Your Stories: Physical Medicine and Rehabilitation Names Clinical Excellence Award Winner

(L to R) Kwame Asante, M.D., FAAPMR, Chair, Physical Medicine and Rehabilitation; Elizabeth Bouchard, MA, CCC-SLP; Gary Naples, PT, Program Development Coordinator, Acute Rehabilitation.

Beth has been with Saint Francis for 26 years and has developed a vast depth of clinical knowledge and problem-solving skills. Throughout her time with the organization, she has assisted with developing hospital protocols in the areas of tracheostomy management and severe brain injury. She has provided comprehensive in-services to colleagues throughout the hospital and has twice been a presenter at the Brain Injury Alliance of Connecticut’s Annual Professional Conference.

Beth sets anxious patients at ease by maintaining a calm and passionate demeanor and providing patients with a clear and thorough explanation of their status and plan of care. She is unwavering in her advocacy for patients. She takes a multidisciplinary approach and promotes an optimal path for each patient’s recovery, collaborating with multidisciplinary teams through evidence-based practices, always remaining professional and succinct. Beth constantly asks “why?” when it comes to the patient’s presentation. She consistently searches for the root cause of the patient’s symptoms and will reach out to experts outside of her practice to assist with finding answers. Beth is highly regarded as an expert in her field and is often sought after for her input. 

Embodying the values of clinical excellence, a devoted work ethic, and the Mission of Saint Francis, Beth was recently recognized by leadership and the critical care team for her input during a patient’s life-threatening situation. Beth’s exceptional clinical skills, long-standing dedication, and significant contributions to the organization make her most deserving of the 2024 Clinical Excellence Award.

The Physical Medicine and Rehabilitation Clinical Excellence Award is peer nominated. Any active clinical therapist within the rehabilitation system can be nominated for this award. The recipient must be an exceptional reflection of rehabilitation professionalism and achievement. The colleague must stand out within the department in regard to their contributions or achievements and must have demonstrated professionalism and service provision above and beyond the scope of their job description and/or responsibilities.

Submitted by Julie Logan, Rehabilitation Team Leader, Saint Francis Hospital.

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