Albany Medical Center has been recognized as a 2025 Joy in Medicine Organization by the American Medical Association (AMA). The distinction, which is awarded to health care organizations working to reduce physician burnout and promote professional fulfillment, places Albany Medical Center among 109 hospitals or medical groups nationwide and only nine in New York State to receive the honor. The recognition is valid for two years.
Gina Geis, MD, associate dean of professional fulfillment at Albany Medical College, and Daniel Pauze, MD, vice president of medical affairs and chief medical officer at Albany Med, accepted the award during a ceremony at the American Conference on Physician Health in Boston in September.
Alan Boulos, MD, The Lynne and Mark D. Groban, MD ’67 Dean of Albany Medical College, said: “This recognition is a great demonstration of the coordinated and sustained determination to improve the culture of physician satisfaction and well-being throughout our institution. Physician well-being has a direct impact on improved retention and recruitment, quality, and care delivery—leading to enhanced patient care.”
AMA President Bobby Mukkamala, MD stated: “Joy in Medicine organizations are leading the gains made against the physician burnout crisis and help clinicians rediscover the deep rewards and joy that comes from helping patients. The AMA distinction honors each organization’s commitment to not only the health and well-being of the care team, but also to patients. Quality care ultimately originates from a positive and purposeful work culture where health care professionals can flourish both mentally and physically.”
In addition to this recent recognition by the AMA, all hospitals within the Albany Med Health System have also received validation as Wellbeing First Champions from the Dr. Lorna Breen Health Foundation for their efforts to support health care workers’ access to mental health resources.
