OHSU SCHOOL OF MEDICINE ANNOUNCES NEW CHAIRMAN OF ANESTHESIOLOGY

Jeffrey Kirsch, M.D., arrives Dec. 1 from Johns Hopkins

PORTLAND, Ore. -- The Oregon Health & Science University School of Medicine has appointed Jeffrey R. Kirsch, M.D., chairman of anesthesiology. Kirsch joins OHSU from Johns Hopkins University School of Medicine in Baltimore, where he serves as professor of anesthesiology and critical care medicine, and vice chairman of education and training.

"Dr. Kirsch offers an impressive array of both clinical and basic science accomplishments," said Christine Cassel, M.D., M.A.C.P., dean of the OHSU School of Medicine. "We are fortunate to have engaged a professor who will add so much to the art, science and teaching of anesthesiology."

As a neuroanesthesiologist, Kirsch specializes in caring for patients with spinal deformities, brain tumors and vascular abnormalities. His research involves better understanding brain injury caused by stroke, and he has received continuous funding for this endeavor from the National Institutes of Health since 1988.

Kirsch was drawn to OHSU by its reputation for excellent clinical care and because of the tremendous dedication exhibited by all of its clinical staff. But the main attraction was the synergy among OHSU's senior management team, he said.

"I was particularly impressed with the leadership of the institution, and the collaboration among faculty, fellows, residents, nurses and administrative staff," Kirsch said. "I look forward to working with these individuals to make the Department of Anesthesiology the best in the country for clinical care, education and discovery in the areas of anesthesiology, critical care medicine and pain management."

Kirsch received his medical degree from the University of Michigan Medical School. He is secretary-treasurer of the Maryland Society of Anesthesiologists, and past president of the Society of Neurosurgical Anesthesia and Critical Care.