GALVESTON, Texas - Dr. Robert M.A. Hirschfeld, chairman of the department of psychiatry and behavioral sciences at the University of Texas Medical Branch at Galveston, is the recipient of the 45th Annual Edward A. Strecker M.D. Award.
The award, sponsored by Pennsylvania Hospital, University of Pennsylvania Health System, is given annually to an individual who has made an outstanding contribution in the field of clinical psychiatry.
Dr. Jody Foster, chairwoman of the department of psychiatry at Pennsylvania Hospital and a member of the Strecker nomination committee, said: "Dr. Hirschfeld embodies the spirit of Dr. Strecker as a truly outstanding psychiatrist who fully embraces his role as clinician, educator and researcher. His important scientific contributions, his clinical and administrative leadership, and his fervent advocacy for the mentally ill all represent the essence of the Strecker Award."
Hirschfeld holds the Titus H. Harris Chair at UTMB and is the inaugural recipient of the university's Harry K. Davis, M.D. Professorship for Excellence in Psychiatric Medicine.
Hirschfeld is an international expert on bipolar disorder and depression. His work has led to recognition by the publications Best Doctors in America and America's Top Doctors.
An award presentation is scheduled for May 4 in Washington, D.C.