GOCCNJ awarded Stephen Goldfine, MD, DABFP, CAQGM, DABHP, Chief Medical Officer, Samaritan, with the David LaMotte Award for Excellence in Patient Support. This prestigious award, established by GOCCNJ in honor of long-time Board Member, David LaMotte, acknowledges individuals whose support for patients and families reflects the belief that listening is a learned skill essential to patient-centered care and the work of healing.

Dr. Stephen Goldfine exemplifies compassionate and patient centered care. His approach to practicing medicine is rooted in active listening. Dr. Goldfine believes this is the key to creating the kind of patient-clinician connection that allows for true shared decision-making and the development of a care plan that authentically aligns with the patient’s goals of care. Dr. Goldfine recognizes the opportunity to better ensure that all patients receive care that is consistent with their goals, values, and preferences. He has dedicated decades of work to educating healthcare professionals and the public about palliative care and the importance of patients feeling heard and understood. That commitment continues today through collaborations with GOCCNJ.

It is an honor to receive this award for the privilege I’m given every day to ensure that the voices and choices of the patients we serve are heard and respected,” Dr. Goldfine said. “We know that the experience of serious illness can be profoundly impacted when we listen to our patients and their caregivers describe what matters to them most and then align their care around those goals and preferences.”

Dr. Goldfine is steadfast in his commitment to providing patient-centered care for all patients with serious illness, especially those individuals from historically underserved communities. As a member of GOCCNJ’s Palliative Care Task Force, Dr. Goldfine’s leadership has been instrumental in our work with policy makers to advance legislation mandating the provision of community-based palliative care for Medicaid beneficiaries with serious illness. Dr. Goldfine commented, “Health care has not always addressed the needs of communities historically marginalized and presently under resourced. Legislation to support the delivery of palliative care services to our most vulnerable patients in New Jersey is a critical step toward addressing these disparities and promoting equity in care for people with serious illness.”