Awards Reception Honors Mercy Physicians

SPRINGFIELD — Close to 50 physicians and supporters paid tribute to three colleagues recently at the Mercy Medical Center 2012 Physician Service Awards reception at the Federal in Agawam. The highlight of the evening was the presentation of Physician Service Awards to recipients nominated by fellow physicians and staff. Award winners were recognized for their outstanding commitment to their patients and to Mercy Medical Center or the Greater Springfield community, excellence in teaching or mentoring other medical professionals, and demonstration of leadership qualities.

Because of a tie in the number of compelling nominations for the Distinguished Service Award, the honor was presented to both Dr. Simon Ahtaridis and Dr. Timothy Fitzpatrick. Ahtaridis, director of the Mercy Internal Medicine Service hospitalist program, was recognized for his compassionate leadership, clinical knowledge, collegial spirit, and excellence as a role model. Fitzpatrick, a member of the practice Fitzpatrick, Moran, Costa, & Haag-Rickert and former president of the Mercy medical staff, was recognized as a selfless and trustworthy leader who is respected by his colleagues, committed to the Mercy mission, and dedicated to his patients, always treating them with great care and compassion.

The Service to the Greater Springfield Community Award was presented to Dr. Michael Craig, a member of the practice at Mercy’s Orthopedic Care Center. Board-certified by the American College of Orthopedic Surgery, Craig was credited for his significant impact on increasing specialty-care access for patients, clinical excellence, professional and caring demeanor, and willingness to take on new patients. Craig was also recognized by his colleagues for being “a pleasure to work with.”

“Every day, these outstanding physicians demonstrate dedication to Mercy Medical Center’s mission to be a transforming, healing presence in the communities we serve,” said Dr. Scott Wolf, senior vice president of Medical Affairs and chief medical officer at Mercy Medical Center. “Their efforts make a positive difference in the lives of countless individuals, and we are grateful for their service.”