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Massachusetts Eye and Ear Infirmary’s Christopher Hartnick, M.D., authors first – ever book on Pediatric Voice DisordersContact: Public Affairs Boston (April 29, 2008) The Massachusetts Eye and Ear Infirmary’s (MEEI) Christopher Hartnick, M.D., Co-Director of the Pediatric Airway, Voice, and Swallowing Center at MEEI and Harvard Medical School (HMS) Associate Professor of Otolaryngology, has co-authored Pediatric Voice Disorders, the first book published to cover this topic. His co-author is Mark Boseley, M.D., Associate Professor of Surgery at the Uniformed Services University of the Health Sciences in Washington D.C., and Assistant Chief of Otolaryngology and Research Director at Madigan Army Medical Center in Tacoma, Washington. Pediatric Voice Disorders discusses voice disorders in children, including evaluation and treatment. Topics include discussion of the pediatric larynx (voice box) as well as information on the development and production of voice. Vocal disorders in children are evaluated from several viewpoints, including emerging technology, speech pathology, and how these disorders affect the quality of life. Coverage of treatment takes into account speech therapy, child singers, a variety of vocal pathologies and different medical interventions. “The aim of this book is to educate and enhance the dialog of health care professionals across different specialties ranging from ENT, Speech Language Pathology, Psychology, Gastroenterology, and Pulmonary Medicine as each share the care of children with voice disorders,” Dr. Hartnick said. |
Mass. Eye and Ear Infirmary Chief of Ophthalmology Comments on Results of Gene Therapy for Retinal Degeneration in Editorial in the New England Journal of MedicineContact: Vannessa Carrington (Boston) April 28, 2008— In an editorial that appears April 27, 2008 on The New England Journal of Medicine website (www.nejm.org), Joan W. Miller, M.D., Massachusetts Eye and Ear Infirmary Chief of Ophthalmology and Chair of Harvard Medical School Department of Ophthalmology comments on the results of clinical trials of gene therapy for Leber’s congenital amaurosis. The article is scheduled to appear in the May 22 print issue of the The New England Journal of Medicine and the trial results were presented this week at the annual meeting of the Association of Research in Vision and Ophthalmology in Fort Lauderdale, FL . Leber’s amaurosis is the most severe form of inherited retinal dystrophies that cause congenital blindness. Infants with the disease have profound visual impairment or blindness at birth. Dr. Miller reviews the results of two groups of investigators: Bainbridge et al.1 and Maguire et al.2 In both studies patients had severe vision loss, as documented by visual acuity, that was secondary Leber’s congenital amaurosis with a specific gene defect, RPE65. Both groups used recombinant adeno-associated virus (AAV) injected under the retina during vitrectomy surgery. Bainbridge et al. noted improved visual function in 1 of 3 patients. Maguire et al. noted improved visual acuity in all 3 patients as well as improved pupillary light reflex in the treated eyes, which is an objective measure of retina function. Dr. Miller commented that visual acuity changes at this low level of function are difficult to measure and interpret. Dr. Miller notes that the preliminary results of these studies suggest that in the short-term, the procedure is safe, and the data are “suggestive of efficacy.” However she notes that both groups of investigators recognize that longer follow-up and additional subjects are necessary to provide satisfying safety data. Efficacy data will certainly only be available in larger trials.
1. Bainbridge JWB, Smith AJ, Barker SS, et al. Effect of gene therapy on visual function in Leber’s congenital amaurosis. N Engl J Med 2008;358. DOI: NEJMoa0802268.
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Study Shows Fatty Acids Beneficial in Treatment for Dry Eye SyndromeContact: Vannessa Carrington Boston (Feb. 11, 2008) — Research conducted by Massachusetts Eye and Ear Infirmary (MEEI) Cornea Service Director and Harvard Medical School Professor Reza Dana, M.D., M. Sc., MPH, and colleagues at the Schepens Eye Research Institute have found for the first time that topical drop application of alpha-linolenic acid (ALA) led to a significant decrease in clinical signs of dry eye syndrome (DES) in animal models. ALA is a fatty acid that cannot be made by the body and must be supplied in the diet. The study will be published in the February 2008 issue of Archives of Ophthalmology. Dry eye syndrome is a condition in which the eyes do not produce enough tears, causing them to become dry and irritated. Inflammation is frequently associated with the condition. Symptoms of dry eye syndrome include eye discomfort, such as stinging or burning, eye irritation or a feeling of scratchiness. The condition affects well more than 10 million people, primarily women, in the United States alone and can often lead to problems with activities such as reading and driving. Dry eye syndrome is also one of the most common conditions for which patients see eye care. Unfortunately, treatment options are quite limited in terms of both efficacy and undesirable side-effects. The study tested three formulations of fatty acids: 0.2 percent alpha-linolenic acid (an omega-3 fatty acid) ; 0.2 percent linoleic acid (an omega-6 fatty acid) ; and 0.1 percent alpha-linolenic acid combined with 0.1 percent linoleic acid. An eye drop containing each of the three formulations was applied topically to the eye of a mouse once daily. An untreated group did not receive eye drops. Signs of dry eye were then measured 24 hours after the last dose. Eyes treated with ALA showed a significant reversal in epithelial damage to the cornea, the transparent dome that covers the pupil. Results show a beneficial effect of the topical application of ALA in reversing the signs of dry eye syndrome as well as the inflammatory changes seen in dry eye syndrome. “The current study for the first time demonstrates the benefit of topical application of a particular fatty acid in treating the signs of dry eye syndrome at both the molecular and cellular levels. Using topical formulations of fatty acids to treat dry eye would allow for more flexibility for treatment, including lessening side effects that patients can experience from oral intake of fatty acids. Clinical studies with topical fatty acids are being planned, which if successful could alter the method by which this common condition is treated,” said Dr. Dana. This research was supported by grants from Johnson and Johnson Vision Care, Inc., and the Sjogren’s Syndrome Foundation. |
