#USA #Washington #MedStar Georgetown #Lynda Carter #Robert Altman

A Transformational Commitment to Surgical Training

In a momentous announcement, award-winning actress and advocate Lynda Carter, along with MedStar Georgetown University Hospital, has introduced an incredible $10 million contribution from the Robert Lynda Altman Family Foundation. This landmark gift honors Carter's late husband, Robert A. Altman, by establishing The Robert A. Altman Center for Surgical Education at MedStar Georgetown.

Led by Dr. Patrick Jackson, the chief of the Division of General Surgery at the hospital, this center aims to broaden access to hands-on training and advanced surgical techniques. It will serve a vital role in building surgical capacity for various medical facilities that cater to patients in the Washington, D.C. area.

Carter, reflecting on Altman's deep appreciation for the city, remarked, "Robert loved this city and its people. This effort shows gratitude to the DMV community by equipping the next generation of surgeons to provide world-class care right here at home."

Dr. Jackson emphasized the significance of training early in a surgeon's career, stating, "Training matters. When young surgeons master complex procedures early, patients benefit for decades. I’m honored to help establish a pipeline that serves our communities."

As the inaugural holder of The Robert A. Altman Endowed Chair of Surgery, Dr. Jackson will guide the center, which becomes MedStar Health's first endowed chair. The center's educational framework will incorporate four main pillars: technical skills training, non-technical skills training, educational research, and interdisciplinary collaboration. This holistic approach ensures comprehensive training and education for medical students, residents, fellows, and attending physicians.

A state-of-the-art simulation facility will also be part of the center, providing critical training aimed at advancing proficiency, enhancing patient safety, and encouraging innovative practices in surgery. Participants will engage in hands-on training within actual operating rooms, creating real-life scenarios for learning and collaboration with leading medical professionals.

Dr. Lisa M. Boyle, president of MedStar Georgetown University Hospital, expressed deep gratitude to the Altman Family Foundation for what she described as an incredible opportunity to shape the future of surgery. "Every student at the Robert A. Altman Center for Surgical Education will train with the dedication, passion, and care that Robert and Lynda have instilled in our community," Boyle said.

MedStar Health President and CEO Kenneth A. Samet echoed this sentiment, stating, "Incredible things happen when we come together to better serve our patients, those who care for them, and our communities. Thanks to Lynda and Robert's transformational commitment, lives will be saved, families can spend more quality time together, and overall health in the Washington, D.C. region will improve. This is the work of real-life superheroes."

Following the passing of Robert Altman in 2021 due to a rare form of blood cancer, secondary myeloid leukemia, Carter has actively kept his legacy alive through philanthropy. Establishing the foundation in his name underlines her commitment to continuing his impact.

The launch of The Robert A. Altman Center for Surgical Education represents a pivotal moment in surgical training. It stands as a testament to the Altman family's dedication to healthcare advancements and the future of medical education, paving the way for generations of skilled surgeons who will undoubtedly save lives and fortify the community’s health.