Akron Children’s is proud to announce the recipients of this year’s APP awards, honoring outstanding Advanced Practice Providers (APPs) for their dedication, leadership, and exceptional contributions to patient care. The awards celebrate Nancy Delnay, APRN-CNP, in rheumatology for Excellence in Practice, and Dr. Laura Pollauf, division director in emergency medicine, for Outstanding Physician for APP Advocacy.
Recipients of this year’s APP awards, Nancy Delnay, APRN-CNP (right), in rheumatology for Excellence in Practice, and Dr. Laura Pollauf, division director in emergency medicine (left), for Outstanding Physician for APP Advocacy.
Nancy Delnay, APRN-CNP: Excellence in Practice
Nancy Delnay’s relentless efforts in quality improvement over the past three years have elevated the rheumatology department to new heights. Dr. Kathryn Cook, department director, praises Nancy’s contributions, stating, “Nancy has spearheaded rheumatology quality improvement (QI) projects, ensuring better patient outcomes. She played a crucial role in transitioning lupus patients from pediatric to adult care, a process vital for a condition with high morbidity and mortality. Her leadership within the subspecialty QI cluster and her active engagement in weekly provider meetings, where she brings the latest research, have been invaluable.”
Patients and their families also hold Nancy in high regard for her compassionate care. One parent shared, “Nancy’s assistance in treating my daughter’s back pain was exceptional. She listened, encouraged my daughter to speak, and ensured we knew how to reach her. We absolutely loved Nancy.”
Beyond patient care, Nancy has significantly influenced education and research. Recognized with the 2020 ACH Shining Star Award, she is celebrated for her enthusiastic and engaging teaching methods. She continuously educates medical students, residents, and APP students, and has been a leader in APP research on a national level. Her patients and their families often see her as an extended family member, a testament to her compassionate approach.
As Nancy prepares to retire at the end of the year, it’s fitting to honor her remarkable career with this award. Her leadership, passion for teaching and research, and unwavering commitment to her patients have left a lasting legacy in the rheumatology community at Akron Children’s.
Dr. Laura Pollauf: Outstanding Physician for APP Advocacy
Dr. Laura Pollauf has been a steadfast advocate and supporter of APPs in the emergency room (ER) and across Akron Children’s. Her dedication to professional development and collaborative physician/APP relationships is exemplary. She presented at an APP leadership conference, highlighting the high level of collaboration at Akron Children’s, and was the only physician in attendance, demonstrating her commitment to APPs’ growth.
As a department director, Dr. Pollauf supports APPs in balancing clinical and administrative responsibilities. She works closely with the lead APP and chair of APP credentials to develop and support delineation of privilege and clinical orientation pathway forms. Her mentorship has been instrumental for many, encouraging APPs to pursue further education and providing ongoing support throughout their careers.
“Dr. Pollauf’s advocacy was particularly evident when an APP position opened, and she championed the hiring of the ER’s first physician assistant (PA),” said Jenny Michel, director of the advanced practice center. “She worked closely with department providers, the APP director, lead APP, and legal team to educate and reassure everyone about the role of PAs. Her support ensured the new PA felt welcomed and integrated into the team, setting a precedent for a diverse APP model.”
Dr. Pollauf’s commitment also extends to the wellness and professional satisfaction of APPs. She leads wellness efforts, ensuring APP representation on the provider wellness committee and advocating for APP wellness funding. Her leadership has improved the ER work environment by addressing concerns and accommodating requests, aiding in APP retention.
Dr. Pollauf is known for her compassion and dedication, constantly striving to ensure APPs in the department are content in their roles.
Her approachability, knowledge and unwavering support have made her a role model, showcasing the value and impact of physician/APP teams and a much deserving candidate of this award.
Nancy Delnay and Dr. Pollauf will be recognized on Thursday, Sept. 26 at the annual Advanced Practice Provider meeting and awards celebration taking place at 6 p.m. in the Considine Auditorium. National Advanced Practice Provider Week takes place Sept. 23 – 28, 2024.
