Member in the News Debra Powell, MD, Receives PAMED Doctors’ Day Recognition Award

Debra Powell, MD, Receives PAMED Doctors’ Day Recognition Award

On Doctors’ Day, March 30th, Debra Powell, MD, was presented the Doctor’s Recognition Award by Katie Jordan of the PAMED staff at a ceremony at the Reading Hospital.

With family members, colleagues, and hospital administrators in attendance, Dr Powell, Chief of Infectious Diseases, Medical Director of Infection Prevention, and the Vice Chair of the Department of Medicine at Tower Health, received the award for her selfless service to patients, colleagues, and the Berks County Community, particularly in her leadership role through the COVID-19 Pandemic.

Dr. Powell has consistently made herself available to answer questions, explain new developments in the course of the pandemic, and offer advice regarding the latest treatment options and vaccines. She thanked PAMED for the recognition but said she was accepting on behalf of her many colleagues who have worked so diligently to provide excellent patient care, support one another and see us all through this pandemic.

Many of those present spoke in tribute to Dr. Powell attesting to her leadership in treating infectious diseases and modeling the very best attributes of the medical profession.

Jeffrey T. Cope, MD (continued)

If you could change one thing about the current practice environment, what would it be?

If I could change one thing about the current practice environment, it would be to undo the emotional trauma and burnout inflicted on so many healthcare workers due to the COVID pandemic. This global pandemic has in some way adversely affected the practice – and personal well-being – of probably every clinician of every specialty involved in medical care. It is alarming and sad.

Are you involved in any nonprofit/community groups at this time?

I am an active member of the Knights of Columbus. I recently made a substantial monetary contribution to the Knights of Columbus Ukraine Solidarity Fund, which provides temporary shelter, food, clothing, and medical and religious supplies to Ukrainian refugees displaced by the recent Russian military incursion into their country. I also make numerous monthly contributions to support a variety of Catholic ministries and charities.

Please tell us a little about your family and the activities you enjoy outside of work.

I am the proud father of 4 terrific kids – 3 boys (ages 18-36) and 1 daughter (age 21) – and 1 precious granddaughter (age 7). My favorite pastimes – aside from heart surgery (!) – include marathon running, playing the drums, cooking, tending to my jungle of houseplants, watching Philly sports teams, listening to the Grateful Dead, and reading the Bible.