How can I express my appreciation to my physician who is also a coworker?

Alrighty, so I‘ll try to ask this without getting too personal. I am a RN that works pre-op/PACU at a small community hospital. I’m fairly new in my career and definitely young compared to my peers.

I have a physician who had been incredibly supportive the past year or so. Admittedly, I am a terrible patient (aren’t we all) as in I have the worst white-coat syndrome, thus making her job more difficult. I’m a pain in the butt, I know it. I feel bad every visit, but have been a nervous patient since childhood and can’t help it.

Anyways, I had surgery with this physician about a year ago. She was at my side in the OR until I fell asleep (which now that I work there, I know it’s not her norm). She’s also been incredibly patient and supportive every office visit despite frequent appointments, my nerves, and indecisiveness.

I am blessed beyond belief to have her as my provider, and honored to work alongside her. I plan to continue to use her for routine care, but I want to express my gratitude to her… but also feel awkward doing it and seeing her professionally on a weekly basis. I’ve always been someone that has a hard time expressing my feelings.

Suggestions? Just tell her? A card?

Thank you!