Congratulations to Bruce Spiess, M.D., FAHA, professor of anesthesiology and associate chair of research, who has received the 2021 Kathleen J. Sazama Award from the Society for the Advancement of Blood Management (SABM) in recognition of his contributions to the field.
The award was created in recognition of Sazama’s bold insights in the field of medical ethics, her selfless dedication to the fostering of individual growth, her steadfast and responsible stewardship through change, and her tireless leadership in the field of patient blood management.
Spiess has been an exemplary proponent of patient blood management (PBM) at UF, and his leadership has been crucial in expanding best practices throughout the institution. His commitment to advancing the field is evident in the upcoming inaugural Tourniquetting Transfusion Conference, which the Department of Anesthesiology is hosting Feb. 21-23 in Orlando. The conference, which will be focused on the future of patient blood management, will bring together international experts and help the University of Florida carve out its space as a leader in the field.
SABM chooses a recipient for the Kathleen J. Sazama Award who has exemplified the high standards and qualities set by its namesake; demonstrated commitment to patient rights, autonomy, and informed choice; shown strength of character to lead with progressive evidence-based thinking, even if contrary to popular belief; selflessly served with the well-being of the patient as the ultimate goal; and demonstrated consistent dedication to progress in the field of patient blood management.
Spiess received the award during SABM’s Annual Meeting this fall.