Message from the Chair

Fall 2020 Newsletter
Prabhakar Baliga MD

With the rise in the number of COVID cases across the country and world, this is a transformational time for the country and American medicine. Just as explorers navigated unchartered territory using the North Star, we in the Department of Surgery have followed our True North during these unprecedented times. With strength and resiliency, we are fulfilling our mission to provide the highest level of compassionate patient care, best–in–class training for the next generation of surgical leaders, and cutting-edge research.

I feel extremely fortunate to have so much progress to report to you.

Here are a few highlights of what you will find in this  issue:

  • Our feature article illustrates how our patients and health care   providers have benefited by incorporating Telehealth technology into their practices, finding ways to improve some processes along the way.
  • Under the leadership of Mark Lockett, M.D., the Ralph H. Johnson  Veterans Affairs Medical Center’s surgical outcomes have been ranked among the best in VA    hospitals.
  • The South Carolina Burn Center ribbon cutting ceremony marked a new era in MUSC Health burn care, changing what’s possible through innovation and   discovery.
  • Dr. Nancy Klauber-DeMore’s research led to a therapy which received rare pediatric disease designation from the FDA for the treatment of osteosarcoma.
  • The Future Surgical Leaders Program is a first-of-its-kind training that will prepare our surgical residents and fellows to be the next generation of surgical leaders.

During this holiday season, my thoughts turn gratefully to the dedicated faculty, fellows, residents, staff and generous donors who have contributed to our success.

I wish you and your family a safe, healthy and happy holiday season.

With gratitude,

Prabhakar Baliga, M.D.
Professor and Chair 
MUSC Department of Surgery