At UCSD Medical Center, we believe in the Power of Excellence. We strive for excellence in all we do, because we know we are making a difference in the lives of our patients. Below are some of the compliments our physicians and staff have received recently from our patients.
Thank a UCSD Physician, Nurse or Staff Member
Suruj Achar
Dr. Achar is the best doctor I've ever been to. He takes an active interest in my life health and personal life. He put me on a diet program that improved my physical and mental well-being, and reduced my body fat percentage, heart rate and blood pressure. He never seems rushed through an appointment and listens to all of my questions. I will never go any where but UCSD. Every one that works there is top-notch.
-- A.R., 1/25/2008
Dr. Koenig, Emergency Department, Hillcrest
I was an emergency room patient on Oct 4, 2007. I would like to send a small gift to the ER people who gave me such great treatment
--R.W., 1/24/08
Pharmacy Staff Members at 4th & Lewis
Wish to commend the Staff at the Pharmacy at 4th & Lewis.They are always very professional,helpful, and will go out of their way to accommodate any special request.
--J.V., 1/9/08
Dr. Bronner, Internal Medicine
Thank you so much for your excellent care for my self and my wife ... we truly cherish your care and guidance to a happier, healthier life ... you are definitely an awesome doctor.
--J.J., 1/7/08
Dr. Waltman, Cardiology
Thank you for your excellent care. I assure you it is greatly appreciated and I make a new year's resolution to follow your guidance to a healthier heart even if it means eating more salads.
--J.J., 1/7/08
ICU Staff and Nurses
I would like to thank all the nurses and staff involved in caring for me when I was there for my desensitization program. The staff is excellent and made my stay most enjoyable!
--N.A., 1/4/08
Dr. Alksne, Neurosurgery
Thank you for being a doctor who cares, listens, and helps.
--S.B., 12/23/07
Suzanne Reed, Transplant Coordinator
Suzanne has been a joy from the first time I met her. She is wonderful with all of her patients and does just a fantastic job. She is loved and respected by many. Thank you Suzanne for all your great care and concern!
--L.R., 12/22/08
Mandy Ogelsbee, Operator
Mandy called around to three different hospitals to locate my father who turned up in the Grossmont Emergency room. I do cannot ever recall receiving that kind of customer service. I will tell everyone I know about UCSD's caring and compassion. Please tell her thank you for me!
--B.W., 12/14/07
Theresa, Tim, and Maas the Radiologist, CT Radiology
They are WONDERFUL! Thanks for being so nice and getting my scan done! You guys ROCK! Everybody was so nice and helpful. SO Appreciated!
--T.B., 12/4/07
Christine Keays, M.D., 4th & Lewis Medical Office
I just love her, she's awesome and understands some of the more eastern philosophy treatments that I do as well (I get Reiki) and she is very personable and easy to talk to! I hope she stays permanently and can be my doctor!
--R.A., 11/18/07
PTE Team and Thornton Nursing Staff
I want to thank everyone at thornton for caring for me while I was an inpatient there.It was the best care I have ever had.
--C.M., 10/24/07
Michelle, Thornton BMT/3 West
Michelle, we wanted to thank you for being such a wonderful nurse. You have so much positive energy and spunk. You really lighten up the oncology ward with your cheerful spirit and sense of humor. It was always a relief to have you as our nurse because we knew that we would receive excellent care as well as some fun. You go girl!
--F.M., 10/22/07
Fay, Thornton BMT/3 West
Fay, you are one of my favorite nurses. You truly understand what the patients are going through because of your own past experiences. Thank you for your compassion and kind understanding of my situation. Your presence was always soothing and unobtrusive. You are one of the few nurses who can actually work in total darkness and not make a mistake or sound. Thank you for sharing your DVDs, personal stories and movies with us. Wishing you l! ots of love and happiness. (Hugs)
--F.M., 10/22/07
Ewa Carrier, M.D., BMT Program
Dr. Ewa, I only met you once on a weekend visit at Thornton but I will never forget your positive words and pink blazer. As you know, facing the prospect of a BMT is a daunting task. One of the things you said to me was, "If anyone can make it, you can." How simple is that?! Yet, those words of encouragement and positivity made my day. Patients need to hear positive affirmations. The human spirit is stronger! than we know. I wish all doctors had your knowledge regarding this. Thanks again for your sweet spirit of hope that you bring to patients. Keep up the good work!
