University News
For Renee Garcia-Prajer R.D.H., M.S., her students and caring for others come first. Her dedication has been recognized by Planetree International, as she recently became the first professional in higher education to be certified as a Planetree Fellow in Person-Centered Care.
September 30, 2020
Renee Garcia-Prajer, R.D.H., M.S., believes caring for others is part of her DNA, and sheӰԭs passionate about her work as a healthcare educator. ThatӰԭs why it was especially gratifying when she learned recently sheӰԭd become the first professional in higher education to be certified by as a .
ӰԭI was truly elated,Ӱԭ said Prof. Garcia-Prajer, associate dean of the UniversityӰԭs School of Health Sciences. ӰԭAs an educator, I strive to put students first. Being able to transfer my care for others in a healthcare capacity to students in the learning environment affords the opportunity to create a culture of caring in future healthcare professionals.Ӱԭ
The University of New HavenӰԭs School of Health Sciences is one of the first schools in the United States to pursue higher education certification from Planetree International, a leading nonprofit that works with organizations around the world to promote patient-centered care as a model for improving the quality of health care.
ӰԭThis important step forward will distinguish the University of New Haven School of Health Sciences from others in that we are one of five institutions nationwide currently pursuing this certification,Ӱԭ she said. ӰԭThis affiliation demonstrates the School of Health SciencesӰԭ commitment to training caring healthcare professionals who are prepared for the future of healthcare.Ӱԭ
The Fellow in Person-Centered Care credential is awarded to professionals who have demonstrated their knowledge, experience, and leadership in person-centered care. It signifies a FellowӰԭs conviction that person-centered care is right for patients, families, and healthcare professionals, as well as students, faculty, and staff.
ӰԭThe entire School of Health Sciences community deserves this recognition,Ӱԭ said Prof. Garcia-Prajer. ӰԭFaculty, staff, and students are embracing Planetree's person-centered philosophy, breaking down the barriers between faculty, staff, and students with each other and with the patients, families, and communities we serve.Ӱԭ
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