The California Chapter 4 (Orange County) American Academy of Pediatrics (AAP) honored CHOC Pediatrician-in-Chief Dr. Nick Anas with the “Pediatrician of the Year” award at the chapter’s annual gala held in Irvine on April 26. Dr. Anas was recognized by his peers for his efforts in growing and developing the local AAP chapter; his leadership in the community; and his passion for providing outstanding care for children throughout Orange County.
“Nick exemplifies all the attributes one would look for in selecting a ‘Pediatrician of the Year’: Outstanding Clinician, Educator, Advocate, Leader and Mentor. His enthusiasm and energy set the bar in all of these arenas,” said Dr. Paul Lubinsky, associate director, pediatric intensive care unit, CHOC and medical director, CHOC Specialists.
In addition to serving as pediatrician-in-chief – a position appointed to him in 2009, Dr. Anas leads CHOC’s critical care program as the medical director of the hospital’s pediatric intensive care unit. The unit is the first in the nation to earn the Pediatric Beacon Award for Critical Care Excellence. He leads his team with a steadfast commitment to the highest standards of patient care and safety. Dr. Anas is actively involved in clinical research, frequently contributing to medical journals and textbooks, and in education, training the next generation of leaders in the field of pediatric critical care medicine.
In 2011, Dr. Anas was appointed to serve a two-year term on the Emergency Medical Care Committee for Orange County Emergency Medical Services (EMS). The committee advises the Orange County Board of Supervisors and EMS on all matters related to emergency medical care in the county. Currently, Dr. Anas serves as the president of the California Children’s Specialty Care Coalition, a statewide organization of pediatric specialists who advocate for children with special health care needs.
A graduate of West Virginia University, Dr. Anas completed his pediatric training at the Children’s Medical Center, Southwestern Medical School in Dallas and his fellowship training at the University of Rochester. He is board certified in pediatric critical care medicine and pediatric pulmonology.
“CHOC is very proud of Dr. Anas for his passionate dedication to the children and families in Orange County – and beyond. He’s an extraordinary leader, keeping his colleagues and CHOC on the forefront of critical care medicine. As an inspiring advocate, he’s tireless in his efforts to ensure all children have access to the finest facilities, equipment, treatment and care,” said Dr. Maria Minon, vice president, medical affairs and chief medical officer, CHOC.
