Plattsburgh, NY – In a busy hospital environment, small gestures can make a big difference. For Geri Kaplan-Downs, those gestures are part of her everyday approach to care.

Kaplan-Downs works in nutrition and patient accounting, but her impact reaches far beyond her job description. Described as “a beacon of positivity and compassion” by Amy Wisher, a family member of a patient, Kaplan-Downs is also renowned for the time she takes to connect with patients in ways that make them feel valued.

“She brightens their days through heartfelt conversations that make them feel special,” Wisher explains. “Her ability to bring joy to their meals doesn’t just nourish their bodies. It nurtures their spirits.”

Those moments of kindness can transform a routine hospital visit into something memorable. In addition to her work with patients, Kaplan-Downs plays a critical role behind the scenes. Her attention to detail in patient accounting ensures processes run smoothly, helping create a seamless experience for patients and staff alike.

“Her diligence and commitment help maintain the integrity of our operations,” Wisher continues. “Her positivity uplifts patients and inspires coworkers, reinforcing a culture of care and excellence.”

Wisher nominated Kaplan-Downs for the hospital’s BEE (Beyond Extraordinary Everyday) Award, and she was presented with the honor during a surprise ceremony with her colleagues. During the award presentation, she was presented with a certificate commending her for her extraordinary work. Kaplan-Downs, like all honorees, also received a BEE Award pin, a beautiful and meaningful sculpture and a basket filled with bee-themed gifts.

All Champlain Valley Physicians Hospital employees who support patient care by working together with physicians and registered nurses to improve the physical, emotional and spiritual health of patients and their loved ones are eligible for the BEE Award. Nomination forms and boxes are located at each of the hospital’s main entrances and on the UVM Health Network website. Support staff may be nominated by patients, families and colleagues. A committee reviews nominations and awards a deserving employee each quarter.

University of Vermont Health – Champlain Valley Physicians Hospital
75 Beekman Street
Plattsburgh, NY 12901

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About Champlain Valley Physicians Hospital

University of Vermont Health Network – Champlain Valley Physicians Hospital is a 300-bed level III trauma center trusted by 87,000 people across New York’s North Country. Our staff are committed to delivering care with skill, compassion and respect — supporting patients, families and the communities we call home. As part of a rural academic health system, Champlain Valley Physicians Hospital combines high-quality, community-based care with medical innovation and research to bring advanced treatment as close to home as possible. Together, we’re addressing health care’s toughest challenges while working alongside partners and neighbors to improve access, affordability and outcomes for our region.

About University of Vermont Health Network

University of Vermont Health Network is a rural academic health system with more than 100 years of service to small towns and cities across Vermont and northern New York. We are deeply committed to reimagining rural health in ways that will benefit our communities for generations to come and keep exceptional care close to home. Our system includes an academic medical center, two community hospitals, three critical access hospitals, a children’s hospital, a cancer center, a multispecialty medical group, 154 outpatient sites and care beyond the hospital through home health, hospice care, four skilled nursing facilities and other support services. Our care is informed by an essential partnership with University of Vermont’s The Robert Larner, M.D. College of Medicine and College of Nursing and Health Sciences. Together, as a health system serving a rural area, we are tackling health care’s biggest challenges — supporting the communities we serve and investing in our employees by addressing housing affordability, quality childcare and professional development needs. To learn more, visit us at www.uvmhealth.org.