VA Boston clinical researcher named as new National Academy of Medicine member

Dr. Jonathan F. Bean, director of the New England Geriatric Research Education and Clinical Center at VA Boston Healthcare System, professor of physical medicine and rehabilitation at Harvard Medical School, and physiatrist at Spaulding Rehabilitation Hospital, was recognized for his transformative work in applying multidisciplinary, precision medicine principles to rehabilitation, which has reconceptualized healthcare systems and practice for geriatric and Veteran populations to embrace personalized, data-driven approaches to healthy aging, enabling patients to maintain independence, productivity and well-being in their communities.

“This recognition reflects the work of many talented and dedicated healthcare professionals and researchers at both VA Boston and Harvard Medical School,” said Bean. “I’m honored by this appointment and grateful for everything we’ve been able to accomplish together in helping provide aging Veterans with the exceptional care and services they have earned.”

The National Academy of Medicine announced the election of 90 regular members and 10 international members Monday during its annual meeting. Election to the Academy is considered one of the highest honors in the fields of health and medicine, and recognizes individuals who have demonstrated outstanding professional achievement and commitment to service. New members are elected by current members through a process that recognizes individuals who have made major contributions to the advancement of the medical sciences, health care and public health. More information about the new members can be found at https://nam.edu/national-academy-of-medicine-elects-100-new-members-2024/

Bean is an internationally recognized expert in geriatric rehabilitation. The goal of his work is to foster the development of new models of care that optimize the functioning of older adults with an emphasis on principles prioritized within age-friendly healthcare systems. These overarching goals are addressed through his leadership of the VA Boston based New England Geriatric Research, Education and Clinical Center, or GRECC, one of 20 congressionally mandated VA GRECCs. Bean is the first physiatrist to lead a VA GRECC. His research focuses on developing new models of care that position rehabilitation as the centerpiece of secondary prevention of functional decline and adverse health outcomes among older adults. He leads a National Institutes of Health and VA funded research training program for trainees of all levels desiring to pursue a career in patient-oriented research.

Photo caption (photo linked below): Dr. Jonathan F. Bean, director of the New England Geriatric Research Education and Clinical Center at VA Boston Healthcare System, professor of physical medicine and rehabilitation at Harvard Medical School, and physiatrist at Spaulding Rehabilitation Hospital. (Photo courtesy of Dr. Jonathan Bean)

Winfield Danielson, Public Affairs Officer

Phone: