2024 Fall STAR Educator Recipient: Rachel M Pearson, MD, PhD
Rachel M Pearson, MD, PhD
Assistant Professor of Pediatrics
Assistant Professor of Medical Humanities
Department of Pediatrics
Division of Inpatient Pediatrics
Nomination Submission:
Dr. Pearson is such a phenomenal physician and educator! She is a champion for compassion and humanism, teaches concepts unlike any other, and displays excellent and inspiring bedside manner. Her approach to medicine is so holistic, bringing up important aspects of care that I had never even considered. Dr. Pearson is so intentional about every care decision we make, reflects her attention to detail and passion for the highest quality care for our patients. She emphasizes the importance of humanism in medicine and helps learners explore these topics with patients. For example, Dr. Pearson encouraged me to talk with patients and their parents about how their disease affects the non-medical aspects of their lives. This exercise helped me to not only know my patients and their conditions better, but also establish closer relationships with them and ultimately provide more patient-centered care. Her compassion is also evident in her patient interactions, which are marked by understanding, thoughtfulness, and active listening. Beyond her passion for humanism, Dr. Pearson is a fantastic educator. She expertly weaves teaching topics into rounds and uses visual aids to further reinforce my learning. She incorporates techniques like teach-back to ensure my grasp of the topics. She challenges me to think critically and innovatively and encourages me to never stop asking “why?” Her example motivates me to be the best provider for my patients. I love the way Dr. Pearson practices medicine and hope to be like her someday.