Reporter July 9 2021

O’Neill honored with American Pediatric Surgical Association Humanitarian Award

The American Pediatric Surgical Association (APSA) has recognized James O’Neill, MD, professor of Surgery, emeritus, and former chair of the Section of Surgical Sciences at Vanderbilt University Medical Center, with the 2021 Humanitarian Award.

From left, Scott Borinstein, MD, PhD, Jonathan Mosley, MD, PhD, and Sara Van Driest, MD, PhD, found that some healthy African Americans are having bone marrow biopsies they don’t need. (photo by Erin O. Smith)

Gene variant linked to unnecessary bone marrow biopsies in African Americans

A gene variant that lowers white blood cell levels and is common in individuals with African ancestry contributes to unnecessary bone marrow biopsies, according to a study published June 28 in JAMA Internal Medicine.

NBA player brings message of hope to Camp T.A.L.K.S.

The children of Camp TALKS (Talking and Learning with Kids who Stutter) were excited to welcome Michael Kidd-Gilchrist — NBA player and person who stutters — to camp recently, where they were able to listen to his story and advice. Kidd-Gilchrist, an advocate for the stuttering community, recently launched Change & Impact, a stuttering initiative focused on improving access to health care and expanding services and resources for those who stutter.

Medical Center leaders announce Academy for Excellence in Clinical Medicine

Leaders at Vanderbilt University Medical Center and Vanderbilt University School of Medicine announce the creation of the Academy for Excellence in Clinical Medicine (AECM). The mission of the Academy is to recognize and advance exceptional patient care.

Racial Equity Task Force releases initial recommendations

The Racial Equity Taskforce created by Vanderbilt University Medical Center and Vanderbilt University School of Medicine last summer has released 62 primary recommendations and 152 sub-recommendations around eight themes.

Wright named Chief of Staff for Adult Ambulatory Services for Davidson County

Patty Wright, MD, professor of Medicine and associate division director for Clinical Affairs in the Division of Infectious Diseases, has been named as Vanderbilt University Medical Center’s Chief of Staff for Adult Ambulatory Services for Davidson County. She will begin serving in this role on July 1.

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