Bradford, PA / Olean, NY – Upper Allegheny Health System (UAHS), comprised of two campuses, Bradford Regional Medical Center (BRMC) and Olean General Hospital (OGH), presented the first 2024 Golden Stethoscope Award to Sarmad Baloch, MD. Dr. Baloch started at OGH in 2021 and is currently the medical director for the OGH hospitalist program.

The Golden Stethoscope Award is a result of nominations from employees and presented semi-annually to a physician who exhibits an exceptional level of professionalism, integrity, and teamwork in caring for patients and families, as well as interacting with hospital staff members and fellow physicians. 

The award is presented to one physician throughout the entire Upper Allegheny Health System who meets the high standard of providing high quality patient care. Dr. Baloch’s multiple nominations focused on his well-rounded skillset of being patient-focused, a team player across all levels of the organization, and his ability to effectively lead.

“Dr. Baloch is a true advocate for patients and perpetually exceeds expectations to provide the best care possible. He demonstrates high-quality, compassionate care, and excels at effectively communicating to patients and families on their plan of care so they understand what the next steps are. He listens to the patient’s needs and goes above and beyond for them,” said Dr. Baloch’s nomination. “Dr. Baloch’s ability to be a team player, treating staff from all facets of the organization and peers with kindness and respect. As an exceptional communicator and listener, he collaborates with nursing to develop a patient’s plan of care. Dr. Baloch’s oversight and leadership of the hospitalist program is extraordinary. He’s a great mentor to provide feedback, give explanations behind decisions, and help teach whenever feasible. Our community is lucky to have Dr. Baloch!”

Dr. Baloch received his medical degree from Liaquat University of Medical and Health Sciences, Pakistan. He completed his residency at the University at Buffalo where he was appointed chief resident physician and was also inducted into the Gold Humanism Honor Society, a prestigious honor in recognition of his exemplary compassionate patient care throughout his residency.  Dr. Baloch was also a participant in the UB residency program where the majority of the three-year training program was in Olean.  He was a 2020 graduate of the UB residency program and is also American Board certified in family medicine.

Dr. Baloch’s accolade on being the recipient of the Golden Stethoscope will also be recognized at this year’s UAHS Pulse of the Community Gala being held on Friday, September 20, 2024.

Photo Caption: Sarmad Baloch, MD, hospitalist medical director, OGH, was awarded the UAHS Golden Stethoscope Award.