The seven CHEST Networks will highlight the accomplishments of early career members during CHEST 2024 by handing out the inaugural Network Rising Star Awards. These awards recognize individual contributions in the areas of clinical care, education, research, and/or other scholarly activity and someone who has shown growth and potential within a particular Network and CHEST.

Each Network will celebrate its respective awardee during the concurrent Network Open Forums, Tuesday, October 8, from 11:15 am to 12:15 pm ET in the Boston Convention & Exhibition Center.

Hear from one of the Rising Stars their own words, below, and click here to read Q&As with the six other recipients.

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2024 Chest Infections and Disaster Response Network Rising Star

Jamie Felzer, MD, MPH

Assistant Professor of Medicine
Emory University

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What have been your main focuses in the field? Which contributions or accomplishments are you most proud of?

My scope of work is primarily clinical in both pulmonary and critical care; my research focuses on healthcare disparities in respiratory vaccines in high-risk populations with the goal of improving equity of vaccinations and subsequent health outcomes. Currently, I am evaluating disparities in the bronchiectasis population, pulse oximetry and working to improve vaccination rates in rural communities. Some of my most impactful work has been with the Task Force for Mass Critical Care. I have been part of the group’s work in healthcare resiliency, communication, health equity, and am also spearheading a project on trainee education. I am fortunate to have met lifelong mentors through these groups that have encouraged pursuit of my interests, and I hope to similarly mentor trainees.

What sparked your interest in the field? What excites you most about the future of this area and your involvement in it?

My excitement for chest infections and disaster response began while working on vaccine research and public health preparedness as an MPH student at the CDC. Now as a practicing clinician, I am most zealous about health equity with regard to vaccines and preparedness. Improving this type of care for underserved communities starts with education of healthcare professionals, and we have a unique opportunity to contribute to that education through CHEST! I am thrilled to see increasing interest in health equity and am optimistic that we can reduce the many disparities that currently exist in healthcare.

What have the Networks and CHEST meant to you?

Becoming an active member of the CHEST Networks has granted me the opportunity to connect with industry-leading mentors that have positively changed the trajectory of my career.  As a fellow, I was accepted into a position on the Chest Infections Network. There I quickly found a community of brilliant, encouraging professionals that drove me to become more involved in CHEST, leading me to pursue an academic career with regular interdisciplinary collaboration and inspiration. Participating in this Network has showcased our organization’s goals of improving care through education, advocacy and research.  The unwavering support of my CHEST family continues to energize my day-to-day goals as a physician, researcher, medical educator, and mentor.