Jacqueline Starwalt, Certified Nurse Anesthesiologist, knew she wanted to pursue a career in healthcare from an early age. Her passion was ignited after she underwent a tonsillectomy in the fourth grade. She recalls how comforting the anesthesiologist made her feel during the procedure, and she believes that ultimately inspired her to pursue a career in nursing.
Although her interaction with the anesthesiologist did not initially influence her choice of specialty within the medical field, she later returned to school to earn her doctorate from Texas Christian University and became a Certified Registered Nurse Anesthetist (CRNA). Now, she has the opportunity to make a positive impact on others, similar to the one she had.
"To be recognized by my colleagues, among so many talented and compassionate providers, means the world to me. Every day, I strive to treat each patient as if they were my own family, and knowing that people notice and value that effort is overwhelming."
“The best part of my job is helping people during critical moments in their lives, whether it’s welcoming a new baby or providing comfort before a major surgery,” Starwalt said. “Also, just having a supportive team and a workplace that feels like family makes all the difference on both the good and challenging days.”
Starwalt strives to treat patients the way she would want to be treated, which has made a difference in the care she provides. Her goal to provide care for her patients while positively impacting their lives has resulted in her being named the 2024 APP of the Year.
"This award is an incredible honor," Starwalt shared. "To be recognized by my colleagues, among so many talented and compassionate providers, means the world to me. Every day, I strive to treat each patient as if they were my own family, and knowing that people notice and value that effort is overwhelming."