Harvard Medical School Professor Awarded Physician- Scientist Grant by Research to Prevent BlindnessContact: Public Affairs Boston (Feb. 5, 2008)- Wakefield resident Douglas J. Rhee, M.D., a Harvard Medical School (HMS) Assistant Professor of Ophthalmology and glaucoma specialist at the Massachusetts Eye and Ear Infirmary (MEEI), has been granted a $60,000 Physician-Scientist Award by Research to Prevent Blindness (RPB). Under the direction of Joan W. Miller, M.D., Professor and Chair of Ophthalmology at HMS and Chief of Ophthalmology at MEEI, the grant will support research into the causes, treatments, and prevention of glaucoma, one of the leading causes of blindness in the United States. RPB is the world’s leading voluntary organization supporting eye research. Dr. Rhee will use the award to further research on the impact that glaucoma has on the elderly population. “Dr Rhee’s scientific efforts have great potential to further our understanding of glaucoma and improve treatments for the disease; ultimately the research will provide the best treatment to patients. Funding such as this will allow Dr. Rhee and the Department of Ophthalmology to continue research necessary to determine factors involved in vision loss,” Dr. Miller said. |
Harvard Medical School Professor Awarded Career Development Grant by Research to Prevent BlindnessContact: Public Affairs Boston (Feb. 5, 2008) – Boston resident Lucia Sobrin, M.D., an instructor at Harvard Medical School’s (HMS) Department of Ophthalmology and a retina and Uveitis specialist at Massachusetts Eye and Ear Infirmary (MEEI), has been granted a $200,000 Career Development Award by Research to Prevent Blindness (RPB). The support is provided over a four–year period. Under the direction of Joan W. Miller, M.D., Professor and Chair of Ophthalmology at HMS and Chief of Ophthalmology at MEEI, the grant will support research into the causes, treatments, and prevention of diseases that cause blindness. RPB is the world’s leading voluntary organization supporting eye research. Dr. Sobrin will use the grant to focus on research to increase the understanding of diabetic retinopathy, which is a leading cause of blindness in the United States. The RPB Research Career Development Award Fund was established in 1990 to attract young physicians and basic scientists to eye research. “This grant will allow Dr. Sobrin to continue research into diseases such as diabetic retinopathy, which will affect millions of individuals over the age of 50. Dr. Sobrin is working in collaboration with faculty at the Broad Institute, experts in the genetics of complex diseases. The funding will enable research that will ultimately lead to better treatments for those diagnosed with potentially debilitating diseases.” Dr. Miller said. |
Massachusetts Eye and Ear Infirmary Uses Newest Laser Treatment for People with Diabetic Eye DiseaseContact: Vannessa Carrington Boston (Jan. 7, 2008) —The Massachusetts Eye and Ear Infirmary recently acquired the newest laser for treating people with diabetic retinopathy. The Pattern Scan Laser Photocoagulator (Pascal) by OptiMedica is FDA-approved primarily for treatment of diabetic retinopathy and diabetic macular edema. Diabetic retinopathy is the most common diabetic eye disease and is a leading cause of blindness in American adults, according to the National Eye Institute of the National Institutes of Health (www.nih.nei.gov). The disease is caused by damage to blood vessels in the retina near the back part of the eye. The Pascal laser allows for faster, more precise and safer treatment. In contrast to other laser photocoagulators which target a single pulse, the Pascal laser places an array of lower energy pulses across the retina, allowing patients to receive treatment in a single session as opposed to multiple sessions and providing a more comfortable experience with less inflammation and blurring of vision after treatment. “Massachusetts Eye and Ear Infirmary’s (MEEI) acquisition of the Pascal laser, in combination with current technologies available at the hospital, including the Heidelberg Spectralis Retinal Angiograph and Optical Coherence Tomography (OCT), and Zeiss Spectral Domain OCT, make MEEI state-of-the art for retina diagnosis and treatment. Having the best tools helps our doctors give the very best care for patients,” said Joan W. Miller, M.D., MEEI Chief of Ophthalmology and Chair of Ophthalmology at Harvard Medical School. |
Massachusetts Eye and Ear Infirmary Awarded Allergan Horizon GrantsContact: Public Affairs Boston (Nov. 19, 2007) — Allergan has awarded 2008 Horizon Grants to the Massachusetts Eye and Ear Infirmary (MEEI) Cornea and Glaucoma Services. The award recipients were announced at the 2007 AAO annual meeting in New Orleans. The Horizon Grants awarded to MEEI, totaling $80,000, were created by Allergan to support fellowship programs in ophthalmology at academic medical institutions. An independent advisory committee selects recipients, who are chosen based on the strength of the fellowship program, and its clinical and research plan, among other criteria. Eligible programs are those which conduct clinical research in the diagnosis or pharmacological treatment of glaucoma, corneal and retinal diseases. “By supporting its fellowships, these grants will assist MEEI’s Cornea and Glaucoma services to continue the important research that will ultimately lead to better treatment for patients diagnosed with potentially blinding diseases,” said Joan W. Miller, Chief of Ophthalmology at MEEI and Chair of Ophthalmology at Harvard Medical School. |
Massachusetts Eye and Ear Infirmary Appoints Prabhakar Ajith as Payroll SupervisorContact: Public Affairs Boston (Nov. 8, 2007) - The Massachusetts Eye and Ear Infirmary (MEEI) recently appointed Prabhakar Ajith, a resident of Westwood, Mass., to the position of Payroll Supervisor. Mr. Ajith previously worked at Faulkner Hospital as Accounts Payable and Payroll Supervisor. Mr. Ajith obtained a bachelor’s degree in commerce from Kerala University, as well as a graduate degree in accounting from Bangalore University in India. Mr. Ajith is an active member of the American Payroll Association. He completed classes in his field as part of ongoing professional development. Mr. Ajith currently is working towards a master’s degree in accounting and financial management. |
Massachusetts Eye and Ear Infirmary Appoints Ashley Ditta as Security Department ManagerContact: Public Affairs Boston (Nov. 8, 2007) – The Massachusetts Eye and Ear Infirmary (MEEI) has recently appointed Ashley Ditta, a resident of Jamaica Plain, Mass., to the position of Security Department Manager. Prior to joining MEEI, Ms. Ditta worked for the Massachusetts Division of Unemployment Assistance as a Fraud Investigator for the Program Integrity Department. Ms. Ditta received a master’s degree in Criminal Justice from Northeastern University. She worked as an investigative intern in the Special Investigations Unit within the Department of Police and Security at Massachusetts General Hospital. Ms. Ditta has professional affiliations with the American Society for Industrial Security as well as organizational affiliations with the Academy of Criminal Justice Sciences and the American Society of Criminology. |
