“Best PAD Awareness Initiative”

The “Best PAD Awareness Initiative” award honors ongoing programs that significantly contribute to raising awareness and understanding of Peripheral Artery Disease, with a particular focus on reaching high-risk populations and promoting early detection and prevention to reduce the risk of amputation. A successful initiative will demonstrate a comprehensive, innovative, and collaborative approach to engaging a wide audience and making a lasting impact on PAD awareness and management through sustained efforts.

1. Strategic Vision and Message Clarity

• Clear Initiative Objectives: The program should have well-defined long-term objectives aimed at increasing public and healthcare professionals’ awareness of Peripheral Artery Disease (PAD), its risk factors, symptoms, and prevention strategies.

• Compelling Core Message: The central message must be compelling, easily understandable, and accessible to a wide audience, including those at higher risk for PAD. It should address the critical importance of early detection and management to prevent amputations.

2. Reach and Engagement Strategy

• Targeted Population Approach: Implementation of strategies specifically designed to reach underserved communities disproportionately affected by PAD, including Black, Hispanic, and Native American populations, with culturally sensitive messaging and materials.

• Multi-Channel Distribution: Utilization of various communication channels (social media, TV, radio, print, online, community events) to ensure consistent messaging reaches a broad audience, including those in rural or underserved areas.

3. Educational Programming

• Comprehensive Resources: Development and distribution of clear, accurate, and actionable information about PAD through ongoing educational programs. This includes materials on signs and symptoms, risk factors, the importance of early consultation, and lifestyle modifications for prevention.

• Patient Advocacy Integration: Incorporation of real-life stories and experiences from PAD patients within educational materials, highlighting their experiences, challenges, and successes in managing the disease, to build empathy and understanding.

4. Sustainable Partnerships and Collaboration

• Multi-Stakeholder Engagement: Evidence of established, ongoing collaboration with a wide range of stakeholders, including healthcare organizations, patient advocacy groups, community leaders, and professional societies like the Association of Black Cardiologists (ABC), Society for Cardiovascular Angiography and Interventions (SCAI), Society of Interventional Radiology (SIR), and Society of Vascular Surgery (SVS).

• Community Co-Development: Active involvement of community members in program planning, implementation and evolution to ensure messages and activities resonate and address specific community needs and concerns over time.

5. Innovation and Adaptability

• Innovative Delivery Methods: Implementation of innovative and creative methods for delivering the initiative’s message, such as interactive tools, videos, infographics, and recurring community events, to engage audiences and encourage sharing of information.

• Continuous Improvement Process: Evidence of a structured process to gather feedback from the target audience about the initiative’s impact, allowing for continuous improvement and adaptation of strategies based on community response and changing needs.

6. Impact Measurement and Sustainability

• Quantifiable Outcomes: Implementation of clear metrics to evaluate the initiative’s effectiveness, such as increased awareness levels, enhanced conversations between patients and healthcare providers about PAD, and higher screening rates among at-risk populations.

• Long-Term Infrastructure: Evidence of established infrastructure, funding mechanisms, and resource allocation to support the initiative over multiple years, demonstrating a sustained commitment to keeping PAD awareness high among target populations.

“Best PAD Walking Program”

“The Best Peripheral Artery Disease Walking Program Award” honors a healthcare facility that has established an outstanding structured walking program specifically for PAD patients. This award recognizes programs that demonstrate clinical excellence, patient engagement, and measurable outcomes in delaying or preventing invasive procedures through supervised exercise therapy. The winning program will have made a significant contribution to improving patient quality of life while reducing unnecessary interventions.

1. Program Structure and Clinical Oversight

• Clinical Framework: The program must have a well-defined clinical framework with appropriate medical supervision, risk assessment protocols, and progression pathways tailored to PAD patients.

• Medical Integration: Clear integration with the facility’s vascular care team, including physician oversight, nurse participation, and coordination with other specialties to ensure comprehensive patient care.

2. Patient Assessment and Monitoring

• Comprehensive Assessment: Evidence of thorough pre-program assessments including ABI measurements, claudication thresholds, pain-free walking distances, and quality of life metrics.

• Ongoing Monitoring: Systematic tracking of patient progress, with regular reassessments and appropriate adjustments to individual walking prescriptions based on progress.

3. Program Accessibility and Retention

• Inclusive Design: Program designed to accommodate patients with varying severity of PAD, including those with limited mobility or comorbidities.

• Retention Strategies: Effective approaches to encourage long-term participation, including behavioral strategies, support systems, and addressing barriers to participation.

4. Clinical Outcomes and Procedure Reduction

• Documented Results: Clear evidence demonstrating the program’s success in improving clinical outcomes such as increased walking distance, improved ABI scores, and reduced claudication symptoms.

