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Sentara RMH cardiologist honored with 2026 Golden Stethoscope Award
Dr. Ben Ruth, specializing in advanced imaging and preventive cardiology, has been recognized for excellence in patient care
Ben Ruth, M.D., from Sentara Cardiology Specialists, is the recipient of the 18th annual Golden Stethoscope Award. The annual award recognizes outstanding physicians on the Sentara RMH Medical Center staff who demonstrate excellence in patient care, customer service, communication, and teamwork.
The Golden Stethoscope Award is announced each year as part of the hospital’s recognition of National Doctors’ Day on March 30.
With more than 400 physicians on the medical staff, Sentara RMH Medical Center had 81 Golden Stethoscope Award submissions with 43 individuals receiving nominations this year. All hospital colleagues, as well as staff in the local independent medical practices, can submit nominations.
“I am truly honored to receive this award, especially knowing it comes from colleagues I respect and collaborate with every day,” Dr. Ruth said. “I feel fortunate to work alongside such an outstanding group of clinicians and staff, both within my department and across the hospital, and I am grateful to be included among so many deserving peers."
Being nominated by one’s colleagues for the Golden Stethoscope Award is one of the highest honors a Sentara RMH physician can receive.
“Dr. Ruth earned that recognition through consistent excellence," said Robert Garwood, M.D., vice president and market chief medical officer at Sentara RMH Medical Center. “He keeps his team well-informed, fosters a collaborative environment, and serves as an exceptional mentor. His sound judgment and thoughtful decision-making ensure the highest quality of care for his patients.”
Joining the medical staff in August 2021, Dr. Ruth serves as a non-invasive cardiologist specializing in advanced imaging and preventive cardiology. His patients enjoy not only his professionalism, but also his warm, friendly demeanor.
“Dr. Ruth brings a combination of clinical and imaging skills, compassion, and humility to every patient encounter,” said Brad Rash, M.D., medical director of Sentara Cardiology Specialists. “He is also an exceptional colleague and resource for our cardiology team. This recognition is well deserved and a fitting tribute to the positive impact he has on the community.”
Colleagues noted in their Golden Stethoscope nominations that Dr. Ruth is a highly skilled, compassionate physician who provides exceptional, patient-centered care. He is known for listening carefully, communicating clearly, and going above and beyond to ensure patients feel respected, understood, and well cared for.
“Dr. Ruth’s peers also expressed that he is a physician who works hard, communicates effectively, supports his team, and always puts patients first. His colleagues rely on him as a knowledgeable patient resource—particularly in advanced cardiac imaging—and praise his strong work ethic, collaboration, and support for both clinical teams and patients,” Garwood remarked.
“He exemplifies the standards we value in our medical staff, and we are honored to recognize Dr. Ruth’s exceptional dedication and commitment to Sentara RMH Medical Center and our community.”
The Golden Stethoscope Award is announced each year as part of the hospital’s recognition of National Doctors’ Day on March 30.
With more than 400 physicians on the medical staff, Sentara RMH Medical Center had 81 Golden Stethoscope Award submissions with 43 individuals receiving nominations this year. All hospital colleagues, as well as staff in the local independent medical practices, can submit nominations.
“I am truly honored to receive this award, especially knowing it comes from colleagues I respect and collaborate with every day,” Dr. Ruth said. “I feel fortunate to work alongside such an outstanding group of clinicians and staff, both within my department and across the hospital, and I am grateful to be included among so many deserving peers."
Being nominated by one’s colleagues for the Golden Stethoscope Award is one of the highest honors a Sentara RMH physician can receive.
“Dr. Ruth earned that recognition through consistent excellence," said Robert Garwood, M.D., vice president and market chief medical officer at Sentara RMH Medical Center. “He keeps his team well-informed, fosters a collaborative environment, and serves as an exceptional mentor. His sound judgment and thoughtful decision-making ensure the highest quality of care for his patients.”
Joining the medical staff in August 2021, Dr. Ruth serves as a non-invasive cardiologist specializing in advanced imaging and preventive cardiology. His patients enjoy not only his professionalism, but also his warm, friendly demeanor.
“Dr. Ruth brings a combination of clinical and imaging skills, compassion, and humility to every patient encounter,” said Brad Rash, M.D., medical director of Sentara Cardiology Specialists. “He is also an exceptional colleague and resource for our cardiology team. This recognition is well deserved and a fitting tribute to the positive impact he has on the community.”
Colleagues noted in their Golden Stethoscope nominations that Dr. Ruth is a highly skilled, compassionate physician who provides exceptional, patient-centered care. He is known for listening carefully, communicating clearly, and going above and beyond to ensure patients feel respected, understood, and well cared for.
“Dr. Ruth’s peers also expressed that he is a physician who works hard, communicates effectively, supports his team, and always puts patients first. His colleagues rely on him as a knowledgeable patient resource—particularly in advanced cardiac imaging—and praise his strong work ethic, collaboration, and support for both clinical teams and patients,” Garwood remarked.
“He exemplifies the standards we value in our medical staff, and we are honored to recognize Dr. Ruth’s exceptional dedication and commitment to Sentara RMH Medical Center and our community.”
By: Bob Grebe