--F.M., 10/22/07
Peter Curtin, M.D., BMT Program
Dr. Curtin, I just wanted to say thank you and "mahalo nui loa" as we say on the islands for everything you've done for me so far in my treatment for AML. You are the KING of the bone marrow transplant division and admired by many - nurses, staff and of course, patients! You are doing an excellent job and your leadership, professionalism, expertise, knowledge and sense of humor are evident to all. In addition, you actually LISTEN to patients. Wow! What a concept. You have always addressed any concerns or questions that I have had in a timely and considerate manner. I feel like I have had excellent care under your supervision and protection and am happy that I stayed at UCSD to receive my bone marrow transplant. I know that you are going to make this department better and stronger every day because of your confident leadership and vision. You are also well-liked by everyone. Your job is very demanding and time-consuming, yet you successfully maintain a healthy balance o! f family and a good work ethic that is an example to all. Thank you for your help so far in the BMT process, which is still on-going. Words really are not adequate to express our gratefulness and appreciation to you and your staff for everything you have done.
F.M., 10/22/07
All Nurses on Thornton, BMT/3 West
To all the nurses working in the BMT Division at 3 West: I wanted to say thank you for taking such good care of me during my treatment for AML and my subsequent BMT at Thornton Hospital. You are wonderful, caring people who deserve to be hugged! Your kindness, understanding and compassion was greatly appreciated. You did an excellent job and although the journey was a hard one, I am grateful that I had such highly skilled nurse! s to guide me through the process. Thanks again for all your hard work and love with the oncology patients. You are making a difference in our lives!
--F.M., 10/22/07
Kevin, Thornton Hospital Radiology
Kevin, You are always cheerful and upbeat, even when dealing with difficult people who are tired of waiting or stressed out about being in the hospital. You always have a smile on your face and a good attitude. Thanks for being such a cheerful presence in radiology. It's pleasant to be around people like you. You handle patients very well in a friendly manner. Keep up the great work!
--F.M., 10/21/07
Roger Wilbanks, Human Resources
Roger has been a responsive, informative professional liaison between UCSD and myself as a job appicant. At a time when applications are completed on-line with little interactive communication, Roger provides a warm and smart human element that is much appreciated. His responses and updated information about the appliation process were timely. His service stood out as superior to comparable institutions.
--J.L., 10/11/07
Kathy Everhart, Radiology Hillcrest
I have not met Kathy from the Radiology department, but spoke to her on the phone in regards to setting up an appointment. Kathy was very professional, kind and detailed oriented during our conversation. Today she called to let me know the day I was having one test, that she noticed I was scheduled for two other tests later in the month and was inquiring if I wanted to do them al! l in the same day, as I had mentioned that I was planning a special event when we spoke yesterday. I was amazed and pleased that Kathy went the extra mile and appreciate her thoughtfulness. Thank you Kathy for being an outstanding indiviual who truly cares about the patient. Thank you UCSD for having such great associates on your team like Kathy. Again Kathy THANK YOU!!! you made my day.
--N.B., 10/10/07
Dr. Test, Dr. Auger & Mo, PTE Program
Yesterday I walked a total of ten blocks! Thank you so much for saving my life, keeping my spirits up and getting me back home safely. Everyone worked so hard to get me well and I can't thank you enough! -J.A.
--J.A., 10/10/07
Lisa Walker, CRNA
I was very anxoius about my procedure and the potential for pain and nausea. Lisa was very professional, reassuring and the most competent nurse anesthetist I have ever encountered. She allayed my fears, I had no pain during the procedure, I had no nausea at all! She made me feel very safe. She did an absolutely wonderful job! If I ever need to have surgery again, I would only want her to take care of me!
--C.T., 10/8/07
Dee Parks, Thornton PACU
After my surgery, Dee (RN) took care of me in the PACU. She was very kind, competent, thorough and professional. All me needs we well taken care of. She controlled my pain very well. She was very patient with me, and she kept my family informed of my status, which was a great relief to them. She is an excellent nurse, and I would be happy to have her take care of me or my family again.
