Rebekah Artman, MBA, BSN, RN, CCRN, CPPS appointed as Senior Nursing Officer for Harris Regional Hospital and Swain Community Hospital

Harris Regional Hospital and Swain Community Hospital, Duke LifePoint hospitals, are pleased to announce that Rebekah Artman, MBA, BSN, RN, CCRN, CPPS has been appointed to the role of senior nursing officer, overseeing nursing operations at both facilities.

Artman steps into the role following Stephen Plemmons, MSN, RN, who recently transitioned into the position of market vice president of operations for Harris, Haywood, and Swain hospitals. A tenured nurse leader with a passion for patient-centered care and nursing proficiency, Artman brings broad experience in hospital leadership and quality enhancement to her new position.

This appointment marks a homecoming for Artman, who began her nursing career as a certified nursing assistant (CNA) at Harris Regional Hospital in 2007 while attending nursing school. Over the years, she has steadily advanced through various leadership roles, most recently serving as assistant chief nursing officer (ACNO) for Frye Regional Medical Center in Hickory, North Carolina and Northeastern Nevada Regional Hospital in Elko, Nevada, both of which are part of Lifepoint Health. Artman’s remarkable career trajectory highlights her deep commitment to professional growth, patient advocacy, and empowering nursing teams.

"We are thrilled to welcome Rebekah back to Harris and Swain in this leadership role," said Ashley Hindman, CEO of Harris Regional Hospital and Swain Community Hospital. "Her deep connection to our community, combined with her extensive leadership experience and dedication to patient-centered care, makes her an incredible asset to our hospitals.”

After earning her registered nursing license in 2009, Artman excelled as an ICU nurse before transitioning into leadership at Haywood Regional Medical Center, a Duke LifePoint hospital, advancing through roles focused on nursing retention, patient safety, and evidence-based care. She has been part of Lifepoint Health’s ACNO program, where she worked closely with chief nursing officers across multiple hospitals to develop a systems-based leadership approach.

"Rebekah’s reputation as a strong leader and advocate for both patients and staff is well known," said Stephen Plemmons, market vice president of operations for Harris, Haywood, and Swain hospitals. "Her dedication to nursing excellence and ability to build collaborative, high-performing teams will ensure our nursing teams will continue to thrive."

A native of Robbinsville, North Carolina, Artman is excited to return to the region. She remains committed to supporting nurses, championing patient care, and ensuring continued excellence in hospital services.