Radiologist honored by National Academy of Medicine for strong leadership

Hedvig Hricak, MD, PhD, chair of the department of radiology at Memorial Sloan Kettering Cancer Center in New York City, received the David Rall Medal from the National Academy of Medicine (NAM) on Monday, Oct. 15. Each year, the award is given to a member who "demonstrated particularly distinguished leadership as chair of a study committee or other National Academies activities, showing commitment above and beyond the usual responsibilities of the position.”

Hricak was honored alongside Elaine L. Larson, PhD, of Columbia University and Nicholas Peppas, ScD, of the University of Texas at Austin, at the academy's annual meeting. 

"These distinguished members have shown extraordinary dedication to furthering science and improving the health of our nation," National Academy of Medicine President Victor J. Dzau said in a prepared statement. "The countless hours they have volunteered in various roles year after year have been crucial to helping the National Academy of Medicine address critical issues in health, medicine, and related policy, and inspire collective action across sectors. We are delighted to honor them today."

Hricak has served on various committees within NAM, including the Nuclear and Radiation Studies Board and a 2009 symposium highlighting radiation exposure produced by imaging and image-guided interventions. Additionally, she previously served as a reviewer for reports focusing on nuclear medicine, cancer clinical trials, radiation from diagnostic procedures and diagnostic errors in medicine.

“Through her exemplary service over about 15 years, Hricak has treasured the NAM as a valuable stimulus for improving science in medicine, the quality of health care, and the state of public health in the U.S. and around the world,” the statement read.