Regional West Recognizes Brian Nichols as 2025 STAR of the Year

SCOTTSBLUFF, Neb., ― Regional West is happy to celebrate Brian Nichols as the organization’s 2025 STAR of the Year.

The STAR program at Regional West encourages employees, patients, their family members, and visitors to nominate employees who demonstrate outstanding care and customer service.

In addition to being named 2025 STAR of the year, Nichols, a computer analyst in the Information Technology (IT) department, earned a second quarter STAR award. He was nominated by a fellow employee, who appreciated Brian’s willingness to investigate and assist with technical issues right away.

“I needed a printer installed in the computer training room,” said his co-worker. “He only had one day’s notice and stayed late finding a spare printer, installing, and adding it to the network. In my experience, Brian always goes above and beyond, and I know that I can count on him.”

“Our team members are the heart of our organization. We aim to treat every patient as if they are our loved ones, and always act in the best interest of the patient. The individuals recognized have demonstrated commitment to our healthcare system and community and have gone above and beyond to make sure our patients receive exceptional care,” said Ned Resch, Regional West President and CEO. “Safety, quality, and culture are the most important aspects of our work – we are proud of our award winners and grateful for their service.”

Four other Regional West employees were chosen as 2025 STARs of the Quarter.

Cynthia Brandon is a client service and billing specialist in the Laboratory who was a first quarter STAR recipient. Referring to Cynthia’s interaction with an upset patient, a co-worker’s nomination said, “She took the extra time to make her feel she wasn’t just another patient, but a patient who was the most important patient at that time.”

Holly Anderson, a registered nurse in the Emergency Department, was nominated by a patient’s loved one and received a first quarter STAR award. “She was our angel, assisting us with getting the necessary steps taken to help me get Mom the care and treatment she needed,” said the family member. “I was at a total loss as to what to do, but Holly knew and went above her typical duties. Our family is eternally grateful for the compassion and professionalism she provides.”

Blane Alost, MD, a physician with the Hospitalist Service, received a third quarter STAR award. He was nominated by a patient’s family member, who said, “I cannot thank Dr. Alost enough on the care he gave my dad while he was in the ICU. He went above and beyond through a most difficult time. He was so caring, kind, always there to explain everything to us. I want him to know how much I appreciate him and his kindness and care he had for our family.”

Sarah Macomber, a patient access specialist in Registration, received a fourth quarter STAR award. Her nomination by a co-worker read, “The lab waiting room was filled. Sarah came in and thanked everyone for waiting and offered water. Everyone felt they were recognized and important. Thank you, Sarah, for caring.”

About Regional West 
Regional West Health Services in Scottsbluff, Nebraska is the parent company of Regional West Medical Center, the only advanced trauma center in Nebraska west of North Platte. Since 1924, Regional West has served the people of western Nebraska and the neighboring states of Colorado, South Dakota, and Wyoming through innovative healthcare services. As the region’s sole tertiary medical center, Regional West offers an expansive array of medical specialties and numerous physician clinics.