NPMC Names 2026 Mercy Award Winner

National Park Medical Center announced Tina Aitken has been recognized as the facility’s 2026 Mercy Award winner. The Mercy Award recognizes one employee from each of Lifepoint Health’s facilities who profoundly touches the lives of others and best represents the spirit and values on which the company was founded.

Aitken is a registered nurse and the Director of South Central GI Center and Outpatient Services Manager.

“Tina is culture-builder,” said People Services Director William Diggins. “She brings joy, creativity, and connection to our team through holiday activities, celebrations, and her leadership in Hospital Week and department week events. Her efforts strengthen morale, build unity, and remind us all why our work matters.”

Established in 2001, the Mercy Award is an annual recognition program that honors the life and contributions of Scott Mercy, Lifepoint’s founding chairman and chief executive officer. The award is considered the highest honor a Lifepoint employee can receive.

“Her compassion for people and her steadfast commitment to ‘doing the right thing” guide her decisions and interactions, setting a powerful example for all who work alongside her,” said Scott Bailey, CEO. “In addition to her operational leadership, Tina plays a central role in strengthening our organizational culture.”

Each facility winner, including Aitken, will be considered for Lifepoint’s 2026 companywide Mercy Award. The companywide winner will be announced this summer and honored during a ceremony in Nashville, Tenn., in September.