Society News

Did you know you can honor a family member, friend, or colleague and support the AGA Research Awards Program, while giving you a tax benefit? Any charitable gift can be made in honor or memory of someone.

• A gift today. An outright gift will help fund the AGA Research Awards Program. Your gift will assist in furthering basic digestive disease research which can ultimately advance research into all digestive diseases. The financial benefits include an income tax deduction and possible elimination of capital gains tax.
• A gift through your will or living trust. You can include a bequest in your will or living trust stating that a specific asset, certain dollar amount, or more commonly a percentage of your estate will pass to the AGA Research Foundation in honor of your loved one.
• AGA Institute program naming opportunities. Individuals interested in receiving name recognition for selected AGA Institute program can do so by contributing a new, unrestricted gift totaling a designated amount to the AGA Research Foundation.

Your next step

An honorary gift is a wonderful way to acknowledge someone’s vision for the future. To learn more about ways to recognize your honoree, visit our website at www.foundation.gastro.org.

Did you know you can honor a family member, friend, or colleague and support the AGA Research Awards Program, while giving you a tax benefit? Any charitable gift can be made in honor or memory of someone.

• A gift today. An outright gift will help fund the AGA Research Awards Program. Your gift will assist in furthering basic digestive disease research which can ultimately advance research into all digestive diseases. The financial benefits include an income tax deduction and possible elimination of capital gains tax.
• A gift through your will or living trust. You can include a bequest in your will or living trust stating that a specific asset, certain dollar amount, or more commonly a percentage of your estate will pass to the AGA Research Foundation in honor of your loved one.
• AGA Institute program naming opportunities. Individuals interested in receiving name recognition for selected AGA Institute program can do so by contributing a new, unrestricted gift totaling a designated amount to the AGA Research Foundation.

Your next step

An honorary gift is a wonderful way to acknowledge someone’s vision for the future. To learn more about ways to recognize your honoree, visit our website at www.foundation.gastro.org.

Did you know you can honor a family member, friend, or colleague and support the AGA Research Awards Program, while giving you a tax benefit? Any charitable gift can be made in honor or memory of someone.

• A gift today. An outright gift will help fund the AGA Research Awards Program. Your gift will assist in furthering basic digestive disease research which can ultimately advance research into all digestive diseases. The financial benefits include an income tax deduction and possible elimination of capital gains tax.
• A gift through your will or living trust. You can include a bequest in your will or living trust stating that a specific asset, certain dollar amount, or more commonly a percentage of your estate will pass to the AGA Research Foundation in honor of your loved one.
• AGA Institute program naming opportunities. Individuals interested in receiving name recognition for selected AGA Institute program can do so by contributing a new, unrestricted gift totaling a designated amount to the AGA Research Foundation.

Your next step

An honorary gift is a wonderful way to acknowledge someone’s vision for the future. To learn more about ways to recognize your honoree, visit our website at www.foundation.gastro.org.

CHEST 2023 in Honolulu kicked off for Network Leadership during the Council of Networks meeting. Leadership from the seven Networks presented their plans for CHEST 2023, participation in proposed guidelines, CHEST projects completed over the past year, and other accomplishments.

We congratulated our Network leaders – Margaret Pisani, Council of Networks Vice-chair, who was awarded the Roger C. Bone Memorial Lecture in Critical Care; and Jean Elwing, Chair of the Pulmonary Vascular & Cardiovascular Network, for being awarded the Distinguished Scientist Honor Lecture in Cardiopulmonary Physiology. CHEST 2023 included excellent educational content by the Networks, including two Network highlights per each of the seven Networks, as well as an Experience CHEST submission from each of the 22 sections.

We also had the opportunity to meet face-to-face at the Network Open Forums, the Network Mixer, and the inaugural Fellow-in-Training Mixer in the Trainee Lounge. We saw a lot of familiar faces at these events, and 182 new individuals also signed up to become Network members.

There will be one final Council of Networks leadership meeting in December prior to our leadership transition in January.

We thank outgoing Network chairs, Dr. Marcos Restrepo of the Chest Infections & Disaster Response Network, Dr. Christopher Carroll of the Critical Care Network, Dr. Debbie Levine of the Diffuse Lung Disease & Lung Transplant Network, and Dr. Carolyn D’Ambrosio of the Sleep Medicine Network, for their leadership and hard work dedicated to the Networks that have greatly benefited from their service.



Cassie Kennedy, MD, FCCP – Chair, Council of Networks

Margaret Pisani, MD, MPH, FCCP – Vice-Chair, Council of Networks

CHEST 2023 in Honolulu kicked off for Network Leadership during the Council of Networks meeting. Leadership from the seven Networks presented their plans for CHEST 2023, participation in proposed guidelines, CHEST projects completed over the past year, and other accomplishments.

We congratulated our Network leaders – Margaret Pisani, Council of Networks Vice-chair, who was awarded the Roger C. Bone Memorial Lecture in Critical Care; and Jean Elwing, Chair of the Pulmonary Vascular & Cardiovascular Network, for being awarded the Distinguished Scientist Honor Lecture in Cardiopulmonary Physiology. CHEST 2023 included excellent educational content by the Networks, including two Network highlights per each of the seven Networks, as well as an Experience CHEST submission from each of the 22 sections.

We also had the opportunity to meet face-to-face at the Network Open Forums, the Network Mixer, and the inaugural Fellow-in-Training Mixer in the Trainee Lounge. We saw a lot of familiar faces at these events, and 182 new individuals also signed up to become Network members.

There will be one final Council of Networks leadership meeting in December prior to our leadership transition in January.

We thank outgoing Network chairs, Dr. Marcos Restrepo of the Chest Infections & Disaster Response Network, Dr. Christopher Carroll of the Critical Care Network, Dr. Debbie Levine of the Diffuse Lung Disease & Lung Transplant Network, and Dr. Carolyn D’Ambrosio of the Sleep Medicine Network, for their leadership and hard work dedicated to the Networks that have greatly benefited from their service.



Cassie Kennedy, MD, FCCP – Chair, Council of Networks

Margaret Pisani, MD, MPH, FCCP – Vice-Chair, Council of Networks

CHEST 2023 in Honolulu kicked off for Network Leadership during the Council of Networks meeting. Leadership from the seven Networks presented their plans for CHEST 2023, participation in proposed guidelines, CHEST projects completed over the past year, and other accomplishments.

We congratulated our Network leaders – Margaret Pisani, Council of Networks Vice-chair, who was awarded the Roger C. Bone Memorial Lecture in Critical Care; and Jean Elwing, Chair of the Pulmonary Vascular & Cardiovascular Network, for being awarded the Distinguished Scientist Honor Lecture in Cardiopulmonary Physiology. CHEST 2023 included excellent educational content by the Networks, including two Network highlights per each of the seven Networks, as well as an Experience CHEST submission from each of the 22 sections.

We also had the opportunity to meet face-to-face at the Network Open Forums, the Network Mixer, and the inaugural Fellow-in-Training Mixer in the Trainee Lounge. We saw a lot of familiar faces at these events, and 182 new individuals also signed up to become Network members.

There will be one final Council of Networks leadership meeting in December prior to our leadership transition in January.

We thank outgoing Network chairs, Dr. Marcos Restrepo of the Chest Infections & Disaster Response Network, Dr. Christopher Carroll of the Critical Care Network, Dr. Debbie Levine of the Diffuse Lung Disease & Lung Transplant Network, and Dr. Carolyn D’Ambrosio of the Sleep Medicine Network, for their leadership and hard work dedicated to the Networks that have greatly benefited from their service.



Cassie Kennedy, MD, FCCP – Chair, Council of Networks

Margaret Pisani, MD, MPH, FCCP – Vice-Chair, Council of Networks

Pulmonary rehabilitation (PR) is an invaluable program typically set in structured in-person environments for individuals living with chronic respiratory conditions. It offers a comprehensive approach to improving lung health and overall quality of life using a combination of tailored exercise routines, educational sessions, and emotional support. It empowers our patients to better manage their conditions, improve their fitness level, and regain a sense of control over their lives. However, the response to the COVID-19 pandemic increased the use of telemedicine as a method for providing health care (Shaver J. Prim Care. 2022;49[4]:517).

