Matt Havens, a physician assistant at Citizens Memorial Hospital’s Butterfield Park Medical Center, received the January 2026 CMH TULIP Award, according to an April 8 announcement.
The award recognizes outstanding caregivers who provide direct patient care. It is intended to highlight individuals who make a significant difference in the lives of their patients.
A patient nominated Havens for his dedication and advocacy. “Matt is the best provider I have ever had in my life,” the patient wrote in the nomination. “He goes above and beyond for his patients, and I truly believe if it were not for him, I would be dead.” The patient described how Havens supported them while managing a complex medical condition that required magnesium infusions three times each week.
The nomination further stated: “He has always been such a huge support and fighter for me as his patient. He will go toe to toe with anyone that questions my health and has done everything in his power to get and keep my health on the front burner.” The patient also recounted an incident where Havens personally picked them up during a snowstorm so they would not miss treatment at the infusion center.
Citizens Memorial Hospital/Citizens Memorial Health Care Foundation created the TULIP Award in June 2021 to honor exceptional caregivers involved in direct patient care. TULIP stands for Thoughtful, Unforgettable, Lasting Impact on Patient Care. One honoree is selected each month. The award is given alongside the DAISY Award for Extraordinary Nursing.
According to organizers, nominations are open for those wishing to recognize other caregivers through this program.