• Procedure Delay/Avoidance: Documented cases where participation in the walking program has successfully delayed or eliminated the need for invasive procedures or interventions.

5. Patient Education and Self-Management

• Educational Components: Strong educational elements that help patients understand PAD, the benefits of walking, proper technique, and how to safely progress their activity.

• Self-Management Tools: Resources provided to patients that support walking outside the supervised setting, including home walking plans, monitoring tools, and safety guidelines.

6. Innovation and Program Evolution

• Innovative Approaches: Implementation of novel elements such as technology integration, motivational strategies, or unique program designs that enhance effectiveness.

• Continuous Improvement: Evidence of program refinement based on outcomes data, patient feedback, and emerging research in PAD management.

7. Data Collection and Outcomes Measurement

• Robust Metrics: Comprehensive data collection system tracking both clinical outcomes and patient-reported measures.

• Longitudinal Analysis: Analysis of long-term program impact, including statistics on procedure avoidance, symptom management, and quality of life improvements.

8. Program Sustainability and Replicability

• Sustainable Model: Demonstration of a sustainable operational model that ensures program longevity within the healthcare facility.

• Documentation and Sharing: Willingness to share program protocols, challenges, and successes to allow other facilities to implement similar programs.

“Best PAD Patient Outreach Initiative”

The “Best PAD Patient Outreach Initiative” award recognizes organizations, healthcare facilities, or programs that have demonstrated exceptional commitment and effectiveness in reaching underserved populations affected by Peripheral Artery Disease (PAD). This award honors initiatives that have successfully bridged gaps in PAD awareness, screening, and care delivery, particularly among high-risk and historically underserved communities.

1. Community Engagement and Reach

• Target Population Identification: Clear identification of underserved communities with high PAD risk factors, including demographic analysis and needs assessment.

• Culturally Responsive Approach: Evidence of culturally sensitive and linguistically appropriate materials, messaging, and interventions tailored to the specific communities being served.

2. Access Enhancement

• Barrier Reduction: Demonstrable actions taken to identify and address barriers to PAD screening, diagnosis, and treatment, such as transportation challenges, cost concerns, or healthcare access limitations.

• Resource Distribution: Equitable distribution of educational resources, screening opportunities, and care pathways to reach populations with historically limited access to vascular care.

3. Education and Awareness

• Targeted Messaging: Development of educational content specifically designed to resonate with the target populations, addressing knowledge gaps and misconceptions about PAD.

• Community-Based Education: Implementation of education programs in non-traditional settings to meet people where they are, such as faith-based organizations, community centers, or cultural gatherings.

4. Impact and Outcome Measurement

• Measurable Results: Clear evidence of the initiative’s effectiveness in improving PAD awareness, screening rates, early detection, or treatment adherence among target populations.

• Health Outcome Improvements: Documentation of positive impacts on patient outcomes, such as reduced amputation rates, earlier diagnosis, or increased participation in PAD management programs.

5. Innovation and Adaptability

• Novel Approaches: Utilization of innovative strategies to overcome traditional barriers to PAD care, such as mobile screening units, telehealth adaptations, or community health worker programs.

• Scalability: Initiative design that demonstrates potential for expansion, replication in other communities, or adaptation to address other vascular conditions.

6. Collaboration and Partnerships

• Cross-Sector Collaboration: Evidence of meaningful partnerships with diverse stakeholders, including community organizations, faith-based groups, local businesses, and other healthcare entities.

• Patient Involvement: Inclusion of PAD patients and community members in the planning, implementation, and evaluation of the outreach initiative, ensuring relevance and effectiveness.

7. Sustainability Planning

• Long-term Vision: Clear strategy for sustaining the initiative beyond initial implementation, including funding plans, staff training, and community capacity building.

• Knowledge Transfer: Commitment to sharing learnings, best practices, and resources with other organizations to amplify impact across the PAD care community.

“Global PAD Luminary of the Year Award”

The “Global PAD Luminary of the Year” award honors a researcher or clinician who has made exceptional contributions to the field of Peripheral Artery Disease (PAD) through groundbreaking research, clinical innovation, and scientific leadership. This prestigious recognition celebrates excellence in advancing our understanding of PAD pathophysiology, diagnosis, treatment approaches, or prevention strategies, with demonstrable impact on clinical practice and patient outcomes worldwide. The recipient exemplifies the highest standards of scientific rigor while influencing the broader medical community and advocating for improved PAD care globally.

1. Research Excellence and Scientific Innovation

• Groundbreaking Contributions: Demonstrated record of pioneering research that significantly advances the field of PAD, showing exceptional originality, methodological rigor, and scientific impact.
• Diverse Research Portfolio: Excellence across multiple domains of PAD investigation, which may include endovascular techniques, surgical approaches, medical therapies, diagnostic innovations, or pathophysiological insights.
• Scientific Merit: Research demonstrating exceptional quality with robust methodology, significant findings, and potential for paradigm-shifting impact on how PAD is understood, diagnosed, or treated.

