IU grad, local doctor receives Helping Hands award

A local doctor and IU School of Medicine graduate’s efforts were recognized April 21 with an award for outstanding patient care.

Dr. Chris J. Hartman, M.D., received the Healing Hands Award from Franciscan St. Francis Health during a small ceremony at the hospital’s Indianapolis location.

The Healing Hands Award was established in 2010. It is given out quarterly to St. Francis physicians who excel in clinical skill, patient relations, research, stewardship and their reflection of the hospital’s core values, ministry and mission.

St. Francis’ Emergency Department Medical Director Randall Todd, M.D., nominated Hartman for the honor.

Todd noted Hartman’s rapid response to a patient in cardiac arrest during surgery. Hartman was able to stabilize and quickly transfer the patient to the hospital’s catheterization lab for immediate treatment.

Christopher Doehring, M.D., presented Hartman with the award alongside Todd.

Doehring said in a press release that Hartman’s actions no doubt saved the patient during the stressful situation.

“Dr. Hartman is a well-respected physician and is known for the top-notch care he provides to all of the patients he cares for in the emergency room,” Doehring said.

Hartman graduated with honors from the IU School of Medicine and served as a paramedic in Indianapolis, Elkhart and South Bend before beginning his medical degree.

He is also a Diplomat of the American Board of Emergency Medicine and the National Board of Medical Examiners and has been working with St. Francis for the past 16 years.