Dr. Dowain Wright always had a penchant for patient and customer satisfaction.
That showed in all aspects of his work, from how he cared for kids within Valley Children’s Healthcare as one of California’s renowned pediatric rheumatologists to how he translated information into speak that families could comprehend. Dr. Wright believed such patient and family-centered satisfaction affected clinical outcomes and the timely, efficient delivery of quality healthcare.
Dr. Wright passed away unexpectedly in January, but his work and memory live on at Valley Children’s through physicians who share his deeply rooted desire for patient satisfaction. That is why Valley Children’s decided to honor one physician each year as the recipient of the Dowain Wright Patient Satisfaction Award.
“Medical staff decided to establish an award that focused on patient experience,” Chief of Staff Dr. Fred Laningham, a Valley Children’s pediatric radiologist, said. “We measure a lot of things, and one of the things is patient satisfaction. For years and years, Dr. Dowain Wright was the pinnacle of providing great patient experience.”
The first award of its kind was presented to pediatric cardiologist Dr. Kenneth Rouillard on April 26 at the annual Valley Children’s Healthcare Physician Recognition Social at Copper River Country Club. Dr. Wright’s widow, Patricia, presented the award.
“To be recognized with Dr. Wright, he’s definitely left a legacy here in this community, so it’s a great, tremendous honor,” Dr. Rouillard said. “It’s incredible for me to receive this.”