Dr. Lisa Cooper Receives 2022 Distinguished Scientist Award

The American Heart Association (AHA) presented one of its seven 2022 Distinguished Scientist Awards to CHE Director Lisa A. Cooper, M.D., M.P.H., FAHA (Hon.) during the Association’s Scientific Sessions in November 2022. The Distinguished Scientist Award honors members who have significantly advanced the understanding of cardiovascular, stroke, or brain health.

Dr. Cooper was recognized by the AHA for her research on how racism and socioeconomic factors shape patient care, and how health systems, with communities, can improve the health of populations with complex medical and social needs. Notably, her early research, which identified how differences between health care professionals and their patients, (e.g., gender, race, etc.) can create communication barriers that affect patient care, has been recognized for the influence it has had on how patients are engaged as active members of their health care teams. Since then, Dr. Cooper has led pioneering clinical trials that utilize community-based approaches to improve patient outcomes and increase health equity for patients with heart disease and stroke. She has also been called on to apply her expertise in health communications and community-engaged approaches to the COVID-19 pandemic.