Dr. Pooja Luthra, an assistant professor of medicine in the Division of Endocrinology and Metabolism, is the recipient of the annual Richard A. Garibaldi, M.D., Doctors’ Day Award. The honor was announced during a special ceremony today at the Health Center.

The award is given to those who exemplify dedication to excellence in all facets of clinical care and their commitment to collaboration across disciplines – characteristics that came naturally to the late Garibaldi.

The nominations came from clinicians, nurses and other professional staff who work closely with the doctors.

In the nominating letters, diabetes education specialist Jean Kostak said, “On a daily basis, she exemplifies dedication and excellence to her patients, peers, staff and colleagues. Pooja has a quiet, calm manner even on the most hectic of clinic days.”

Zofia Popek, a medical assistant in the endocrinology department, said, “Not only is Dr. Luthra an exceptional physician, but she is someone who is dedicated to her patients and will accommodate them whenever the need may arise even if her schedule is filled to its capacity.”

Luthra was also cited for her teaching and collaborative skills. Luriza Glynn wrote in her nomination letter: “As a diabetes nurse educator in the department I work with Dr. Luthra’s patients affected by diabetes and throughout the years she has always taken the time to teach me and the staff a great deal about diabetes and other conditions that may affect our patients. Dr. Luthra’s interest in building collaboration with the team to better the care and quality of life for those in her care has always inspired me to keep the ‘good fight’ going against this disease.”

Dr. Mike Summerer, CEO of John Dempsey Hospital, and Ellen Leone, director of nursing, presented the award to Luthra with several of those who nominated her on hand for the presentation.

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