SCOTTSBLUFF, Neb., – Regional West emergency medicine physician David Cornutt, MD, is the recipient of the 2013 Air Link Guiding Light Award for his contribution to regional emergency health care services.

Dr. Cornutt was nominated by members of the Sioux County Rescue Squad in Harrison, Neb., for which he serves as the physician medical director.

In nominating him, the crew described Dr. Cornutt as “one of the most caring and generous persons you will ever meet,” and added “The knowledge and passion this man has for the EMT field and patient care is unbelievable.”

They went on to say: “He attends our monthly meetings, our trainings, and is willing to teach any classes for us. He is available 24/7 for us, no matter what the question or problem may be. He has shared his home phone, cell phone, and work number with all of us, so we feel he is with us at all times.”

In a second letter of nomination, Dr. Cornutt was recognized for his commitment to ensuring the squad “follows the Nebraska State EMS Model Protocols to the letter.”

Panhandle EMS Specialist Jackie Larrington wrote: “On one particular occasion, which really said a lot to me about his personality and passion for excellence in EMS in Sioux County, he (Dr. Cornutt) drove to Harrison after a long ER shift and not feeling well, just to go over some questions and concerns that the rescue captain and I had about their squad and some of its personnel and procedures. He listened very attentively to the questions and concerns and offered very insightful suggestions.”

Dr. Cornutt earned his medical degree from Oregon Health Sciences University, Portland, Ore., and completed his residency at Providence Medical Center, also in Portland. He is board-certified in Internal Medicine. Dr. Cornutt joined the Regional West Medical Center emergency department staff in 2010. Prior to that, he served on the medical staff of Providence Portland Medical Center, Portland, Ore., and Willamette Falls Hospital, Oregon City, Ore.

As the winner of the 2013 Air Link Guiding Light Award, a $1,000 donation will be made to the Sioux County Rescue Squad in Dr. Cornutt’s name. The donation may be used to provide education and training, or to purchase equipment.

The Air Link Guiding Light and Impact Awards were established to recognize men and women who give unselfishly of themselves to further advancements in patient care, both in the pre-hospital and hospital environments.

Regional West Health Services is the parent company for Regional West Medical Center and Regional West Physicians Clinic. These organizations, with over 1,800 employees, provide comprehensive and innovative health care services for the people and communities of western Nebraska and the neighboring states of Colorado, South Dakota and Wyoming. With over 110 active physicians, 95 percent of whom are board certified or board eligible, plus an additional 25 consulting specialists, the Regional West family of health care organizations offers care that spans more than 30 medical specialties.