Pediatric nurse honored with 2015 Dr. Jorge Arnoldson Memorial Award

During Nurses Week 2015, May 6 – 12, Kaiser Permanente of the Mid-Atlantic States is highlighting the contributions of nurses who care for Kaiser Permanente members throughout the region. Among the organization's more than 1,500 dedicated nurses, Kathryn Verber, RN, is marking three decades - this week - since she began her nursing career. Verber has cared for countless children and the Medical Care for Children Partnership program (MCCP) recently presented Kathryn with the 2015 Dr. Jorge Arnoldson Memorial Award.

As the Northern Virginia Pediatric Case Manager for Kaiser Permanente of the Mid-Atlantic States, Verber plays a critical role in connecting families with services through the MCCP program. Families who fall 300% below the federal poverty level are eligible to enroll their children and once enrolled, Kaiser Permanente and the Fairfax County Department of Health work to coordinate treatment and medical care. The Award is given to a person or organization who has demonstrated a history of engagement in children's health issues, and who embodies Dr. Arnoldson's credo that "giving is a matter of conscience."

Kaiser Permanente of the Mid-Atlantic States is proud of the exceptional care and commitment that our nurses demonstrate every day. When community partners like MCCP recognize individuals like Kathryn Verber, it speaks further to that dedication and excellence.

In addition to celebrating the contributions of local nurses, the organization is also looking at the personal inspiration for careers in nursing with letters from nurses and colleagues:

• Lois Dunbar, RN, shares how the care she offered her father, a kidney-recipient in 1968, motivated her to care for others.
• Priscilla Johnson, RN, describes how she followed in her "family's footsteps," as her sister and her mother were licensed nurses as well.

Throughout the week, Kaiser Permanente of the Mid-Atlantic States is participating in different local activities to support and thank nurses and members are encouraged to acknowledge nurses with an e-card delivery feature.