David Aldrich, PA-C, a physician assistant in the University of Alabama at Birmingham Department of Neurosurgery, has been honored with the 2024 APP Champion Award.

The APP Champion Award, created by the Office of Advanced Practice Providers and the Advanced Practice Provider Executive Council in 2023, celebrates advanced practice providers (APPs) who demonstrate an unwavering commitment to UAB's core values and excellence in patient care.

Aldrich, who supports Charles A. and Patsy W. Collat Endowed Professor of Neurosurgery Mark Hadley, M.D., earned this accolade through his outstanding service and dedication to providing exceptional care. His work has significantly impacted the lives of many patients and has consistently upheld the high standards of healthcare delivery expected at UAB.David Aldrich, PA-C, and Mark Hadley, M.D.

By his patients, Aldrich is regarded as “kind,” “professional” and “upbeat.”

The year’s award selection process was notably competitive, with only 10 APP Champions selected from a pool of more than 1,000 across UAB. Among the more than 50 nominees were Michael Zicarelli, PA-C, and Allie McDuff, CRNP, from the Department of Neurosurgery.

According to James Garber Galbraith Endowed Chair of Neurosurgery and Professor of Neurosurgery James Markert, M.D., MPH, and Executive Administrator Donna Bailer, J.D., LL.M, these nominations reflect the outstanding service of the APPs in the Department of Neurosurgery, and express gratitude for their significant contributions, leadership and care they provide to patients and the department.

This annual award is a testament to the high regard in which APPs are held and their pivotal contributions to the health of the communities they serve.