Announcement: 2018 Inductees into the Canadian Medical Hall of Fame

Dr. Vladimir Hachinski is among a group of exceptional healthcare leaders who will be inducted into The Canadian Medical Hall of Fame (CMHF). Dr. Hachinski, a Distinguished University Professor in Clinical Neurological Sciences, is a world-renowned neurologist and has transformed the understanding, diagnosis, treatment and prevention of the two greatest threats to the brain, stroke and dementia.

"I feel extremely fortunate to have this honour," said Dr. Hachinski. "It has been a long road from Port Perry, Ontario High School to the Hall of Fame. I have been very fortunate of being well accompanied on my journey by inspiring teachers, eager students, good colleagues and above all, my wife Mary Ann, so whatever my achievements, they are also theirs, and I am happy and proud to have their company and share the recognition."

Prior to the 1970's, stroke was untreatable.  Together with John W. Norris, Dr. Hachinski, pioneered acute stroke units, now the standard of care yielding the best outcomes for stroke patients of all ages, severities and kinds.  He coined the term "brain attack" for stroke to emphasize urgency in dealing with stroke symptoms.

The eponymic Hachinski Ischemic Score (HIS) is now a standard means for identifying the treatable components of dementia. Dr. Hachinski has authored, co-authored, or co-edited 17 books and more than 800 frequently-cited scientific publications. He led the adoption of a proclamation on behalf of the World Stroke Organization and all major international brain organizations aimed at uniting stroke and dementia communities in their joint prevention of stroke and potentially preventable dementias.

Along with Dr. Hachinski, the CMHF will also induct Dr. Philip Berger, Dr. B. Brett Finlay, Dr. Balfour Mount, Dr. Cheryl Rockman-Greenberg and the late Dr. Emily Stowe.

Canadian Medical Hall of Fame Laureates are individuals whose contributions to medicine and the health sciences have led to extraordinary improvements in human health. Their work may be a single meritorious contribution or a lifetime of superior accomplishments. Pioneers in their field, they are role models for Canadians and an inspiration to our youth to pursue careers in the health sciences.    

"The Canadian Medical Hall of Fame is proud to welcome these six individuals whose outstanding contributions to health have made Canada, and the world, a better place," said Dr. Taylor. "Their impact is well documented and they have earned their place alongside the current 125 Laureates of the Canadian Medical Hall of Fame."

CMHF will celebrate this important recognition at a ceremony in London, Ontario on April 12, 2018 and Schulich Medicine & Dentistry has been chosen as the partner host.

"Schulich Medicine & Dentistry is proud to be the partner host for the 2018 Induction Ceremony in London, Ontario honouring the inspiring individuals who have made such a tremendous impact on human health," said Dr. Michael J. Strong, Dean of the Schulich School of Medicine & Dentistry. "It is particularly exciting considering that London is also home to the Canadian Medical Hall of Fame, and we are planning for a vibrant evening to pay tribute to the outstanding line-up of laureates."