Dr. Heidi Nelson Retires as Medical Director of ACS Cancer Programs

Last week, Heidi Nelson, MD, FACS, announced her plans to retire as Medical Director of ACS Cancer Programs later this year.

Dr. Nelson, a colorectal surgeon from Rochester, MN, joined the ACS staff in 2018 after having served in various leadership roles for the College, including Director of the ACS Clinical Research Program, Co-Chair of the ACS Oncology Group, and a member of the Commission on Cancer (CoC) Executive Committee.

Through her leadership, vision, and research acumen, ACS Cancer Programs have come together and more closely integrated their strategies and activities. Dr. Nelson oversaw the 100th anniversary of the CoC and the release of new cancer standards, including the recent National Accreditation Programs for Breast Centers standards and the new CoC operative standards. She also launched the National Accreditation Program for Rectal Cancer, as well as led major transitions of the National Cancer Database infrastructure.

In addition, Dr. Nelson spearheaded the release of new synoptic operating reports, quality measures, and national quality improvement projects such as Return to Screening, Beyond ASK, and Breaking Barriers.

The ACS seeks a new Medical Director of Cancer Programs, which Dr. Nelson will continue to support through the transition. Experienced oncologic surgeons are encouraged to view the responsibilities, requirements, and benefits of the position, and then apply before the April 21 deadline.