent Shoshone Medical Center Occupational Therapists Release Summer Safety Guidance for Seniors.