--C.T., 10/8/07
Marlene Marien, Thornton 3 East
Marlene was a great nurse, she kept me well informed, she instructed me on my care, activities, discharge instructions. She performed a thorough nursing assessment. She identified herself and checked 2 patient identifiers before providing care to me. She was very kind, competent and professional. She did a great job!
--C.T., 10/8/07
Labor & Delivery
Hello, I apologize for taking so long to write something. I had my son at UCSD on May 14, 2006. I received such wonderful care from the midwives and nurses that helped me so I wanted to send them a big thank you. Unfortunately, I cannot remember the two Labor and Delivery nurses names so if you could please look up the records and find their names for me I would appreciate it. I am pretty sure one of the nurses names was Jean. To say the least, I had a long, arduous labor (36 hours) and if it weren't for these three sweet, caring and proficient women, I would have been a mess. They kept me calm at ALL times and their bedside manner was just wonderful. I felt like they were old friends- that's how comfortable they made my husband and I. They were also great sports about being there with me on Mother's Day instead of being with their own families. I would love to find out their names (or contact info) so I can send them a picture of us in the chance they may remember us. We are so grateful for their wonderful service.
--T.J., 10/3/07
Stephanie Osborne, Lung Transplant Nurse
I wish to thank Stephanie Osborne, lung transplant coordinator for all the wonderful care she has given me before, during and after my stay at UCSD. Stephanie is such a special person and has been that way from the first day I met her. She is a most valuable resource and someone that is so caring and giving to all she comes in contact with. Stephanie, I think you know how special you are to me and I th! ank you from the bottom of my heart for all that you do. Not just for me, but all those that come in contact with you. You are someone that is brimming with love.
--L.R., 9/25/07
Dr. Maier, Dermatology
Thank you so much Dr. Maier. Your dedication to your patient is greatly appreciated. I'm really glad I had you for my doctor.
--NL, 9/10/07
Mark, CT Imaging at Thornton Hospital
Thank you, for your kindness and caring. You made my ct of the abdomen with contrast, and delightful barium drink not so bad.
--C.C., 8/27/07
Jennifer Nelson, Mammography Tech, Moores Cancer Center
Absolutely the most professional and caring person I have encountered in 17 years of being a patient at UCSD ! I was nervous about the procedure and she was so calm and assuring, I really felt I was in the best place possible for my medical care! I'll be back next year
--J.W., 8/22/07
Emily Franco, Labor & Delivery Nurse
I just wanted to say thank you again for everything while we were having baby Ella. You were an amazing nurse with wonderful gifts of compassion, patience and knowledge. We were SO grateful to have you as a nurse! We wish you the best of luck in your career and in your life!
--A.K., 8/19/07
Dr. Rubin, Pulmonary
I felt confident and secure after talking to the doctor about my condition. He made sure I understood what I had, how he was going to treat it and what his and my expectations were going to be. I thank him with all my heart for making me feel like there was hope.
--A.A., 8/17/07
Drs. Robert Afra and Hugo Sanchez
Thank you to Dr. Afra and Dr. Hugo Sanchez for skillfully carrying out a difficult procedure to repair my knee. Just days ago, I was unable to move my toes and foot and was in horrible pain due to a broken fibula and associated nerve damage. Since the surgery, I've seen and felt rapid improvement. There is a good chance that my knee will recover from a severe trauma. Thank you both for a job well done.
--J.P., 8/7/07
Hillcrest Emergency Room Staff
- Martha De Lacruz - Thank you for your kind and gentle care on July 6. I was hit in the eye by a baseball at Petco Park. You made sure that I was in a quiet room and were very attentive during a tense and long evening. I appreciate your kindness and dedication.
- Dr. Franklin Li - Thank you for your follow up care on July 7 after I had been hit in the eye by a baseball at Petco Park. You made a special trip to the hospital early on Saturday to examine me so that I could return home to Phoenix. I really appreciate your flexibility and concern for my welfare.
- Dr. Sara Yoon - Thank you for your care after I was hit by a ball at Petco Park on July 6. You examined and treated my eye, stiched up my eyebrow and then came in early Saturday to reexamine me so that I could return home to Phoenix. I really appreciate all the time, attention and concern for my welfare.