Mass. Eye and Ear Infirmary Physician to Receive Academy’s Highest Honor, Be Honored with Named HMS ProfessorshipContact: Mary Leach Boston (Nov. 7, 2007) – Claes H. Dohlman, M.D., Harvard Medical School Professor of Ophthalmology and cornea surgeon at the Massachusetts Eye and Ear Infirmary (MEEI), will receive the American Academy of Ophthalmology’s most prestigious award, the Laureate Recognition Award, at the Academy’s annual meeting held this weekend in New Orleans. In addition, a new Harvard Medical School professorship named in his honor will be announced at a special reception at the meeting. “I have known and worked closely with Claes Dohlman for more than 40 years and can think of no one who has done more to improve eye care, prevent blindness and restore sight internationally,” said Deborah Pavan Langston, M.D., MEEI physician and Harvard Medical School Associate Professor of Ophthalmology, who nominated Dr. Dohlman for the Laureate Award. Dr. Dohlman’s surgical innovations in keratoplasty and keratoprosthesis have made him internationally recognized as the “father” of modern corneal science. “In addition to his clinical contributions to the field, Dr. Dohlman has trained and mentored more leaders in ophthalmology than any other individual I can name,” said Joan W. Miller, Chief of Ophthalmology at MEEI and Chair of Ophthalmology at Harvard Medical School. “The awards he has received in recent years, and the contributions to the Professorship named in his honor, are testaments to this history.” Born in Uppsala, Sweden, Dr. Dohlman received his schooling in Lund, receiving his medical degree in 1950 and his ophthalmology training in Lund under Professor Sven Larsson. He was an ophthalmology fellow in the United States from 1952 to 1954, working under Dr. Jonas Friedenwald, at the Wilmer Institute, Johns Hopkins Hospital, and at the Retina Foundation in Boston, supervised by Drs. Endre Balazs and Charles Schepens. Dr. Dohlman continued his interest in biochemistry of the cornea, and he finished his doctorate in biochemistry at the Karolinska Institute in Stockholm. In 1958 he received an invitation to come to Boston and work at what was then the Retina Foundation (now Schepens Eye Research Institute), as well as at the MEEI and Harvard Medical School. After his arrival in Boston, Dr. Dohlman started the Cornea Service at MEEI for the clinical care of corneal patients, as well as related training and clinical research. He also started a laboratory for corneal physiology at the Retina Foundation. These activities grew substantially over the years to become a large referral service for complicated cornea conditions in patients, as well as a program for two-year fellowship training and corresponding research in various aspects of corneal disease. Dr. Dohlman’s own research during this time changed from biochemistry to corneal physiology and included research in the areas of corneal edema and corneal nutrition. A number of clinical studies on keratoplasty, corneal edema, herpetic infections, and trauma were published in collaboration with his fellows. In 1968 Dr. Dohlman was appointed assistant professor of ophthalmology at Harvard Medical School; in 1969, associate professor; and in 1974, full professor. That same year he became chairman of Harvard’s Department of Ophthalmology, Chief of Ophthalmology at MEEI, and director of the Howe Laboratory of Ophthalmology at Harvard. He stayed in these administrative positions for 15 years. During this time there was less time for personal involvement in research, but the clinical colleagues and scientists he had previously recruited continued his established research areas. In 1989, at the age of 67, Dr. Dohlman retired from the administrative positions but continued to work full time (six days a week) with corneal patients, teaching residents and fellows, and conducting research. His interests gradually became more focused on the development of keratoprosthesis (artificial cornea) surgery. He and his clinical and laboratory collaborators have developed keratoprosthesis designs, surgical techniques, postoperative treatments, and repair procedures to a degree that has made this procedure considerably more successful than previously. More than 1,000 Boston Keratoprostheses have been implanted worldwide. Although 85, Dr. Dohlman continues to work full time at the MEEI. |
Massachusetts Eye and Ear Infirmary Appoints Reza Dana, M.D., to Professor of OphthalmologyContact: Public Affairs Boston ( Nov. 5, 2007) – The Massachusetts Eye and Ear Infirmary’s (MEEI) Reza Dana, M.D., M.Sc., M.P.H., a resident of Cambridge, Mass., has been promoted to Professor of Ophthalmology by the Harvard Medical School. Dr. Dana serves as Director of Cornea and Refractive Surgery and is a surgeon at MEEI. He completed his medical education at John Hopkins University, followed by residency in Ophthalmology at the Illinois Eye and Ear Infirmary. Dr. Dana has also completed Fellowships in Cornea and External Diseases at Wills Eye Hospital, in Immunology and Uveitis at MEEI, and ocular Immunology at the Schepens Eye Research Institute. In addition to clinical responsibilities at MEEI, he is also a Senior Scientist and W. Clement Stone Scholar at The Schepens Eye Research Institute. Dr. Dana has authored more than 170 peer-reviewed articles, reviews and book chapters. Some of his most recent research includes a study published in the Proceedings of the National Academy of Sciences, which revealed the previously unknown reason for the transparency of the human cornea. Dr. Dana is a member of the Committee of Immunology at Harvard Medical School as well as Director of the Harvard-Vision Clinical Scientist Development Program. Dr. Dana is on the editorial boards of several publications including Investigative Ophthalmology and Visual Science, Cornea, and Ocular Surface. He has been recipient of the Research to Prevent Blindness William and Mary Greve Special Scholar Award and the Physician-Scientist Merit Award, the Achievement Award of the American Academy of Ophthalmology, and the Cogan Award of the Association for Research in Vision and Ophthalmology for his contributions to the field of ophthalmology and ophthalmic science. He is currently Senior Editor of Encyclopedia of the Eye, which is expected to be published in 2009. |