Many patients have welcomed the convenience offered by virtual care, and studies have demonstrated high levels of patient satisfaction (Polinski JM, et al. Gen Intern Med. 2016;31[3]:269). Geography also drives telehealth use. In urban areas in the United States, the median travel distance is 7.5 miles one way with a resulting travel time of 3 to 25 minutes. In rural areas, the estimated travel distance is three times as long. Distance and travel time have been recognized as major barriers to attending PR (Keating A, et al. Chron Respir Dis. 2011;8[2]:89).

Access to PR is also hindered by lack of program availability. As of 2019, there were only 831 pulmonary rehab centers in the United States serving roughly 24 million patients with COPD. Only 561 of these centers are certified by the American Association of Cardiovascular and Pulmonary Rehabilitation, leaving only one certified center for every 43,000 patients with COPD (Chan L, et al. J Rural Health. 2006;22[2]:140). As such, virtual PR is one option for augmenting availability and accessibility.

While virtual PR programs offer numerous advantages, including accessibility and convenience, there are inherent risks and challenges. There is also concern that they are inferior to in-person PR. They offer less supervision by trained health care professionals and no immediate access to medical assistance. Combined with the absence of real-time monitoring of vitals or symptoms, there may be a higher risk of adverse events despite the incorporation of safety measures. Furthermore, the lack of accountability forces an increased reliance on self-motivation, which may hinder progress (Spruit MA, et al. Am J Respir Crit Care Med. 2013;188[8]:e13).

Although the digital divide is narrowing rapidly, reliable access to technology, combined with poor internet connections or computer literacy, will prevent adoption by some patients. Even in well-resourced areas, technical issues can disrupt continuity. Finally, virtual PR lacks the intangible benefits from in-person group sessions. Social interactions in this already isolated subset of patients are lost in virtual PR, and the cultivation of motivation and support to seek a common goal goes unrealized.

While these concerns are appreciated, PR is currently highly underutilized and essentially unavailable to most pulmonary patients. As such, further study is needed to shape the future design of quality virtual PR programs. In the March 2023 issue of the journal CHEST, Huynh and colleagues published an observational cohort study comparing virtual with traditional PR programs (Huynh VC, et al. Chest. 2023; Mar;163[3]:529). Of the 554 participants in the study, 171 were enrolled in virtual and 383 to in-person PR. Attendance and drop-out rates did not differ, CAT scores significantly improved in both programs, and there were no adverse events during virtual PR. Participants in the virtual group received a TheraBand and were required to have a sturdy chair, three large step-lengths of empty space surrounding their chair, and access to internet/Zoom. They had one-on-one Zoom meetings but relied mostly on staff-made or online videos. These results replicate past investigations that have demonstrated low adverse event rates, positive overall patient satisfaction, and noninferiority in patient-centered outcomes with PR. The total volume of data remains limited though (Cox NS, et al. Cochrane Database Syst Rev. 2021;Issue 1;Art No: CD013040).

PR is an essential resource for the management of chronic lung diseases. Given existing barriers and the growing number of eligible patients, we must embrace alternative delivery strategies, all the while ensuring that a quality and useful product is deployed (Rochester CL, et al. Am J Respir Crit Care Med. 2015;192[11]:1373). Additional study is needed to standardize and validate the implementation of virtual PR. Ultimately, virtual and alternative methods of care delivery may help optimize outcomes for our patients where more traditional methods fall short.
 

The views and opinions of authors expressed herein do not necessarily reflect those of the Department of Veterans Affairs or the U.S. government. Dr. Cagle and Dr. Gartman are with the Warren Alpert Medical School of Brown University and Providence VA Medical Center, Division of Pulmonary, Critical Care, and Sleep Medicine. Providence, R.I.

Pulmonary rehabilitation (PR) is an invaluable program typically set in structured in-person environments for individuals living with chronic respiratory conditions. It offers a comprehensive approach to improving lung health and overall quality of life using a combination of tailored exercise routines, educational sessions, and emotional support. It empowers our patients to better manage their conditions, improve their fitness level, and regain a sense of control over their lives. However, the response to the COVID-19 pandemic increased the use of telemedicine as a method for providing health care (Shaver J. Prim Care. 2022;49[4]:517).

Many patients have welcomed the convenience offered by virtual care, and studies have demonstrated high levels of patient satisfaction (Polinski JM, et al. Gen Intern Med. 2016;31[3]:269). Geography also drives telehealth use. In urban areas in the United States, the median travel distance is 7.5 miles one way with a resulting travel time of 3 to 25 minutes. In rural areas, the estimated travel distance is three times as long. Distance and travel time have been recognized as major barriers to attending PR (Keating A, et al. Chron Respir Dis. 2011;8[2]:89).

Access to PR is also hindered by lack of program availability. As of 2019, there were only 831 pulmonary rehab centers in the United States serving roughly 24 million patients with COPD. Only 561 of these centers are certified by the American Association of Cardiovascular and Pulmonary Rehabilitation, leaving only one certified center for every 43,000 patients with COPD (Chan L, et al. J Rural Health. 2006;22[2]:140). As such, virtual PR is one option for augmenting availability and accessibility.

While virtual PR programs offer numerous advantages, including accessibility and convenience, there are inherent risks and challenges. There is also concern that they are inferior to in-person PR. They offer less supervision by trained health care professionals and no immediate access to medical assistance. Combined with the absence of real-time monitoring of vitals or symptoms, there may be a higher risk of adverse events despite the incorporation of safety measures. Furthermore, the lack of accountability forces an increased reliance on self-motivation, which may hinder progress (Spruit MA, et al. Am J Respir Crit Care Med. 2013;188[8]:e13).

Although the digital divide is narrowing rapidly, reliable access to technology, combined with poor internet connections or computer literacy, will prevent adoption by some patients. Even in well-resourced areas, technical issues can disrupt continuity. Finally, virtual PR lacks the intangible benefits from in-person group sessions. Social interactions in this already isolated subset of patients are lost in virtual PR, and the cultivation of motivation and support to seek a common goal goes unrealized.

While these concerns are appreciated, PR is currently highly underutilized and essentially unavailable to most pulmonary patients. As such, further study is needed to shape the future design of quality virtual PR programs. In the March 2023 issue of the journal CHEST, Huynh and colleagues published an observational cohort study comparing virtual with traditional PR programs (Huynh VC, et al. Chest. 2023; Mar;163[3]:529). Of the 554 participants in the study, 171 were enrolled in virtual and 383 to in-person PR. Attendance and drop-out rates did not differ, CAT scores significantly improved in both programs, and there were no adverse events during virtual PR. Participants in the virtual group received a TheraBand and were required to have a sturdy chair, three large step-lengths of empty space surrounding their chair, and access to internet/Zoom. They had one-on-one Zoom meetings but relied mostly on staff-made or online videos. These results replicate past investigations that have demonstrated low adverse event rates, positive overall patient satisfaction, and noninferiority in patient-centered outcomes with PR. The total volume of data remains limited though (Cox NS, et al. Cochrane Database Syst Rev. 2021;Issue 1;Art No: CD013040).

PR is an essential resource for the management of chronic lung diseases. Given existing barriers and the growing number of eligible patients, we must embrace alternative delivery strategies, all the while ensuring that a quality and useful product is deployed (Rochester CL, et al. Am J Respir Crit Care Med. 2015;192[11]:1373). Additional study is needed to standardize and validate the implementation of virtual PR. Ultimately, virtual and alternative methods of care delivery may help optimize outcomes for our patients where more traditional methods fall short.
 

The views and opinions of authors expressed herein do not necessarily reflect those of the Department of Veterans Affairs or the U.S. government. Dr. Cagle and Dr. Gartman are with the Warren Alpert Medical School of Brown University and Providence VA Medical Center, Division of Pulmonary, Critical Care, and Sleep Medicine. Providence, R.I.

Pulmonary rehabilitation (PR) is an invaluable program typically set in structured in-person environments for individuals living with chronic respiratory conditions. It offers a comprehensive approach to improving lung health and overall quality of life using a combination of tailored exercise routines, educational sessions, and emotional support. It empowers our patients to better manage their conditions, improve their fitness level, and regain a sense of control over their lives. However, the response to the COVID-19 pandemic increased the use of telemedicine as a method for providing health care (Shaver J. Prim Care. 2022;49[4]:517).

