Christopher Goerdt, MD, MPH, has been awarded one of the highest distinctions the Carver College of Medicine grants, the Dr. Ernest O. Theilen Clinical Teaching and Service Award. This award, sponsored by the Office of Faculty Affairs and Development, recognizes a faculty member each year who embodies the ideals Theilen exemplified in his compassion and dedication to students and patients on an individual basis, as well as his commitment to the college and hospital.
Goerdt is a clinical professor in the Division of General Internal Medicine. He is described as a “doctor’s doctor” by one of his nominators, Gwen Beck, MD. His other nominator, Immunology Division Director Scott Vogelgesang, MD, agreed, noting that Goerdt’s busy primary care practice is filled by a number of Iowa faculty. Beck highlighted a number of reasons why. “He is known for his professionalism, conscientiousness, and high-quality care. He partners with his patients in health care decision making. He is selfless with his time despite his very busy schedule.”
Another essential component of the Theilen award is a commitment to teaching, and both nominators cite the example that Goerdt sets in his devotion to medical education. Vogelgesang listed the many awards Goerdt has either won or been nominated for by students, peers, and residents in the past, as well as the volume of classes that Goerdt takes on. Beck wrote: “Through role modeling and mentoring he has inspired many medical students and residents to become general internists.” Mentoring of quality improvement projects, creating an evidence-based medicine journal club, and leading countless procedure workshops are just some of the specific ways Goerdt trains the next generation of physicians.
Vogelgesang also noted the number of leadership roles Goerdt has held over the years, including Co-Director of Employee Health, the Internal Medicine Consult Service, and a near decade as Associate Division Director for General Internal Medicine, among many other roles. Beck said that it was in one of those roles, Director of the General Internal Medicine Clinic, that Goerdt set a standard of excellence for all providers and learners and “created an environment where people felt supported and valued.” Vogelgesang also pointed out that, through his work with the UI Mobile Clinic and at the Iowa City Free Medical Clinic, Goerdt shows his belief in the value of everyone.
Please join the department in congratulating one of our best on the receipt of this award and in extending our gratitude for his years of talented service. Thank you, Dr. Goerdt!