Zachem honored as outstanding area physician
Lauded by his colleagues for his compassion, leadership and intelligence, St. Charles Health System hospitalist John Zachem, D.O., is the recipient of this year’s North Star Award, the hospital system announced.
The award recognizes an actively practicing physician in the region whose work has been defined by compassionate patient care, professionalism and a commitment to improving the lives of Central Oregonians.
Finalists included Dr. Katherine Kocurek, Fall Creek Internal Medicine; Dr. Rick Goldstein, Bend Memorial Clinic; and Dr. Robert Pinnick, Bend Memorial Clinic.
“As a clinician, mentor and leader, Dr. Zachem epitomizes the qualities that the North Star Award was created to honor,” said Jeff Absalon, MD, St. Charles’ chief physician officer. “He is truly an asset to our community.”
Raised in Cleveland, Ohio, Zachem attended medical school at Ohio University College of Osteopathic Medicine and completed his residency through the Cleveland Clinic Health System.
In 1999, Zachem moved to Bend and worked in private practice until 2006, when he was instrumental in the formation of a hospitalist program at St. Charles. He has been working in that role ever since.
Zachem has served as hospitalist medical director, medical staff hospitalist division director and a member of the stroke and credentialing committees. Within St. Charles Medical Group, he chairs the compensation committee and is a member of the physician governance council.
In her nomination letter, fellow hospitalist Jen Laughlin described Zachem as a talented physician who skillfully and compassionately treats patients. The hospitalist has diagnosed and cared for patients with complicated illnesses including hantavirus and the plague. He has also personally provided a haircut and shave to a homeless patient awaiting discharge from the hospital.
“Dr. Zachem receives thanks and compliments from patients every shift he works,” she wrote.
Zachem was presented with the award at the St. Charles Foundation’s annual Saints Gala event on Saturday. A $5,000 scholarship will also be awarded in his name to a student who is planning to enter the health field or is currently pursuing education in the health field.
“This is an opportunity for us to recognize a physician whose dedication and commitment to patients is unmatched,” said Lisa Dobey, St. Charles Foundation executive director. “This region has many statewide and nationally recognized physicians and we are grateful to have them here.”
To donate to St. Charles Foundation in honor of Dr. Zachem, please contact Cindy Fields at 541-706-6996 or cdfields@stcharleshealthcare.org