Many patients have welcomed the convenience offered by virtual care, and studies have demonstrated high levels of patient satisfaction (Polinski JM, et al. Gen Intern Med. 2016;31[3]:269). Geography also drives telehealth use. In urban areas in the United States, the median travel distance is 7.5 miles one way with a resulting travel time of 3 to 25 minutes. In rural areas, the estimated travel distance is three times as long. Distance and travel time have been recognized as major barriers to attending PR (Keating A, et al. Chron Respir Dis. 2011;8[2]:89).

Access to PR is also hindered by lack of program availability. As of 2019, there were only 831 pulmonary rehab centers in the United States serving roughly 24 million patients with COPD. Only 561 of these centers are certified by the American Association of Cardiovascular and Pulmonary Rehabilitation, leaving only one certified center for every 43,000 patients with COPD (Chan L, et al. J Rural Health. 2006;22[2]:140). As such, virtual PR is one option for augmenting availability and accessibility.

While virtual PR programs offer numerous advantages, including accessibility and convenience, there are inherent risks and challenges. There is also concern that they are inferior to in-person PR. They offer less supervision by trained health care professionals and no immediate access to medical assistance. Combined with the absence of real-time monitoring of vitals or symptoms, there may be a higher risk of adverse events despite the incorporation of safety measures. Furthermore, the lack of accountability forces an increased reliance on self-motivation, which may hinder progress (Spruit MA, et al. Am J Respir Crit Care Med. 2013;188[8]:e13).

Although the digital divide is narrowing rapidly, reliable access to technology, combined with poor internet connections or computer literacy, will prevent adoption by some patients. Even in well-resourced areas, technical issues can disrupt continuity. Finally, virtual PR lacks the intangible benefits from in-person group sessions. Social interactions in this already isolated subset of patients are lost in virtual PR, and the cultivation of motivation and support to seek a common goal goes unrealized.

While these concerns are appreciated, PR is currently highly underutilized and essentially unavailable to most pulmonary patients. As such, further study is needed to shape the future design of quality virtual PR programs. In the March 2023 issue of the journal CHEST, Huynh and colleagues published an observational cohort study comparing virtual with traditional PR programs (Huynh VC, et al. Chest. 2023; Mar;163[3]:529). Of the 554 participants in the study, 171 were enrolled in virtual and 383 to in-person PR. Attendance and drop-out rates did not differ, CAT scores significantly improved in both programs, and there were no adverse events during virtual PR. Participants in the virtual group received a TheraBand and were required to have a sturdy chair, three large step-lengths of empty space surrounding their chair, and access to internet/Zoom. They had one-on-one Zoom meetings but relied mostly on staff-made or online videos. These results replicate past investigations that have demonstrated low adverse event rates, positive overall patient satisfaction, and noninferiority in patient-centered outcomes with PR. The total volume of data remains limited though (Cox NS, et al. Cochrane Database Syst Rev. 2021;Issue 1;Art No: CD013040).

PR is an essential resource for the management of chronic lung diseases. Given existing barriers and the growing number of eligible patients, we must embrace alternative delivery strategies, all the while ensuring that a quality and useful product is deployed (Rochester CL, et al. Am J Respir Crit Care Med. 2015;192[11]:1373). Additional study is needed to standardize and validate the implementation of virtual PR. Ultimately, virtual and alternative methods of care delivery may help optimize outcomes for our patients where more traditional methods fall short.
 

The views and opinions of authors expressed herein do not necessarily reflect those of the Department of Veterans Affairs or the U.S. government. Dr. Cagle and Dr. Gartman are with the Warren Alpert Medical School of Brown University and Providence VA Medical Center, Division of Pulmonary, Critical Care, and Sleep Medicine. Providence, R.I.

It wasn’t until Başak Çoruh, MD, FCCP, was a mentee herself that she realized the value of structured mentoring. And now, she has more to give.

Dr. Çoruh, Associate Professor of Pulmonary, Critical Care, and Sleep Medicine and Director of the Pulmonary and Critical Care Medicine fellowship program at the University of Washington, was named as the mentor for the Medical Educator Diversity Scholarship Fellowship.

This mentorship opportunity is part of a joint program sponsored by CHEST and the Association of Pulmonary and Critical Care Medicine Program Directors (APCCMPD). It was created to support a fellow who intends to pursue a career in medical education but who may have limited resources to train in teaching, formal medical education curricula, and medical education research.

“The fellowship is an incredible opportunity to increase the diversity of our medical education community,” Dr. Çoruh said.

The fellowship also closely aligns with CHEST’s newly established philanthropic pillar of “Support of the profession.” CHEST is devoted to elevating the field of chest medicine through top-notch clinical education and empowering early career clinicians from diverse backgrounds with the latest knowledge.

“I’m particularly excited to serve as a mentor for an aspiring medical educator without access to resources for coursework, teaching activities, or scholarship at their home institution,” Dr. Çoruh said. “I am fortunate to be a part of a large and welcoming education community at the University of Washington that I’m excited to share with my mentee.”

The importance of mentorship cannot be overstated, as it can shape the rest of a clinician’s career. There is immense value in not only the funding and research aspect but in the wisdom-sharing and motivational side, as well.

“It wasn’t until my own fellowship that I experienced the value of structured mentoring, and the mentoring I have received has impacted my career in countless ways. I look forward to helping [the fellow] achieve their goals.”

The fellowship recipient will be announced in early 2024.

It wasn’t until Başak Çoruh, MD, FCCP, was a mentee herself that she realized the value of structured mentoring. And now, she has more to give.

Dr. Çoruh, Associate Professor of Pulmonary, Critical Care, and Sleep Medicine and Director of the Pulmonary and Critical Care Medicine fellowship program at the University of Washington, was named as the mentor for the Medical Educator Diversity Scholarship Fellowship.

This mentorship opportunity is part of a joint program sponsored by CHEST and the Association of Pulmonary and Critical Care Medicine Program Directors (APCCMPD). It was created to support a fellow who intends to pursue a career in medical education but who may have limited resources to train in teaching, formal medical education curricula, and medical education research.

“The fellowship is an incredible opportunity to increase the diversity of our medical education community,” Dr. Çoruh said.

The fellowship also closely aligns with CHEST’s newly established philanthropic pillar of “Support of the profession.” CHEST is devoted to elevating the field of chest medicine through top-notch clinical education and empowering early career clinicians from diverse backgrounds with the latest knowledge.

“I’m particularly excited to serve as a mentor for an aspiring medical educator without access to resources for coursework, teaching activities, or scholarship at their home institution,” Dr. Çoruh said. “I am fortunate to be a part of a large and welcoming education community at the University of Washington that I’m excited to share with my mentee.”

The importance of mentorship cannot be overstated, as it can shape the rest of a clinician’s career. There is immense value in not only the funding and research aspect but in the wisdom-sharing and motivational side, as well.

“It wasn’t until my own fellowship that I experienced the value of structured mentoring, and the mentoring I have received has impacted my career in countless ways. I look forward to helping [the fellow] achieve their goals.”

The fellowship recipient will be announced in early 2024.

It wasn’t until Başak Çoruh, MD, FCCP, was a mentee herself that she realized the value of structured mentoring. And now, she has more to give.

Dr. Çoruh, Associate Professor of Pulmonary, Critical Care, and Sleep Medicine and Director of the Pulmonary and Critical Care Medicine fellowship program at the University of Washington, was named as the mentor for the Medical Educator Diversity Scholarship Fellowship.

This mentorship opportunity is part of a joint program sponsored by CHEST and the Association of Pulmonary and Critical Care Medicine Program Directors (APCCMPD). It was created to support a fellow who intends to pursue a career in medical education but who may have limited resources to train in teaching, formal medical education curricula, and medical education research.

“The fellowship is an incredible opportunity to increase the diversity of our medical education community,” Dr. Çoruh said.

