The award is given to recognize and honor graduating medical students who demonstrate the highest standard of compassion and sensitivity in their interaction with patients. This year $1000 will be presented           at medical school commencement to one graduating medical student from each of a number of selected medical schools throughout the United States.

Use the following criteria to consider which medical student in the Class of 2004 to nominate for this prestigious award:

• consistently demonstrates compassion and empathy in the delivery of care to patients
• illustrates professional behavior by example
• shows respect for everyone with whom he/she comes in contact
• demonstrates cultural sensitivity in working with patients and family members of diverse ethnic & religious backgrounds
• displays effective communication and listening skills–good rapport with patients
• adheres to professional ethical standards
• understands a patient's need for interpretation of complex medical diagnosis and treatment and makes an effort to assure patient comprehension–shows respect for the patient's viewpoint
• helps articulate the patient's concerns to the attending physicians and others
• pays attention and is sensitive to the patient's psychological well-being
• is cooperative, easy to work with–engenders trust and confidence
• willing to help others and, when necessary, willing to seek help from others
• displays concern for the general welfare of the community and engages in volunteer activities
• seeks and accepts criticism, using it to improve performance

• is personally committed to objective self-evaluation of his/her own skills