Clinician Recognition - June 2024

SCAI "30 in Their 30s" 2024 Award Recipient
Gurpreet Johal, MD, FSCAI, Cardiology Clinic

The Society for Cardiovascular Angiography & Interventions (SCAI) "30 in Their 30s" awards recognizes early-career interventionalists who epitomize the qualities expected of future leaders in interventional cardiology. Dedicated to their patients, these doctors demonstrate professional excellence in their clinical practice and exemplify the values of service and teamwork. 

Provider of the Month - May 2024
Wayne Gao, MD, Oncology & Hematology Clinic

Congratulations to Wayne Gao, MD, a provider in our Oncology & Hematology Clinic and our May 2024 Provider of the Month! See what his colleagues had to say:

"Dr. Gao is an incredibly hard-working Medical Oncologist who consistently goes above and beyond for his patients.  It is common to receive patient experience comments like "Dr. Gao is so great and keeps the explanations clear and sets expectations" or "My doctor was excellent, and I am confident he will handle my case effectively."  Just the other day as a patient was leaving the clinic, she stopped at the check out desk and said, "that doctor is just the nicest doctor I have ever met.  You are so lucky to be working with him."  Even behind the surgical mask you can see from his eyes that he greets every patient with a warm and genuine smile as they enter the clinic.  After the appointment, he personally walks with them as they exit.  He does everything he can to ease the worry and anxiety our patients/caregivers experience to make this journey a little bit easier for them."   

"Dr. Gao is a wonderful provider to work with. He is always available to help with patient questions and advice. He is willing to work patients in who need to see him even when his schedule is completely booked. His bedside manner is outstanding, and patients feel heard when they see him. I am so grateful I have the opportunity to work with him daily."

"Dr. Gao brings so much compassion to every patient every day.  In the hardest and most frightening moments of patient's lives, he is calm and straightforward while having extraordinary empathy.  He always listens intently and makes sure every concern of the patient and their family is heard and answered so they understand. It is an honor to be part of a team with him!"

See what his patients had to say:

"I was very happy with Dr. Gao; he was very thorough in reviewing my history and very interested in listening to my concerns. He explained my issues by drawing pictures. Conservative in future testing. I left my appointment with a greater understanding of my health issue than when I came, I am encouraged."

"Dr. Gao listens well, never rushes our time. He is patient and answers all my questions. He makes sure I understand the plan for my care. He reassures me that should my labs show anything that needs addressing he will call me. I like him very much and would recommend him!"

June Retirements
Laura Denman, CNM, Valley Women's Healthcare Clinic
David Sweiger, MD, Lake Sawyer Primary Care Clinic

Congratulations to two of Valley's clinicians who are retiring at the end of this month. Their colleagues submitted messages of reflection and warm wishes to recognize them, and we encourage you to read them here: Laura Denman, CNM, Valley Women's Healthcare and David Sweiger, MD, Lake Sawyer Primary Care.