As the Director of Safety and Compliance, La Tanya D. Forbes meets with departments throughout the healthcare system to identify risks and engage team members to develop process improvements, so the associated harm never reaches the patient. Safety is the first pillar in her organization’s “7 Pillars of Excellence” and she is proud to represent it.
Favorite Quote: “If you find it in your heart to care for somebody else, you will have succeeded.” – Maya Angelou
Fun Fact: I enjoy crocheting during my downtime and practice Reiki healing.
What challenges have you faced in your career, and how did you overcome them? Working with the different agencies (National Guard, Broward County Sheriff’s Office, and Pembroke Pines Police Department) at the testing site in CB Smith Park presented some challenges. Each agency had their own set of rules and regulations, which caused tension within the team. As the designated safety officer, I was tasked with facilitating collaboration with the different agencies and helped them see that the “Memorial Way” was the right way. This enabled us to create an organized, integrated workflow that has become a model for testing sites around the nation.
What has been the most monumental moment of your career thus far? This would be it! Being recognized as one of South Florida’s most prominent healthcare professionals.
How is the healthcare industry important to you personally? Nursing is my calling and leadership has been my strength since childhood. Working in healthcare has given me a conduit to be able to help my fellow man, motivate my co-workers and be a positive force in my community. I have been able to show my son that through hard work and giving of yourself, you are able to accomplish anything.
How did the pandemic disrupt your specific role in the healthcare industry, and how did you adapt? I was asked to join the COVID-19 medical team to develop the first drive-thru testing site in Broward County. This changed my scenery from the hospital setting to working outdoors in South Florida’s hot and ever-changing climate. My safety duties included ensuring that all staff had appropriate PPE daily, along with hydration, sun protection and adequate cooling apparatuses. Performing in this capacity was a privilege and provided the opportunity for me to serve the community on the frontline.
What’s the best piece of advice you’ve ever gotten? Never stop pushing yourself beyond your limitations. Never lose your hunger for growth because as you push yourself beyond what you thought you were capable of, you will always find new measures of confidence, abilities and resources within yourself that you didn’t think were possible before.
What do you love most about working in healthcare? It is the platform where I can exercise my God-given talents and professional development to serve those in need.
