Patient experience spotlight: Dr. Gina Kuwik

Dr. Gina Kuwik

Each month, Akron Children’s recognizes an employee for providing an excellent patient experience. Our most recent honoree is Dr. Gina Kuwik, pediatrician at Akron Children’s Urgent Care in Warren. She recently received this feedback from a thankful mom:

The doctor came in, Dr. Gina Kuwik, and she was an angel!! She was so calm, spoke to my daughters like the humans that they are, was so thorough and patient in listening to me and working with them, not against them. I requested that we assess my oldest daughter first as she is more forthcoming and accepting of a doctor’s checkup, and we did that. Dr. Kuwik asked questions and guided the checkup in a way that eased my daughter’s nerves. She used a technique of “checking for butterflies in the ears,” and I could tell that it helped my daughter be more comfortable.

We then moved on to my youngest, again who is on the [autism] spectrum. I felt it was necessary to let Dr. Kuwik know of this and that an exam will be likely difficult. But she did the exam in a way that NO ONE else has ever done. She let my daughter be in control, asking her to use the stethoscope and placing it where Dr. Kuwik needed it. My daughter NEVER does deep breaths for lung checks, and somehow, Dr. Kuwik managed to get her to do them without demanding it, just letting my daughter go with the flow. She then did the same technique of asking if my youngest had butterflies in her ears because her sister had some. She got my daughter to engage back in nonverbal ways with some help of tools that I have learned along the way. And in case you’re wondering, my daughter had some pink butterflies in her ears.

The entire interaction warmed me. It actually made me break down and cry. My daughters left there in smiles, all thanks to a doctor/human who was patient, kind, understanding and warm. When we got home from the visit and my daughter saw her dad, she instantly had to tell him about her butterflies in her ears! I want Dr. Kuwik to know that her interaction with my already stressed-out children truly means something. It deserved recognition and appreciation. 

When did you join Akron Children’s?

I started with Akron Children’s in September 2018 at the urgent care in Warren.

What do you like best about working with kids?

When you look into the eyes of a child, you can appreciate their innocence, sense of wonder and developing authentic self. Children are honest, present and genuinely themselves in a way that’s refreshing and unique to them. It’s easy to work hard for children because they simply want to get better, feel good and enjoy life. Being part of that journey is both motivating and rewarding. There’s a deep sense of satisfaction in knowing that the work I do can truly make a difference in their lives, whether it’s helping them grow, feel supported or gain confidence.

How do you establish rapport with patients you may only see one time, especially when you’re having a busy day in Urgent Care?

I think it is important to realize that when you are seeing patients, you are being invited into their day, their ailment and their life. Our patients are coming to the urgent care because they are likely not having the best day, which can be stressful and even scary for them. Children are real people with real fears, likes and past experiences. I strive to have a dialogue, make eye contact or offer a supportive smile. To let them know that I am willing to meet each of them where they are to ensure they receive the best care.

When you read this recognition, how did it make you feel?

I was honored. An award that comes from the heart of a family means so much to me. My greatest desire as a physician is to make a meaningful impact on the lives of children and their families. I think it is a reminder that a little kindness and one positive interaction can truly make a difference in someone’s day.