Aaron Lazare

Dr. Aaron Lazare, University of Massachusetts Medical School

Aaron Lazare (1936–2015) was an esteemed American psychiatrist and academic, renowned for his contributions to the field of psychiatry, particularly in the areas of medical education, psychiatric diagnosis, and the study of shame and humiliation. He served as the Chancellor and Dean of the University of Massachusetts Medical School (UMMS) from 1991 until his retirement in 2007, playing a pivotal role in the institution's development and expansion during his tenure.

Early Life and Education

Aaron Lazare was born in 1936. He pursued his undergraduate education at Oberlin College, where he developed an interest in the humanities and social sciences, which would later influence his psychiatric work. Following his graduation from Oberlin, Lazare earned his medical degree from the Western Reserve University School of Medicine (now known as Case Western Reserve University School of Medicine) in Cleveland, Ohio. He completed his residency in psychiatry at the Massachusetts Mental Health Center and the Beth Israel Hospital in Boston, Massachusetts, affiliating with Harvard Medical School.

Career

Throughout his career, Lazare was a prolific writer and researcher, focusing on the dynamics of the patient-physician relationship, the process of medical apologies, and the psychological impacts of shame and humiliation. His work in these areas has been widely recognized and has contributed significantly to the understanding and teaching of medical ethics and communication.

As the Chancellor and Dean of UMMS, Lazare was instrumental in the establishment of the Albert Sherman Center, a state-of-the-art research and education facility, which significantly expanded the school's capacity for cutting-edge biomedical research and interprofessional education. Under his leadership, UMMS also saw the creation of the MassBiologics facility, the only non-profit FDA-licensed manufacturer of vaccines and other biologic products in the United States.

Contributions to Psychiatry

Lazare's most notable contributions to psychiatry include his work on the therapeutic effects of medical apologies and the understanding of shame and humiliation in the clinical setting. He argued that effective apologies from healthcare providers could lead to healing and resolution for patients who have experienced medical errors or adverse events. His book, "On Apology," explores the importance of apologies in various contexts, including medicine, and has been influential in shaping policies and practices around medical apologies and disclosure.

Legacy

Aaron Lazare's legacy in the fields of psychiatry and medical education is enduring. His insights into the dynamics of communication in healthcare have influenced generations of medical professionals and continue to be a cornerstone of medical humanities education. His leadership at the University of Massachusetts Medical School is remembered for its visionary approach to medical education and research, fostering an environment that encouraged innovation and interdisciplinary collaboration.

Death

Aaron Lazare passed away in 2015, leaving behind a rich legacy of contributions to psychiatry, medical education, and the study of human emotions. His work continues to inspire and inform practitioners and researchers across the medical and psychological sciences.

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