St. Joe's Announces Physician of the Year

John Walsh, MD, critical care pulmonologist, was recently honored by Presence Saint Joseph Medical Center as the “Physician of the Year." The award recognizes and celebrates an outstanding physician who embodies professionalism, teamwork, clinical excellence and a commitment to personal growth. Physicians are nominated by their peers and staff members.

Dr. Walsh joined Presence Saint Joseph Medical Center (PSJMC) as a pulmonologist in 1997, and is board certified in pulmonary disease and internal medicine. He received his medical degree and completed his residency at Stritch School of Medicine, Loyola University Chicago. 

An overwhelming number of physicians, nurses and other staff nominated Dr. Walsh for the honor, citing his patience and positive attitude, his willingness to listen and his eagerness to teach. One of the nominations noted, “He ALWAYS puts what’s BEST for the patient FIRST.”

The theme for this year’s “Physician of the Year” award program was “The Stars of Saint Joe’s,” celebrating the many ways that physicians are leading men and women, cast in the most important role of all - caring for our community in times of greatest need. 

“Just like in the movies, our ‘Stars’ save lives, feed our imagination, and inspire us to dream for a better and brighter future,” said Beth Hughes, Regional President and CEO. “But in the case of our physicians, it’s not an act.  Rather, it’s real medicine; a vital role that requires not only great skill, but true compassion, raw honesty and even hope.”

Other finalists for the “Physician of the Year” award included: Dr. Fred Alexander (Infectious Disease), Dr. Muawia Martini (Cardiology), Dr. Brian Egan (Obstetrics/Gynecology), and Dr. Visvanatha Giri (Pulmonary Disease).

“It is an honor to celebrate such an exceptional Medical Staff,” said Hughes. “Together we shine brightly to serve our community, fulfill our mission, and continue to lead the way for Presence Health.”

At the recent meeting of its Medical Staff, PSJMC leaders presented Service Awards to the following long-standing physicians celebrating service anniversaries:

• 15 Years of Service: Drs. Divyesh M. Bhatt, Nafisa D. Burhani, Michael J. DaValle, Mazen M. Kawji,  Russell I. Khater,  Mark E. Moran, Nitin V. Nadkarni, Veena N. Nadkarni, Sasan Payvar, Joseph P. Prieboy, Govind Ramadurai, Benjamin H. Ticho,  Jong Yoon Yi, and Praveen Vohra.
• 25 Years of Service: Drs. Michael G. Arthofer, Theodore Bechrakis, Thomas Kron, Casey A. Moauro, Joseph J. Natarelli, Robert S. Schubert, and Michael Waszak.
• 30 Years of Service: Drs. Paragini Chandarana and Surendra Gulati.
• 35 Years of Service: Drs. Rajendra Choksi, Ramesh N. Patel, and George T. Jones.
• 40 Years of Service: Dr. Voraphot Sathissarat, MD 

The Medical Center also recognized two members of its medical staff who retired this year after each serving a long tenure at Saint Joe’s. Dr. Gregg Cohan retired after 22 years of service, and Dr. George T. Jones retired after 35 years of service.