Awards and Recognition

(From the January 2024 issue of MedStat)

Physician Recognition

Medical staff leadership would like to acknowledge physicians for recently receiving positive comments from patients and families. These comments are only a brief sample of the many compliments our physicians receive regularly.

Gail E. Besner, MD, Chief, General Pediatric Surgery

“Dr. Besner was fabulous. She explained everything before and after the surgery in a clear, concise way. She was very personable and kind. Dr. Besner was able to put our minds at ease. She did a phenomenal job from our first to last interaction. I am so thankful to have had her as our surgeon. As a parent and physician, myself, I would recommend her as a surgeon to everyone. From start to finish, our experience was stellar and far beyond expectations. The staff, nurses and physicians made sure that we were kept informed and updated. The whole team was able to make the entire experience seamless.”

Ritika Gupta, MD, Pediatrics

“This was likely the best experience I have had with a doctor in a very long time. <Dr. Gupta> was understanding and helpful. I brought my child to urgent care because our after-hours center with our primary care doctor didn't have available appointments. I will likely continue to bring my children here instead. The level of care was not something I had been used to. Kudos to both the doctor and the nurse on staff that night - they both did a great job.”

Ana M. Mercado, DMD, PhD, Dentistry

“Cannot say enough about Dr. Mercado and her team. They are professional, friendly, and caring and treat my granddaughter who has special needs with the utmost respect. Absolutely would and have recommended Dr. Mercado.”

Jeffrey Papiernik, MD, Pathology & Laboratory Medicine and Laura Puertas-Ocio, MD, Anesthesiology & Pain Medicine

“I loved how thoughtful the physicians were in response to our questions. We felt well-informed and confident in their expertise and care. I loved that the entire team worked together harmoniously. You never picked up on anyone being stressed or overworked which is rare in my opinion. I wish all hospitals were like Nationwide Children’s. We've been to several children's hospitals over the years and there isn't one that comes close to exceptional as Nationwide Children’s.”  

 

Benjamin Prince, MD, Pediatrics

“Dr. Princeis one of the best doctors I have dealt with in my life, especially regarding my child. He understands and appreciates that I want to know all that I can without being overloaded. He's willing to answer all questions, makes both my son and I feel extremely comfortable, and is willing to thoroughly explain everything. I have referred others and will continue to because I honestly believe he is the best! I am so extremely grateful for Dr. Prince!

 

Betsy Schmerler, MD, Pediatrics and Reid Chambers, DO, Orthopedics

“We had such a good experience at Nationwide Children's. Something terrible happened, and my daughter got hurt- but I left with an overwhelming feeling of gratitude for the quality, child-centered care that my daughter received. Every single person involved in her care took amazing care of her, and I feel so thankful for access to an amazing children's hospital with amazing staff. Thank you for making a really difficult time a little bit easier.”