Neetu Cheema, MD, Valley Women's Healthcare

Provider of the Month: September 2020

Congratulations to Neetu Cheema, MD, a physician and chief in the OBGYN department and our September 2020 provider of the month! Dr. Cheema is a hard worker, one who consistently goes over and beyond assisting patients and staff in any capacity she can. Early in the pandemic, Dr. Cheema gave up her clinic time to care for sick people in the hospital for approximately two months. She always places the patient and team above herself. Not to mention, she stays longer than needed, and comes in earlier than needed. Dr. Cheema truly exemplifies Valleys mission of patients are first. As one of her nominator’s writes, “Dr. Cheema is a leader, teacher, and a very well-respected provider, who is so deserving of this award. She is very reliable, very thorough in her hand offs, and it’s an honor to work with her!”

Pauline Lao, ARNP, Palliative & Supportive Care

Provider of the Month: October 2020

Congratulations to Pauline Lao, ARNP, in Palliative Care, who is the October 2020 Provider of the Month! Pauline has a natural ability to connect with individuals from all backgrounds and knows how to make them feel respected and heard. Pauline shows extreme sensitivity in the face of difficult and complex situations. Pauline is also an enthusiastic teacher; one who collaborates with others to provide the best care for patients. She steps in wherever she can, even to the extent of changing her work schedule during the peak of COVID so the team could have full coverage. As one of her nominator’s writes, “Pauline is dependable and follows through on everything asked of her. She elevates the care we provide at VMC and teaches our team how to be more patient and understanding. She raises the bar of excellence, and it’s an honor to work with her!”

Lama Sibai, PsyD, Valley Neuroscience Institute

Annual Maude's Award Supporting Care Partner

Lama Sibai, PsyD. (formerly Dr. Lama Alameddine) recently received the Annual Maude's Award as a Supporting Care Partner for her creation of and work in the Valley Cognitive Health and Memory Patient Clinic. One of only five award recipients this year, the recognition included a $5,000 award for her innovation in dementia care.

What Dr. Sibai says about her CHAMP Clinic Program:
"I founded the Cognitive Health and Memory Patient clinic at UWM|Valley Medical Center using my vision of practicing care. Though many patients carry similar diagnoses, the manifestation of symptoms and impact on lives varies drastically. I believe treating illnesses requires a holistic and tailored approach, which needs a group of specialized minds.

"Partnering with an Alzheimer's Association social worker, I meet with patients and their care teams with attention to psychosocial needs not usually considered in traditional appointments. Follow-up occurs every 6 months unless we collaboratively determine shorter/longer intervals are needed. In more complex situations, the social worker follows-up with the patient at home or via phone, so that access between appointments is available. The Association has grant-funded programs that can be extended to enhance patients' quality of life. Overall, we strive to make sure everyone knows they are not alone."

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