UCT doctors laureled at SAMA awards

Two of UCT's Health Sciences faculty members recently had their work acknowledged by the South African Medical Association (SAMA), walking away with prestigious awards presented to them at a gala event at the Sandton Convention Centre.

Professor Lynette Denny, head of the Department of Obstetrics & Gynaecology, was the recipient of the Extraordinary Service to Medicine Award. This is awarded to individuals who have pursued a chosen area of interest in medicine with single-minded purpose and who have made a substantial contribution to the research promotion and advancement of that field, extending beyond the ordinary terrain of medicine and into the wider community.

Professor Dan Stein, head of the Department of Psychiatry and Mental Health, was awarded the Fellowship in the Art & Science of Medicine. This is for international acclaim of excellence in the practice of medicine, acknowledging the philosophy and ethical constraints of the profession, and championing the cause of healthcare despite obstacles, and is equal in status to the Heroes in Medicine Award (Canada) or membership in the Institute of Medicine (USA).

In reaction to this recognition, Denny said, "Personally I don't see my achievements as 'extraordinary', but I do feel proud to be acknowledged as a dedicated, passionate, hard-working clinician, researcher and teacher."

Stein, an A-rated researcher, commented, "Psychiatry is in many ways both a humanity and a science, and my hope is that the award helps emphasize the unique value of the way in which psychiatry integrates these disciplines, as well as the high standards of the services, training, and research provided by the Dept of Psychiatry & Mental Health at our University and hospitals."