Demetrios Vavvas, M.D., Ph.D., Joins the Massachusetts Eye and Ear InfirmaryContact: Public Affairs Boston (Sept. 25, 2007) - Demetrios Vavvas, M.D., Ph.D., a resident of Boston, Mass., recently joined the Retina Department of the Massachusetts Eye and Ear Infirmary (MEEI). Dr. Vavvas attended Medical School at Boston University and completed his residency at MEEI, where he also served as Chief Resident and Director of the Eye Trauma Service. He is Board Certified in Ophthalmology. Dr. Vavvas completed a vitreoretinal fellowship at MEEI and was awarded with the Fellow of the Year Teaching Award in 2007. He is actively involved in research and has had several journal articles published, including articles in Nature and Ophthalmology. Dr. Vavvas is a member of the American Academy of Ophthalmology. |
Carolyn E. Kloek, M.D., Joins Massachusetts Eye and Ear InfirmaryContact: Public Affairs Boston (Sept. 17, 2007) Carolyn E. Kloek, M.D., a resident of Boston, Mass., recently joined the Comprehensive Ophthalmology Department at the Massachusetts Eye and Ear Infirmary (MEEI). Dr. Kloek attended Harvard Medical School and completed her residency at MEEI, where she was Chief Resident in Ophthalmology. Dr. Kloek has professional affiliations with the American Academy of Ophthalmology and the Association for Research in Vision in Ophthalmology. She is a published author of several journal articles, including articles in Ophthalmology and the Journal of Pediatric Ophthalmology and Strabismus. |
Kevin S. Emerick, M.D., Joins the Massachusetts Eye and Ear InfirmaryContact: Public Affairs Boston (Sept. 17, 2007) – Kevin S. Emerick, M.D., a resident of Boston, Mass., recently joined the Otolaryngology Department of the Massachusetts Eye and Ear Infirmary (MEEI). He specializes in head and neck surgical oncology and reconstruction, including the management of mucosal cancer, advanced skin cancer and the use of sentinel lymph node mapping. Dr. Emerick attended Medical School at Indiana University School of Medicine. He completed his residency at MEEI in the Harvard Combined Otolaryngology Program. Dr. Emerick completed a fellowship at the University of Michigan where he specialized in head and neck surgical oncology and reconstruction. Dr. Emerick received the Outstanding Teaching Award at MEEI in 2006. He is a published author of several recent journal articles, including articles in Otolaryngology Head and Neck Surgery and Head and Neck. |
Harvard Medical School Department of Ophthalmology Awarded Grant by Research to Prevent BlindnessContact: Public Affairs Boston (Sept. 13, 2007) - Harvard Medical School’s (HMS) Department of Ophthalmology has been awarded an $110,000 unrestricted grant by Research to Prevent Blindness (RPB. The grant will support research into causes, treatments, and prevention of diseases that cause blindness. RPB is the world’s leading voluntary organization supporting eye research. Joan W. Miller, M.D., Professor and Chair of Ophthalmology at HMS and Chief of Ophthalmology at Massachusetts Eye and Ear Infirmary (MEEI) will direct the research and appropriate the funding. “With the funding provided by RPB, the Department of Ophthalmology will be able to continue necessary research and discoveries that will help to understand factors leading to vision loss. This research will ultimately provide the best treatment to our patients,” said Dr. Miller. |
Stacey C. Brauner, M.D., Joins Massachusetts Eye and Ear InfirmaryContact: Public Affairs Boston (Sept. 11, 2007) – Stacey C. Brauner, M.D., a resident of Newton, Mass., recently joined the Comprehensive Ophthalmology and Glaucoma Services Departments at the Massachusetts Eye and Ear Infirmary (MEEI). Dr. Brauner received her medical training at the University of Pennsylvania School of Medicine. She completed her ophthalmology residency and glaucoma fellowship at MEEI. Dr. Brauner is a member of the American Academy of Ophthalmology and the American Glaucoma Society. She is a published author of several journal articles, including publications in Ophthalmology and Archives of Ophthalmology. |
Harvard Medical School Department of Ophthalmology Receives Grant from the Massachusetts Lions Eye Research FundContact: Public Affairs BOSTON (Sept. 13, 2007) – Harvard Medical School (HMS) Department of Ophthalmology has been awarded a grant of $155,000 by the Massachusetts Lions Eye Research Fund. Joan W. Miller, M.D., Chief of Ophthalmology at Massachusetts Eye and Ear Infirmary (MEEI) and Professor and Chair of Ophthalmology at HMS will designate how the distribution of funding will be distributed, which will support research into the causes, treatments and prevention of blindness diseases. “The Department of Ophthalmology is grateful for the opportunities that will enable us to conduct research and make new discoveries because of financial support given by the Massachusetts Lions Research Fund,” said Dr. Miller. |
Massachusetts Eye and Ear Infirmary’s Simmons Lessell Selected as Ophthalmology Teacher of the YearContact: Public Affairs Boston (August 10, 2007) - Massachusetts Eye and Ear Infirmary (MEEI) Neuro-Ophthalmologist, Simmons Lessell, M.D., a resident of Lexington, Mass., has been chosen as Ophthalmology Teacher of the Year. The recipient of the Teacher of the Year award is a member of the faculty that is voted on and selected by residents. Dr. Lessell earned his medical degree from Cornell University Medical College. Dr. Lessell completed his residency in Ophthalmology at MEEI. Dr. Lessell previously served as MEEI’s Director of Neuro-Ophthalmology and has been a Surgeon in Ophthalmology for the past twenty years at MEEI. He is a Harvard Medical School Professor of Ophthalmology. Dr. Lessell currently sits on the Editorial Boards of the Archives of Ophthalmology and the Journal of Neuro- Ophthalmology. |
Scott H. Greenstein, M.D, Joins the Massachusetts Eye and Ear InfirmaryContact: Public Affairs BOSTON (Sept. 13, 2007) – Scott H. Greenstein, M.D., a resident of Boston, Mass., recently joined the Department of Comprehensive Ophthalmology at the Massachusetts Eye and Ear Infirmary (MEEI). Dr. Greenstein attended Medical School at Cornell University Medical College, and completed his residency in ophthalmology at The New York Hospital- Cornell Medical Center. Most recently Dr. Greenstein was Chief of Ophthalmology at both Griffin Hospital in Derby, Connecticut and Waterbury Hospital, in Waterbury, Connecticut. Prior to joining MEEI, Dr. Greenstein worked in private practice in Connecticut. Dr. Greenstein is Board Certified by the American Board of Ophthalmology. He is a Fellow of both the American College of Surgeons and the American Academy of Ophthalmology. |
