UNC Health Blue Ridge

We love our volunteers, like John and his mom, Kristina — the heart behind our beloved Treat Trolley! Together, they bring a little extra joy to our teammates by delivering treats throughout the hospital.

When asked what he loves most about the Treat Trolley, John shared: “Meeting all the people is my favorite part!”

It’s moments like these that remind us how special our community truly is. Thank you, John and Kristina, for brightening our days and lifting spirits across UNC Health Blue Ridge!

🇺🇸 Happy Fourth of July from UNC Health Blue Ridge! 🇺🇸

Today, we celebrate the spirit of independence, freedom, and community. As you gather with family and friends, we wish you a safe and joyful holiday filled with moments that matter most.

As you celebrate, don’t forget to stay safe, stay hydrated, and take care of one another. We’re honored to care for you—today and every day!

Join us in welcoming Rohit Mehta, MD, FACC, FHRS, to the staff of Blue Ridge Cardiology as a cardiac electrophysiologist.

Dr Mehta was previously Clinical Professor of Internal Medicine at UNC College of Medicine and Professor of Cardiovascular Medicine at Wake Forest University School of Medicine.

“I am basically an electrician for the heart,” said Dr. Mehta. “I treat atrial fibrillation, slow and fast heart rhythm, and support patients’ goals with the use of pacemakers, defibrillators, and ablations when needed. I believe strongly in teaching and empowering patients to be self-advocates and share decision-making with them, with a strong focus on their goals.”

In his spare time, Dr. Mehta is passionate about teaching CPR and making communities safer. He loves playing tennis and basketball, and is a passionate Duke and Ohio State fan. “I was born in Ohio, grew up in Arkansas, and call North Carolina home,” he said.

As we get ready to celebrate the 4th of July, let’s make safety a priority! Fireworks can be fun, but they also send thousands to the ER every year. Stay safe with these quick tips!

If an injury does occur, don’t wait—seek medical attention right away. Visit www.uncbr.org/pathway/ to know where to go.

Meet our newest Carolina Care award recipient, EVS teammate Michelle Craig!

Her nomination said: "A fellow teammate brought it to our attention that we have a phenomenal EVS teammate who needs to be recognized for continually going above and beyond. Michelle consistently stays a step ahead of any request that the Labor and Delivery team might have. She thoroughly cleans rooms not only when needed but before anyone can ask. She maintains a glowing attitude, and her personality is a warm addition to the team. She is always smiling and pleasant to work with."

Thank you, Michelle, for your dedication!

UNC Health Blue Ridge is proud to announce the appointment of two new members to our Board of Directors: Rahul Sampath, MD and Adam J. Kinninger, DO, beginning July 1.

Dr. Sampath, an infectious diseases specialist and physician leader, brings extensive experience in clinical care, graduate medical education, and infection prevention. His leadership roles at UNC Health Blue Ridge—including Internal Medicine Residency Program Director and Medical Staff President—have helped guide meaningful growth and innovation.

Dr. Kinninger, a board-certified family physician and sports medicine specialist, offers more than 15 years of experience in patient-centered care, physician leadership, and healthcare system improvement. He is also deeply engaged in education, mentoring future healthcare professionals, and supporting community initiatives.

“Both physicians bring valuable leadership experience to the board,” said Board Chairman Jim Rostan. “We look forward to their contributions in advancing quality and innovation.”

Please join us in welcoming Dr. Sampath and Dr. Kinninger as they help shape the future of healthcare in our region.

☀️ Stay safe in the summer sun ☀️

Longer days and warmer weather mean more time outside, but it’s important to protect your health while you enjoy it!

Follow these simple tips to stay safe all summer long:
✅ Wear sunscreen
🕶️ Wear sunglasses
👒 Wear a hat
🌤️ Avoid peak sun hours
💧 Drink plenty of water

Whether you’re spending the day at the lake, on the trail, or in your own backyard, a few small steps can make a big difference.

Stay safe, stay hydrated, and enjoy your summer!

Not feeling your best? Care just got easier!

With UNC Health Blue Ridge Urgent Care, you can now:
✅ View current wait times
✅ Reserve your spot online
✅ Get care when it works for you

Skip the uncertainty and plan your visit with confidence.

Check wait times and reserve your spot today: https://bit.ly/UNCBRurgentcare.

Congratulations to our UNC Health Blue Ridge Inpatient Pharmacy Team on receiving the Golden Gown Award!

As shared in their nomination, this team’s “unwavering commitment to exceptional patient care” shines through in everything they do. Working behind the scenes, they go above and beyond to ensure patients receive safe, timely, and compassionate care.

In one instance, they collaborated with inpatient leaders and hospice partners to create an alternate medication plan during a shortage—helping a patient transition comfortably to the hospice home they desired.

Their work reflects the true spirit of the Golden Gown Award—honoring the patient with dignity and respect. Thank you for being the behind-the-scenes heroes our patients depend on every day!

We were proud to host the Burke County Chamber of Commerce’s Leadership Burke group for Health & Medicine Day!

It was a great opportunity to showcase the strength of healthcare across our community and provide a behind-the-scenes look at the care and collaboration that impacts our patients every day.

Participants had the chance to tour several key areas across our system, including our Cancer Center, Cath Lab, and Patient Tower—featuring the Emergency Department, ICU, and helipad.

A special thank you to our community partners Phifer Family YMCA, Grace Ridge, and Burke County Emergency Services & Emergency Management Office for welcoming the group and sharing the important role each organization plays in supporting the health and well-being of our region.

We’re grateful for the opportunity to connect, educate, and inspire the next generation of community leaders!