- Dr. Brandt - Thank you for your care on July 6 after I was hit in the eye by a ball at Petco Park. You spent a long and tense evening making sure my eye was treated.
- Dr. Dan Davis - Thank you for your care when I was hit by a ball at Petco Park. You were there to enjoy the game but came to my aid. You recommended the fin Opthamalogy department at UCSD and I recieved great care. I appreciate your concern for my welfare.
--S.S., 8/6/2007
Ann Reason, Internal Medicine
Ann is a nurse for several physicians, but she gave me excellent care and advice even when I was in another state on vacation. She save my vacation by keeping in touch with me and calling in a prescription. Moreover, she was cheerful and caring. What a wonderful nurse.
--M.H., 8/4/07
Dr. Auger, Dr. Sachsa and all the other drs and the second floor nurses and staff (Thornton)
I would like to thank all of my doctors who saved my life with the pte procedure they did. Also to all the nurses and staff members who helped me recover so quickly.I owe everything to all of you th! ank you for the second chance I will never forget.
--M.F., 7/27/07
Elisa, Trauma Center
I want to thank Elisa for her care and comfort when I was brought in after a car accident. I was so scared and she stayed with me and comforted me and assured me that I would be fine, which helped calm me down. She is a really patient and kind nurse and you can tell that she truly cares. Thanks!
--D.C., 7/26/07
Ann Hoye, Pain Clinic
Thanks Anne for always listening to me, the patient, and making me feel heard.
--J.M., 7/17
Julie Marmon, Tricia Jasper
I had an excellent experience at Urgent Care on July 16, 2007. The attending physician was Dr. Julie Marmon, who was not only thorough, but soliticitous of my comfort and well-being. The nurse was Tricia Jasper, who was kind and efficient. Both were professional and competent, but their personal attention and concern for me as a unique individual rather than "a case" made an unpleasant situation bearable. (My condition was diagnosed and treated as diverticulitis.) I believe real healing takes place with health professionals like Dr. Marmon and Nurse Jasper. I would like to thank you for having them on your staff.
--M.H., 7/17/07
Evangelina, Thornton Hospital MRI
Evlangelina was the tech assistant during my recent MRI. She provided me with precise driving directions, and upon arrival, she had all the necessary paperwork prepared. She was incredibly efficient, polite and helpful. Her positive attitude set the tone for a marvelous experience for me.
--M.F., 7/16/07
Jody, Thornton Hospital MRI
Jody was absolutley superb. I am very chlastrophobic, annd Jody made a terrifying experience more than tolerable. She was professional, patient, and incredibly efficient. I have had three MRI's in my lifetime, and there is no comparison. This is some of the best medical service I have ever received. She could educate other technicians on how to handle patients like me.
--M.F., 7/16/07
Everyone in the ICU and RT Departments (Thornton)
I want to thank everyone at the Thornton Hospital ICU for doing their best job. From Mo, to the nurses and aids, to the RT's; I walked away from all that happened and continue to get stronger and healthier with each day. It's all because of the care, support,and love you should me and my family. A special thanks to Dr. Madani, Dr. Saki, Dr. Augee, Dr. Kerr, Dr. Kim, Dr. Test, Dr. Delgado, and Dr. Montgrain...all the 'coaches' cheering me on to keep pushing! How many patients say, "I miss you all"? But I do...hopefully, we'll be out next year to see everyone of you. Keep up the good work.
--A.H, 7/14/07
Dr. Gita Mehta
I experienced sudden hearing loss in one ear and needed to see Dr. Mehta immediately so she added me to her schedule that day. I received outstanding care and a referral to Head and Neck Surgery, which resolved my problem. Dr. Mehta has provided me with the finest care anywhere for seventeen years and I would like to thank her for her great work.
--J.P., 7/9/07
Dr. Ken Griffiths
Very professional, knowledgable, informational, polite and a doctor I would recommend.
--J.D., 7/8/07
Dr. Marlene Millen
Dr. Millen and her nurse, Shiela, are both excellent clinicians, plus they work well together. They're professional and efficient but also warm and friendly. They're very knowledgable and they really listen to me--a good combination for excellent care!