Massachusetts Eye and Ear Infirmary’s Hugh Curtin Chosen as Ear Nose and Throat Department Teacher of the YearContact: Public Affairs Boston (August 22, 2007) – Massachusetts Eye and Ear Infirmary’s (MEEI) Hugh Curtin, M.D., a resident of Wellesley, Mass., Chief of Radiology at MEEI and Professor of Radiology at Harvard Medical School, has been awarded the William Montgomery Teaching Award for Teacher of the Year. The recipient of this award is elected by the graduating class of the MEEI Department of Otology and Otolaryngology. Prior to joining MEEI, Dr. Curtin was Director of Radiology in the Head and Neck Division at the University of Pittsburgh and Chief of Radiology at the Pittsburgh Eye and Ear Hospital. As Chief of Radiology at MEEI, Dr. Curtin participates extensively in the residency and fellowship programs of the various Harvard teaching hospitals. Dr. Curtin has been bestowed with many awards and honors; among them, the Jack Wittenberg Teaching Award from the Department of Radiology at Massachusetts General Hospital, and the Presidential Citation by the American Academy of Otolaryngology-Head and Neck Surgery for his contributions to the field of head and neck imaging. |
Massachusetts Eye and Ear Infirmary Researchers Outline Surgical Technique for Implantable Telescope for Severe Age-related Macular Degeneration
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Jennifer Street Joins the Mass. Eye and Ear Infirmary as VP of CommunicationsContact: Mary E. Leach, Boston (Aug. 1, 2007) – Jennifer Street, news director for WBZ-TV Channel 4 and WSBK-TV Channel 38, has joined the Massachusetts Eye and Ear Infirmary (MEEI) in the new position of vice president of communications. The announcement was made by John Fernandez, MEEI president and CEO. "An important component of MEEI’s planning for the future involves increased communication with our various audiences. As a highly regarded journalist, team builder and strategist, Jennifer is the ideal individual to lead our efforts to spread the word about the hospital’s unsurpassed quality of care, medical education and teaching excellence, and innovative research programs," Fernandez said. Street's distinguished 17-year career at WBZ-TV culminated in 2005 with her promotion to news director. In that capacity she was responsible for all broadcast and website editorial content, news branding and business strategy. Prior positions at WBZ-TV included assistant news director, executive producer and line producer. In recent years WBZ-TV has won numerous journalism awards including three national Edward R. Murrow Awards (2006, 2000 and1999) and an Associated Press Award for News Station of the Year (2004). Street began her broadcast career at WCSC-TV in Charleston, South Carolina and led the station's coverage of Hurricane Hugo, which won a George Polk Award and a George Foster Peabody Award for Public Service. "It has been an honor and privilege to have served the viewers of WBZ for so long. I now look forward to new challenges," Street said. "It is exciting to join the senior management team of this world-renowned hospital at a pivotal time in its history. The public will hear much more about the Mass. Eye and Ear. I look forward to leading these communication efforts." Fernandez acknowledged the outstanding contributions of MEEI's Director of Marketing Carol Brennan and Director of Public Affairs Mary Leach, who will continue to lead these areas as the senior members of Street's communications team. Originally from Ridgefield, Conn, Street graduated from the Newhouse School of Public Communications at Syracuse University in 1987. She lives in Newton with her husband and two sons. |
Massachusetts Eye and Ear Infirmary Ranked a Top Hospital for Ears and Eyes in U.S. News’ “America’s Best Hospitals”Contact: Vannessa Carrington Boston (July 13, 2007) -- The Massachusetts Eye and Ear Infirmary ranked in the top five hospitals in the nation for ear, nose and throat and for ophthalmology (eyes), according to U.S. News & World Report’s “America’s Best Hospitals” survey. The rankings consist of the 50 highest-scoring hospitals. Of more than 5,000 hospitals evaluated, MEEI ranked fourth in ear, nose and throat, and fourth in ophthalmology. MEEI has been ranked in the top five in one or both of its specialties each year since the magazine began publishing its annual survey of hospitals in 1990. “MEEI’s continuous ranking as one of the nation’s best hospitals is made possible by the excellence and dedication of the professionals that provide care to our patients every day,” said John Fernandez, president and CEO of the Massachusetts Eye and Ear Infirmary. The "America's Best Hospitals" rankings were produced by RTI International, a leading research organization in Research Triangle Park, N.C. |
The Court Rules in Favor of Massachusetts Eye and Ear Infirmary in Visudyne (QLT Inc.) CaseContact: Mary Leach Boston (July 10, 2007) -- The Massachusetts Eye and Ear Infirmary (MEEI) announces that today, in the United States District Court for the District of Massachusetts, Judge William G. Young, following a Nov. 6, 2006 jury decision, ruled in favor of MEEI on claims of unjust enrichment and unfair trade practices against QLT Inc. Judge Young found QLT Inc. liable for 3.01% royalty on worldwide net sales of Visudyne and awarded prejudgment interest on past royalties due at the Massachusetts statutory rate of 12 %. In addition, Judge Young awarded MEEI attorney’s fees of more than $14 million. The case, which began in 2000, relates to the development of Visudyne as a treatment for the wet form of macular degeneration. Macular degeneration is the leading cause of blindness in people over the age of 50 in the Western world. Visudyne was the first drug therapy approved for this devastating disease and was approved by the U.S. Food and Drug Administration in 2000. As of the end of March 2007, net worldwide sales of Visudyne were approximately $2.314 billion, according to QLT Inc. “Massachusetts Eye and Ear Infirmary is proud of the pioneering work of its researchers, Drs. Joan Miller and Evangelos Gragoudas, in the development of this landmark treatment,” said John Fernandez, MEEI president and CEO. “This ruling will help us further our mission to improve clinical care, train the next generation of medical leaders, and perform research to develop more treatments for those who suffer from debilitating disorders.” |
Massachusetts Eye and Ear Infirmary Appoints Christine A. Finn as Clinical PharmacistContact: Vannessa Carrington Boston (June 21, 2007) – The Massachusetts Eye and Ear Infirmary (MEEI) has appointed Christine Ann Finn, a resident of Framingham, Mass., as Clinical Pharmacist. Ms. Finn completed a residency in pharmacy practice at Boston Medical Center and earned a doctor of pharmacy degree from Northeastern University Bouve College of Health Services. Prior to joining MEEI Ms. Finn worked as a Clinical Pharmacist at the Boston Medical Center and as a Senior Clinical Pharmacist at Brigham and Women’s Hospital. Ms. Finn completed a pharmacy internship at MEEI in 2000. She now returns as a Licensed Pharmacist with the Massachusetts Board of Pharmacy and a Board Certified Pharmacotherapy Specialist. She served as co-editor and wrote articles for the BWH Pharmacy and Therapeutics Perspectives. A research project conducted in 2004 concerning the Effect of Pharmacist-run Sedation Rounds on Clinical Outcomes in the Medical Intensive Care Unit is currently being reviewed for publication for Critical Care Medicine. |
