Mary Jones, a phlebotomist and laboratory assistant at Memorial Care on Koke Mill, is the Memorial Health Ambulatory Group’s 2025 Colleague of the Year.
Jones, who has served Memorial Health since 2005, was previously named Colleague of the Month for September 2025. She is widely recognized for her skill and compassion in working with pediatric patients who are often anxious about needles and medical procedures.
"Mary works with our families, our nurses and us to ensure our patients have the best experience possible," wrote a physician who nominated her for the award. "She double-checks the labs we ordered to ensure our patients have the least 'pokes' as possible. She also keeps snacks and Gatorade available if they get lightheaded from the blood draw."
Jones' attention to detail extends beyond patient comfort. Her proactive approach to managing bilirubin level draws has significantly improved department efficiency. By coming directly to provider rooms to perform procedures, she minimizes patient movement and potential risks while reducing wait times.
Memorial Health Ambulatory Group is part of Memorial Health, a comprehensive healthcare organization dedicated to serving the Springfield and surrounding communities.
The Colleague of the Year is selected at each Memorial Health affiliate from 11 individuals previously named Colleague of the Month throughout 2025.