Making a Difference for our Diabetes Patients

Laura Crossman Honored With BEE Award

When something needs to get done in the Endocrinology practice at The University of Vermont Health Network-Champlain Valley Physicians Hospital (CVPH), you can bank on Medical Assistant Laura Crossman likely being involved in some way. Co-workers describe her as incredibly versatile and ready to jump in at a moment’s notice, and that is why she is the hospital’s newest recipient of the BEE Award.

Catherine “Franke” LaPier, BSN, RN, CDCES, a Certified Diabetes Educator focusing on inpatients at the hospital, nominated Crossman for the award. LaPier has worked with her in multiple roles and departments, most recently at CVPH Endocrinology.

“Laura shows up every day and goes above and beyond to take care of all patients and providers,” LaPier writes in her nomination of Crossman. “She makes her workload look effortless at times. She rooms, downloads, pre-visit plans, manages referrals, handles all the DME labs, and does countless reminders to patients to get their labs done.”

As impressive as that list is, it’s Crossman’s dedication to our patients that stands out the most for LaPier. In her nomination, she referenced a situation where Crossman spent hours on the phone fighting to ensure a patient was able to get what he needed to manage his diabetes.

“Laura continued to fight for him, because it was the right thing to do,” LaPier says.

Crossman’s hard work also makes a difference with her colleagues on a daily basis.

“Her dedication helped to make my role much more manageable. She took care of tasks that allowed me to focus on other patient needs.”

“Laura is an extremely valuable member of the Endocrinology team,” LaPier continues. “The office runs more smoothly because of her, but more importantly, patients get what they need to take care of themselves thanks to Laura.”

During a surprise ceremony with her colleagues at CVPH Endocrinology, Crossman was presented with a certificate commending her for her extraordinary work. She also received a BEE Award pin and a basket filled with bee-themed gifts.

All CVPH employees who support patient care by working together with physicians and registered nurses to improve the physical, emotional and spiritual health of patients and their loved ones are eligible for the BEE Award. Nomination forms and boxes are located at each of the hospital’s main entrances and on the CVPH website. Support staff may be nominated by patients, families and colleagues. A committee reviews nominations and awards a deserving employee each quarter.

Watch the Surprise Ceremony