Carilion Proud: Get to Know Tyrone Molina

Meet Tyrone Molina, Clinical Associate in the Resource Nursing Pool at CRMH

Tell us a little about yourself—your role, department, and how long you’ve been with Carilion.
My name is Tyrone Molina, and I have been with Carilion for 7 years in the Resource Pool. I started as a patient observation assistant, then worked as a patient care tech for a few years, and now serve as a clinical associate. I am currently in school for respiratory therapy. Outside of work, I enjoy working out, playing basketball, helping others, and spending time with family and friends.

What inspired you to join Carilion Clinic, and what keeps you here?
I was inspired to join Carilion by the message of commitment and compassion in helping others. That became personal for me after my grandmother received great care here, and I wanted to give back by supporting others in the same way. What keeps me here is the leadership and team in the Resource Pool. From leadership to frontline staff, everyone is supportive and cares about each other. They provide tools, education, and opportunities to grow, and they encourage us to continue our education so we can do more for our patients. They also make it a positive place to work with team activities and events.

Which of Carilion’s values resonates most with you in your daily work, and why?
The value that resonates most with me is courage. To me, it means doing what is needed for patients, coworkers, and yourself, even when things are challenging. Over the past 7 years, I have seen a lot of change as Carilion continues to meet the needs of both patients and staff. The values of collaboration, commitment, compassion, courage, and curiosity all play a role, and they align with how I was raised to treat others with kindness, give back, and help where I can.

What does the theme “Care that Connects Us” mean to you personally?
To me, “Care that Connects Us” means people coming together to support one another during all moments, whether someone is sick, struggling, or even celebrating. It can be found in simple things, like helping a patient with daily care or taking a few extra minutes to talk with them. Those small moments build real connections and show people they are cared for.

Can you share a moment when you felt especially connected to a patient, teammate, or the community through your work?
One moment that stands out is a patient I cared for over the course of about a year. We built a connection through conversations about basketball, food, trips, and life. I helped with his care, including shaving his beard, and spent time talking with him and his family. I got to know them well, and even during the holidays we shared small gifts and moments together. After he passed, his family continued to thank me for the care I gave, which meant a lot to me. I also feel a strong connection with my Resource Pool team. They support me personally and professionally, especially when I am working toward new goals. They feel like family and have always supported me.

How do you build or maintain meaningful connections with patients, coworkers, or others you interact with each day?
I build connections by meeting people where they are and keeping things respectful. I make small talk, tell jokes when it fits, and ask questions to get to know them. I focus on listening and being present. I let patients and their families know I am there if they need anything. With coworkers, I show appreciation by saying thank you and sometimes bringing in snacks. I try to go the extra mile when I can.

In what ways does your role contribute to creating a more connected and supportive environment at Carilion?
As a clinical associate, I help make sure patients receive timely care, especially when nurses are busy. I assist with vitals, feeding, bathing, blood sugar checks, bladder scans, mobility, and repositioning to prevent pressure injuries. I also spend time talking with patients, checking on how they are feeling, and helping them stay comfortable. I try to make sure they feel supported and not alone in their care.

What would you say to someone new about how Carilion employees live out “Care that Connects Us”?
I would say Carilion is more than just a job. We do not treat patients like a task. We build real connections with patients and with each other. Everyone has a role, and it takes teamwork to provide the best care. It is like a team where each person contributes in a different way, but all working toward the same goal of helping patients. Carilion also supports its employees through events, recognition, and opportunities to grow, which makes it a place where people feel valued.