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.

Over the last few months, members of our department were nominated by colleagues, patients, and patient family members for a variety of actions that have had a major impact. Recognizing others is fast and easy with the Making a Difference nomination form.

Mohammad S. Ansari, MD
Nominated by: S. L., Patient

Dr. Ansari saw me at IRL up until 7‐1‐19. Dr. Ansari referred me to repeat a gastric endoscopy procedure I had done approx. 3 years ago at Mercy Hospital, Iowa City. I was not really convinced that it needed to be done, so denied doing it several times. I finally agreed to do the procedure & it was at this time that the first diagnosis of the neuro-endocrine tumor was found. The second endoscopy confirmed the tumor was malignant.
I absolutely credit Dr. Ansari with saving my life. If the tumor had not been found, my surgeon indicated in another year, it could of been too late or inoperable. I finally got a hold of Dr. Ansari after my surgery & he took the time to come see me in the hospital. I cannot say enough about this man. He is absolutely my hero, and I told him so!!

Yogesh Jethava, MBBS
Nominated by: Dan and Renee Cudworth, Staff Members

Dr. Yogesh Jethava came to our Cedar Rapids, Iowa, multiple myeloma support group meeting last night. He was a great speaker, shared a lot of valuable information with us, and took his time in answering all of our questions. We just wanted to give him a kudos and let the U of I Hospital and Clinics know how much we appreciate good doctors like Dr. Jethava who work at the U. Thank you!

Poorani Sekar, MD
Nominated by: F. K., Patient

I want to express my gratitude to Dr. Poorani Sekar. I was referred to U of I clinic by my primary doctor. Without going into details of my visit, I want to tell you she gave me confidence in the treatment that she prescribed for me, something I had lost with my previous physician. She did research before my appointment by inquiring about my care with my previous physician, and my primary doctor, and the hospital where I had surgery. Her instructions to me for treatment were easy and thoroughly explained. She instructed me of any and all warning signs that might occur. She asked several times if I had any questions and even asked my husband and son if they had any questions. I have to say she made me feel like she genuinely cared for me. I know she does. Thank you, Dr.
Sekar.

Jennifer Reed, Jamie Paul, & Richard Hoffman, MD, MPH
Nominated by: Kristin Goedken, Staff Member

I would like to nominate Jennie Reed, Jamie Paul, and Dr. Hoffman for a You Make a Difference Award. On October 23rd, Jennie received a phone call from a past patient. The patient was calling from her home in Mississippi and informed Jennie that she had consumed a multitude of medications with the intention to commit suicide. Jennie was able to maintain communication with the patient while acting quickly to obtain assistance from her colleagues. Jamie communicated with local police and EMT authorities while Dr. Hoffman was able to contact the patient’s husband. This resulted in the patient receiving immediate medical attention. Jennie, Jamie, and Dr. Hoffman acted quickly and remained calm throughout this very stressful situation. Their actions made it possible for the patient to receive immediate help and medical attention.