-- R.M., 7/6/07
Barbara Mignano, Bannister Family House Director
Barbara, UCSD could not have found a better director for the Bannister Family House! Thank you for all that you do and the wonderful services you provide. You are a true inspiration!
--L.R., 7/5/07
Virginia Lizama, Hillcrest Outpatient Radiology
Always such excellent care on multiple visits to Outpatient Radiology! Virginia is the best :)
--L.R., 7/5/07
Antenatal Testing Nurses at the ACC
These nurses are great! They were always so cheerful and caring (I know because I saw them at least 2-3 times a week when I was pregnant!) They were ALWAYS so concerned about my daughter and me, and I believed they saved both of our lives; they sent me to the hospital immediately when something didn't look right-and they were right-I developed preeclampsia and was induced that day. These ladies are AWESOME!
--R.S., 7/5/07
Dr. Josh Hidayya
I want to say thank you for all the hard work you and the others at the Jacobs Retina Center for giving my wife Christine the compassion and time it has taken over these last few months to help her regain her independance with her vision. Dr. Hidayya has shown excelence in his field and we are thankful the staff cares so much everyday!
--D.E., 6/26/07
Dr. Kim
Dr. Kim, Thanks for your personal touch and genuine interest in my condition. I did an 18 mile bike ride today!
--K.Y., 6/25/07
Pamela Muse & Thomas Davenport
I would like to thank Pamela and Thomas for being extremely help to my sister who was to have a sleep study test done. Pamela was instrmental in getting us to the right people. She helped to get my sister an appointment with her doctor. She was very caring and understanding of my sister's needs.
--E.S., 6/22/07
Hoi Sang U, M.D.
Thank you Dr. U for great brain surgery on my mother's 3 aneurysms! She is back to her old self! Thanks to you she has many more years of life to look forward to with her loved ones. YOU ARE THE BEST!
--J.E., 6/19/07
Lara Hustana, M.D.
Dr. Hustana was just all-around great - friendly, thorough, and took enough time with me to help me understand the exam; I have family history of certain eye problems and her kind care was exceptional!!!
--M.R., 6/6/07
Pearl Yu, M.D.
Dr. Yu is the most thorough physician I've had in my lifetime. She spent a great deal of time with me on my first visit, ensuring that "no stone be left unturned". Contacted me as soon as results of lab work became available, etc. Her bedside manner should be commended. I HIGHLY recommend UCSD and Dr. Yu to anyone who will listen!
--C.S., 6/1/07
Jeffrey P. Harris, M.D.
I would like to thank Dr. Jeffrey P. Harris for his articles on Menieres Disease and BVVP. I now find more about the options I have in dealing with BVVP symptoms that have not been very effective. His articles were more informative than any others I have searched on the internet. Thank him most sincerely for me please. Thanks.
--J.C., 6/1/07
Cath Lab/Recovery/Anesthesia
You guys are awesome! I was scared to death and you made me comfortable. Thank you bunches!
--R.A., 5/29/07
Thornton admission desk, pre-op, PACU, surgical team, 3rd floor day and night shift
Thank you ALL for your excellent care. I felt safe and cared for my entire stay from admissions through discharge.
--R.C., 5/14/07
Dr. Victor Test
Dr. Test is the most compassionate doctor we have ever met. He is very respectful, always accessible, and he takes the time to explain healthcare issues and options. He also goes out of his way to make time to keep his patients informed. He has the biggest heart and is the most incredible doctor on earth!
--R.W., 5/14/07
All Trauma Personnel
Thank you all so much for what you did to stabilize and treat my son Mark Hudson after his life threatening motorcycle accident on Tuesday morning.
--R.H., 5/11/07
Nurse Kim in the Heart Station
Before my doing my stress echo, Kim sat down with me to ask several questions. Something didn't quite add up for her, so she cared enough and had the insight to page my doctor to find out exactly what he was looking for before conducting the test. If she hadn't done that, the key components my doctor needed would not have been provided and I would have had to come all the way back down from North County to repeat the test! I can't thank her enough for taking the initiative to do this! She was also very considerate, helpful, and professional during my appointment. Thank you Kim!!
--K.S., 5/11/07
Thank a UCSD Physician, Nurse or Staff Member