BEENE’S COMPASSION: AN EYE-OPENER FOR PATIENTS

Studies show the first person patients see when they visit a clinic can shape how they later view their overall healthcare experience, according to one UH optometrist.

That’s why he and other optometrists at the College of Optometry Center for Sight Enhancement are thrilled to have Nicole D. Beene on the front line greeting patients – who often arrive disconcerted by recent vision loss – with “compassion” and “empathy.”

UH agrees, giving the optometric technician a Staff Excellence Award.

“She goes out of her way to help our older patients who do not understand our new healthcare system,” wrote one doctor in support of her nomination.

“I really love my job and appreciate that people thought I deserved to be nominated,” Beene said.

Award recipients receive a certificate and a $1,000 check.

Douglas Britt
Staff writer

View full list of 2007 award recipients     Past award recipients