May 2025
Fatima B
Imayaho
,
RN, CCM, CHPN
Geriatrics & Extended Care
VA Puget Sound Health Care System
Seattle
,
WA
United States
Fatima's tireless dedication demonstrated that the healthcare process does not have to be cumbersome; rather, it can be compassionate and efficient.
I am privileged to nominate Fatima Imayaho, Hospice and Palliative Care Coordinator, for the esteemed DAISY Award. This nomination is a testament to her unwavering commitment to patient care and her profound impact on the lives of our veterans.
Recently, I corresponded with M.W., RTT Lead Radiation Therapist at Skagit Valley Hospital, regarding her collaboration with Fatima on a particularly challenging case. They were caring for a 90-year-old male patient suffering from a necrotic, bleeding mass on his left ear. This condition required frequent dressing changes (7 times a night), causing significant discomfort. Initially hesitant due to fear, the patient eventually agreed, with the understanding that further treatments might follow.
The Vet started on a larger dose of radiation therapy treatment and seven days later, M.W. learned from the patient's caregiver that he had been enrolled in hospice care through the VA. There was uncertainty about whether he could continue his radiation treatment while in hospice. Seeking clarity, M.W. reached out to Fatima for guidance. Fatima provided critical insights about the necessity for the patient to transition his billing from Medicare to VA in order to maintain hospice care while undergoing treatments, navigating the complexities of this situation with remarkable skill. Fatima persistently coordinated with non-VA radiation, hospice agency, VA PCP, VA oncology and VA community care for the VA to pay to cover for the Veteran's radiation for symptom management. Fatima's efforts resulted in the veteran's uninterrupted care, getting the radiation he urgently needed, which stopped the bleeding while maintaining his hospice care. All these efforts took two days, which is unprecedented.
Fatima's steadfast support and advocacy not only improved the veteran's quality of care but also greatly alleviated the burden on his family. I am profoundly grateful for her exceptional efforts in this case. Fatima not only advocated for the veteran and his family but also represented the VA Puget Sound. She embodies the spirit of compassion and commitment that the DAISY Award seeks to honor.
M.W. shared, “As someone who had never worked with the VA prior to this experience, I had always assumed it was an arduous and very time-consuming process. However, after this experience, I have changed my attitude! It's so nice to see that people do care about our veterans and go above and beyond to help them.”
Fatima's tireless dedication demonstrated that the healthcare process does not have to be cumbersome; rather, it can be compassionate and efficient. Her advocacy for our veterans has left a lasting impact not only on the veterans and their families but also on our healthcare partners.
I am deeply appreciative of Fatima's unwavering support and the genuine care she pours into her work. She is an invaluable asset to our team, and I wholeheartedly believe she deserves recognition through the DAISY Award for her outstanding contributions to her patients and our department.
Recently, I corresponded with M.W., RTT Lead Radiation Therapist at Skagit Valley Hospital, regarding her collaboration with Fatima on a particularly challenging case. They were caring for a 90-year-old male patient suffering from a necrotic, bleeding mass on his left ear. This condition required frequent dressing changes (7 times a night), causing significant discomfort. Initially hesitant due to fear, the patient eventually agreed, with the understanding that further treatments might follow.
The Vet started on a larger dose of radiation therapy treatment and seven days later, M.W. learned from the patient's caregiver that he had been enrolled in hospice care through the VA. There was uncertainty about whether he could continue his radiation treatment while in hospice. Seeking clarity, M.W. reached out to Fatima for guidance. Fatima provided critical insights about the necessity for the patient to transition his billing from Medicare to VA in order to maintain hospice care while undergoing treatments, navigating the complexities of this situation with remarkable skill. Fatima persistently coordinated with non-VA radiation, hospice agency, VA PCP, VA oncology and VA community care for the VA to pay to cover for the Veteran's radiation for symptom management. Fatima's efforts resulted in the veteran's uninterrupted care, getting the radiation he urgently needed, which stopped the bleeding while maintaining his hospice care. All these efforts took two days, which is unprecedented.
Fatima's steadfast support and advocacy not only improved the veteran's quality of care but also greatly alleviated the burden on his family. I am profoundly grateful for her exceptional efforts in this case. Fatima not only advocated for the veteran and his family but also represented the VA Puget Sound. She embodies the spirit of compassion and commitment that the DAISY Award seeks to honor.
M.W. shared, “As someone who had never worked with the VA prior to this experience, I had always assumed it was an arduous and very time-consuming process. However, after this experience, I have changed my attitude! It's so nice to see that people do care about our veterans and go above and beyond to help them.”
Fatima's tireless dedication demonstrated that the healthcare process does not have to be cumbersome; rather, it can be compassionate and efficient. Her advocacy for our veterans has left a lasting impact not only on the veterans and their families but also on our healthcare partners.
I am deeply appreciative of Fatima's unwavering support and the genuine care she pours into her work. She is an invaluable asset to our team, and I wholeheartedly believe she deserves recognition through the DAISY Award for her outstanding contributions to her patients and our department.