Dr. Irick named Doctor of the Year
GRAND ISLAND–CHI Health St. Francis has recognized Hospitalist Dr. Ryan Irick with its 2026 Physician Excellence Award. The announcement was made today in observance of National Doctors’ Day.
In its 19th year, the award recognizes some of St. Francis’ most talented doctors for excellence of care, dedication to patients and staff and always going “above and beyond.” Nominations for the award are submitted annually by patients, their families and staff.
As a specialized hospital medicine provider, Dr. Irick cares for patients during their hospitalization at St. Francis. Appreciation for his compassion and excellence is reflected in his nomination, including the following:
Dr. Irick has such a good bedside manner that he is leaving an impression on patients and making an impact in our community.
Dr. Irick shows respect to all those around him and at the end of the day, you can tell that his main goal is to provide safe, high-quality, and compassionate care. St. Francis is truly blessed to have a hospitalist like him.
When my patient who was in the hospital found out that her hospitalist was going to be Dr. Irick, she was at ease and immediately knew she was going to be in great hands. She instantly remembered his name and him taking care of her previously. She was so impressed with his work and attitude that she was referring him to her friends and family.
There truly has been no one quite like Dr. Irick, and I bet the majority of nurses here at St. Francis would agree. He is the prime example of a knowledgeable, caring, dedicated, and selfless person. He is confident in his work and is always striving for success.
Dr. Irick gives each patient the time they need and deserve. He stays late, comes in early, monitors his patients from home when needed, and is always giving it his all.
Other nominees for this year’s award included Drs. Douglas Boon, Venkata Sowjanya Kanakadand, Brent Keenportz, Kathryn Kenna, Jeffrey King, Christopher Larson and Lynn Mubita.
National Doctors’ Day, annually observed on March 30, is a day set aside to recognize and appreciate the dedication, skill and unwavering commitment of physicians in providing high-quality health care worldwide.