Pioneering VA Pittsburgh Surgeon Celebrated for Revolutionary Lifesaving Innovation in Veteran Care

A surgeon from the VA Pittsburgh Healthcare System received a top honor during the 2025 National VA Research Week Awards Ceremony. Dr. Daniel Hall accepted the Under Secretary’s Award for Outstanding Achievement in Health Systems Research for his team’s groundbreaking work on a lifesaving tool called The Surgical Pause.

This innovation helps identify frail patients right at the bedside. By doing so, it allows both doctors and patients to make better-informed decisions about surgical options. The results are impressive: higher survival rates, fewer complications, and lower medical costs—all while prioritizing the patient’s needs.

During the awards ceremony on May 13 in Washington, D.C., Hall emphasized the VA’s unique role in embracing and implementing medical innovations like The Surgical Pause. He pointed out the collaborative spirit within the VA, saying that this type of transformative work wouldn’t thrive anywhere else. Hall noted, "The VA is a precious jewel hidden in plain sight," encouraging continued support for its mission.

Dr. Hall is not only a surgeon but also a professor at the University of Pittsburgh and an ordained priest in the Episcopal Church. His work at the VA aligns with the broader goals of improving healthcare for Veterans. VAPHS Director Donald Koenig echoed this sentiment, highlighting how The Surgical Pause has made a significant impact, not just for Veterans but also for people across the United States and around the globe. To date, 42 VA medical centers and more than 30 private healthcare organizations have adopted this innovative approach.

Dr. Hall’s award comes with funding of $50,000 per year for up to three years to further his research efforts. He’s among six VA investigators recognized for their valuable research aimed at enhancing the lives of Veterans and everyday Americans.

The ceremony also marked the beginning of VA Research Week, which celebrated 100 years of research contributions to veteran health. Keynote speaker Paul R. Lawrence, Ph.D., Deputy Secretary of Veterans Affairs, remarked on the importance of this research, stating it transforms scientific findings into actionable healthcare solutions.

Historical context reveals that VA research has been pivotal in numerous medical breakthroughs. For instance, it played a vital role in establishing the link between smoking and lung cancer and developing the pacemaker. More recent advancements include rapid COVID-19 treatment innovations, showcasing the VA’s resilience and commitment to health care.

Dr. Steven L. Lieberman, the Acting Under Secretary for Health, acknowledged that the dedication of both researchers and participating Veterans is crucial for driving such innovations forward. “We have the most dedicated researchers with the best mission in government,” he stated, reinforcing the VA’s legacy in healthcare advancement.

Source link