Gastroenterologist Dr. Rahim Raoufi has been named the 2020 Physician of the Year at Lompoc Valley Medical Center (LVMC).

Employees cast votes for the physician they believe exemplifies the district’s values and maintains the trust of the community, patients and residents. The votes are also directed toward a physician who strives continuously to improve services, and who works as a team member with hospital staff.

“I really appreciate it,” Dr. Raoufi said. “I have to say I really like working here. I have a great team. Without my team, I wouldn’t be successful.”

The comments offered by staff in nomination forms were extensive and effusive. They spoke of Dr. Raoufi’s caring and compassionate nature, his dedication to his job and patients, and his skill in his specialty. He was recognized for being a patient advocate and for his tireless work ethic.

“This doctor is fantastic with patients as well as staff,” noted one nomination. “He is always upbeat and positive with all he comes in contact with. He also never forgets a face.”

Another nomination said Dr. Raoufi was worthy because he “epitomizes the LVMC mission. He provides safe and high-quality services to our community … His main focus is the patient. He doesn’t hesitate to refer them on to a specialist if needed. He deserves the honor and recognition.”

Steve Popkin, LVMC CEO, called the award “very well deserved.” He read a handful of the almost 50 nomination comments, which were presented in a scroll to Dr. Raoufi.

Dr. Raoufi is a graduate of Shiraz University of Medical Sciences in Iran. After finishing his family practice residency at East Tennessee State University, he entered the internal medicine residency program at University of California San Francisco, Fresno. He began his practice in Lompoc in 2012.

Previous holders of the Physicians of the Year title include Dr. Cedric Kwon, 2019; Dr. Rollin Bailey, 2018; Dr. Tomas Machin, 2017; Dr. Cindy Blifeld, 2016; and Dr. Randall Michel, 2015.