Dr. Keyvan Karkouti Appointed Vice Chair of Clinical Affairs

The Department of Anesthesiology & Pain Medicine is pleased to announce Dr. Keyvan Karkouti's appointment as Vice Chair of Clinical Affairs. His tenure begins on October 1, 2024.

Karkouti is an accomplished physician and researcher with extensive experience in anesthesia, pain management, and perioperative care. He has held several senior leadership positions, most recently as the anesthesiologist-in-chief of the University Health Network (UHN). He is also a recognized investigator in perioperative coagulopathy and blood management. In 2020, he established the Anesthesia Clinical Trials Unit at UHN. Since its inception, the unit has won significant funding and sponsored multiple clinical trials. A talented public speaker, Karkouti is frequently asked to present at conferences worldwide.

As vice chair, Karkouti will be responsible for developing and implementing systems and processes across TAHSN hospital sites, ensuring patient safety and the highest quality of care. He will also collaborate with hospital heads to manage the implementation of university policy across their sites. Other key responsibilities include developing new programs with provincial and national organizations, advising on faculty appointments to ensure compliance with relevant medical standards, and assisting in developing initiatives focused on faculty wellness, equity, and diversity. Additionally, Karkouti will work with the administrative team to help create tools and resources for faculty and hospital site chiefs.

Dr. Beverley Orser, department chair, expressed excitement at the appointment, which followed a competitive recruitment process. “Dr. Karkouti has a truly impressive track record in medicine and an innovative approach to leadership. He will undoubtedly continue to elevate our department’s work, and we are excited to have him on board.”

Speaking briefly on his vision for the role, Dr. Karkouti said, “I will focus on optimizing our clinical support structure to assist our expert TAHSN clinicians in delivering the best possible care to our patients.”

The department also sincerely thanks Dr. Andrew Baker, the outgoing vice chair of clinical affairs, for his work, most notably his contributions during the COVID-19 pandemic.

Please join us in congratulating Dr. Karkouti on this well-deserved appointment.