2. Clinical Translation and Patient Impact

• Translational Significance: Evidence that research has clear pathways to clinical application, addressing unmet needs in PAD management, diagnosis, or prevention.
• Outcome Improvement: Demonstrable evidence for how the nominee’s work contributes to improved patient outcomes, particularly in reducing amputation rates, improving functional status, or enhancing quality of life for PAD patients.
• Novel Therapeutic Approaches: Development or validation of innovative treatment modalities that expand options for patients with challenging presentations of PAD.

3. Academic Leadership and Scientific Influence

• Research Direction: Leadership in establishing research priorities, developing consensus statements, or creating investigational frameworks that guide the field’s direction.
• Scientific Dissemination: Exceptional record of sharing research findings through high-impact publications, presentations at major conferences, and other scholarly activities related to PAD.
• Citation Impact: Evidence of research influence as measured by citation metrics, invited commentaries, or incorporation into systematic reviews, meta-analyses, or clinical practice guidelines.

4. Clinical Trial Leadership

• Trial Design Innovation: Excellence in designing and implementing methodologically rigorous clinical trials that address critical questions in PAD management.
• Multi-center Collaboration: Demonstrated ability to lead complex, multi-center trials or research consortia that generate high-quality evidence to guide clinical practice.
• Registry Development: Leadership in establishing, maintaining, or analyzing PAD-related registries that provide real-world evidence to complement randomized trials.

5. Interdisciplinary Collaboration and Methodological Innovation

• Cross-Specialty Integration: Evidence of collaboration across relevant disciplines (vascular surgery, interventional cardiology, vascular medicine, radiology, etc.) to develop comprehensive approaches to PAD research and treatment.
• Methodological Advancement: Introduction of novel research methodologies, technologies, or analytical approaches that enhance the study of PAD and overcome traditional investigational limitations.
• Technological Innovation: Development or validation of new technologies, devices, or techniques that advance the diagnosis or treatment of PAD.

6. Mentorship and Educational Leadership

• Research Mentorship: Commitment to developing the next generation of PAD researchers through formal mentorship, training programs, or development of educational resources.
• Knowledge Dissemination: Excellence in translating complex research findings into accessible educational content for clinicians across specialties who manage PAD patients.
• Global Capacity Building: Efforts to enhance PAD research and clinical capabilities in diverse healthcare settings around the world, particularly in regions with limited resources.

7. Advocacy and Public Health Impact

• Research Advocacy: Efforts to advocate for increased research funding, attention, and resources directed toward PAD investigation and clinical application.
• Health Equity Advancement: Research that addresses disparities in PAD care, outcomes, or access, with particular attention to underserved or high-risk populations.
• Global Health Perspective: Contributions that consider the global burden of PAD and develop approaches applicable across diverse healthcare systems and resource settings.

“Global Wound Care Specialist of the Year Award”

The “Global Wound Care Specialist of the Year Award” recognizes a healthcare professional who has demonstrated exceptional expertise, innovation, and compassion in the management of complex wounds. This distinguished clinician embraces the most challenging wound cases, pioneers innovative treatment approaches, advances wound care education, demonstrates extraordinary empathy in patient care, and elevates the standard of wound management through leadership and interdisciplinary collaboration.

1. Clinical Excellence in Complex Wound Management

• Advanced Expertise: Demonstrated mastery in managing the most complex and challenging wounds, including those associated with peripheral arterial disease, diabetes, pressure injuries, and other complicated etiologies.
• Diagnostic Acumen: Exceptional ability to assess, diagnose, and develop comprehensive treatment plans for wounds with multiple contributing factors or atypical presentations.
• Treatment Outcomes: Outstanding record of successful wound healing outcomes in cases that have been resistant to conventional approaches or deemed “non-healing” by other providers.

2. Innovation in Wound Care Approaches

• Treatment Innovation: Leadership in implementing, adapting, or developing novel wound care techniques, technologies, or protocols that advance healing outcomes.
• Creative Problem-Solving: Demonstrated ability to develop customized solutions for unique wound challenges when standard protocols are insufficient.
• Technology Integration: Excellence in appropriately incorporating advanced wound care technologies, including negative pressure therapy, cellular and tissue-based products, hyperbaric oxygen therapy, and emerging modalities.

3. Educational Leadership and Knowledge Sharing

• Professional Education: Significant contributions to wound care education through development of training programs, workshops, publications, or digital resources that advance the knowledge base of practitioners.
• Mentorship Excellence: Demonstrated commitment to developing the next generation of wound care specialists through formal mentorship, clinical teaching, or educational leadership.
• Public Awareness: Leadership in raising awareness about wound prevention, early intervention, and management strategies among patients, caregivers, and the broader healthcare community.