The fellowship also closely aligns with CHEST’s newly established philanthropic pillar of “Support of the profession.” CHEST is devoted to elevating the field of chest medicine through top-notch clinical education and empowering early career clinicians from diverse backgrounds with the latest knowledge.

“I’m particularly excited to serve as a mentor for an aspiring medical educator without access to resources for coursework, teaching activities, or scholarship at their home institution,” Dr. Çoruh said. “I am fortunate to be a part of a large and welcoming education community at the University of Washington that I’m excited to share with my mentee.”

The importance of mentorship cannot be overstated, as it can shape the rest of a clinician’s career. There is immense value in not only the funding and research aspect but in the wisdom-sharing and motivational side, as well.

“It wasn’t until my own fellowship that I experienced the value of structured mentoring, and the mentoring I have received has impacted my career in countless ways. I look forward to helping [the fellow] achieve their goals.”

The fellowship recipient will be announced in early 2024.

Starting January 1, 2024, current President-Elect John “Jack” D. Buckley, MD, MPH, FCCP, will become the new President of CHEST. Dr. Buckley is a pulmonologist and critical care physician with an extensive background in education, and he has served on the Board of Regents for the College for 8 years collectively.

Before Dr. Buckley steps into the role of President, he spoke with CHEST for a glimpse into what he is looking to bring to the organization.



What would you like to accomplish as President of CHEST?

I mentioned this in my address during the CHEST Annual Meeting in Honolulu, but the role of President is to guide the Board of Regents as we provide governance and direct the organization to fulfill our mission. With that in mind, my job is to advance CHEST by following our strategic plan, continuing the great work already being done, and preparing for what comes next.

As our world changes around us, we must not only adapt to the current environment but anticipate the future and take the lead by influencing the direction we believe to be important. This is the role of the Board of Regents, and we need input from CHEST’s members.

In 2023, with the guidance of an advisory board, and a tremendous amount of time and effort encompassing input from a wide range of CHEST members, leaders and staff, the organization defined its core values. The values – Community, Inclusivity, Innovation, Advocacy, and Integrity – are reflective of the CHEST organization and will guide decisions for years to come.

While looking forward, it’s also important to reflect on the past. CHEST started as an organization centered on preventing and treating tuberculosis. As progress was made, the entire pulmonary field evolved from tuberculosis experts and, from there, critical care emerged and continues to evolve. Now we’re seeing tremendous growth in the roles of advanced practice providers in our ICUs and, most recently, a resurgence of cardiology-critical care. We are excited to welcome these colleagues into CHEST as we move forward.



What do you consider to be CHEST’s greatest strength, and how will you build upon this during your presidency?

The strength of CHEST is in our community and our educational programs. Our emphasis is on delivering relevant information to our members in ways that are immediately clinically applicable – something I think we do better than anyone – to improve the care we’re able to provide to our patients. Through expanding our community and continuing to produce quality medical education, this will continue to be a focus for years to come.



What are some challenges facing CHEST, and how will you address them?

The challenges facing CHEST are the same challenges facing the whole of health care. Predominantly, providers and patients are both caught navigating complex health systems and insurance programs, costs of care, and access. The latter is particularly concerning for us as the burnout of health care providers has worsened, and people are leaving the clinical setting.

While there is no simple solution, CHEST has demonstrated commitments to making an impact through initiatives like First 5 Minutes^®, which was created to address implicit bias, establish trust, and form a stronger connection between patients and their clinicians more quickly.

This will be a growing focus for CHEST, and it is reflected in the formal addition of social responsibility to our organizational pillars. The work being done in philanthropy and through our diversity, equity, inclusion, and belonging efforts will continue to develop and are now a core element of the organization.



And finally, what do you ask of the members and Fellows of CHEST to support you during your presidency?

I cannot stress enough that every person reading this should join the conversation. Meant to represent the whole of pulmonary, critical care, and sleep medicine clinicians, CHEST is stronger with every voice. Conveniently, an email address exists for this very purpose. The address [email protected] is a direct way to communicate with me, and I very much encourage you to take me up on this.

Let me know what you would like to see change in 2024 or what you think we’re doing well. I’d also like to hear if there is something neat you’re doing for the field; beyond my personal interest, CHEST loves to celebrate the accomplishments of members.

I look forward to elevating your voice and am truly elated to serve as the next President of CHEST.

Starting January 1, 2024, current President-Elect John “Jack” D. Buckley, MD, MPH, FCCP, will become the new President of CHEST. Dr. Buckley is a pulmonologist and critical care physician with an extensive background in education, and he has served on the Board of Regents for the College for 8 years collectively.

Before Dr. Buckley steps into the role of President, he spoke with CHEST for a glimpse into what he is looking to bring to the organization.



What would you like to accomplish as President of CHEST?

I mentioned this in my address during the CHEST Annual Meeting in Honolulu, but the role of President is to guide the Board of Regents as we provide governance and direct the organization to fulfill our mission. With that in mind, my job is to advance CHEST by following our strategic plan, continuing the great work already being done, and preparing for what comes next.

As our world changes around us, we must not only adapt to the current environment but anticipate the future and take the lead by influencing the direction we believe to be important. This is the role of the Board of Regents, and we need input from CHEST’s members.

In 2023, with the guidance of an advisory board, and a tremendous amount of time and effort encompassing input from a wide range of CHEST members, leaders and staff, the organization defined its core values. The values – Community, Inclusivity, Innovation, Advocacy, and Integrity – are reflective of the CHEST organization and will guide decisions for years to come.

While looking forward, it’s also important to reflect on the past. CHEST started as an organization centered on preventing and treating tuberculosis. As progress was made, the entire pulmonary field evolved from tuberculosis experts and, from there, critical care emerged and continues to evolve. Now we’re seeing tremendous growth in the roles of advanced practice providers in our ICUs and, most recently, a resurgence of cardiology-critical care. We are excited to welcome these colleagues into CHEST as we move forward.



What do you consider to be CHEST’s greatest strength, and how will you build upon this during your presidency?

The strength of CHEST is in our community and our educational programs. Our emphasis is on delivering relevant information to our members in ways that are immediately clinically applicable – something I think we do better than anyone – to improve the care we’re able to provide to our patients. Through expanding our community and continuing to produce quality medical education, this will continue to be a focus for years to come.



What are some challenges facing CHEST, and how will you address them?

The challenges facing CHEST are the same challenges facing the whole of health care. Predominantly, providers and patients are both caught navigating complex health systems and insurance programs, costs of care, and access. The latter is particularly concerning for us as the burnout of health care providers has worsened, and people are leaving the clinical setting.

While there is no simple solution, CHEST has demonstrated commitments to making an impact through initiatives like First 5 Minutes^®, which was created to address implicit bias, establish trust, and form a stronger connection between patients and their clinicians more quickly.

This will be a growing focus for CHEST, and it is reflected in the formal addition of social responsibility to our organizational pillars. The work being done in philanthropy and through our diversity, equity, inclusion, and belonging efforts will continue to develop and are now a core element of the organization.



And finally, what do you ask of the members and Fellows of CHEST to support you during your presidency?

I cannot stress enough that every person reading this should join the conversation. Meant to represent the whole of pulmonary, critical care, and sleep medicine clinicians, CHEST is stronger with every voice. Conveniently, an email address exists for this very purpose. The address [email protected] is a direct way to communicate with me, and I very much encourage you to take me up on this.

Let me know what you would like to see change in 2024 or what you think we’re doing well. I’d also like to hear if there is something neat you’re doing for the field; beyond my personal interest, CHEST loves to celebrate the accomplishments of members.

I look forward to elevating your voice and am truly elated to serve as the next President of CHEST.

Starting January 1, 2024, current President-Elect John “Jack” D. Buckley, MD, MPH, FCCP, will become the new President of CHEST. Dr. Buckley is a pulmonologist and critical care physician with an extensive background in education, and he has served on the Board of Regents for the College for 8 years collectively.

Before Dr. Buckley steps into the role of President, he spoke with CHEST for a glimpse into what he is looking to bring to the organization.



What would you like to accomplish as President of CHEST?

