The University of Iowa Health Care Making a Difference program is designed to recognize individuals who have performed in an exemplary manner, consistent with the goals of service excellence, and with a commitment to quality care.
In the last four months, five members of our department were nominated by colleagues and patients for a variety of actions that have had a major impact. Recognizing others is fast and easy with the Making a Difference Nomination form.
Aubrey Chan, MD, PhD, Medicine-Psychiatry Resident
Nominated by: Susan Duffy, Staff Member (June 2017)
It is well known that Dr. Chan consistently goes out of his way to help his patients. However, he recently spent a significant amount of time and effort to help out with a personal patient of mine simply to be helpful. I’m sure this is not the first time he has helped out a colleague. He deserves recognition for his thoughtfulness and hard work.
Joseph Dillon, MD, Associate Professor
Nominated by: M. W. Nixon, Patient (June 2017)
I wanted to thank Dr. Joseph Dillon for going above and beyond in helping me get the care I needed. I am an ARNP in a different University clinic and a patient of Dr. Dillon’s. He made it possible for me to get the care I needed during a busy work day for me. I really appreciate his caring service. I was able to get my health concern taken care of and not inconvenience any of my patients. I have been very happy with all the care I have received from him. He is a very caring competent professional.
Antonio Sanchez, MD, Clinical Associate Professor
Nominated by: E. S., Patient (August 2017)
I am writing this letter to express my accolades for my outstanding doctor, Antonio Sanchez, M.D.
I am a retired RN after 42 years in numerous specialties. I first became a patient of Dr. Sanchez on July 7, 2009. My primary care physician, Dr. Anne Kontos of Waterloo, referred med to Dr. Sanchez after my serumenyzme levels remained elevated and Hepatitis C level was positive. My first visit with Dr. Sanchez, I felt an immediate rapport and trust for him. He was respectful and presented information in an easy and understandable manner. I cannot express thoroughly how much I respect Dr. Sanchez.
Last year, Dr. Sanchez presented to me that as soon as all investigations into the medication Harvoni for indication of Chronic Hepatitis C viral infection, he wanted to start me on chemo meds. I agreed to take for Harvoni plus Ribarvivin and started both medications on November 21, 2016 with completion on January 23, 2017. I also wish to thank Joey from your Specialty Pharmacy Service for his excellent patient teaching. When Mary Jane, RN for Dr. Sanchez called to inform me that I had a zero level for hepatitis C viral load, I was overjoyed, and she also expressed her happiness for beating the virus. When Dr. Sanchez called me to officially notify me that I no longer was a Hepatitis carrier, we had a wonderful conversation. Following our conversation, I said more prayers thanking my Lord and Dr. Sanchez for being near and dear to me. I have so much esteem and admiration for him. He has been there in critical times and now in joyful times. I know I have beaten the odds by surviving two years dealing with my diseased gall bladder. In 2012, I was given a 2% and 9% chance that my liver would not survive if my gall bladder was taken out, but miracles do happen and I am privileged to beat the odds. Now, I am Hepatitis C free thanks to Dr. Sanchez and your excellent staff for your wonderful care. He is loyal and very well informed, genuine and truly cares for his patients. Please share my esteem and tender loving care that Dr. Sanchez has conveyed towards me. God bless Dr. Sanchez.
Benjamin Davis, MD, PhD, Clinical Assistant Professor
Nominated by: J. D., Patient (September 2017)
Jodi would like to recognize Dr. Benjamin Davis. Benjamin Davis, MD in Allergy/Immunology was responsive to Jodi, believed her and listened to her. Because of this, he was able to provide her with a treatment that worked.
Rebecca Tuetken, MD, PhD, Clinical Associate Professor
Nominated by C. L., Patient (September 2017)
I just wanted to share my appreciation to Dr. Tuetken in the Rheumatology clinic. Over the last few weeks I was undergoing debilitating symptoms, and she spent so much time helping me through it, providing solutions and speaking to others on my behalf. The best part about the experience was her constant communication to me, letting me know of any updates/progress in my treatment. She would always make sure I knew what was going on, going as far as to call me directly on a near daily basis, well after her clinic hours. I felt taken care of and appreciate her help and constant communication throughout this time. I genuinely felt like she cared about my well being, and wanted to express my gratitude.