David S. Markenson, M.D., M.B.A., Is Named Director of the Center for Disaster Medicine
David S. Markenson, M.D., M.B.A., has been re-appointed director of the Center for Disaster Medicine (CDM) at New York Medical College (NYMC).
He has served as the Center’s interim director since May of 2018 and medical director since May 2013. Dr. Markenson’s ties to the CDM began when he co-founded the Center in 2005 before relocating to Sky Ridge Medical Center in Colorado as chief medical officer. The internationally recognized expert in disaster and emergency medicine is once again adopting the role as director of the CDM at NYMC.
“It is a pleasure to return as the director to the Center for Disaster Medicine,” said Dr. Markenson. “The Center was founded at NYMC based on the need for research and education in disaster medicine, tactical and operational medicine, health care preparedness and the needs of special populations. Over the years, both the activity and the national and international recognition of the Center have continued to grow. The ability to again lead this Center is truly a privilege.”
Along with his current role as director of the CDM, Dr. Markenson serves on multiple national committees, including serving as deputy editor-in-chief of Disaster Medicine and Public Health Preparedness, the premier Medline indexed journal in the field of disaster medicine, and as national chair of the Scientific Advisory Council for the American Red Cross, where he oversees the science for the development, implementation and research of programs for CPR, first aid and other disaster medicine related items. Dr. Markenson has also directed multiple national and international disaster, operational and tactical medical programs, research and initiatives including those focusing on pediatrics and other special and vulnerable populations.
Dr. Markenson is the author of more than 50 articles and has given more than 150 presentations on pediatric emergency and critical care, emergency preparedness and disaster medicine. He has held the position of principal investigator in multiple federal grants related to pediatric disaster medicine and directed the first federal grant to develop guidelines to address the needs of disabled patients in emergency situations.
“Dr. Markenson is an international leader in disaster preparedness and response, whose experience and innovative spirit continue to be an inspiration to first responders and policy makers alike. We are all safer because of his many contributions to the field and we look forward to him leading the Center for Disaster Medicine,” said Robert W. Amler, M.D., M.B.A., dean of the School of Health Sciences and Practice and vice president for government affairs.