Photo By Shanita Dorsey | During a Change of Command ceremony, LTC Joanna Bailey officially assumed leadership...... read more read more
Ninety days after taking command of Kenner Army Health Clinic, Lt. Col. Joanna Bailey describes the experience in one word: pride. Pride in her staff’s professionalism, pride in their dedication, and pride in the “incredible work done within the walls of Kenner.”
In her first months of command, Bailey said one of the most surprising aspects has been the breadth of Kenner’s outreach. “The extensive outreach Kenner Army Health Clinic has within its area of responsibility — from Fort AP Hill, Fort Pickett, and Rivanna Station to DLA Aviation and Radford Ammo Depot — was something I didn’t fully realize until I assumed command,” she said.
One of Bailey’s earliest points of pride has been Kenner’s ability to achieve major milestones despite leadership changes. “Achieving Joint Commission and College of American Pathologists (CAP) Accreditation in the midst of leadership change is a testament to the exceptional work provided by the staff and how quality and safety is engrained into our day-to-day processes,” she said.
As she settled into her role, Bailey focused on building trust with Soldiers, civilians, and patients. Her approach is grounded in what she calls the “3 A’s — Accessibility, Approachability, and Authenticity.” These values, she explained, help her connect with the community and reinforce transparency in leadership.
Bailey’s long-term vision is to make Kenner the preferred choice for primary and ancillary care within the Fort Lee community. “Instilling a sense of purpose with every staff member and connecting that back to the community we serve” is at the heart of her vision. She added, “Whether it’s the new trainee, Permanent Party Active Duty, or Family Members and Retirees — we are here to Keep Sustainers On Line.”
What inspires her most in military healthcare, she said, is the blending of generations who share the same calling to serve. “I have sat in our Pharmacy Waiting Area and had the opportunity to overhear Veterans sharing their experiences and memories with our newer Service Members,” Bailey said. “It is this blending of generations who share the same calling that inspires me to give my best every day.”
For Bailey, the mission comes down to three priorities: People, Health, and Readiness. “We are here to ‘Keep Sustainers On Line,’” she said. “Our goal is to provide exceptional care from technical experts who prioritize the medical sustainment of our warfighters and families — both past and present.”
| Date Taken: | 09.21.2025 |
| Date Posted: | 09.21.2025 16:08 |
| Story ID: | 548854 |
| Location: | VIRGINIA, US |
| Web Views: | 75 |
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