PNWU Pair Earn Leonard Tow Humanism in Medicine Awards
Naomi Leon-Guerrero, DO, PNWU-COM Class of 2023, and PNWU Chair of Internal Medicine Mark Baldwin, DO, were recently awarded Leonard Tow Humanism in Medicine Awards by University’s Gold Humanism Honor Society (GHHS).
Presented by The Arnold P. Gold Foundation, Leonard Tow Award winners are selected and celebrated for their extraordinary empathy and humanism in all walks of their life.
Drs. Baldwin and Leon-Guerrero’s demonstrated clinical excellence and outstanding compassion in the delivery of care, alongside their steadfast respect for patients, their families, and healthcare colleagues, made them perfect fits for the award, as indicated in the anonymous nomination notes advocating for each winner.
Leonard Tow Humanism in Medicine Award Winner
Naomi Leon-Guerrero, DO, PNWU-COM Class of 2023
Leonard Tow Humanism in Medicine Award Winner
Naomi Leon-Guerrero, DO, PNWU-COM Class of 2023
“Naomi’s dedication to improving healthcare access for underserved communities is evident through her research project evaluating barriers to care and resource underutilization faced by Latino immigrants in the Yakima Valley. She has presented her research at multiple academic conferences and continues to advocate for disadvantaged groups.”
“Patients commend Naomi on her empathy, cultural sensitivity, and holistic approach to wellness.”
“When no translator could be found for a Chuukese-only-speaking patient, Naomi coordinated communication by arranging a video conference with the nearest family member in Ohio. At the end of her shifts, Naomi would hold an iPad for her patient to be able to see and hear the voices of their family. Acts like this have resulted in multiple patients requesting Naomi’s presence at follow up visits.”
“Naomi’s father died unexpectedly during her third year of medical school. This loss fueled her commitment to making patient education the forefront of her practice.”
“Her enthusiasm and encouragement inspire patients to take an active role in their health, and her collaborative teaching style empowers them to make informed decisions. Patients leave feeling heard and cared for and more knowledgeable, prepared, and confident about their health.”
“Knowing the COVID pandemic was especially difficult for nursing home residents, Naomi led a Geriatric Club event to facilitate therapeutic arts and crafts activities in an adult care facility. She solicited funding, collected materials, and personally delivered them to the facility.”
“Naomi enjoys volunteering her free time to help others. She frequently spent weekends in the anatomy lab assisting students who needed more time to learn and would often stay late at OMM lab to ensure others had a firm grasp of osteopathic techniques.”
“Her selfless acts of service and assistance have boosted academic success for classmates and given patients the opportunity to feel known and cared for.”
Leonard Tow Humanism in Medicine Award Winner Mark Baldwin, DO
“Dr. Baldwin’s humanistic qualities are evident in his commitment to education, passion for history, and love for cycling.”
“He strives to connect deeply with students on a personal and professional basis and makes every effort to help while he can.”
“Dr. Baldwin’s kindness and dedication are unparalleled.”