Physician Outreach Network receives Ascension Health Organizational Component Award

The St.Vincent Physician Outreach Network (PON) recently received Ascension Health’s Organizational Component Award during the annual Leadership Convocation in St. Louis, Mo.

The St.Vincent PON is a unique group of medical providers led by Drs. Ingrid Mason (Internal Medicine) and Joseph Fraiz (Infectious Disease), who have brought St.Vincent physicians together around their common interest in sharing their skills with the poorest of the poor, both locally and around the world. The PON was initiated in 2006 by Dr. Malcolm Herring, a retired St.Vincent physician, in his work as the St.Vincent Health Physician Formation Leader. Today, nearly 100 doctors and medical professionals participate in this effort.

PON has collected supplies, medicines and donations for earthquake relief in Haiti and has sponsored 10 mission teams to travel there to provide medical care. It has also encouraged frequent mission trips to other countries, working with nearly 20 international relief organizations.

Volunteer efforts by these extraordinary groups of clinicians have a broad range. Key activities include: providing clinical assessments and physicals; prescribing medications; educating individuals and groups; and working alongside physicians in local communities and countries to support their needs. A particular strategy that is being explored is connecting international physicians in hospitals with St.Vincent physicians through teleconferencing technology.

Ascension Health’s Living the Mission and Values Awards were established to recognize and honor people and programs recommended by associates of Ascension Health for their dedication and commitment to our Mission and Values. Nominees are recognized those who:

• Demonstrate an extraordinary and recognized way to live the Mission and Values
• Inspire, support and encourage others to embrace the Mission and Values
• Act to enhance the organizational commitment to living the Mission