Retired radiologist makes generous gift to Hoag to continue its dedication to exceptional patient care.
Dr. Frederick Birnberg's career as a diagnostic radiologist has been one of perpetual curiosity. Rare diseases fascinate him, the circumstances of a person's symptoms intrigue him, and he keeps this quest for discovery as fuel. "Making the diagnosis was something I was very good at, and I felt I could help people more by doing that," Dr. Birnberg said.
He's been retired from his role at Hoag and Newport Harbor Radiology Associates since 2016, but retirement hasn't gotten in the way of a healthy workload, which keeps him happily busy. He teaches residents virtually, by shared screen from his medical alma mater, UC Davis, and reads about 3,000 of their radiology cases per month. "I was miserable at retirement," he joked. "I've retired twice, but I love what I do." He takes pride in seeing the residents he teaches learn and detect a crucial clue that leads to an accurate diagnosis. Recently, one of them identified a subtle sign of a person's aortic dissection shortly after Dr. Birnberg taught a session on the same subject. That finding led to a diagnosis that saved the person's life.
When he thinks back on his colleagues at Hoag, radiologists, and others, he thinks about how they went above and beyond when it came to patient care. "Hoag is obsessive when it comes to quality of care. Hoag does an extraordinary job," Dr. Birnberg said. That became more apparent during two recent experiences as a patient. During one of them, he had rigors and diagnosed himself with sepsis. He initially went to a hospital closer to his home near San Diego, but as he learned more about his condition, with a white count of approximately 19,000, he decided to change course. "I realized if I wanted to live, I would go to Hoag."
He lauds Hoag leaders, especially President & CEO Robert Braithwaite, for their dedication to cultivating a culture of excellence. "Robert is a wonderful man for whom I have the greatest respect. He put us on the right path, and I want to help Hoag achieve further greatness," Dr. Birnberg said. While at Hoag, he saw the value that philanthropy can have on staff resources. He has made a generous estate gift to Hoag in support of radiology and employee education. His life partner, Kait Matthews, shares his enthusiasm and vision for this gift. "Kait and I have decided that this will be an important part of our legacy."
"Everything goes through radiology," Dr. Birnberg said. "We can and often do suggest the real diagnoses." He dedicates his gift to honor the memory of Dr. Gerald Scidmore, a prominent radiologist and Hoag former chief of staff, whom he regards as a true hero in medicine. Dr. Birnberg hopes the gift will contribute more educational opportunities for staff. "The personnel at Hoag give so much each and every day to help all of us; they fully deserve our collective support in return."