I mentioned this in my address during the CHEST Annual Meeting in Honolulu, but the role of President is to guide the Board of Regents as we provide governance and direct the organization to fulfill our mission. With that in mind, my job is to advance CHEST by following our strategic plan, continuing the great work already being done, and preparing for what comes next.

As our world changes around us, we must not only adapt to the current environment but anticipate the future and take the lead by influencing the direction we believe to be important. This is the role of the Board of Regents, and we need input from CHEST’s members.

In 2023, with the guidance of an advisory board, and a tremendous amount of time and effort encompassing input from a wide range of CHEST members, leaders and staff, the organization defined its core values. The values – Community, Inclusivity, Innovation, Advocacy, and Integrity – are reflective of the CHEST organization and will guide decisions for years to come.

While looking forward, it’s also important to reflect on the past. CHEST started as an organization centered on preventing and treating tuberculosis. As progress was made, the entire pulmonary field evolved from tuberculosis experts and, from there, critical care emerged and continues to evolve. Now we’re seeing tremendous growth in the roles of advanced practice providers in our ICUs and, most recently, a resurgence of cardiology-critical care. We are excited to welcome these colleagues into CHEST as we move forward.



What do you consider to be CHEST’s greatest strength, and how will you build upon this during your presidency?

The strength of CHEST is in our community and our educational programs. Our emphasis is on delivering relevant information to our members in ways that are immediately clinically applicable – something I think we do better than anyone – to improve the care we’re able to provide to our patients. Through expanding our community and continuing to produce quality medical education, this will continue to be a focus for years to come.



What are some challenges facing CHEST, and how will you address them?

The challenges facing CHEST are the same challenges facing the whole of health care. Predominantly, providers and patients are both caught navigating complex health systems and insurance programs, costs of care, and access. The latter is particularly concerning for us as the burnout of health care providers has worsened, and people are leaving the clinical setting.

While there is no simple solution, CHEST has demonstrated commitments to making an impact through initiatives like First 5 Minutes^®, which was created to address implicit bias, establish trust, and form a stronger connection between patients and their clinicians more quickly.

This will be a growing focus for CHEST, and it is reflected in the formal addition of social responsibility to our organizational pillars. The work being done in philanthropy and through our diversity, equity, inclusion, and belonging efforts will continue to develop and are now a core element of the organization.



And finally, what do you ask of the members and Fellows of CHEST to support you during your presidency?

I cannot stress enough that every person reading this should join the conversation. Meant to represent the whole of pulmonary, critical care, and sleep medicine clinicians, CHEST is stronger with every voice. Conveniently, an email address exists for this very purpose. The address [email protected] is a direct way to communicate with me, and I very much encourage you to take me up on this.

Let me know what you would like to see change in 2024 or what you think we’re doing well. I’d also like to hear if there is something neat you’re doing for the field; beyond my personal interest, CHEST loves to celebrate the accomplishments of members.

I look forward to elevating your voice and am truly elated to serve as the next President of CHEST.

CHEST and the National Board for Respiratory Care (NBRC) are continuing their longstanding partnership to raise awareness about the More RTs initiative, which addresses the alarming shortage of respiratory therapists (RTs) in the United States.

The COVID-19 pandemic intensified the shortage of RTs, but the problem predated the 2020 crisis. A survey from the American Association for Respiratory Care showed several factors driving the need for more RTs, including an aging U.S. population, growing incidences of respiratory disorders, and advances in pulmonary medical devices.

But the squeeze is coming from both internal and external forces. Retirements of RTs are outpacing new growth, while, at the same time, the need for quality respiratory care is increasing. Simply put, demand for RTs is high but the supply of RTs is dangerously low.

Lori Tinkler, Executive Officer of the NBRC, said physicians can make a difference in increasing the number of RTs and championing their success on the clinical care team. Tinkler recently shared her insights on the initiative and how physicians can get involved.


CHEST: Respiratory therapists are extremely valuable members of the clinical care team. Can you share why RTs are so important?

Lori Tinkler: I like to say respiratory therapists are a physician’s secret weapon. Respiratory therapists work under the direction of a medical director.

They really carry out the orders of physicians and help the physician determine the best pathway for patients using protocols. They [serve as] experts when it comes to ventilators and treating the patients for their pulmonary issues under the physician’s orders.


CHEST: How can physicians get more done with more RTs on the clinical team?

Tinkler: By working with protocols and relying on their respiratory therapists. Listen to what they’re saying when it comes to patient care since respiratory therapists are spending much more time with the patients than the physicians are.

It’s really the whole health care team working together with the patient. What [physicians can] keep in mind is, how are they going treat that patient the best and utilize the expertise that respiratory therapists bring to the table? They probably have the most diverse skillset, but they are highly trained and specialized in lung diseases and treatment of asthma and COPD.


CHEST: How can physicians help integrate RTs into the clinical team?

Tinkler: It’s really ensuring that their institutions recognize the value of respiratory therapists and what they bring to the table. Ensuring that their departments are adequately staffed and championing that effort, speaking up, and being a voice for the respiratory therapist and what they bring to the bedside.


CHEST: How else can physicians get involved?

Tinkler: We’re always looking for physician stories about how they utilize and champion their respiratory therapist. And, of course, we’re always looking for physicians to get involved in the credentialing process by being a consultant or board member, or by being a content expert and helping write the test questions for the respiratory therapy credentialing exams.

CHEST and the National Board for Respiratory Care (NBRC) are continuing their longstanding partnership to raise awareness about the More RTs initiative, which addresses the alarming shortage of respiratory therapists (RTs) in the United States.

The COVID-19 pandemic intensified the shortage of RTs, but the problem predated the 2020 crisis. A survey from the American Association for Respiratory Care showed several factors driving the need for more RTs, including an aging U.S. population, growing incidences of respiratory disorders, and advances in pulmonary medical devices.

But the squeeze is coming from both internal and external forces. Retirements of RTs are outpacing new growth, while, at the same time, the need for quality respiratory care is increasing. Simply put, demand for RTs is high but the supply of RTs is dangerously low.

Lori Tinkler, Executive Officer of the NBRC, said physicians can make a difference in increasing the number of RTs and championing their success on the clinical care team. Tinkler recently shared her insights on the initiative and how physicians can get involved.


CHEST: Respiratory therapists are extremely valuable members of the clinical care team. Can you share why RTs are so important?

Lori Tinkler: I like to say respiratory therapists are a physician’s secret weapon. Respiratory therapists work under the direction of a medical director.

They really carry out the orders of physicians and help the physician determine the best pathway for patients using protocols. They [serve as] experts when it comes to ventilators and treating the patients for their pulmonary issues under the physician’s orders.


CHEST: How can physicians get more done with more RTs on the clinical team?

Tinkler: By working with protocols and relying on their respiratory therapists. Listen to what they’re saying when it comes to patient care since respiratory therapists are spending much more time with the patients than the physicians are.

It’s really the whole health care team working together with the patient. What [physicians can] keep in mind is, how are they going treat that patient the best and utilize the expertise that respiratory therapists bring to the table? They probably have the most diverse skillset, but they are highly trained and specialized in lung diseases and treatment of asthma and COPD.


CHEST: How can physicians help integrate RTs into the clinical team?

Tinkler: It’s really ensuring that their institutions recognize the value of respiratory therapists and what they bring to the table. Ensuring that their departments are adequately staffed and championing that effort, speaking up, and being a voice for the respiratory therapist and what they bring to the bedside.


CHEST: How else can physicians get involved?

Tinkler: We’re always looking for physician stories about how they utilize and champion their respiratory therapist. And, of course, we’re always looking for physicians to get involved in the credentialing process by being a consultant or board member, or by being a content expert and helping write the test questions for the respiratory therapy credentialing exams.

CHEST and the National Board for Respiratory Care (NBRC) are continuing their longstanding partnership to raise awareness about the More RTs initiative, which addresses the alarming shortage of respiratory therapists (RTs) in the United States.

The COVID-19 pandemic intensified the shortage of RTs, but the problem predated the 2020 crisis. A survey from the American Association for Respiratory Care showed several factors driving the need for more RTs, including an aging U.S. population, growing incidences of respiratory disorders, and advances in pulmonary medical devices.