Massachusetts Eye and Ear Infirmary Appoints Troy Sims as New Director of Environmental ServicesContact: Vannessa Carrington Boston (June 21, 2007) – Massachusetts Eye and Ear Infirmary (MEEI) has named Troy Sims, a resident of Roslindale, Mass., as Director of Environmental Services. Prior to joining MEEI Mr. Sims served as Sodexho General Manager II for the Environmental Services Department at Milton Hospital. Mr. Sims has worked within the Sodexho Health Care Division at several hospitals. At Melrose Wakefield Hospital he served as Operations Manager for the Environmental Services Department. In addition, he worked as Manager of Environmental Services at Beth Israel Deaconess Medical Center. |
Mayor Thomas Menino Proclaims Massachusetts Eye and Ear Infirmary Social Work Department DayContact: Public Affairs Boston (June 21, 2007) — Boston Mayor Thomas M. Menino has declared June 21, 2007 as Massachusetts Eye and Ear Infirmary (MEEI) Social Work Department Day. Mayor Menino’s
proclamation recognizes the 100th Anniversary of the MEEI Social Work Department, which is the second oldest social work department in the country in a hospital setting, for
its numerous contributions to the field of social work practice including:
The Social Work Department was founded in1907 to help patients and families cope with physical, social and emotional traumas that result from sensory loss and diseases affecting the eyes, ears, nose and throat. The department initially addressed this objective by means of a public health focus, assisting physicians in preventing blindness through the provision of supportive treatment, financial aid and health education. Today, these goals are accomplished through the use of focused interventions, interpersonal relationships and community services. During the first quarter century, the MEEI Social Work Department made significant strides in the prevention of ocular tuberculosis, deafness, and blindness from glaucoma. In addition, a nationally recognized 1920 study of premature infants with retrolental fibroplasia (RLF) conducted by the department ultimately led to a change in community attitudes about accepting blind children in nursery schools and foster care. In honor of its 100th anniversary, the MEEI Social Work and Discharge Planning Department will present a conference, “Interpersonal Neurobiology: Relationships and the Power to Change the Brain,” featuring Dr. Daniel Siegel. The June 21 conference will discuss recent studies that suggest an impact of interpersonal relationships on neural development, and discuss clinical applications to promote well-being in individuals, couples and families. State Senator Harriette Chandler, a member of the Health Care Financing Committee in the State Senate, is expected to read a resolution from the House and Senate congratulating the Social Work Department and the MEEI. This conference is currently sold out. |
Massachusetts Eye and Ear Infirmary Employee Receives Charles Wood Award for Exceptional Patient ServiceContact: Public Affairs Boston (June 14, 2007) – Massachusetts Eye and Ear Infirmary (MEEI) presented Margaret Penney Capra, R.N., B.S.N, a resident of Wakefield, Mass., with the Charles Wood Award for Exceptional Patient Service. The award recognizes employees whose exemplary activities benefit the well- being of patients. The award was established so individuals can enhance their talents further through education to mutually benefit the award winner and MEEI. Ms. Penney Capra has worked at MEEI for over 20 years in departments including Pediatrics and most recently in the Surgicenter. “Ms. Penney Capra is well respected by the surgeons, anesthesia staff and her nursing colleagues,” said Carol Covell, Executive Vice President of Patient Services for MEEI. |
Massachusetts Eye and Ear Infirmary Employee Receives Charles Wood Award for Exceptional Patient ServiceContact: Public Affairs Boston (June 14, 2007) – Massachusetts Eye and Ear Infirmary (MEEI) employee Unseul Charles, a resident of Milton, Mass., recently received the Charles Wood Award for Exceptional Patient Service. The award recognizes employees whose exemplary activities benefit the well- being of patients. The award was established so individuals can enhance their talents and further their education to mutually benefit the award winner and MEEI. Mr. Charles has worked at MEEI for 19 years. “He is an asset to our organization and a pleasure to work with,” said Carol Covell, Executive Vice President of Patient Services for MEEI. Mr. Charles has twice been chosen as employee of the month. |
Massachusetts Eye and Ear Infirmary Employee Receives Norman Knight Excellence in Nursing Clinical Practice AwardContact: Public Affairs Boston (June 14, 2007) – Massachusetts Eye and Ear Infirmary (MEEI) presented Mary Powers, R.N., a resident of Newburyport, Mass., with the Norman Knight Excellence in Nursing Clinical Practice Award. The Norman Knight Excellence in Nursing Clinical Practices Award honors the nurse who demonstrates a long- term commitment to the provision of quality care for MEEI patients. Ms. Powers joined MEEI in 1998 and is currently a nurse in the pediatric unit. “She is a nurturing person and a patient advocate. She is dedicated to making a difference in patients’ lives by providing the best clinical care for each patient she encounters,” said Carol Covell, Executive Vice President of Patient Services for MEEI. Norman Knight has supported MEEI for many years. Two awards were established in his name to recognize achievements by nurses in two critical areas - clinical practice and leadership. |
Massachusetts Eye and Ear Infirmary Employee Receives Norman Knight Excellence in Nursing Clinical Practice AwardContact: Public Affairs Boston (June 14, 2007) – Massachusetts Eye and Ear Infirmary (MEEI) presented Diane McBrine, R.N., a resident of Tewksbury, Mass., with the Norman Knight Excellence in Nursing Clinical Practice Award. The Norman Knight Excellence in Nursing Clinical Practice Award honors the nurse who demonstrates Norman Knight’s commitment to the provision of quality care for MEEI patients. Ms. McBrine has worked at MEEI for 20 years. She currently is a nurse in the Ambulatory Surgery Unit. “Ms. McBrine continues to enhance the image of nursing through her professional practice. She maintains the highest standard of care and is admired for her knowledge, compassion, and skill,” said Carol Covell, Executive Vice President of Patient Services for MEEI. Norman Knight has supported MEEI for many years. Two awards were established in his name to recognize achievements by nurses in two critical areas - clinical practice and leadership. |
