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.

From August to October, seven 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.

Heather Labath, PA-C
Nominated by: Richard F., Patient (August 2018)

Richard contacted the Office of Patient Experience (OPE) to share his experience. He said that he had an appointment in Digestive Health with Heather Labath and he was absolutely thrilled to have her as a care provider. He said that he was nervous going in to the appointment but Heather took her time with him and answered every single question he had in a way that he could understand. He said that she spent a lot of time with him and he wants her to know how much he really appreciates it and how courteous and kind she was.

Ellie Lingo, ARNP
Nominated by: Ellen J., Patient’s Family (August 2018)

As soon as Ellie came on duty, she came to Rebecca’s room, introduced herself, and listened intently as “Bec” explained her medical issues. Ellie worked diligently to coordinate all the doctors on the teams of the different departments who would be working on Bec’s case. Ellie explained things thoroughly and although it was obvious the unit was busy, she was patient and kind.

Mayy Chahla, MD
Nominated by: Patient’s Family (September 2018)

My sister was admitted to the ER due to several serious issues. That is when we first met Drs. Chahla and Adviento. As with all patients, this event was a traumatic and confusing experience for my sister and those who were accompanying her. Dr. Chahla and Dr. Adviento systemically and thoroughly assessed her symptoms and quickly moved forward. Of course, I would expect this from any medical professional, but it was their empathetic and heartfelt compassion that followed which has garnered these two women our deep respect and admiration. It is also with our deepest sincerity that we believe Dr. Chahla is truly an exemplary physician and a representative of the University’s mission: Changing Medicine. Changing Lives. From the first day, Dr. Chahla had clearly demonstrated the seasoned competence and passion of a highly trained professional while allowing herself to exude a level of empathy that allows her patients to feel comfortable and at ease. Her direct eye contact, poise and grace as well as extraordinary communication skills are qualities we all aspire to achieve, but rarely do. Dr. Chahla was engaged with us during our conversation about the medical issues before us & actively researched answers to our various questions on topics such as, but not limited to, HIPAA and cyber security for patients who access their records at home. This may seem trivial, but it isn’t. This demonstrates that this doctor was willing to spend the time necessary to make the experience meaningful & thoughtful. We shed a tear during our last consult with Dr. Chahla. If Dr. Chahla is an indicator of your system as a whole, then you are servicing the community of Iowa extremely well; she has touched our lives.

Amanda Heuszel, MD; Joel Kline, MD; and Shweta Kukrety, MBBS
Nominated by: Corinne J., Patient’s Family; via OPE (October 2018)

I received a call this afternoon from Corinne J. with a compliment for the MICU staff. She noted her husband was in the MICU for three days before he passed. She shared in that time, the MICU staff was exceptionally caring. They consistently spoke to the patient before and while they were attending to him, explaining everything, even though he was not always aware of his surroundings. The staff were kind and inclusive to family members present, encouraging grandkids to color and hang up Get Well pictures. The patient’s wife and family felt very comforted by the staff and their thoughtfulness during such a difficult time. Ms. J. shared these staff names: Dr. Joel Kline, Dr. Shweta Kukrety, Dr. Amanda Heuszel, Joel Gilbertson, Jessica Stelle, Sue Witte, and Bridget Doughan. She noted there were many staff members whose names she did not get as well, but she is very thankful for such great care.

Cynthia Larew, BSN, RN, CCRC
Nominated by: Page Scovel, RN, Staff Member (October 2018)

On multiple occasions Cyndi has made a significant difference in one of our patient’s lives. This particular patient comes to see us frequently, has mobility issues, transportation issues & financial issues. Cyndi assists this patient meeting her upon arrival, assisting her to her appointments, transporting the patient back to the main entrance and waiting with this patient until her transportation comes with each appointment. This patient often comes hungry, has no finances to purchase food while here, nor is she able to bring food with her due to the amount of equipment she has to bring with her for her care. Cyndi makes sure she has a meal as the appointments are long. It is even longer for the patient to wait on her transportation to return home. On [a recent visit], Cyndi stayed with this patient until her transportation arrived. She advocated for the patient as the ride was supposed to be there in 10 minutes, but instead was over 45 minutes late and arrived sometime after 6pm. The driver did not answer their phone. She advocated with the driver’s supervisor to get another driver to the location. Cyndi strives to give all of her patients her best at all times and goes above and beyond frequently making a difference in their lives. This is just one example of her compassion and caring attitude. Staff like Cyndi are why our patients continue to come to the University for their care. Thank you, Cyndi, for your care of this patient and many others.