Marsha Lewis Retires as Respiratory Care Manger of Baptist Medical Center, Little Rock

From Sherrye Campbell, MS, RRT


Marsha Lewis as a professional, has held officer positions and served on numerous committees. Her state and national connections have proven to benefit Baptist Health, the Respiratory Care Department and our patients. Of Marsha's many contributions, there are two I want to mention with significant impact. In the 90's, Marsha planted the seeds of Therapist Driven Protocols. True to Marsha's professional style, she changed the name at Baptist to the "Patient Driven Protocols" or "PDPs." In the early 2000's, Marsha put her own style on the self-directed work teams and named them "Councils. " These councils focused on Baptist Health objectives and the needs of the Respiratory Care Department. The councils under Marsha's guidance have matured to the melting pot of many department activities.

Marsha developed a leadership style that brings out the best in others. As a manager, Marsha has had the "open door" policy. She is a good listener. She often times has had to be a diplomat. I say, not a politician, because as a strong leader, her decisions were not always the popular decisions but she had to make the "tough decision" for the good of the department. One department director stated, "Under Marsha's direction, the Respiratory Therapist are recognized as valuable independent practitioners on the health care team."

Marsha with all your styles, you have left big shoes to be filled. We thank you. Your service has truly made an impact in the Respiratory Care Department, Baptist Health and around the state. Thank you so much for your leadership and commitment to the Respiratory Care Profession!