The U.S. Department of Health and Human Services (HHS) Assistant Secretary for Health, Admiral Rachel L. Levine, MD, presented Clarice Reid, MD, a member of the American Society of Hematology (ASH), with the Assistant Secretary for Health’s Exceptional Service Medallion during the inaugural HHS Sickle Cell Disease (SCD) Summit.
The award is intended to recognize exceptional achievement in public health and medicine. Dr. Reid was awarded for her outstanding work and leadership in SCD treatment and advocacy.
Dr. Reid led the National Institutes of Health’s National SCD Program from 1975 to 1998, during which the program implemented the National Sickle Cell Anemia Control Act of 1972, received the first federal funding opportunity for SCD, and oversaw several cutting-edge SCD clinical trials. Additionally, the Comprehensive Sickle Cell Centers program was expanded, and hydroxyurea was approved by the U.S. Food and Drug Administration during her tenure.
“Dr. Reid’s remarkable contributions have transformed the landscape of sickle cell care and research in our country,” Admiral Levine said. “She has had a profound impact on countless lives, including many warriors, mentees, and advocates here in the audience with us today. Dr. Reid’s contributions and service to SCD cannot be overstated.”
Source: HHS, October 24, 2024.
