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The UAB Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology announces Akila Subramaniam, M.D. as the Division Director for the Maternal-Fetal Medicine (MFM) effective August 1, 2024. This transition marks an exciting new chapter for this division, and we are thrilled to see Dr. Subramaniam take on this pivotal leadership role.

Subramaniam has already made significant contributions within the department, particularly during her time serving as Interim Division Director following the departure of Brian Casey, M.D. to West Virginia University. Her leadership during this period has been instrumental in guiding the division through this transition.

In the world of medical marvels, some stories stand out for their rarity and uniqueness. The recent double uterine delivery at the University of Alabama at Birmingham (UAB) has captured the attention of not only the local community but also the national and international media. This extraordinary event has shed light on the incredible complexities of pregnancy and childbirth, showcasing the expertise and innovation within the medical field.

We are thrilled to announce that Dr. Chelsea Crawford joined the department this month to lead research development strategy, partnering with the chair, vice chair of Research, department and CWRH leadership team, and faculty to devise strategies and activities to maintain and enhance the department’s research mission and funding portfolio. Crawford will work in collaboration with all faculty to develop research proposals as well as promote research mentorship for junior faculty and interested fellows to secure extramural and intramural research funding.

In a recent announcement from the University of Alabama at Birmingham (UAB), Alan T. Tita, M.D., Ph.D., a distinguished figure in the field of Obstetrics and Gynecology, has been honored with the prestigious title of the 2023-2024 Distinguished Faculty Lecturer. This recognition demonstrates his outstanding academic and research contributions, esteemed reputation among peers, and his exceptional service to the university and the broader community.

The esteemed letter, dated October 25, 2023, came from UAB President, Dr. Ray Watts, who expressed great pleasure in revealing this highly coveted award to Dr. Tita. The announcement marks a momentous occasion not only for the recipient but for the entire UAB community.

Oct. 15 is National Pregnancy and Infant Loss Remembrance Day, a healthcare observation recognizing one of the most emotionally difficult experiences that parents and medical professionals can face. There’s no way to make up for the loss of an infant, but hospitals can guide and support families throughout the grieving process. UAB Women & Infants Services provides support specialists as part of its comprehensive bereavement care for families.

We are pleased to announce that UAB Medicine’s obstetrics and gynecology (OB/GYN) specialty was ranked the No. 13 best program of its kind nationally in the 2023-2024 Best Hospitals rankings by U.S. News & World Report. The publication also ranked UAB Hospital as the No. 1 hospital in Alabama.

These rankings reiterate UAB Medicine’s position as a top-tier institution and reaffirm our commitment to exceptional patient care, cutting-edge research, and innovation in medicine.

The University of Alabama at Birmingham (UAB) has taken a momentous step in recognizing and celebrating excellence in the field of Women's Oncology. Effective September 7, 2023, the Board of Trustees of The University of Alabama System officially appointed Rebecca C. Arend, M.D., MSPH, as the inaugural holder of the Dr. James and Vicki Orr Endowed Professorship in Women's Oncology.

On September 7, 2023, the Board of Trustees of The University of Alabama System approved the appointment of Akila Subramaniam, M.D., M.P.H., as the next holder of the Bruce Harris, Jr., M.D. Endowed Professorship in Obstetrics and Gynecology at The University of Alabama at Birmingham (UAB).

The Bruce Harris, Jr., M.D. Endowed Professorship in Obstetrics and Gynecology was formally established at UAB through a resolution adopted on May 7, 1999. This professorship serves as a testament to the enduring legacy of Dr. Bruce Harris, Jr., a distinguished figure in the field of obstetrics and gynecology.

Women's health is a critical issue that has been overlooked in many parts of the world, particularly in low- and middle-income countries. Most of these countries have socialized medicine and access to primary care, but access to specialty services is more limited. Ecuador is no exception, where women face numerous challenges in accessing gynecological services, especially when procedure and surgical interventions are needed. However, there are individuals who are dedicated to empowering women and improving their health outcomes.

The UAB Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology Division of Gynecologic Oncology announces a transition in leadership within the Gynecologic Oncology Fellowship program. After a remarkable and long-standing tenure of 14 years, J. Michael Straughn, Jr., M.D., has made the decision to step down as the Gynecologic Oncology Fellowship Director. We extend our deepest appreciation for his outstanding contributions to the field and his unwavering commitment to the program's success.

The UAB Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology (OB/GYN) announces a transition in the leadership in the Division of Women's Reproductive Health. After 15 years of exceptional service and leadership, Todd Jenkins, M.D., will step down from his position as the division director, effective July 1, 2023. Jenkins' contributions and dedication to the department have been invaluable, and the department is immensely grateful for his unwavering commitment to Women's Reproductive Health.

There is an overlooked healthcare crisis affecting millions of women, particularly in sub-Saharan Africa and Asia. An obstetric fistula is a devastating condition that deeply impacts the lives of affected women, their families, and communities. By raising awareness and working towards prevention and treatment, UAB medical professionals are working to promote dignity, restore health, and empower women.

Richard O. Burney, M.D., MSc, division director and associate professor in the Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, has been named the Inaugural Holder of the J. Benjamin Younger, M.D. - Roensch Family Endowed Chair in Reproductive Endocrinology and Infertility at the UAB Heersink School of Medicine in the Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology. The appointment was approved by the University of Alabama System Board of Trustees during the April meeting.

Brian M. Casey, M.D., has been named as the holder of the John C. Hauth Endowed Professorship in Maternal-Fetal Medicine in the Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology at the UAB Marnix E Heersink School of Medicine. The appointment was approved by the University of Alabama System Board of Trustees during the April meeting.