WASHINGTON, D.C. [May 6, 2025] — The National Partnership for Healthcare and Hospice Innovation (NPHI) proudly recognized three outstanding leaders and organizations during its 2025 Annual Summit, honoring their profound contributions to end-of-life care. These annual awards celebrate those who have demonstrated exemplary commitment to innovation, compassion, and person-centered care in the hospice, palliative, and advanced illness care field.
Samira K. Beckwith, Executive Vice President of Public Policy, Chapters Health, was honored with the 2025 Lifetime in Excellence Award. As one of the most respected voices in hospice and advanced illness care, Samira has devoted her career to advancing high-quality, mission-driven, community-based care. A co-founder of NPHI, her decades of service and advocacy have helped shape national policy and inspired generations of healthcare leaders. Her recognition reflects not just a lifetime of service—but a legacy that continues to strengthen and expand access to quality care.
Dr. Bethany Snider, Senior Vice President and Chief Medical Officer at Hosparus Health, received the 2025 Chirag Patel Legacy Award. Named in honor of the late Dr. Chirag Patel, Chief Medical Officer of Ohio’s Hospice, the award recognizes individuals who exemplify his passion for innovation, integrity, and dedication to delivering care that meets patients where they are. Dr. Snider was celebrated for her groundbreaking work in telehealth, expanding access to high-quality palliative care for rural populations, and removing barriers to ensure care reaches everyone—wherever they are and on their own terms.
The 2025 Healthcare in Action Innovation Award was presented to the American Cancer Society (ACS) in recognition of its century-long leadership in advancing cancer care, advocacy, and research. This award is given to organizations actively reshaping how care is delivered—recognizing bold, actionable solutions that improve lives, support caregivers, and strengthen communities. ACS’s collaboration with NPHI on the Cancer Patient and Caregiver Guide and the Clinical Provider Guide proves how innovation and partnership can make a real-world impact on patient navigation and support.
Dr. Arif Kamal, Chief Patient Officer of the American Cancer Society, accepted the award on behalf of the organization. Earlier in the Summit, Dr. Kamal also delivered a keynote titled “Compassionate Action: Advancing Patient Support in Cancer Care,” where he highlighted the need for proactive care that honors the full experience of patients and families facing cancer.
“These honorees represent the very best of our field —the leaders, caregivers, and visionaries who remind us what’s possible when compassion meets innovation,” said Tom Koutsoumpas, CEO of NPHI. “Their dedication not only uplifts patients and families but also elevates the standard of care and inspires all of us working in hospice and advanced illness care.”
Carole Fisher, President of NPHI, added:
“These awards remind us what’s possible when we lead with heart, stay mission-driven, and continue to challenge the status quo in pursuit of quality care. We’re grateful for the opportunity to celebrate these trailblazers who are making a meaningful difference every day.”
NPHI extends its deepest appreciation to this year’s awardees—and to the broader community of member providers, staff, and supporters who continue to define excellence in hospice and advanced illness care.