Two advanced practice providers at the BerbeeWalsh Department of Emergency Medicine were among those honored at this year’s UW Health Advanced Practice Provider (APP) Excellence Awards ceremony, held September 23, 2024, in Madison.
The peer-nominated awards recognize advanced practice providers who demonstrate exceptional skills in clinical practice, teaching, leadership and a commitment to the institution’s mission, vision and values.
Jenna Brink, PA – Excellence in Leadership Award
Jenna inspires her team through her unwavering commitment to patient care and her proactive approach to leadership. As APP Supervisor for the Department of Emergency Medicine, she has effectively implemented strategies that foster collaboration, enhance clinical skills, and promote a culture of continuous improvement. Her initiatives, such as leading a partnership with the Medical Intensive Care Unit (MICU) to prepare Emergency Medicine APPs for critical care roles, have not only addressed immediate staffing needs in a novel manner but also provided professional growth opportunities for her team.
Jenna is dedicated to education, having created tailored onboarding plans and annual training programs that equip APPs with the latest advancements in emergency medicine. Her mentorship encourages her colleagues to reach their highest potential, fostering a growth mindset across the department. Moreover, Jenna serves as a vital liaison between leadership and her team, ensuring clear communication of institutional goals while advocating for the needs of her colleagues. Her ability to manage workloads fairly and support work-life balance demonstrates her commitment to the well-being of her team.
Jenna’s dedication to the well-being of her colleagues and her role as a mentor further highlight her status as a respected leader. Team members consistently praise her support and advocacy, underscoring her profound impact on both her team and the wider community.
Erin Werner, PA – Excellence in Clinical Practice Award
Erin leads impactful educational and quality improvement initiatives in her role as Quality Lead APP in Emergency Medicine. Erin plays a crucial role in facilitating the department’s robust peer review process, identifying opportunities for system and individual improvement. She prepares and presents cases at departmental Peer Review Committee Meetings and communicates findings constructively to providers, fostering a culture of continuous learning and improvement consistent with our Just Culture principles.
Her innovative approach to education is exemplified by the M+M NoW (Nuggets of Wisdom) newsletter, which distills key clinical insights from morbidity and mortality discussions to emergency medicine physicians and APPs. Erin also expanded this effort to regularly distribute clinical teaching pearls to other staff across the emergency department.
Erin’s unwavering dedication to excellence is reflected in her outstanding performance. She plays a pivotal role in the department’s education and quality improvement efforts, sharing vital insights and fostering a culture of continuous learning.