But the squeeze is coming from both internal and external forces. Retirements of RTs are outpacing new growth, while, at the same time, the need for quality respiratory care is increasing. Simply put, demand for RTs is high but the supply of RTs is dangerously low.

Lori Tinkler, Executive Officer of the NBRC, said physicians can make a difference in increasing the number of RTs and championing their success on the clinical care team. Tinkler recently shared her insights on the initiative and how physicians can get involved.


CHEST: Respiratory therapists are extremely valuable members of the clinical care team. Can you share why RTs are so important?

Lori Tinkler: I like to say respiratory therapists are a physician’s secret weapon. Respiratory therapists work under the direction of a medical director.

They really carry out the orders of physicians and help the physician determine the best pathway for patients using protocols. They [serve as] experts when it comes to ventilators and treating the patients for their pulmonary issues under the physician’s orders.


CHEST: How can physicians get more done with more RTs on the clinical team?

Tinkler: By working with protocols and relying on their respiratory therapists. Listen to what they’re saying when it comes to patient care since respiratory therapists are spending much more time with the patients than the physicians are.

It’s really the whole health care team working together with the patient. What [physicians can] keep in mind is, how are they going treat that patient the best and utilize the expertise that respiratory therapists bring to the table? They probably have the most diverse skillset, but they are highly trained and specialized in lung diseases and treatment of asthma and COPD.


CHEST: How can physicians help integrate RTs into the clinical team?

Tinkler: It’s really ensuring that their institutions recognize the value of respiratory therapists and what they bring to the table. Ensuring that their departments are adequately staffed and championing that effort, speaking up, and being a voice for the respiratory therapist and what they bring to the bedside.


CHEST: How else can physicians get involved?

Tinkler: We’re always looking for physician stories about how they utilize and champion their respiratory therapist. And, of course, we’re always looking for physicians to get involved in the credentialing process by being a consultant or board member, or by being a content expert and helping write the test questions for the respiratory therapy credentialing exams.

Each year, CHEST recognizes members who make an impact – through dedication to the organization, by contributions to research and practice, through their commitment to educating the next generation, and so much more.

MASTER FELLOW AWARD

John E. Studdard, MD, FCCP

Masters of CHEST are national or international Fellows of CHEST who have distinguished themselves by attaining professional preeminence. Because of their personal character and leadership; extraordinary contributions to medical research, clinical practice, quality improvement, or medical education; and years of enduring and outstanding service to CHEST, they have advanced chest medicine

DISTINGUISHED SERVICE AWARD

Victor J. Test, MD, FCCP

This award is conferred to a CHEST Fellow (FCCP) who has held a CHEST leadership position; has led significant society achievements; and/or has donated time, leadership, and service to CHEST.

COLLEGE MEDALIST AWARD

Steven D. Nathan, MBBCh, FCCP

The College Medalist Award is a long-standing CHEST tradition. This award is given for meritorious service in furthering progress in the field of diseases of the chest.


EARLY CAREER CLINICIAN EDUCATOR AWARD

Viren Kaul, MD, FCCP

The Early Career Clinician Educator Award recognizes the achievements of a clinician educator who has already made significant contributions to CHEST educational activities and is committed to continuing to grow as CHEST faculty.


MASTER CLINICIAN EDUCATOR AWARD

Christopher L. Carroll, MD, FCCP

The Master Clinician Educator Award recognizes long-term achievements of one clinician educator who has made significant contributions to CHEST activities and has demonstrated a strong commitment to medical education throughout their career.


ALFRED SOFFER AWARD FOR EDITORIAL EXCELLENCE

Laura Riordan

This award honors Alfred Soffer, MD, Master FCCP, Editor-in-Chief of the journal CHEST® from 1968 to 1993, and Executive Director of CHEST from 1969 to 1992. Recipients have made significant contributions to CHEST and are often world experts in their fields, have written numerous papers and abstracts, have served as primary investigators, and/or have served as a department editor for the journal CHEST.


PRESIDENTIAL CITATION

Scott Manaker, MD, PhD, FCCP

The Presidential Citation is awarded on behalf of the CHEST President to individuals who have shown their dedication to the chest medicine field and for their contributions to CHEST.


For a comprehensive list of Distinguished CHEST Educators, new FCCP designees, and scientific abstract award winners, visit chestnet.org/awards.

Each year, CHEST recognizes members who make an impact – through dedication to the organization, by contributions to research and practice, through their commitment to educating the next generation, and so much more.

MASTER FELLOW AWARD

John E. Studdard, MD, FCCP

Masters of CHEST are national or international Fellows of CHEST who have distinguished themselves by attaining professional preeminence. Because of their personal character and leadership; extraordinary contributions to medical research, clinical practice, quality improvement, or medical education; and years of enduring and outstanding service to CHEST, they have advanced chest medicine

DISTINGUISHED SERVICE AWARD

Victor J. Test, MD, FCCP

This award is conferred to a CHEST Fellow (FCCP) who has held a CHEST leadership position; has led significant society achievements; and/or has donated time, leadership, and service to CHEST.

COLLEGE MEDALIST AWARD

Steven D. Nathan, MBBCh, FCCP

The College Medalist Award is a long-standing CHEST tradition. This award is given for meritorious service in furthering progress in the field of diseases of the chest.


EARLY CAREER CLINICIAN EDUCATOR AWARD

Viren Kaul, MD, FCCP

The Early Career Clinician Educator Award recognizes the achievements of a clinician educator who has already made significant contributions to CHEST educational activities and is committed to continuing to grow as CHEST faculty.


MASTER CLINICIAN EDUCATOR AWARD

Christopher L. Carroll, MD, FCCP

The Master Clinician Educator Award recognizes long-term achievements of one clinician educator who has made significant contributions to CHEST activities and has demonstrated a strong commitment to medical education throughout their career.


ALFRED SOFFER AWARD FOR EDITORIAL EXCELLENCE

Laura Riordan

This award honors Alfred Soffer, MD, Master FCCP, Editor-in-Chief of the journal CHEST® from 1968 to 1993, and Executive Director of CHEST from 1969 to 1992. Recipients have made significant contributions to CHEST and are often world experts in their fields, have written numerous papers and abstracts, have served as primary investigators, and/or have served as a department editor for the journal CHEST.


PRESIDENTIAL CITATION

Scott Manaker, MD, PhD, FCCP

The Presidential Citation is awarded on behalf of the CHEST President to individuals who have shown their dedication to the chest medicine field and for their contributions to CHEST.


For a comprehensive list of Distinguished CHEST Educators, new FCCP designees, and scientific abstract award winners, visit chestnet.org/awards.

Each year, CHEST recognizes members who make an impact – through dedication to the organization, by contributions to research and practice, through their commitment to educating the next generation, and so much more.

MASTER FELLOW AWARD

John E. Studdard, MD, FCCP

Masters of CHEST are national or international Fellows of CHEST who have distinguished themselves by attaining professional preeminence. Because of their personal character and leadership; extraordinary contributions to medical research, clinical practice, quality improvement, or medical education; and years of enduring and outstanding service to CHEST, they have advanced chest medicine

DISTINGUISHED SERVICE AWARD

Victor J. Test, MD, FCCP

This award is conferred to a CHEST Fellow (FCCP) who has held a CHEST leadership position; has led significant society achievements; and/or has donated time, leadership, and service to CHEST.

COLLEGE MEDALIST AWARD

Steven D. Nathan, MBBCh, FCCP

The College Medalist Award is a long-standing CHEST tradition. This award is given for meritorious service in furthering progress in the field of diseases of the chest.


EARLY CAREER CLINICIAN EDUCATOR AWARD

Viren Kaul, MD, FCCP

The Early Career Clinician Educator Award recognizes the achievements of a clinician educator who has already made significant contributions to CHEST educational activities and is committed to continuing to grow as CHEST faculty.


MASTER CLINICIAN EDUCATOR AWARD

Christopher L. Carroll, MD, FCCP

The Master Clinician Educator Award recognizes long-term achievements of one clinician educator who has made significant contributions to CHEST activities and has demonstrated a strong commitment to medical education throughout their career.


