Vern Pharr, A Pillar of Excellence at UMC Health System, Celebrates Nearly 30 Years of Service
Advancing Surgical and Anesthesia Care with Dedication and Expertise
Lubbock, Texas – UMC Health System is proud to honor Vern Pharr, a dedicated member of its nursing team for nearly three decades. Known for his unwavering commitment to patient care, Vern has made significant contributions in the fields of perianesthesia nursing, inpatient care, critical care, and surgical services, solidifying his reputation as a leader in the healthcare community.
Since July 2015, Vern has taken on the role of Director of Surgical and Anesthesia Services, where he oversees a variety of critical areas including Outpatient Surgery, the Post Anesthesia Care Unit, Day Surgery, and the STAR Center. His leadership in the Enhanced Recovery After Surgery (ERAS) program has been instrumental in improving patient outcomes and enhancing the efficiency of surgical care, showcasing his dedication to advancing medical practices.
Vern’s commitment extends beyond surgical services; he has been an active participant in UMC NEIDS Outreach—Nurses Educating on Illegal Drugs & Synthetics—since September 2014. His efforts in community education and awareness surrounding illegal drugs and synthetic substances underline his holistic approach to healthcare, emphasizing the importance of public health alongside individual patient care.
A proud alumnus of North Central Texas College, Vern earned his Associate’s Degree in Nursing in 1987, followed by a Bachelor of Science in Nursing in Clinical Nursing Education from Lubbock Christian University in 2014. His pursuit of knowledge didn’t stop there; he furthered his education with a Master of Science in Registered Nursing, Nursing Administration, Nursing Research, and Clinical Nursing from the said establishment in 2017.
Before stepping into his directorial role, Vern served as a Clinical Nurse Educator, where he shared his extensive knowledge with colleagues, fostering a culture of mentorship and leadership within the nursing community. His accolades, including the Nursing Leadership Award, the Community Service Award from University Medical Center, and chosen as a South Plains Great 25 Nurse, reflect his significant impact on both his peers and the patients he serves. Vern holds several national certifications; CCRN (Critical Care Registered Nurse), CPAN (Certified Post Anesthesia Nurse), and CAPA (Certified Ambulatory PeriAnesthesia Nurse).
As an active member of esteemed organizations such as the American Society of PeriAnesthesia Nurses, the Association of periOperative Registered Nurses, the American Nurses Credentialing Center, and the American Association of Critical-Care Nurses, Vern remains committed to staying at the forefront of nursing advancements. He attributes his success to the culture, management, and staff at UMC Health System that support his growth, as well as his compassion for others and relentless pursuit of excellence.
Vern Pharr’s journey at UMC Health System is a testament to his dedication and passion for nursing, making him a vital asset to the healthcare community in Lubbock, Texas, and beyond.
Learn More about Vern Pharr:
Through his online profile, https://todaysnurse.org/nurse/4149923
