Four Lutheran physicians receive kudos
During this season of joy and thanks, we’re delighted to share these notes from patients and colleagues about four of our physicians. Their kindness and patience were as memorable and meaningful as the expert care they provided. Thank you to them, and Happy Thanksgiving to all.
An email from a colleague
“I want to give some much-needed recognition to Dr. John Archard for his care recently. I had two patients on the same day who were very tough with their personalities and family needs, and Dr. Archard went above and beyond with his care for them.
“The first patient that we had together had been verbally aggressive and very obstinate, but Dr. Archard took his time to discuss his condition and what steps we were taking in order to treat him properly, making sure that the patient understood at every step what he was being told. The patient felt heard by Dr. Archard and he pushed the extra mile to make sure all questions and concerns were addressed properly.
“The second patient we had together had a family that continued to question the care here at Lutheran and did not have clear expectations on next steps. Again, after already having to deal with many tough situations today, Dr. Archard went in and sat down with the entire family and patient and discussed what care we have provided here and what the next steps are. The family continued to have circular questions and did not seem to understand at first, but Dr. Archard repeatedly educated them and was extremely patient, which I can attest took a lot of effort. He made sure that everyone was on the same page and they all understood the plan.
“I have personally worked with Dr. Archard for a few years, and he continues to amaze me with his level of dedication to his patients and the level of effort he gives every day. He has to deal with extremely frustrating situations on a daily basis, and he always pushes through to ensure his patients are cared for. I look forward to having the pleasure of continuing to work alongside him.”
Description of voicemail left by patient’s daughter
“This patient and her daughter had come to the ED three times in one week and, on the last visit, they encountered Dr. Rosalie Chang. The daughter really wants Dr. Chang to be recognized. Dr. Chang was the discharging attending physician in the ER and she provided extraordinary patient care, and the daughter is so grateful for the service and care and knowledge that Dr. Chang shared with them. She said Dr. Chang touched their hearts, going above and beyond, and took good care of them. She helped them with decision making and spent a lot of time with them. The daughter said this was a human experience and it was beautiful. They are so appreciative and thankful for Dr. Chang.”
Letter sent by a patient’s wife
“We are long-time residents of Denver and had visited the old Lutheran Hospital on numerous occasions. We were accustomed to receiving good care, but nothing could have prepared us for the outstanding experience we had at the new hospital.
“This spring, we had the pleasure of meeting Dr. Timothy Ryken and his team in Neurosurgery. My husband underwent a back fusion procedure, and the care was superb. Everyone in Dr. Ryken's clinic was professional and compassionate. Unfortunately, my husband reinjured his back and was in excruciating pain. After a quick call, we were seen again. Although Dr. Ryken had retired, we met with Dr. Alexander Mason, who promptly scheduled and performed the surgery. Once again, the follow-up care was excellent.
“Later my husband developed swelling in his foot. Concerned about a possible blood clot, I took him to the ER. Once again, the care was exceptional. We were seen by at least eight different technicians, including the ER physician. Each person took time to speak with us and made us smile. Although a blood clot was ruled out, anyone who has spent time in an ER knows how slowly time can pass. Thanks to the staff checking in frequently, the experience was smooth and reassuring.
“Here are a few points that continue to stand out:
The physicians and staff at Lutheran are caring, professional and kind.
The new hospital and surrounding medical office buildings are beautiful, bright and welcoming.
The hospital rooms are spacious and equipped with the latest technology.
From our first step into the new hospital lobby, we were warmly greeted. Rather than simply giving directions, staff escorted us to the elevators.
The surgery waiting area is staffed by wonderful volunteers - people who choose to be there. I was shown where the cafeteria, coffee station and restrooms were, and I was kept informed throughout the process.
“At lntermountain Health, ‘Helping People Live the Healthiest Lives Possible’ is your mission. We truly experienced the power of ‘We’ at Intermountain Health.
On behalf of my husband and myself, please extend our most sincere thanks to the Neurosurgery team, the hospital reception staff and the incredible ER team.”
Thank you to these physicians and every member of our medical staff dedicated to providing our patients with the best-possible care and experience here at Lutheran.