“It’s about more than just putting in a filling or brightening teeth, it can really make a difference.”
One of the reasons Dr Zuber Bagasi won the Gazette’s Best Of Health Awards Dentist Of The Year title – for the second year running – was his passion for what he does.
The dentist, of Synergy Dental, Blackpool, was nominated by scores of patients, who described him as kind, caring, professional and approachable.
He was praised for mak-ing a difference to the lives of his patients by always taking time to put them at ease – in particular, with patients who had a fear of dental treatment.
Dr Bagasi had also raised money for charity, heading a team of dentists on a fund-raising climb to Ben Nevis, in aid of Bridge2Aid – which provides dental treatment for people in Tanzania.
He told The Gazette winning the award, twice, was a boost for the whole team. “It was a great achieve-ment for the team. It really meant a lot coming from the patients themselves. For me, dentistry is a passion. Not for every single patient, of course, but dental treatment can really make a difference to lives. Seeing patients after their treatment, when they feel better, have more confidence and are happier, is very rewarding. I really enjoy coming to work. And I couldn’t do it without the support of my wonderful team and of course, the patients.”
The Gazette’s Best Of Health Awards are now in their fifth year – with 11 categories and a glittering ceremony set to take place at The Imperial Hotel in Blackpool, on September 10.
The closing date for nominations is July 17. To make a nomination, email compe-titions@blackpoolgazette. co.uk, giving the name of the person or organisation you want to nominate with a brief explanation (no more than 250 words) as to why you think they deserve this award. Please add your own name and contact telephone number.
Alternatively, you can post your nominations to Best Of Health Awards, The Gazette, Avroe House, Avroe Crescent, Blackpool, FY4 2DP.
Doctor Of The Year
Sponsored by Synergy Dental – the Best of Health Awards principal sponsor.
For the family doctor, GP, hospital doctor, surgeon, registrar or consultant – from the NHS or private sector – who goes above and beyond the call of duty to provide the best service for all.
Nurse Of The Year
Sponsored by Spire Fylde Coast Hospital.
For the nurse who works for the hospital trust, in the community, in a GP surgery, in the NHS or private sector, who rises above expectations, in their care for patients.
Judges/Special Recognition Award
Sponsored by Spiral Health.
A special award for the nominee the judges really feel stands out. It is for the person they feel has made an outstanding contribution and should be honoured for their hard work and going the extra mile.
Carer Of The Year
Sponsored by Interserve Healthcare.
For anyone who cares and gives their time and all – whether voluntary, or in the paid-for sector – for the benefit of others. This could be someone who is a social worker, someone who works for social care services, or someone who is a local resident and looks after an ill, disabled or infirm loved one, relative, friend or neighbour.
Therapist Of The Year
The Therapist Of The Year Award seeks to recognise the physiotherapist, occupational therapist, therapeutic radiographer or osteopath who provides nothing but the highest quality care for patients and exceeds expectations. They could work for the NHS or in the private sector.
Pharmacist Of The Year category
Sponsored by The Imperial Hotel, Blackpool.
They have a wealth of knowledge and can be found on virtually every shopping street.
We want to recognise pharmacists who provide a service which is second-to-none for their patients, who really make a difference to patients’ health.
Elderly Welfare Award
Sponsored by Whitworth Chemist.
This category is designed to give recognition to the person or team who devote their time and energy to the welfare and care of older people.
The Unsung Hero Award
Sponsored by Specsavers.
For the person who has consistently gone the extra mile to provide the best service or care possible for other people. It could be the hospital porter who greets everyone with a smile and cheery word, a care home cleaner who keeps everything spick and span, or someone in the community who does all they can to look after the health and welfare of those around them.
Midwife Of The Year
Sponsored by Blackpool Stop Smoking Service.
For the midwife who looks after mums-to-be and their babies to the very best of their ability at this very important time in people’s lives. The midwife could work for the hospital trust, in the community or in the private sector.
Optician Of the Year
Seeks to find the optician, optometrist or ophthalmologist, working in the NHS or private sector, who always goes the extra mile for patients.
Childcare Award
To recognise those who provide excellence in care for children, for instance nursery nurses, paediatric doctors and care workers.