The CARE Award at Punxsutawney Area Hospital

The CARE Award Recognition Program at Punxsutawney Area Hospital (PAH) was created to highlight the extraordinary efforts of employees who go above and beyond in their roles every day. The program reflects the hospital’s commitment to recognizing the many individuals who contribute to exceptional patient care and a positive workplace culture.

While many recognition programs focus on clinical roles, PAH understands that delivering outstanding healthcare requires a team effort. The CARE Award specifically honors staff members who do not qualify for the DAISY Award—a program designed to recognize nurses—but who still play a vital role in supporting patients, families, and colleagues across the organization.

What CARE Represents: 
The CARE Award is built around four core values that represent the ideals of the hospital’s workforce:
C – Compassion and Care: Demonstrating genuine compassion for patients while showing care and support for coworkers and visitors.
A – Admirable Attributes: Displaying admirable qualities and professionalism in daily responsibilities.
R – Respect: Treating patients, visitors, and fellow employees with dignity and respect.
E – Excellence: Performing one’s job with dedication, skill, and a commitment to excellence.
These principles represent the values that help make Punxsutawney Area Hospital a trusted healthcare provider for the community.

One of the most meaningful aspects of the CARE Award is that anyone can nominate an employee. Patients, family members, coworkers, physicians, and visitors can all submit nominations when they witness an employee providing exceptional service or compassionate care.
Nominations are accepted throughout the year, allowing people to recognize staff members who make a difference during everyday moments of care and service. To ensure nominations are considered for this year’s award, applications must be submitted by Friday, April 19. Nominations received after that date will be considered for the following year’s CARE Award cycle. 

Each year during National Hospital Week in May, Punxsutawney Area Hospital selects one CARE Award recipient. In addition to the winner, top nominees may also be recognized to ensure their contributions are celebrated.

By limiting the award to one recipient annually, the CARE Award maintains a high level of prestige while honoring an individual whose work exemplifies the hospital’s values and mission.

Punxsutawney Area Hospital has served the community for generations, and its continued success is driven by the dedication of its employees. The CARE Award provides an opportunity to celebrate those team members who embody compassion, respect, and excellence in everything they do.
Through this program, PAH not only acknowledges outstanding individuals but also reinforces a culture where kindness, teamwork, and patient-centered care are recognized and valued.

To nominate a staff member for this prestigious award, click here.