Ruth Ravich Patient Advocacy Award

The Ruth Ravich Patient Advocacy Award is presented by the Patient Advocacy Council of The Beryl Institute. Awarded annually since 1991, first by the Society for Healthcare Consumer Advocacy (SHCA) Board of Directors, and now by the thought leaders of the Patient Advocacy Council, the award recognizes an individual for outstanding contributions, dedication, leadership and loyal service to fellow Patient Advocates.

History
In 1991, the SHCA Board of Directors established the Ruth Ravich Award to recognize an individual whose work supported the vision of bringing the patients’ needs to the center of healthcare. Ruth Ravich was the founder and first president of the Society for Healthcare Consumer Advocacy. Ms. Ravich organized the Patient Representative Department at Mount Sinai Hospital in New York, was the author of numerous healthcare consumer articles, and lectured on patient advocacy both in the United States and abroad. The first award was presented in 1991 to Ruth Ravich, the Society’s first president, and for whom the award is named. As the profession of Patient Advocacy and patient centered care has evolved, the award has come to also recognize individuals within the Patient Advocacy Council who engage in focused efforts to be of support to fellow Advocates in promoting patient rights and patient centered care.

Criteria
The award may be given to anyone working in the healthcare field as a patient advocate who is a current member of The Beryl Institute.

A nominated candidate or applicant must meet at least one of the following criteria:

• Has a public identity that raises awareness about the rights of people seeking healthcare.
• Has provided outstanding service to a community of people seeking healthcare.
• Has provided significant service in furthering the public image of the patient advocate role.
• Has contributed time and service to patient advocacy groups, committees or organizations.