ALFRED SOFFER AWARD FOR EDITORIAL EXCELLENCE

Laura Riordan

This award honors Alfred Soffer, MD, Master FCCP, Editor-in-Chief of the journal CHEST® from 1968 to 1993, and Executive Director of CHEST from 1969 to 1992. Recipients have made significant contributions to CHEST and are often world experts in their fields, have written numerous papers and abstracts, have served as primary investigators, and/or have served as a department editor for the journal CHEST.


PRESIDENTIAL CITATION

Scott Manaker, MD, PhD, FCCP

The Presidential Citation is awarded on behalf of the CHEST President to individuals who have shown their dedication to the chest medicine field and for their contributions to CHEST.


For a comprehensive list of Distinguished CHEST Educators, new FCCP designees, and scientific abstract award winners, visit chestnet.org/awards.

As a part of AGA’s ongoing goal to support women in GI and advance gender equity in gastroenterology, we hosted nearly 60 women executives in GI for the inaugural Women’s Executive Leadership Conference held recently in Denver.

The two-day conference brought together leaders from different practice settings – academia, hospital systems, and private practice – for seminars on strengthening leadership skills and career progression, along with opportunities for networking and socializing with other women in the AGA Gastro Squad.

AGA

Women on the AGA governing board, including Kim E. Barrett, PhD, AGAF and Sheryl Pfeil, MD, AGAF, led sessions on how to best communicate as a leader and pathways to society leadership. In addition, other leaders such as Aja McCutchen, MD and Gyongyi Szabo, MD, PhD, shared their best practices for leadership and managing others.

Thank you to Fasiha Kanwal, MD, MSHS, and Aimee Lucas, MD, MS, cochairs of the AGA Women’s Executive Leadership Conference, for leading the weekend, and to everyone who contributed to a productive weekend. Stay tuned for more opportunities to engage with the AGA Gastro Squad.

As a part of AGA’s ongoing goal to support women in GI and advance gender equity in gastroenterology, we hosted nearly 60 women executives in GI for the inaugural Women’s Executive Leadership Conference held recently in Denver.

The two-day conference brought together leaders from different practice settings – academia, hospital systems, and private practice – for seminars on strengthening leadership skills and career progression, along with opportunities for networking and socializing with other women in the AGA Gastro Squad.

AGA

Women on the AGA governing board, including Kim E. Barrett, PhD, AGAF and Sheryl Pfeil, MD, AGAF, led sessions on how to best communicate as a leader and pathways to society leadership. In addition, other leaders such as Aja McCutchen, MD and Gyongyi Szabo, MD, PhD, shared their best practices for leadership and managing others.

Thank you to Fasiha Kanwal, MD, MSHS, and Aimee Lucas, MD, MS, cochairs of the AGA Women’s Executive Leadership Conference, for leading the weekend, and to everyone who contributed to a productive weekend. Stay tuned for more opportunities to engage with the AGA Gastro Squad.

As a part of AGA’s ongoing goal to support women in GI and advance gender equity in gastroenterology, we hosted nearly 60 women executives in GI for the inaugural Women’s Executive Leadership Conference held recently in Denver.

The two-day conference brought together leaders from different practice settings – academia, hospital systems, and private practice – for seminars on strengthening leadership skills and career progression, along with opportunities for networking and socializing with other women in the AGA Gastro Squad.

AGA

Women on the AGA governing board, including Kim E. Barrett, PhD, AGAF and Sheryl Pfeil, MD, AGAF, led sessions on how to best communicate as a leader and pathways to society leadership. In addition, other leaders such as Aja McCutchen, MD and Gyongyi Szabo, MD, PhD, shared their best practices for leadership and managing others.

Thank you to Fasiha Kanwal, MD, MSHS, and Aimee Lucas, MD, MS, cochairs of the AGA Women’s Executive Leadership Conference, for leading the weekend, and to everyone who contributed to a productive weekend. Stay tuned for more opportunities to engage with the AGA Gastro Squad.

As a member of the AGA, you understand the physical, emotional, and financial costs of digestive diseases. And you understand the tremendous value of research to advance patient care.

We are in a time of major scientific breakthroughs; however, there is a growing gap in federal funding for research. Without gastroenterology and hepatology research, there would be no discoveries to develop new diagnostic and therapeutic approaches and to improve our understanding of the pathogenesis of digestive diseases.

The AGA Research Foundation funds promising GI investigators who don’t receive funding at crucial times in their early careers. The research of these talented individuals, while important to the field, could end prematurely if they are left unfunded. That’s something the fields of gastroenterology and hepatology can’t afford, and that’s why, as an AGA member, I’m making a year-end donation to the AGA Research Foundation. You can help fill the funding gap and protect the next generation of investigators by joining me in supporting the AGA Research Foundation through a personal year-end gift.

Gifts to the AGA Research Foundation this past year directly supported 71 investigators. Despite this success, close to 245 other promising research proposals were not funded.

We must continue to foster the careers of talented scientists and clinicians, and protect the GI research pipeline. A financial contribution to the AGA Research Foundation is the opportunity for you to help foster the careers of talented scientists and protect the GI research pipeline.

Help make a difference. You can make your tax-deductible donation online at www.gastro.org/donateonline; by phone at 301-222-4002; or, by mail:

AGA Research Foundation
4930 Del Ray Avenue
Bethesda, MD 20814

All gifts are tax-deductible to the fullest extent of U.S. law.

Thank you for your support and best wishes for a happy, healthy holiday season and prosperous New Year.

As a member of the AGA, you understand the physical, emotional, and financial costs of digestive diseases. And you understand the tremendous value of research to advance patient care.

We are in a time of major scientific breakthroughs; however, there is a growing gap in federal funding for research. Without gastroenterology and hepatology research, there would be no discoveries to develop new diagnostic and therapeutic approaches and to improve our understanding of the pathogenesis of digestive diseases.

The AGA Research Foundation funds promising GI investigators who don’t receive funding at crucial times in their early careers. The research of these talented individuals, while important to the field, could end prematurely if they are left unfunded. That’s something the fields of gastroenterology and hepatology can’t afford, and that’s why, as an AGA member, I’m making a year-end donation to the AGA Research Foundation. You can help fill the funding gap and protect the next generation of investigators by joining me in supporting the AGA Research Foundation through a personal year-end gift.

Gifts to the AGA Research Foundation this past year directly supported 71 investigators. Despite this success, close to 245 other promising research proposals were not funded.

We must continue to foster the careers of talented scientists and clinicians, and protect the GI research pipeline. A financial contribution to the AGA Research Foundation is the opportunity for you to help foster the careers of talented scientists and protect the GI research pipeline.

Help make a difference. You can make your tax-deductible donation online at www.gastro.org/donateonline; by phone at 301-222-4002; or, by mail:

AGA Research Foundation
4930 Del Ray Avenue
Bethesda, MD 20814

All gifts are tax-deductible to the fullest extent of U.S. law.

Thank you for your support and best wishes for a happy, healthy holiday season and prosperous New Year.

As a member of the AGA, you understand the physical, emotional, and financial costs of digestive diseases. And you understand the tremendous value of research to advance patient care.

We are in a time of major scientific breakthroughs; however, there is a growing gap in federal funding for research. Without gastroenterology and hepatology research, there would be no discoveries to develop new diagnostic and therapeutic approaches and to improve our understanding of the pathogenesis of digestive diseases.

The AGA Research Foundation funds promising GI investigators who don’t receive funding at crucial times in their early careers. The research of these talented individuals, while important to the field, could end prematurely if they are left unfunded. That’s something the fields of gastroenterology and hepatology can’t afford, and that’s why, as an AGA member, I’m making a year-end donation to the AGA Research Foundation. You can help fill the funding gap and protect the next generation of investigators by joining me in supporting the AGA Research Foundation through a personal year-end gift.

Gifts to the AGA Research Foundation this past year directly supported 71 investigators. Despite this success, close to 245 other promising research proposals were not funded.

We must continue to foster the careers of talented scientists and clinicians, and protect the GI research pipeline. A financial contribution to the AGA Research Foundation is the opportunity for you to help foster the careers of talented scientists and protect the GI research pipeline.

