The Patient Is U Foundation [TPIU] Appoints Claudio Pannunzio as Chairman of the Board

Media Contact:

                                                                                                            Claudio Pannunzio

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Tel.: (203) 243-7679

Essex, CT — January 17, 2025 — The Patient Is U (TPIU) Foundation, a nonprofit dedicated to placing patients at the heart of healthcare decisions, is proud to announce the appointment of Claudio Pannunzio as Chairman of the Board. Pannunzio, a seasoned advocate for patient-centered care and strategic leadership, brings a wealth of experience and vision to this pivotal role.

Since 2017, TPIU’s core mission is to empower patients to receive compassionate care and healthcare workers to practice greater compassion towards patients, colleagues, and themselves, resulting in improved patient outcomes and satisfaction, decreased healthcare costs, and reduced workplace burnout. Pannunzio’s appointment signals TPIU’s strengthened focus on advancing this mission.

“Claudio’s extensive experience in advocacy and leadership, coupled with his unwavering passion for the patient-first approach, makes him the perfect choice to lead our Board,” said Dr. Stephanie Paulmeno, TPIU past Chairman and current Vice Chairman. “He has a proven track record of inspiring innovation and fostering collaboration—qualities that will undoubtedly propel our mission forward.”

Pannunzio’s leadership will be instrumental in expanding TPIU’s initiatives, which include patient education programs, advocacy campaigns, and innovative partnerships with healthcare providers and policymakers

KJ Lee, MD, a founding member of TPIU and a globally recognized ENT surgeon, shared his enthusiasm for the appointment: “Claudio’s vision aligns seamlessly with TPIU’s core values. His ability to engage diverse stakeholders and drive meaningful change will be a tremendous asset as we continue to champion the importance of patient-centered care.”

In 2023, Pannunzio joined TPIU as Senior Vice President, and in his new role as Chairman of the Board he will oversee the Foundation’s strategic direction, support fundraising efforts, and work closely with the Board to ensure TPIU remains a leading voice in healthcare transformation.

“I am honored to serve as Chairman of The Patient Is U Foundation,” said Pannunzio. “Healthcare is at a critical juncture, and it’s more important than ever to ensure that patients are seen, heard, and valued. Together with the exceptional team at TPIU, I am committed to creating a system where dignity, respect, and compassion are non-negotiable for every patient.”

Michael Crain, MD, President & Executive Director, TPIU a dedicated advocate for patient empowerment, echoed this sentiment: “Claudio’s leadership marks an exciting new chapter for TPIU. His insights and dedication will undoubtedly help us deepen our impact and reach as we strive to make healthcare equitable, accessible, and compassionate for all.”

About The Patient Is U [TPIU]

Founded in 2017 by KJ Lee, MD, The Patient is U Foundation [TPIU] is a Connecticut-based 501 (c)(3) public charity dedicated to improving the level of compassionate care in the healthcare system, empowering caregivers and patients to expect compassionate care and support, and improving the patient experience. For more information visit www.TPIU.org