Massachusetts Eye and Ear Infirmary Employee Receives Norman Knight Excellence in Nursing Clinical Practice AwardContact: Public Affairs Boston (June 14, 2007) – Massachusetts Eye and Ear Infirmary (MEEI) employee Debbie Rich, R.N., a resident of Wakefield, Mass., recently received the Norman Knight Leadership Excellence Award. This award is given to the nurse who demonstrates leadership qualities which inspire others. Ms. Rich has been at MEEI since 1982. Currently she is Nurse Manager in MEEI’s ambulatory care unit. Originally an L.P.N, Ms. Rich furthered her education to earn her R.N. and bachelors degree in nursing. Currently she is in school earning her masters degree. “Ms. Rich is a pleasure to work with and her dedication to patient care is outstanding,” said Carol Covell, Executive Vice President of Patients Services for MEEI. Norman Knight has supported MEEI for many years. Two awards were established in his name to recognize achievements by nurses in two critical areas - clinical practice and leadership. |
Massachusetts Eye and Ear Infirmary Employee Receives Norman Knight Excellence in Nursing Clinical Practice AwardContact: Public Affairs Boston (June 14, 2007) – Massachusetts Eye and Ear Infirmary (MEEI) employee, JoAnn Graziano, R.N, a resident of Kingston, Mass., recently received the Norman Knight Excellence in Leadership Award. This award is given to the nurse who demonstrates leadership qualities which inspire others. Ms. Graziano joined MEEI in 2003 and is currently Nurse Manager for MEEI’s Post Anesthesia Care Unit and its Morse Laser Center. “She takes pride in her work and continues to challenge herself and the staff. Ms. Graziano is admired for her compassionate and caring attitude as she always maintains the highest standard of care,” said Carol Covell, Executive Vice President of Patient Services at MEEI. Norman Knight has supported MEEI for many years. Two awards were established in his name to recognize achievements by nurses in two critical areas - clinical practice and leadership. |
Massachusetts Eye and Ear Infirmary Awards Belinda Van Tassell the Rita Kelly Memorial ScholarshipContact: Public Affairs Boston (June 14, 2007) – Massachusetts Eye and Ear Infirmary (MEEI) presented Belinda Van Tassell, R.N., a resident of Shirley, Mass., with the Rita Kelly Memorial Scholarship. The Rita Kelly Memorial Scholarship is given to a candidate who best depicts a dedication for learning and a motivation for professional development. Ms. Van Tassell joined MEEI in 1981. She originally started as an L.P.N. before continuing her training and education to receive her R.N. Currently she is attending the University of Lowell to receive her BSN and works in MEEI’s Ambulatory Care Unit. “Belinda is a dedicated nurse who has continued to advance her education and we are all very proud of her,” said Carol Covell, Executive Vice President of Patient Services for MEEI. |
Massachusetts Eye and Ear Infirmary Celebrates 100th Anniversary of Social Work DepartmentContact: Public Affairs Boston (June 7, 2007) — The Massachusetts Eye and Ear Infirmary (MEEI) is celebrating the 100th anniversary of its Social Work Department. The department is the second oldest social work department in the country in a hospital setting. In 1907 the Social Work Department was founded to help patients and families cope with physical, social and emotional traumas that result from sensory loss and diseases affecting the eyes, ears, nose and throat. The department initially addressed this objective by means of a public health focus, assisting physicians in preventing blindness through the provision of supportive treatment, financial aid and health education. Today, these goals are accomplished through the use of focused interventions, interpersonal relationships and community services. During the first quarter century, the MEEI Social Work Department made significant strides in the prevention of ocular tuberculosis, deafness, and blindness from glaucoma. MEEI studies also led to the passing of bills that established lip-reading in public schools and outlawed BB guns. In addition, a nationally recognized 1920 study of premature infants with retrolental fibroplasia (RLF) conducted by the department ultimately led to a change in community attitudes about accepting blind children in nursery schools and foster care. In honor of its 100th anniversary, the MEEI Social Work and Discharge Planning Department will present a conference, “Interpersonal Neurobiology: Relationships and the Power to Change the Brain,” featuring Dr. Daniel Siegel. The June conference will discuss recent studies that suggest an impact of interpersonal relationships on neural development, and discuss clinical applications to promote well-being in individuals, couples and families. State Senator Harriette Chandler, a member of the Health Care Financing Committee in the State Senate, is expected to read a resolution from the House and Senate congratulating the Social Work Department and the MEEI. This conference is currently sold out. |
Massachusetts Eye and Ear Infirmary Hires David C. Read as Director of OphthalmologyContact: Public Affairs Boston (May 14, 2007) — The Massachusetts Eye and Ear Infirmary (MEEI) has hired David C. Read , a resident of Topsfield, Mass., as Director for Ophthalmology. In this position, Read will be responsible for all administrative and operating aspects of clinical, research and teaching divisions for the department of ophthalmology. Prior to joining MEEI, Read most recently served as the Chief Operating Officer of the Department of Medicine at the University of Pennsylvania Health System (UPHS), where he was responsible for eleven divisions including hematology-oncology, gastroenterology, pulmonary, genetics, infectious disease, renal, cardiology, experimental therapeutics, sleep, rheumatology and endocrinology. He has also served Administrative Director for Cardiology at Massachusetts General Hospital, where he managed the annual operating budget of the Cardiology division, and as business manager for the cardiothoracic surgery division at New England Deaconess Hospital. Read received a master’s degree in Public Health from Harvard University, a master’s degree in Business Administration from Boston College, and a bachelor’s degree in Medical Technology from Northeastern University. Read currently serves on the Board of Trustees of the East Coast Greenway. |
Harvard Pilgrim Health Care Awards Grant to Massachusetts Eye and Ear Infirmary Staff, Inc.
