Community Hospital of the Monterey Peninsula honors Dr. Jon Kitaji with Physician Recognition Award and five other physicians for their exemplary work
FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE
MONTEREY, Calif. — Dr. Jon Kitaji was honored with the Physician Recognition Award for 2022 by his medical staff peers at Community Hospital of the Monterey Peninsula.
Kitaji, an internal medicine and nephrology doctor, has been dedicated to serving patients at Community Hospital for more than 40 years. Kitaji served as a member of Community Hospital’s Bioethics Committee for the past 19 years. Kitaji is part of Monterey Peninsula Nephrology. Kitaji was honored October 27 at the annual meeting of the hospital’s medical staff and presented the award by Dr. Guru Khalsa, the current chief of staff.
“He is someone who will always answer the phone, to do what’s necessary for patients,” said Khalsa. “He has put a lot of effort into our medical community.”
Kitaji is not only known for his expertise in treating his patients, but also a devoted father and grandfather, and enjoys family travel adventures with his wife, Chris, children Keith and Kristen, and his two grandchildren. With his love for travel, he’s been to the Amazon, Africa, Greece, and Italy.
“Quite frankly, he is one of the finest doctors I have ever met,” said a colleague about Dr. Kitaji. “He has given his life to the healing of patients and this community.”
Kitaji graduated from Stanford University in Pre-Med in 1973. He completed his medical education, residency, and internships at University of California at Irvine School of Medicine from 1973-1980. Kitaji participated in a fellowship at Stanford University School of Medicine 1980-1982. Kitaji is board certified in internal medicine and nephrology.
Four new awards were given to five doctors for their work at the Medical Staff Annual Meeting (along with comments from colleagues):
Excellence and Innovation in Medicine Award
Harsha Mittakanti, MD and Thomas Cunningham, MD for their work with Community Hospital’s Robotic Surgery Program.
“Both Dr. Cunningham and Dr. Mittakanti have exceptional skills and their expertise has been invaluable in leading Community Hospital’s robotic surgery program. We are lucky to have them in our community”
Golden Stethoscope Award
Mark Vierra, MD, for exemplifying outstanding clinical care and surgical skills and for his willingness to help other colleagues with surgical patients when needed.
“Dr. Vierra brings a skill-set and work ethic that is unmatched. He is always available and cares about his patients above all. He also cares about his colleagues. He exemplifies grace, intelligence, hard work, and collegiality.”
Community Service Award
Juan Magaña, MD, MHA, for his countless hours in mentoring underrepresented minorities to inspire them to pursue a career in medicine.
“Dr. Magaña’s positive attitude, excellent bedside manner, and outstanding rapport with patients has made him an exceptional role model for the youth he works with and is inspiring to seek a career in healthcare.”
Rookie of the Year Award
Michael Cline, MD, for outstanding work as Community Hospital’s first neuro-hospitalist.
“I cannot overstate how much Dr. Cline’s arrival has led to rejoicing by other neurologists, hospitalists, Emergency department doctors, and other specialists. He’s an outstanding clinician, excellent team member, and amiable colleague to all!”
