Lisa Melton, FNP, continues Harris career with new role in urgent care

Harris Regional Hospital is pleased to welcome Lisa Melton, FNP, to its medical staff. Melton will see patients beginning October 1 at Harris Urgent Care, located at 176 Walmart Plaza in Sylva.

Melton brings more than three decades of nursing experience to her new provider role, much of it spent caring for patients at Harris Regional Hospital and Swain Community Hospital. Her career at Harris began in 1992 as a certified nursing assistant before she went on to serve in a variety of clinical and leadership roles, including licensed practical nurse, registered nurse, charge nurse, nurse manager, urgent care nurse, practice manager, and infection prevention nurse.

Melton said her interest in nursing began in high school after taking a health occupations class that introduced her to the healthcare field. Her years as a registered nurse ultimately inspired her to continue her education and become a family nurse practitioner, allowing her to expand her clinical knowledge and take a more active role in diagnosing, treating, and managing patients’ health care needs.

Her return to Harris Urgent Care in a provider role also brings her career full circle, as she worked there for approximately eight years as a staff nurse and later served as its practice manager.

Melton said she was drawn back to urgent care because of its fast-paced environment and the opportunity to care for patients with a wide variety of acute health needs.

“I enjoy the challenge of assessing patients, developing a plan of care, and helping them feel more comfortable and informed during unexpected health concerns,” she said.

Her approach to care emphasizes listening closely and involving patients directly in decisions about their health. She also values collaboration among members of the health care team to help patients receive coordinated, patient-centered care.

“Lisa has spent many years serving patients and families across Harris Regional and Swain Community Hospitals. We are proud to welcome her into this new role,” said Ashley Hindman, CEO of Harris Regional Hospital and Swain Community Hospital. “Her depth of clinical experience, understanding of our community, and longstanding commitment to our patients will make her a tremendous addition to our provider team at Harris Urgent Care.”

Melton earned her associate degree in nursing from Southwestern Community College and her Bachelor of Science in nursing from Western Carolina University. She completed her graduate family nurse practitioner education through the University of Alabama.

For Melton, continuing to care for patients locally carries special meaning.

“This community is more than just where I work; it is home,” she said. “I feel a strong sense of responsibility and pride in being able to serve the people and families who make up our community.”

Outside of work, Melton enjoys hiking and spending time outdoors in the mountains, watching Mustang football, spending time with her family, and relaxing with a good movie.