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In August 2024, UAB Health System opened UAB Medical West to expand specialty care to patients in West Jefferson County and surrounding areas. Earlier this month, UAB announced that the Specialty Clinics at UAB Medical West are now accepting adult patients of all ages in cardiology, endocrinology, pulmonary, and rheumatology. We are proud of all the clinical providers and staff who are extending UAB medical expertise to Bessemer and beyond.

Last week, the Department of Medicine launched its 2025 Leadership DOM cohort. Dr. Julie McDonald of McDonald Graham, LLC, and Stacy Buford, MSA, DOM Director of Strategic Operations, welcomed the 60-member group to Faculty Office Tower where they discussed key leadership concepts like cultivating self-awareness and receiving feedback. The cohort will meet monthly through December to further develop their strategic leadership skills.

CVD associate professors Drs. Garima Arora and Pankaj Arora published a study showing that maintaining good heart health reduces, but does not eliminate, the risk of heart failure in individuals carrying the V142I variant. Their findings highlight the importance of managing modifiable risk factors to mitigate genetic predispositions.

Tanya Sloane, an administrative associate in the Division of Nephrology, was named a 2024 Winter DOM STAR awardee in recognition of her dedication to providing support and fostering a workplace where colleagues feel valued and respected. In a nomination letter, Division Director Orlando Gutierrez, M.D., called Sloane “a model staff member” and the “go-to person for help, a friendly smile, or encouragement.”

Ellen Lazarre, CRNP, the inaugural oncology APP manager for both Hem-Onc and Rad-Onc, has been named a 2024 Winter DOM STAR awardee in recognition of her outstanding leadership and dedication to nearly 60 APPs. Nominator Kelly Godby, M.D., described Lazarre as “a servant leader, approachable, supportive, and someone who motivates her team by encouraging them to be their best selves.”

The Department of Medicine, the UAB enterprise, and Birmingham’s healthcare landscape have experienced significant change throughout 2024. To offer a departmental perspective on these issues, Interim Chair Mark Dransfield, M.D., hosted two town hall meetings to foster open dialogue about the department’s future and address employees' concerns. Topics discussed included the St. Vincent’s acquisition, communication about the Fair Labor Standards Act injunction, efforts to retain and recognize DOM staff, and an update on the search for a permanent department chair. Attendees engaged in positive and productive dialogue about the challenges and opportunities ahead.

Above: Professor Brooks Vaughan, M.D., asks a question from the audience.