Kent receives 2017 Max and Glenna Bermann Radiology Employee of the Year Award during National Radiologic Technology Week

Dr. Max Bermann and Glenna Bermann started working at Brigham and Women’s Faulkner Hospital in 1972. He was a staff radiologist and she was a radiologic technologist (she still works per diem). Over the course of their combined 80 plus years in the Radiology Department, they demonstrated an unwavering commitment to their patients. Named in their honor, the Max and Glenna Bermann Radiology Employee of the Year Award is given annually to one individual in the Radiology Department who best exemplifies the qualities of professionalism, patient-centeredness, teamwork, selflessness and self initiative that are so important to achieving optimal patient care. This year’s recipient is CT Technologist Deborah Kent.

Kent was nominated by both Radiology Program Manager Rakesh Kannan and CT Supervisor Jessica Lorusso.

In his nomination letter, Kannan describes Kent as a person who exemplifies the I CARE Standards in her everyday actions. He wrote, “She is a high performer in all areas of her job and always goes above and beyond for our patients. She is a great resource for all the staff members and is a role model by showing her commitment to the organization and our patients on a daily basis. Deb always has a positive attitude and her everyday philosophy is to brighten every patient she touches despite the health issues they might be experiencing. Our patients truly admire Deb and look forward to meeting her at their next visit. They develop a close relationship in a short time that they always ask for Deb even when she is off!”

Lorusso describes Kent as the heart of CT. In her nomination letter she wrote:

“Deb wants the best outcomes for each patient. She begins thinking about the patient before they even arrive. The perfectionist in Deb is constantly looking at the next day’s schedule in the hopes of the best experience for the patient.

When anxious patients call prior to their appointment, Deb is sure to ease their worries, so when they arrive they already feel like family. Often CT patients are required to return for multiple visits when they are fighting an infection or abscess. Deb gets to the know these patients, so while they are going through one of the worst experiences of their life, she tries to make the experience a little more comfortable.

She is supportive of her colleagues, whether it is coming early or staying late to help with coverage or a procedure. If there is a late IR exam, Deb stays to ensure the patient gets the treatment that is necessary.

There have been many changes to our department throughout the years that Deb has worked at Brigham and Women’s Faulkner Hospital, but she seems to embrace change and make the best of any situation. Deb asks focused questions to best understand the changes and is my right-hand woman to help execute the change.”

Kent was surprised with her award at the annual gathering to kick off National Radiologic Technology Week. She says of the honor, “I love my job and I love my patients and I’m grateful that it was recognized.”