BEND, Ore. — Known throughout Central Oregon and beyond for his outstanding clinical work in nephrology, his dedication to patients and his warm sense of humor and encouragement, Dr. Robert V. Pinnick is St. Charles Foundation and St. Charles Health System’s 2016 North Star Physician of the Year.
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. Linyee Chang, St. Charles Medical Group; Dr. Michael Knower, St. Charles Medical Group and Dr. Jessica LeBlanc, Mosiac Medical.
Dr. Pinnick has been at Bend Memorial Clinic since 1982. Certified by the American Board of Internal Medicine and the American Board of Nephrology, he graduated from the Kansas University Medical School in 1977 where he completed his residency in 1980 and received a fellowship in 1982. Dr. Pinnick also completed hyperbaric oxygen therapy training with the International ATMO at the Nix Hospital in San Antonio, Texas. He is board certified in hyperbaric medicine by the Underwater Hyperbaric Medical Society.
“The North Star Award was created to honor the tireless work of physicians in our community, day in and day out,” said Dr. Jeff Absalon, St. Charles’ chief physician officer. “Dr. Pinnick perfectly exemplifies a physician’s often-unsung devotion to the health and well being of patients and their families.”
In his nomination letter, Central Oregon resident Robert Burpee said, “His patients, the caregivers he works with, his staff and all the other physicians we have met throughout the medical community extoll the virtues of this man. We are most fortunate to have him here in Central Oregon.”
Pinnick was presented with the award at St. Charles Foundation’s annual Saints Gala event on Nov. 4. 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.
“We are so proud to honor the outstanding work Dr. Pinnick has done in our community for more than 30 years,” said Lisa Dobey, executive director of St. Charles Foundation. “We are incredibly lucky to have such talent so close to home.”
To donate to St. Charles Foundation in honor of Dr. Pinnick, please contact Cindy Fields at 541-706-6996 or [email protected].
About St. Charles Foundation
As the philanthropic arm of St. Charles Health System, the Foundation works to support and improve health care in Central and Eastern Oregon. Private donations raised by the Foundation allow St. Charles to build new medical facilities, purchase state-of-the-art medical equipment, keep pace with the latest technological advances and deliver exceptional patient care in a healing environment. The Foundation does more than just raise money for bricks and mortar. The organization also raises money to support many programs that benefit low-income and uninsured patients.
Important Notice: This communication, including any attachment, contains information that may be confidential or privileged, and is intended solely for the entity or individual to whom it is addressed. If you are not the intended recipient, you should delete this message and are hereby notified that any disclosure, copying, or distribution of this message is strictly prohibited.