Help make a difference. You can make your tax-deductible donation online at www.gastro.org/donateonline; by phone at 301-222-4002; or, by mail:

AGA Research Foundation
4930 Del Ray Avenue
Bethesda, MD 20814

All gifts are tax-deductible to the fullest extent of U.S. law.

Thank you for your support and best wishes for a happy, healthy holiday season and prosperous New Year.

As we find ourselves in November, on the heels of yet another exceptional CHEST Annual Meeting, I cannot help but use my last column as CHEST President to reflect on a year well spent.

For the first time since CHEST 2011, when I was the Scientific Program Committee Vice Chair, I was able to return to beautiful Hawaiʻi as the organization’s President, which was such a big coincidence that it felt almost like fate.

During my time on stage at the CHEST 2023 Opening Session, I reflected on the last (at the time) 9 months and shared how truly humbled I have been to lead such a group of leaders and doers. I’m continually amazed at the energy of our members and our staff. In my 25 years as a member, I thought I knew all that CHEST did, but there is so much more happening than any one person realizes. From creating and implementing patient care initiatives to drafting and endorsing statements advocating for better access to health care, there is a tremendous amount accomplished by this organization every year.
 

One notable accomplishment of this particular year is that not only was CHEST 2023 our largest meeting ever, but I’m proud to share that we also had more medical students, residents, and fellows than any other year, with over 2,000 attendees in-training.

This is a great reflection of the work we’ve been doing to expand the CHEST community – both to physicians earlier in their careers and also to the whole care team. We are putting a dedicated focus toward welcoming and creating a sense of belonging for every clinician. The first step toward this inclusion is the creation of the new CHEST interest groups – Respiratory Care, which is dedicated to the field, and Women in Chest Medicine, which is a more inclusive evolution of the previous Women & Pulmonary group.

This year, we also established CHEST organizational values. The result of a tremendous effort from an advisory committee, CHEST leaders, members, and staff, these values – Community, Inclusivity, Innovation, Advocacy, and Integrity – are reflective of the CHEST organization and will guide decisions for years to come.

They also serve to elevate the work we are doing in social responsibility and health equity, within both of which we’ve made great strides. CHEST philanthropy evolved from what was known as the CHEST Foundation, with a new strategic focus, and we continue working to create opportunities to expand diversity within health care, including the new CHEST mentor/mentee sponsorship fellowship in partnership with the Association of Pulmonary and Critical Care Medicine Program Directors.

Though I could go on for eternity describing all we did at CHEST this year, the reality is that at the end of the next month, as we ring in the new year, I will cede the presidency to the incredibly accomplished and capable Jack Buckley, MD, MPH, FCCP, who will take the reins of our great organization.

For now, in my parting words to you, I encourage everyone to stay in touch. I am always reachable by email and would love to hear your thoughts on CHEST – reflections on this past year, ideas about where we’re going, and suggestions for what we’re missing. The role of the President (and, to some extent, the Immediate Past President) is to be a steward of the needs of the CHEST members, and it’s been a true honor being your 2023 CHEST President.

As we find ourselves in November, on the heels of yet another exceptional CHEST Annual Meeting, I cannot help but use my last column as CHEST President to reflect on a year well spent.

For the first time since CHEST 2011, when I was the Scientific Program Committee Vice Chair, I was able to return to beautiful Hawaiʻi as the organization’s President, which was such a big coincidence that it felt almost like fate.

During my time on stage at the CHEST 2023 Opening Session, I reflected on the last (at the time) 9 months and shared how truly humbled I have been to lead such a group of leaders and doers. I’m continually amazed at the energy of our members and our staff. In my 25 years as a member, I thought I knew all that CHEST did, but there is so much more happening than any one person realizes. From creating and implementing patient care initiatives to drafting and endorsing statements advocating for better access to health care, there is a tremendous amount accomplished by this organization every year.
 

One notable accomplishment of this particular year is that not only was CHEST 2023 our largest meeting ever, but I’m proud to share that we also had more medical students, residents, and fellows than any other year, with over 2,000 attendees in-training.

This is a great reflection of the work we’ve been doing to expand the CHEST community – both to physicians earlier in their careers and also to the whole care team. We are putting a dedicated focus toward welcoming and creating a sense of belonging for every clinician. The first step toward this inclusion is the creation of the new CHEST interest groups – Respiratory Care, which is dedicated to the field, and Women in Chest Medicine, which is a more inclusive evolution of the previous Women & Pulmonary group.

This year, we also established CHEST organizational values. The result of a tremendous effort from an advisory committee, CHEST leaders, members, and staff, these values – Community, Inclusivity, Innovation, Advocacy, and Integrity – are reflective of the CHEST organization and will guide decisions for years to come.

They also serve to elevate the work we are doing in social responsibility and health equity, within both of which we’ve made great strides. CHEST philanthropy evolved from what was known as the CHEST Foundation, with a new strategic focus, and we continue working to create opportunities to expand diversity within health care, including the new CHEST mentor/mentee sponsorship fellowship in partnership with the Association of Pulmonary and Critical Care Medicine Program Directors.

Though I could go on for eternity describing all we did at CHEST this year, the reality is that at the end of the next month, as we ring in the new year, I will cede the presidency to the incredibly accomplished and capable Jack Buckley, MD, MPH, FCCP, who will take the reins of our great organization.

For now, in my parting words to you, I encourage everyone to stay in touch. I am always reachable by email and would love to hear your thoughts on CHEST – reflections on this past year, ideas about where we’re going, and suggestions for what we’re missing. The role of the President (and, to some extent, the Immediate Past President) is to be a steward of the needs of the CHEST members, and it’s been a true honor being your 2023 CHEST President.

As we find ourselves in November, on the heels of yet another exceptional CHEST Annual Meeting, I cannot help but use my last column as CHEST President to reflect on a year well spent.

For the first time since CHEST 2011, when I was the Scientific Program Committee Vice Chair, I was able to return to beautiful Hawaiʻi as the organization’s President, which was such a big coincidence that it felt almost like fate.

During my time on stage at the CHEST 2023 Opening Session, I reflected on the last (at the time) 9 months and shared how truly humbled I have been to lead such a group of leaders and doers. I’m continually amazed at the energy of our members and our staff. In my 25 years as a member, I thought I knew all that CHEST did, but there is so much more happening than any one person realizes. From creating and implementing patient care initiatives to drafting and endorsing statements advocating for better access to health care, there is a tremendous amount accomplished by this organization every year.
 

One notable accomplishment of this particular year is that not only was CHEST 2023 our largest meeting ever, but I’m proud to share that we also had more medical students, residents, and fellows than any other year, with over 2,000 attendees in-training.

This is a great reflection of the work we’ve been doing to expand the CHEST community – both to physicians earlier in their careers and also to the whole care team. We are putting a dedicated focus toward welcoming and creating a sense of belonging for every clinician. The first step toward this inclusion is the creation of the new CHEST interest groups – Respiratory Care, which is dedicated to the field, and Women in Chest Medicine, which is a more inclusive evolution of the previous Women & Pulmonary group.

This year, we also established CHEST organizational values. The result of a tremendous effort from an advisory committee, CHEST leaders, members, and staff, these values – Community, Inclusivity, Innovation, Advocacy, and Integrity – are reflective of the CHEST organization and will guide decisions for years to come.

They also serve to elevate the work we are doing in social responsibility and health equity, within both of which we’ve made great strides. CHEST philanthropy evolved from what was known as the CHEST Foundation, with a new strategic focus, and we continue working to create opportunities to expand diversity within health care, including the new CHEST mentor/mentee sponsorship fellowship in partnership with the Association of Pulmonary and Critical Care Medicine Program Directors.

Though I could go on for eternity describing all we did at CHEST this year, the reality is that at the end of the next month, as we ring in the new year, I will cede the presidency to the incredibly accomplished and capable Jack Buckley, MD, MPH, FCCP, who will take the reins of our great organization.

For now, in my parting words to you, I encourage everyone to stay in touch. I am always reachable by email and would love to hear your thoughts on CHEST – reflections on this past year, ideas about where we’re going, and suggestions for what we’re missing. The role of the President (and, to some extent, the Immediate Past President) is to be a steward of the needs of the CHEST members, and it’s been a true honor being your 2023 CHEST President.