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Massachusetts Eye and Ear Infirmary Appoints Nicholas Seremetis as Director of Dietary ServicesContact: Public Affairs Boston (April 23, 2007) – The Massachusetts Eye and Ear Infirmary (MEEI) appointed Nicholas Seremetis, a resident of Waltham, Mass., as the director of dietary services. In his position, Seremetis implants online ordering for catering and par stocks, conducts community service projects to market the hospital and the department, is developing a new catering menu with a tasting event to introduce the quality of the items offered, as well as establishing new procedures and policies on patient care meals. Seremetis gained his experience as the former director of food services for Sodexho at Children’s Hospital in Waltham, Mass. He received his associate’s degree in culinary arts from Johnson & Wales University in Providence, RI and a certification in general management from Sodexho University. |
Massachusetts Eye and Ear Infirmary’s Cheryl Barrett Receives YMCA Black Achievers AwardContact: Public Affairs Boston (March 19, 2007) – Cheryl Barrett, a resident of Mattapan, Mass., and an assistant in the Human Resources Department at the Massachusetts Eye and Ear Infirmary (MEEI), has been honored with the 2007 YMCA Black Achievers Award. The YMCA Black Achievement Award is presented to black professionals to acknowledge achievements in their position and their dedication to volunteering their free time to youth in the community. “Being raised by a single mother has shown me that all things are possible through strength and perseverance,” said Barrett. All recipients of the YMCA Black Achiever Award volunteer at least 40 hours of service to Black Achievers-sponsored programs, which benefit the youth in the area. |
Massachusetts Eye and Ear Infirmary’s Marie Sanon Receives YMCA Black Achievers AwardContact: Public Affairs Boston (March 19, 2007) – Marie Sanon, a resident of Roslindale, Mass., an employee of the Medical and Surgical Department at the Massachusetts Eye and Ear Infirmary (MEEI), has been honored with the 2007 YMCA Black Achievers Award. The YMCA Black Achievement Award is presented to black professionals to acknowledge their past achievements in their position and their dedication to volunteering their free time to youth in the community. “I am really happy that I won the YMCA Black Achievement Award. It really means a lot to me. I would like to thank MEEI and the YMCA for this honor,” said Sanon. All recipients offered at least 40 hours of voluntary service to Black Achievers-sponsored programs, which benefit adolescents in the community. |
Massachusetts Eye and Ear Infirmary’s Wilmayer Marcelin Receives YMCA Black Achievers AwardContact: Public Affairs Boston (March 19, 2007) – Wilmayer Marcelin, a resident of Cambridge, Mass., and a Materials Assistant in the Operating Room at the Massachusetts Eye and Ear Infirmary (MEEI), has been honored with the 2007 YMCA Black Achievers Award. The YMCA Black Achievers Award is presented to black professionals to acknowledge achievements in their position and their dedication to volunteering their free time to youth in the community. “The YMCA Black Achievers Awards is one of the most prestigious awards I have received in my life. It was really great to be among other local professionals of color who received this award. As the founder/president of Fantezi Kreyol Dance Company, INC., a non-profit organization that endorses Haitian dance as a cultural and educational tool, this award has given me encouragement to continue my work in the community, which benefits young people,” said Wilmayer. All recipients volunteer of the Black Achievers Award Volunteer at least 40 hours of service to Black Achievers-sponsored programs, which benefit adolescents in the community. |
Massachusetts Eye and Ear Infirmary Appoints Bonnie Kelly as Director of Patient AccessContact: Vannessa Carrington Boston (Feb. 14, 2007) — The Massachusetts Eye and Ear Infirmary has appointed Bonnie Kelly, a resident of Dracut, Mass., as Director of Patient Access Services. Ms. Kelly previously served as Director of Patient Access at Anna Jaques Hospital in Newburyport, Mass., and as Director of Patient Registration at Northeast Rehabilitation Hospital in Salem, N.H. She is a member of the Massachusetts Association of Healthcare Access Managers, where she has served as President and Vice President, and currently holds the position of Nominating Chair. She earned a master’s degree in Healthcare Management from New England College in Henniker, N.H. Founded in 1824, Massachusetts Eye and Ear Infirmary (MEEI) is an independent specialty hospital providing patient care for disorders of the eye, ear, nose, throat, head and neck. MEEI is an international leader in Ophthalmology and Otolaryngology research and a teaching partner of Harvard Medical School. For more information, call 617-523-7900 or visit http://www.meei.harvard.edu. |
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