Duke Urology ENewletter Spring 24'

This has been an exciting and challenging first year for the Department. The challenges, while demanding, have served as catalysts for growth, pushing us to innovate, adapt, and overcome obstacles. Yet, the rewards have been equally abundant, materializing in the form of achieved milestones, collaborative victories, and a shared sense of accomplishment. Witnessing the team's dedication translate into tangible successes has been immensely gratifying. Navigating through uncertainties has honed our collective resilience and fostered a culture of collective problem-solving. The bonds forged, the collective spirit, and the positive impact we've made together reinforce the deeper sense of purpose that comes with being a department. In this dynamic journey, the challenges have become opportunities, the rewards have become motivation, and the fulfillment has become the driving force propelling us forward as a cohesive and high-achieving team.

Our Department and the Duke Health system is keenly aware of the critical significance of fostering growth in clinical market share, especially in the Triangle region. Recognizing that market share is indicative not only of organizational success but also of the ability to reach and serve a broader population, our Department is committed to strategic initiatives that are in-line with Duke Health that enhance our presence in the healthcare landscape. By understanding and leveraging market dynamics, we aim to tailor our services to meet the evolving needs of the community, ensuring accessibility and quality care. This shared commitment to growth is reflected in collaborative efforts with Duke Health to invest in faculty growth, embrace cutting-edge technologies, expand service offerings, and when appropriate, strengthen partnerships with other healthcare entities.

The emphasis on market share growth is not merely a numerical pursuit; but a testament to our collective dedication in improving health outcomes, engaging with diverse patient populations, and fortifying our position as a trusted and indispensable healthcare provider within the region and nationwide. It is my pleasure to introduce three new faculty members, Jeffrey Gahan, Rohit Tejwani, and Reza Nabavizadeh.

Dr. Gahan received his medical degree from Baylor and completed his urology residency at the University of Miami. He then completed his fellowship in endourology and minimally invasive surgery at UT Southwestern. He remained in Dallas as a faculty at UTSW and rose to the the rank of Associate Professor. While at UTSW he was Chief of Robotic Surgery at the North Texas VAH, served as Medical Director of Urologic Oncology and Parkland Memorial Hospital. He is a recognized leader in minimally-invasive surgery for both benign and oncologic urologic disease. In addition, Dr. Gahan has a strong research interest in artificial intelligence. Dr. Gahan will join our Raleigh campus colleagues this month. Jeff will also spearhead the Department efforts to establish and grow our AI program.
Dr. Tejwani received his medical degree from Duke and remained here to complete his urology residency. He is completing his endourology fellowship at Stanford and will join us late summer early fall and will provide additional support for our growing stone program as well as developing our HoLEP program on the Durham campus as well at the Durham VA.
Dr. Nabavizadeh received his medical degree from Virginia Commonwealth University and completed his urologic residency at Emory University. He is completing his urologic oncology fellowship at the Mayo Clinic in Rochester, Minnesota. He will also be joining us in late summer or early fall.

The Department of Urology congratulates Drs. Deborah Kaye and Chad Gridley who recently completed the Duke Clinical Leadership Program this year. Congratulations to Dr. Charles Scales who was recently named the Vice Dean for Clinical and Translational Research within the Duke School of Medicine. Finally, congratulations to Dr. Michael Lipkin who was named the Surgical Chief of Ambulatory Surgery for Duke Health.
Congratulations to Dr. Thomas Polascik who was honored with the Lawrence C. Katz Distinguished Professorship for his pioneering research in prostate cancer imaging and his leadership in in the evolving discipline of focal therapy in the treatment of prostate cancer here at Duke as well as around the world.