May 21, 2004

New award created in memory of beloved MGH physician

In memory of MGH cardiologist Brian McGovern, MD, (below) who was tragically killed last year, the Massachusetts General Physicians Organization (MGPO) has established the McGovern Clinical Excellence Award. The award will recognize physicians who spend much of their time caring for patients, make compassion a cornerstone of their practice and contribute to making the MGH community a better place to work and receive care.

"During the past year, many people have told me that they wished they had had a chance to thank Brian for his skill in caring for patients and his support as a colleague and a friend," says Britain Nicholson, MD, MGH chief medical officer. "With this award, we have an opportunity to recognize some of our dedicated doctors and honor Brian."

Jeremy Ruskin, MD, of MGH Cardiology and a member of the review committee for the McGovern award adds, "Brian was a caring and dedicated physician, a brilliant colleague and a cherished friend. This award is a wonderful tribute to his extraordinary personal and professional contributions and to what he valued most in his career — skillful, compassionate care of patients and dedication to the MGH community."

Any MGPO or MGH employee may nominate a physician. The deadline to submit is June 15. The MGPO will present this award at its 10th anniversary dinner Oct. 23.

"I'd like to encourage staff members from around the hospital to submit nominations," says David Torchiana, MD, MGPO chairman and chief executive officer. "This award gives us an opportunity to demonstrate how much we value our clinicians who provide excellent care, day after day."

Nomination forms for the McGovern Clinical Excellence Award are available online at http://is.partners.org/mgpoOnline/mcgovern.asp or can be picked up in Bulfinch 208, the White Lobby, the Central Lobby and the Gray/Jackson Lobby. For more information, call (617) 724-4549.