The UAB Heersink School of Medicine Department of Anesthesiology and Perioperative Medicine recently announced multiple new leaders within the department.

“We recognize that the success of any organization lies within its people; and the dedication, expertise, and passion of these faculty members are the assets that drive our department and the institution forward,” says Alfred Habeeb Professor and Chair Dan E. Berkowitz, M.D.

Please join our department in congratulating the following new appointees.

Peter Nagi, M.D.
Vice Chair, Division of Pain Medicine

Dr. Nagi served in the role of interim vice chair prior to this new appointment. During that time, his strategic vision and dedication to the department’s mission were instrumental in driving significant advancements. Under Dr. Nagi's guidance, the division has experienced remarkable growth in clinical volume, as well as expanded its presence to UAB Medical West and UAB Medicine Lee Branch Primary & Specialty Care. Additionally, the Inpatient Pain Service has broadened its reach to now include UAB Hospital-Highlands, marking a significant milestone in our commitment to providing comprehensive pain management services across the UAB Health System.

Elizabeth Duggan, M.D.
Vice Chair for Faculty Affairs and Professional Development

Dr. Duggan's dedication to fostering professional growth makes her an excellent choice for this inaugural role. With a Master of Arts in Industrial Organizational Psychology, she has a unique knowledge base to align individual faculty motivation with career advancement and professional fulfillment. Dr. Duggan’s experience is nationally recognized within the anesthesiology specialty. She has been invited to lecture at several conferences and multiple department Grand Rounds on various facets of organizational development: including organizational justice, physician engagement, leadership training, and the cultivation of optimal team dynamics. Her multifaceted approach will ensure that the department’s faculty members receive comprehensive support tailored to their individual and collective needs.

Yassar Sakawi, M.D.
Interim Vice Chair, Division of Obstetric Anesthesiology

Dr. Sakawi has exemplified strong leadership attributes in a multitude of clinical positions. At the Birmingham VA Health Care System, he serves as chief anesthesiologist, associate chief of staff, as well as OR director. He also guides the educational mission within the system as a professor and chief of the residency program at the VA. Additionally, Dr. Sakawi is a member of both national committees and local advisory boards, all with the goal of improving quality and patient safety.

Joel Feinstein, M.D.
Interim Vice Chair, Division of Regional Anesthesia and Acute Pain Medicine

Dr. Feinstein has made significant contributions through his service as medical director for Regional Anesthesia. Notably, he has been involved in the substantial expansion of regional anesthesia services across hospitals and successfully led the implementation of multiple enhanced recovery protocols. His leadership extends to various hospital and departmental committees and quality improvement initiatives, where he has played pivotal roles in enhancing patient care and safety. Dr. Feinstein is revered not only by our faculty, but also the surgeons with whom he works.