Rutland Regional Medical Center (RRMC) has announced the recipients of its 2024 Physicians and Advanced Practice Providers of the Year Awards, recognizing healthcare professionals who demonstrate excellence in clinical care, patient advocacy, and community leadership.
These awards honor individuals who exemplify dignity, respect, and professionalism each year while serving as role models within the healthcare system and the broader Rutland community. This year’s awardees, selected from a pool of more than 30 nominees, include two physicians and two advanced practice providers representing both RRMC and Rutland area community providers. Awardees include:
Dr. Steven Runyan, DO – RRMC Physician of the Year
As Medical Director and Section Chief of Psychiatry at RRMC, Dr. Steven Runyan has been a pivotal figure in mental healthcare since joining in 2023. His compassionate approach, clinical expertise, and dedication to fostering trust between patients and providers earned him this distinguished honor.
Dr. Runyan holds a doctor of osteopathic medicine from the University of New England College of Osteopathic Medicine and completed his psychiatry residency at the University of Vermont. His colleagues praise his empathy, advocacy, and commitment to strengthening community partnerships, leading to improved patient outcomes.
Sarah Barton, CNM – RRMC Advanced Practice Provider of the Year
A certified nurse midwife at Rutland Women’s Healthcare, Sarah Barton has made history as RRMC’s first employed Certified Nurse Midwife. With degrees from College of Our Lady of the Elms and Frontier School of Midwifery & Family Nursing, she has dedicated her career to expanding access to maternal healthcare and mentoring the next generation of providers.
Barton is widely recognized for her clinical expertise, leadership, and passion for education and training, ensuring that both colleagues and patients benefit from enhanced care and knowledge in midwifery.
Dr. Douglas Dier, MD – Community Physician of the Year
Since arriving in Rutland in 1990, Dr. Douglas Dier has been a cornerstone of the region’s rheumatology care. A long-time member of the RRMC Credentials Committee, he has contributed significantly to medical leadership while maintaining an unwavering dedication to his patients.
Dr. Dier earned his medical degree from the University of Rochester School of Medicine and Dentistry and completed a rheumatology fellowship at the University of Vermont. He is board certified in internal medicine and rheumatology and is recognized for his collaborative approach, accessibility, and compassionate patient care.
Jordan Carr, PA-C – Community Advanced Practice Provider of the Year
A family practice physician assistant, Jordan Carr, PA-C, is celebrated for his patient-centered approach and ability to build strong, trusting relationships within the Rutland community. A graduate of Springfield College, Carr is board-certified by the National Commission on Certification of Physician Assistants (NCCPA).
His peers commend his clinical expertise, professionalism, and ability to clearly communicate medical conditions and procedures, ensuring patients and their families feel informed and supported.
Recognizing excellence in healthcare
RRMC Vice President of Medical Affairs Dr. Philip Lapp emphasized the importance of honoring these dedicated professionals: “These awards recognize individuals who go above and beyond in their commitment to patient care, staff collaboration, and community well-being. Their impact extends far beyond the walls of RRMC, shaping the future of healthcare in Rutland.”
For more information, visit: rrmc.org.
