Dr. Isabella Guajardo, a general surgeon at Ozark Surgical Group in Mountain Home, has been awarded the Heroes with Halos honor by the Baxter Health Foundation. The recognition came after a patient nominated her for delivering exceptional care throughout the surgical process.
The award was presented by Johanna Foster, office manager at Ozark Surgical Group; Sarah Edwards, executive director of the Baxter Health Foundation; and several members of the practice’s staff.
In the patient’s nomination, Dr. Guajardo was praised for conducting the surgery with “competence and sensitivity that resulted in unusual patient comfort.” The patient commended her ability to provide clear, straightforward explanations to both the patient and family, noting her focus on individualized care rather than relying on general protocols.
“Surgeons with this kind of empathy and ability to relate and encourage their patients are rare and to be treasured,” the patient wrote.
Dr. Guajardo joined Ozark Surgical Group in August 2024 after completing a general surgery residency at the University of California San Diego. She earned her medical degree from the University of Pennsylvania's Perelman School of Medicine.
Heroes with Halos offers patients and families the opportunity to recognize Baxter Health employees, providers, volunteers, or departments for exceptional contributions. Additional information on nominating a caregiver is available at baxterhealth.org/heroes.