Congratulations to David S. Medich, MD, FACS, FASCRS, who received a 2020/2021 Leo H. Criep, MD Excellence in Patient Care Award on October 19. This annual honor is given to UPMC Hillman Cancer Center physicians who have demonstrated work-related efforts that are truly above and beyond the course of normal duty and that clearly contribute to the overall quality and success of UPMC Hillman Cancer Center by putting patients and families first; providing compassionate care, physical comfort, and emotional support to patients and their families; giving more than is asked or expected; guiding patients to be informed, active participants in their care; promoting a collaborative, cooperative environment; and committing to and embracing the UPMC Hillman Cancer Center vision and mission.
Dr. Medich’s colleagues who nominated him for the award shared the following praise about him:
- “I have learned and grown professionally from a leader who inspires me and renews my faith in compassionate care for patients every day... Dr. Medich has a way of reaching even the most difficult of patients and does so in an effortless way.”
- I have seen first-hand, Dr. Medich build our Colon and Rectal Surgery Program. His expertise brings world class care to our North Hills region and beyond. Dr. Medich’s patients and their families cannot say enough about his surgical expertise and his ability to give them hope and in many cases relief from pain and the emotional toll of a cancer diagnosis.”
- “His operative technique is exquisite, and his knowledge base is vast. He fosters unique relationships with his patients, providing compassionate support and exemplary quality care. He is a leader in the field and displays such incredible insight…He exhibits a tireless effort when it comes to training the next generation.”
Dr. Medich’s world-class care was also reflected in comments from his patients and their families:
- “Dr. Medich and his team could have written the book on reimagining the patient experience…He wants to make sure that I live a high-quality long life and I have faith that we are on the road to success.”
- “Meeting you…was life changing and has allowed for a series of miracles to enter my life.”
- “Thank you for your dedication to helping people.”
- “Your care and extraordinary support during this time was phenomenal. Simply stated, during one of the darkest times in my life, you gave me hope.”