John Howington, MD, MBA, FCCP, Elected as the 87th President of the American College of Chest Physicians

New Leadership Marking a Transformative Era for the American College of Chest Physicians

As the New Year dawns, the American College of Chest Physicians (CHEST) ushers in a seismic shift within its leadership framework. This transformative leadership change aims to spearhead innovation and progress in the fields of pulmonary, critical care, and sleep medicine, fostering a collaborative environment that prioritizes research, education, and patient care. The new president, John Howington, MD, MBA, FCCP, brings substantial experience to the role, having dedicated over a decade to expanding CHEST’s lung cancer guideline portfolio. His extensive background in thoracic surgery and executive leadership, combined with his commitment to multidisciplinary approaches, positions him uniquely to lead CHEST’s mission forward.

John Howington is not only a skilled thoracic surgeon but an advocate for quality improvement within healthcare systems. His tenure at Virginia Mason Franciscan Health has solidified his reputation as a knowledgeable leader, committed to exceeding the expectations placed upon healthcare professionals. His previous roles include Chair of the Finance Committee and member of the CHEST Board of Regents, allowing him to develop the strategic insights necessary for navigating the contemporary challenges in medicine—insights he will undoubtedly leverage as he embarks upon this new role.

As a member of multiple CHEST committees and the CHEST Foundation’s former president, Howington’s history is deeply intertwined with the organization’s objectives. His predilection for leadership is evident from his participation in developing clinical guidelines and protocols that have had a lasting impact on pulmonary medicine. Notably, his substantive contributions in guideline development for lung cancer reflect his dedication to translating evidence-based medicine into clinical practice, which remains a central goal for the organization.

Neil S. Freedman, MD, FCCP, assuming the role of President-Elect, exhibits a similarly illustrious background. His dual focus on critical care and education positions him as a vital asset during this transition. Having been integrally involved in numerous educational initiatives, Freedman is celebrated for his ability to communicate complex medical information effectively. His perspective is founded on over 300 presentations at various meetings worldwide, skillfully discussing themes related to quality of care and patient outcomes—themes essential in today’s complex healthcare landscape.

Freedman’s experience as President of the Endeavor Health Medical Group reflects his capabilities in healthcare leadership, where he skillfully navigated the intersection of clinical practice and administrative oversight. Those qualities will be invaluable as he prepares to assume the presidency in 2026. CHEST’s community can anticipate his influence in shaping policy and promoting educational opportunities targeted toward evolving trends and practices in medicine.

Meanwhile, the appointment of Lisa K. Moores, MD, FCCP, as President-Designate signals a significant commitment to educational leadership within CHEST. Her long tenure at the Uniformed Services University demonstrates her dedication to developing medical education frameworks that cater to the needs of diverse populations. Moores’s track record in clinical research and her distinguished military background provide a unique lens through which she views healthcare—one that emphasizes both rigor and empathy in patient care.

Dr. Moores’s significant contributions to the CHEST organization include co-founding the CHEST Challenge event and her leadership roles across multiple committees. These experiences signify her commitment to confronting prevalent health challenges while ensuring that educational initiatives empower future healthcare leaders. This dual emphasis on education and mentorship will be pivotal in further enhancing CHEST’s impact on medical training.

At the helm of this legacy is Jack D. Buckley, MD, MPH, FCCP, who steps down as President to become the Immediate Past President of CHEST. Buckley has devoted extensive efforts to medical education and leadership training, advocating for excellence in clinical care. His recent role as Professor of Medical Education at Western Michigan University underscores his focus on integrating educational approaches within clinical frameworks. The transfer of leadership from Buckley to Howington marks not just a change in names but a continuity of vision for the advancement of CHEST’s mission.

The transition signifies an ongoing evolution that underscores the necessity for adaptive approaches in tackling emerging challenges in chest medicine. The infusion of new leadership emerges at a time when the healthcare landscape is continually shifting due to numerous factors, including the advent of advanced technology, evolving patient demographics, and a heightened awareness of public health concerns. Understanding this backdrop allows CHEST to better frame its strategic objectives.

Establishing a robust pipeline of education and research output will play a significant role in shaping CHEST’s pathway for the foreseeable future. The leadership team actively promotes interdisciplinary collaborations, recognizing that diverse perspectives enhance the depth and efficacy of healthcare solutions. This commitment extends to the development of clinical guidelines that remain responsive to the needs of healthcare providers and patients alike.

CHEST is also focused on expanding its global footprint, aspiring to influence chest medicine not just within borders but also on an international level. By engaging with a global community of healthcare professionals, the organization seeks to address common challenges while collectively promoting best practices that can benefit patient outcomes everywhere. This enhanced global collaboration stands to mentor emerging leaders while advocating for equitable access to care.

As the organization pivots toward these multifaceted goals, CHEST members can expect increased opportunities for engagement. Whether through research initiatives, educational programs, or shared leadership experiences, the efforts will facilitate a robust exchange of knowledge. The leadership is dedicated to fostering an environment where innovative ideas thrive, ultimately advocating for excellence in patient care.

The American College of Chest Physicians stands at the forefront of evolving excellence in chest medicine, backed by a dedicated team of leaders primed to address the challenges ahead. With a clear vision and strategic objectives, CHEST will enhance its integral role in shaping the future of pulmonary healthcare, ensuring the well-being of diverse patient communities both nationally and globally.

In closing, with the advent of a new leadership era, CHEST reinforces its commitment to advancing clinical practice and research. By focusing on educational excellence and collaborative efforts, the organization is poised for pioneering advancements in chest medicine for years to come.

Subject of Research: Leadership Transition at American College of Chest Physicians
Article Title: New Leadership Marking a Transformative Era for the American College of Chest Physicians
News Publication Date: January 1, 2023
Web References: CHEST Website
References: Not applicable.
Image Credits: Not applicable.

Keywords: CHEST, pulmonary medicine, leadership transition, thoracic surgery, medical education, healthcare innovation, clinical guidelines, lung cancer, interdisciplinary collaboration.