07/31/2026
Meet our 2026 Grand Champions
Joe Suyama, MD, FACEP
Chair of Emergency Services
UPMC Magee-Womens Hospital
Jason Chang, MD
Associate Chief of Emergency Services
UPMC Magee-Womens Hospital
Drs. Suyama and Chang are transforming the treatment of older adults across our emergency departments and hospitals, improving the experience and outcomes for patients and caregivers via research, mentorship and teaching at the University of Pittsburgh School of Medicine, and clinical practice that bridges the acute care environment with home.
Initiatives like standardized delirium screening, spearheading a large national clinical trial called ED-LEAD (Emergency Departments Leading the Transformation of Alzheimer's and Dementia Care), engagement with community paramedics, and leading the Geriatric Medicine course for third-year medical students are making a difference right now.
These improvements will extend to future generations of older adult patients, caregivers, and practitioners and will continue to better the quality of life in our region.
Drs. Suyama and Chang will be honored formally at our 18th annual "Celebrating Champions" dinner and silent auction on October 14 at The Westin Pittsburgh.
Event proceeds benefit the Benevolent Care Fund at UPMC Senior Communities as well as the Making Minds Matter Fund at UPMC Western Behavioral Health Foundation. In its 18-year history, "Celebrating Champions" has raised more than $3.1 million for charitable care.
For information about tickets and sponsorship, contact Deborah Panei, director of development, at [email protected].
https://www.upmc.com/services/senior-communities/senior-champions