Sharp Memorial Caregivers Honored With Spirit of Planetree Awards

Three Sharp Memorial Hospital caregivers were honored with the 2010 Spirit of Planetree Award, recognizing their personal embodiment of the hospital's patient-centered approach to providing care. Planetree is an internationally recognized not-for-profit organization, which partners with health care providers around the globe to advance patient-centered approaches to care. Sharp Memorial began its affiliation with Planetree in 2010 as an extension of The Sharp Experience, which emphasizes caring and compassion in health care.

Deb Baehrens, RN, winner of a 2010 Spirit of Planetree Award.
Deb Baehrens, RN
Deb Baehrens, RN, Dr. Kenneth Roth and Skeeter the pet therapy dog received awards during a special celebration at Sharp Memorial in December.

As manager of Sharp Memorial's inpatient oncology unit, Baehrens created a healing environment blending traditional medicine with integrative therapies such as Healing Touch, Reiki, music and massage.

Dr. Roth, an internal medicine physician affiliated with Sharp Memorial, was instrumental in creating the Arts for Healing program at the hospital to bring art and music to patient bedsides to boost moods and encourage recovery.

Skeeter is a mascot for Sharp Memorial's Pet Therapy Program, bringing smiles and comfort to hundreds of patients during his regular visits to the hospital.

"Every day, Deb, Dr. Roth and little Skeeter exemplify Planetree and patient-centered care through their interactions with patients and fellow

Skeeter
Skeeter
 employees," said Tim Smith, senior vice president and chief executive officer of Sharp Memorial. "It is only fitting that they be recognized with this prestigious national award. In recognizing them, Planetree and Sharp Memorial are also paying tribute to the dedication and compassion demonstrated by all our caregivers, day in and day out."

Approximately 200 caregivers nationwide received the 2010 Spirit of Planetree Award. Also recognized were 12 programs implemented at Planetree organizations across the world that represent extraordinary achievement in each of Planetree's components of patient-centered care, such as healthy communities, human interactions, spirituality and architecture and interior design.

 

Last Updated: January 18, 2012