Honors a physician whose performance is considered exemplary by patients, peers and other health care providers.
UMAR BOWERS
Title: Medical Director
Organization: Dawson Med Primary Care & Urgent Care
What a nominator said: “Dr. Bowers is an extraordinary physician whose dedication to serving patients, co-workers and the community goes above and beyond all expectations. His unwavering commitment to the field of medicine and his compassionate approach to patient care make him a standout candidate for this prestigious recognition.
“His educational background, including his undergraduate degree from Longwood University and medical degree from Howard University College of Medicine, showcases his dedication to academic excellence. His residency at Wake Forest University School of Medicine and research assistant role at
Johns Hopkins Medicine highlight his commitment to pushing the boundaries of medical knowledge.
“What truly sets Dr. Bowers apart is his practice philosophy, which is grounded in personalized, personable care. He is not just a physician; he is a trusted partner in his patients’ healthcare journeys. Dr. Bowers takes the time to build strong doctor-patient relationships, listening attentively to their concerns and providing comprehensive solutions. ”
– Jasmine Moore, Quality and Performance Lead, Dawson Med Primary Care & Urgent Care
CATHERINE DAUM
Title: Physician
Organization: Wilmington Health
What a nominator said: “The first time I heard of Dr. Daum was when a previous co-worker at my old job shared her story of cancer survival with me. She told me that as a 30-year-old woman, nobody would allow her to get a mammogram because insurance would not pay for it. She saw multiple providers before finally landing with Dr. Catherine Daum. My friend told her what was going on and what she felt in her breast. Unlike the other providers Sarah saw, Dr. Daum said, ‘Let’s get you a mammogram approved.’ … The mammogram proved what Sarah feared: She had breast cancer. However, because of Dr. Daum’s care, it was found early and Sarah had the treatment necessary to survive breast cancer …
“Dr. Daum also leads our physicians through value based care education. … Dr. Daum sits down with new providers to teach them about value based care through the lens of a primary care physician. She helps new providers to understand care in a way that puts the patient first. Her patients and team members consistently rank her with exemplary scores. It’s an honor to know her and work alongside her.”
– Alexis Hunter, Wilmington Health community liaison
JUGTA KAHAI
Title: Pediatric Medical Director
Organization: Columbus Regional Healthcare System
What a nominator said: “Dr. Kahai exemplifies her role as a pediatrician and an advocate for her patients. She has been a pediatrician for over 32 years and has served Southeastern North Carolina during most of that time. She will go above and beyond to help her pediatric patients and families with assisting for the best care possible. She is involved with the Resilient Columbus, Columbus County Community Collaborative and the Columbus County Opioid Task Force. Dr. Kahai has collaborated with different community resources to assist her patient’s with their Social Determinants of Health insecurities and promoted healthier eating by convincing Columbus Regional to have a community garden to show her patients the benefits of eating healthy. Dr. Kahai is a true gem and such a huge asset to Columbus County, Southeastern North Carolina and the community that she serves through her volunteer efforts.”
– Richard Berg, integrated care manager, Carolina Complete Health
