Listening as Leadership in Owensboro

Abode Care Partners

Abode Care Partners Nurse Practitioner (NP) Heather Girten has been Working Smart and Doing Good in Owensboro, KY. Lauded by colleagues at Signature HealthCARE of Hillcrest and throughout western Kentucky, Heather’s approach embodies BrightSpring’s LEGACY value of Communication, built on the kind of active listening that makes patients feel safe and keeps care teams working from a position of real understanding.

Heather is known throughout the facility as someone who takes genuine time with a patient before acting — not just reviewing the chart but engaging the full picture of what the person is experiencing. When a resident’s condition declined recently and emotions were running high, Heather worked closely with nursing staff and the family to ensure clear communication, comfort-focused care, and that the patient’s wishes were honored throughout. Colleagues describe her as knowledgeable, precise, and deeply attentive — someone who treats every interaction as an opportunity to build trust.

What makes me feel most proud is being able to advocate for my patients while also supporting their families. Building trust, improving quality of life, and knowing that I can make even a small positive difference in someone’s day is incredibly rewarding.” – Heather Girten

The people in Heather’s care feel the difference her presence makes. Patients feel heard and safe, families have confidence that their loved ones are truly understood, and the nursing team benefits from a provider who treats collaboration as part of the job. Her willingness to slow down and listen carefully ripples outward through every patient interaction and every care planning conversation she is part of.

Great work, Heather. Your commitment to Communication — especially the listening that makes it meaningful — keeps patients and care teams connected and confident. Because of the way you engage with every person you serve, individuals feel seen and the teams around you are better prepared to provide compassionate care.

Work Smart. Do Good.