GGP Division singles out three for inaugural awards event

Three members of the Division of General Internal Medicine, Geriatrics & Palliative Medicine were recipients of first-ever awards from the division, which is part of the Department of Medicine at the University of Arizona College of Medicine – Tucson.

The awards were presented on the morning of June 6 in Room 880 of the Health Sciences Innovation Building by the division’s Amy Klein, MD, and Indu Partha, MD. Dr. Klein is director of palliative medicine at Banner – University Medicine Tucson and program director for the U of A’s Hospice & Palliative Medicine. Dr. Partha is associate program director for the U of A’s Internal Medicine Residency – Tucson and vice chair of the college’s Academy of Medical Education Scholars (AMES) chapter.

“Our division was very excited to present our first GGP awards to three very deserving individuals. The awards committee recognizes how valuable every member of our division is but realizes that our peers who were not academic faculty had fewer opportunities to be publicly recognized for their outstanding contributions to our patients and our division. We were so happy to celebrate these three people as our inaugural awardees,” Dr. Partha said.

Humanism in Medicine Award

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The first award went to Lorraine Yentzer, MSN, AG-ACNP-BC, CHPN, a specialty instructor and palliative medicine nurse practitioner. She studied nursing at Kent State University and Grand Canyon University.

In presenting the award, Dr. Klein said of Yentzer: “Lorraine embodies the true art of humanism in healing. Families caring for frail elders instinctively reach for her number because they know she listens first, explains clearly and stays on the line until the next step feels possible. Whether navigating a complex illness, discussing resources for an exhausted daughter or simply bearing witness to a spouse’s grief, Lorraine meets each person with unwavering respect. By translating expertise into empathy, she restores confidence to families, dignity to patients and hope to all who work beside her. She is the heart of the palliative care team, showing compassion for every member on service — even for medical students or residents with us for only a few days. Lorraine encourages everyone to bring their full selves to work and strives to foster a culture of mutual support, growth and sustainability.”

Service to the Division Award

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This award went to Jason E. Toone, MS, the clinical associate director for the division. Toone joined the College of Medicine – Tucson as lead administrative associate with the Division of Cardiology and Sarver Heart Center in 2017, simultaneously serving as a placement representative for Banner – University Medicine Tucson since December 2016. He became a clinical senior business manager in 2018 and clinical associate director in 2023. Before joining the U of A, he was a clinical liaison with La Frontera Arizona and a coordinator with the Tucson VA Medical Center. A former U.S. Marine sergeant, he holds a master’s degree in health administration from the University of Cincinnati and a bachelor’s degree in public management from Northern Arizona University.

“Behind every smooth-running clinic session, budget or successful new hire in our division stands Jason Toone, quietly turning complexity into clarity,” said Dr. Klein. “Although he manages several divisions within Banner, Jason is never ‘too busy’ for us. In responding to a quick text requesting help with a financial spreadsheet, a late-day call to brainstorm support for a new geriatrician, or an impromptu hallway huddle to decode policy — Jason shows up, listens without judgment and charts a practical path forward.”

She added, “What sets Jason apart is the spirit beneath the spreadsheets. He sees his administrative work as a way to empower people, so that every single one of us can help serve patients to the best of our abilities. He patiently maps out solutions, navigates institutional hurdles and advocates for resources with a persistence that feels timeless. By blending strategic acumen with genuine care for every individual, Jason Toone strengthens the fabric of our division day after day.”

Clinical Excellence Award

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This award goes to Dani H. Farhat, DO, a general internist with the division, who earned his medical degree at Pikeville College’s School of Osteopathic Medicine in Pikeville, Kentucky, in 2017 and completed his internal medicine residency training at Midwestern University’s Canyon Vista Medical Center in Sierra Vista in 2020.

“Dr. Dani Farhat exemplifies clinical excellence through his steadfast commitment to delivering high-quality, safe and patient-centered care in general internal medicine. He is dedicated to value-driven care, unwavering focus on patient access, and his ability to accommodate and advocate for patients within a busy primary care practice,” said Dr. Klein.

“Day after day, Dr. Farhat brings a wonderful attitude and genuine connection to each patient and family he serves, gracefully navigating the inevitable challenges of primary care with resilience and composure. His medical assistant highlights his steady presence, excellent communication and uplifting sense of humor, which creates a positive environment for both patients and staff alike. Dr. Farhat’s ability to keep the team lighthearted while ensuring every patient’s needs are met makes him a trusted and beloved colleague.”

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She added, “Patients consistently praise Dr. Farhat for his thoroughness, knowledge and, most importantly, his exceptional listening skills. They describe him as approachable, warm, and willing to take the time needed to answer questions and explain medical information in understandable terms. The recurring theme across reviews is that Dr. Farhat makes patients feel heard, respected and confident in their care plans.”

Division Chief Mindy J. Fain, MD, congratulated all the winners at the end of the awards ceremony.