At this year’s patient advocacy recognition ceremony, HUP CEO Regina Cunningham, PhD, RN, told award recipients that compassion — the theme of this year’s Penn Medicine Experience Week — “is one of many words that people used to describe you. Selfless, caring, feeling, understanding, calming, empathetic … Your relentless focus on patients provides a source of inspiration for us.”
This year, the award recognized 12 recipients who have gone above and beyond to help patients, families and staff, but they are really only the tip of the iceberg, said Mona Matson, director of Patient and Guest Services. “There are many, many more employees out there putting the patient first who are truly out to make a difference every single day.”
Congratulations to all of this year’s recipients:
Kristoffel R. Dumon, MD, of General Surgery, is “professional, respectful, understanding, compassionate and is always available at any time whether it be at the office, via phone, email or even text,” his nominator wrote. “There have been times where I didn’t think I could continue to deal with my issues, [but] Dr. Dumon and his team have been there to reassure me that I’m not alone and that we’re all in it together.”
Lois Benson of Environmental Services is “always willing to go above and beyond without anyone asking! Her approach to her work is energetic and positive. She is known throughout our hospital as a ‘go to’ leader, especially if you want to get something completed quickly and correctly. We are thankful for her continued positive energy!”
Anna Fontanilla, unit secretary of Silverstein 7, “goes above and beyond to assist others to solve problems or identify needed resources” in her role as unit secretary. “Whether it’s ensuring that a patient’s advanced directives are properly documented or doing small acts of kindness [such as facilitating getting a birthday cake for a patient’s birthday, if permissible], we are very proud to have Anna as a strong part of our team!”
Bernard Franklin of Physical Therapy “is one of those rare people that speaks to everyone.” As a therapy aide, “he demonstrates professionalism and compassion with each and every interaction. His positive energy and ‘can do’ spirit is a game changer, especially for our patients. Bernard makes us all feel better just by being around him!”
Rick Jones of Food and Nutrition “is one of those people that you automatically like the first time you meet him. His spirit is gentle and kind. He is level headed and calming. He displays empathy in all interactions with staff and patients. He always goes above and beyond to make sure everyone has what they need.”
Michael Kalfin, MPH, of Neurology, “continuously advocates for appropriate resources for the care team so we can deliver the highest level of care and safety for our patients and it shows.” Most recently, he helped to improve transitions in care from inpatient to outpatient. Gratefully, his team thanks him “for your persistence in seeking service excellence and providing excellent services for our patients and staff members.”
Bryon Kinnard of Patient and Guest Relations is “truly one-of-a-kind. Bryon not only has the role of putting our patients’ and visitors’ ‘wayfinding worries’ at ease, but he has the unique ability to do so with genuine calmness and grace. He is peaceful and positive. He is team-oriented and he is patient-focused. Bryon shines a light on our entire department and all of Penn Medicine.”
Maria Nicolas, BSN, of Ravdin 9, “truly cares about her patients and her colleagues.” As a patient advocate, a caring nurse and an excellent teacher, “she takes time to share the small things which are often forgotten or missed. We are all very proud to work with Marie, she deserves only the very best!”
Robyn Strauss, MSN, of Founders 5 ICU “tirelessly advocates to optimize quality and safety for our patients,” for example, helping to develop and implement strategies which led to reduced infections and pressure injuries. “Robyn is an excellent teammate; she projects with staff an excellent work ethic and a motivating spirit… We are proud to have Robyn as part of our team!”
Jesse Weiss BSN, of the Emergency Department, “is a passionate advocate for the ED patients and their families.” Her excellent critical thinking skills and quick reaction helped save the life of a patient who came into the ED and quickly became unresponsive. Weiss immediately ran the patient from the waiting room into a bayto the main department, where ACLS was administered. Two weeks later, the patient was discharged home.
Christina Worst, CRNP, MSN, of Advanced internal Medicine, “has a positive approach with each employee she cares for and it shows. You can’t help but feel her spirit, her genuine kindness and respect for a fellow employee and patient. She treats the ‘whole patient’ and works on lifestyle modification and behavior change to address problems. Christina is touching lives each day in ways she does not even realize.”
Haron Wylie of Transport “is always willing to go out of his way to assist a patient and a fellow hospital colleague. His warmth and empathy are very evident when spending time with patients. He is an exceptionally positive role model to our patients and our staff members and his willingness to go above and beyond to help others is truly inspiring.”