Confluence Health PA named Washington's Rural Physician Assistant of the Year

Maria Dalzell

WENATCHEE—Maria Dalzell, a physician assistant (PA) working in nephrology for Confluence Health, was recently named the Rural Physician Assistant of the Year by the Washington Academy of Physician Assistants (WAPA) at its annual conference. The prestigious award recognizes the outstanding contributions of a Washington State PA in rural community healthcare. 

“I'm incredibly honored to have been named the Rural Physician Assistant of the Year,” remarked Dalzell. “It was unexpected and incredibly humbling. I never expected to receive this award for following my passions of diversity and  equity and doing my job, but am so grateful.” 

The Rural Physician Assistant of the Year Award is presented annually by the WAPA in recognition of an outstanding person who has made an exceptional contribution to rural community healthcare, celebrating the role of a PA in showing their dedication, compassion, and innovation in delivering healthcare to underserved communities and areas. In particular, the award recognizes those who strive to overcome the challenges inherent in delivering rural healthcare,  extending beyond simple clinical excellence into community engagement, patient advocacy, and initiatives that improve access to healthcare resources. As described by the WAPA, the award “honors their profound impact and commitment  to ensuring equitable healthcare access for all individuals, regardless of geographic location.” 

Though Dalzell had not anticipated the recognition, her supervisors and colleagues felt the honor was well-deserved and no surprise. 

“Maria’s dedication to our patients and to our community extends beyond the hallways of the nephrology department,” commented Leah Marshall, medical specialty service line director at Confluence Health. “She has a deep dedication to  addressing health disparities and providing vital care to our underserved communities.” 

“We are so proud to work alongside someone so caring, giving, and thoughtful,” continued Skyler Gouldin, practice manager for gastroenterology and nephrology. “This award could not have been bestowed upon a more deserving recipient. Thank you, Maria, for all you do for our patients, community, and our nephrology department!” 

The award was presented to Dalzell at a ceremony last week in Spokane, Washington, as part of the annual WAPA fall conference held at the historic Davenport Hotel. 

“I am grateful to be working with a fantastic nephrology team at Confluence Health who supports me professionally and personally as a PA, and most importantly, serving a patient population that makes our work meaningful,” concluded  Dalzell. “To me, this award truly shows Confluence Health allows their APPs to practice at their full scope and to really  make a difference in our community.”