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Home > News & Media > 2024 Providers of the Year Announced
Published on March 04, 2025
RUTLAND, VT – Rutland Regional Medical Center is pleased to announce the recipients of the 2024 Rutland Regional Medical Center and Community Physician and Advanced Practice Provider of the Year Awards.
To be nominated for an award, individuals must demonstrate dignity and respect toward patients and staff, exhibit excellence in clinical care, and serve as role models both professionally and personally within the healthcare system and community.
These awardees were selected from more than 30 nominees, representing a diverse group of exceptional individuals who embody the highest standards in healthcare. Awards are given to two physicians and two advanced practice providers representing Rutland Regional Medical Center and the Rutland area community.
Dr. Philip Lapp, Vice President of Medical Affairs at Rutland Regional Medical Center, emphasized the significance of recognizing these dedicated healthcare professionals for their outstanding contributions to patient care, staff support, and the broader community.
Steven Runyan, DO, PsychiatristRRMC Physician of the Year
Dr. Runyan joined RRMC in 2023 and serves as the Medical Director and Section Chief of Psychiatry. He received his bachelor’s degree in biology from Juniata College and his Doctor of Osteopathic Medicine from the University of New England College of Osteopathic Medicine. He completed his Residency in Psychiatry at the University of Vermont and is Board Certified in Psychiatry by the American Board of Psychiatry & Neurology.
In his nomination, Dr. Runyan was praised for his empathy, competence, and advocacy for strong, trusting relationships between healthcare providers and patients. His colleagues highlighted his unwavering commitment to ensuring that patients receive the highest standard of care and his pivotal role in strengthening partnerships within the community, resulting in improved patient outcomes.
Sarah Barton, CNM, Women’s HealthcareRRMC Advanced Practice Provider of the Year
Sarah Barton, CNM is a Certified Nurse Midwife at Rutland Women’s Healthcare. Upon joining the RRMC team in 2023, she became the hospital’s first employed Certified Nurse Midwife. Sarah received her Bachelor of Nursing at the College of Our Lady of the Elms and a Master’s in Midwifery at Frontier School of Midwifery & Family Nursing. She continued her education at Frontier School and received her Doctor of Nursing Practice. She also holds a certification in electronic fetal monitoring (C-EFM®).
Sarah is recognized for her professionalism, clinical expertise, and dedication to mentorship. She is known for her strong communication skills and her commitment to enhancing education and training for her colleagues. Her work in midwifery has had a meaningful impact on the community, improving access to specialized maternal care.
Douglas Dier, MD, RheumatologistCommunity Physician of the Year
Dr. Douglas Dier, a Rheumatologist, came to Rutland in 1990 after completing his rheumatology fellowship, and since then, he has been a cornerstone of our medical community. In addition to his clinical expertise, Dr. Dier has been a long-time member of the RRMC Credentials Committee and has contributed his knowledge and leadership by serving on various ad-hoc committees.
Dr. Dier earned his medical degree from the University of Rochester School of Medicine and Dentistry, completed his Internal Medicine Residency at Danbury Hospital, and pursued a Fellowship in Rheumatology at the University of Vermont. He is Board Certified in Internal Medicine and Rheumatology by the American Board of Internal Medicine.
Dr. Dier is recognized for his long-standing dedication to his patients and his willingness to go above and beyond in providing exceptional care. His colleagues appreciate his collaborative approach, accessibility, and unwavering commitment to his patients’ well-being.
Jordan Carr, PA-C, Community HealthRutland Region Advanced Practice Provider of the Year
Jordan Carr, PA-C, earned his physician assistant degree from Springfield College in 2018 and is board-certified by the National Commission on Certification of Physician Assistants (NCCPA). His commitment to providing compassionate and high-quality care continues to make a significant impact within the Rutland community.
A dedicated family practice physician assistant, Jordan is recognized for his patient-centered approach and ability to build trust with both patients and colleagues. His peers commend his clinical expertise, professionalism, and ability to explain medical conditions and procedures in a way that ensures patients and families feel informed and supported.
These annual awards were created in memory of Dr. Emelie Munson Perkins who served the Rutland community as a physician, employee, and volunteer. The purpose of these awards is to recognize physicians and advanced practice providers whose contributions to our community, patients, and staff represent the highest ideals in healthcare.
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Rutland Regional Medical Center is the largest community hospital in Vermont and is supported by a medical staff of 340 physicians and advanced practice providers trained in 41 specialty areas. The 145-bed hospital is supported by approximately 1,700 employees. With a strong patient-centered focus, consistent quality performance, Magnet® Nursing Recognition, and award-winning care, Rutland Regional remains dedicated to improving the health of families and individuals throughout portions of southern and central Vermont and communities in eastern New York State with preventative, diagnostic, acute and rehabilitative services.
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