The Laurels of Chatham Staff
What differentiates one skilled nursing & rehabilitation center from another? The answer is... the people who work and reside there! The people set the tone, the atmosphere, and the expectations. At The Laurels of Chatham, we take great pride in ensuring that everyone feels like part of our family, and that they are treated as special "guests" in our home.
The Laurels of Chatham employs a team of highly qualified medical professionals, including a Medical Director, Registered Nurses, Restorative Care Nurses, a Wound Care Nurse, state tested Certified Nursing Assistants, Physical Therapists, Occupational Therapists, and a Speech Therapist. Our on-site Rehab, Dietary, Social Work, and Activities departments provide personalized and compassionate care to each guest. From the moment you walk through the front doors, the warmth and caring of the staff will begin to gain your trust and confidence, as they strive to exceed your expectations.
Unlike other facilities that use "contracted" staff members, each member of the team at The Laurels of Chatham is directly employed, not "contracted". Each Team Member takes great pride in portraying "The Laurel Way of Caring", as they strive for excellence in providing only the highest standard of care and services to every guest, and to every family member and visitor. Come on in! Visit a while! Let us show you our very best... let us show you The Laurel Way.
John R. Jarrell, RRT, RN, BS, LNHA, Administrator
John began his healthcare career more than thirty years ago working as a hospital orderly while going to school to become a Respiratory Therapist in which he graduated with an Associates Degree. While working as a therapist, he continued to go to school and earned his Bachelor's Degree from the University of Toledo and another Associates Degree in the Registered Nurse Program. John's first job in nursing was in Long Term Care as a case manager and then for the next 8 years as a Director of Nurses. John has been a licensed Administrator since 2001.
Melanie Johnson, RN, Director of Nursing
Melanie has been a Registered Nurse since 1996 and has worked since in various settings including hospital, home health and long term care. Melanie began working for The Laurels of Chatham in March 2004. She has held various management positions at The Laurels to include Staff Development Coordinator and MDS/Care Plan Coordinator. She then became the Director of Nursing in August of 2008. Melanie is a Chatham County native and is proud to serve the residents of her community.
Elliott Armstrong, Director of Marketing
Elliott has over 15 years experience in the healthcare field. Elliott first started out as a Social Worker where he has 5 years of experience. He then became a Licensed Assisted Living Administrator before transitioning to his current role as Marketing Director. Elliott graduated from Elon College in 1994 with a B.A. degree in Human Services/ Social Work.
Denise Joiner, OT, Rehabilitation Services Director
Denise grew up in Raleigh, NC and received a Bachelor’s Degree in Sociology from the University of Florida. She then went on to receive a Master’s degree at the University of Florida in Occupational Therapy. She is currently licensed in the state of North Carolina and has been in long term rehab for over 15 years.