4. Compassionate Patient-Centered Care

• Psychological Support: Exceptional understanding of and attention to the psychological impact of chronic wounds, with integration of emotional support into treatment plans.
• Pain Management: Excellence in addressing wound-related pain and discomfort through appropriate pharmacological and non-pharmacological approaches.
• Patient Engagement: Outstanding ability to involve patients and caregivers as active participants in the wound healing process through education, shared decision-making, and personalized care planning.

5. Interdisciplinary Collaboration and Care Coordination

• Team Leadership: Excellence in leading or participating in multidisciplinary wound care teams that integrate expertise from vascular specialists, infectious disease, plastic surgery, nutrition, and other relevant disciplines.
• Care Continuum: Demonstrated ability to coordinate wound care across treatment settings, ensuring consistency and continuity as patients transition between inpatient, outpatient, and home care environments.
• Cross-Specialty Communication: Exceptional skill in facilitating effective communication among various specialists involved in complex wound cases to optimize coordinated care.

6. Evidence-Based Practice and Research Contributions

• Research Participation: Active involvement in wound care research, quality improvement initiatives, or data collection that contributes to the evidence base for wound management.
• Evidence Application: Excellence in translating research findings and best practice guidelines into practical clinical applications that improve patient outcomes.
• Quality Improvement: Leadership in developing or implementing quality measures, protocols, or practice standards that enhance the consistency and effectiveness of wound care.

7. Advocacy and Access Improvement

• Health Policy Engagement: Contributions to health policy discussions, reimbursement advocacy, or regulatory improvements that enhance patient access to quality wound care.
• Disparities Reduction: Demonstrated commitment to addressing disparities in wound care access and outcomes among underserved or vulnerable populations.
• Resource Optimization: Excellence in developing approaches that maximize wound healing outcomes while responsibly managing healthcare resources to improve system sustainability.

“Best PAD Awareness Video”

The “Best PAD Awareness Video” award honors compelling visual content that effectively educates viewers about Peripheral Artery Disease (PAD). This award recognizes excellence in video storytelling across formats—including social media content, commercials, public service announcements (PSAs), patient testimonials, or educational animations—that increases understanding of PAD symptoms, risk factors, and treatment options. The winning video will demonstrate creative visual communication that motivates viewers to take action regarding PAD awareness, screening, or treatment.

1. Message Clarity and Educational Value

• Clear PAD Information: Concise, accurate presentation of key PAD facts, symptoms, risk factors, or treatment options that viewers can easily understand and remember.

• Call to Action: Effective communication of specific steps viewers should take, such as recognizing symptoms, seeking screening, or consulting healthcare providers.

2. Visual Storytelling and Engagement

• Compelling Narrative: Use of storytelling techniques that capture and maintain viewer attention while effectively conveying PAD information.

• Visual Communication: Creative use of visuals to explain PAD concepts, demonstrate symptoms, or illustrate the disease process in ways that enhance understanding.

3. Emotional Impact and Relatability

• Human Connection: Incorporation of relatable scenarios, patient stories, or emotional elements that help viewers connect personally with the PAD message.

• Motivational Approach: Content that inspires viewers to care about PAD and take preventive or treatment actions rather than using fear alone as a motivator.

4. Accessibility and Inclusivity

• Diverse Representation: Inclusion of diverse individuals, scenarios, and perspectives that reflect the range of populations affected by PAD.

• Accessibility Features: Use of captions, clear audio, or visual elements that make the content accessible to viewers with different abilities.

5. Production Quality and Creativity

• Professional Execution: Appropriate production quality for the intended platform, with clear visuals, audible sound, and professional editing.

• Creative Approach: Innovative or memorable presentation that helps the PAD message stand out among competing health information.

6. Reach and Impact

• Audience Engagement: Evidence of viewer engagement through metrics appropriate to the platform (views, shares, comments, or measured behavior change).

• Distribution Strategy: Effective dissemination approach that reaches intended audiences, particularly those at higher risk for PAD.

“Best PAD Social Media Post”

The “Best PAD Social Media Post” award recognizes exceptional social media content that effectively raises awareness about Peripheral Artery Disease (PAD) in a concise, engaging, and shareable format. This award honors outstanding posts across all social media platforms—including but not limited to Twitter/X, Instagram, Facebook, LinkedIn, and TikTok—that communicate critical PAD information within the constraints of social media formats. The winning post will demonstrate the power of brief, creative content to educate audiences, spark conversation, and motivate action regarding PAD awareness and screening.

1. Content Quality and Accuracy

• Medical Accuracy: Presentation of factually correct information about PAD, its symptoms, risk factors, or treatment options without oversimplification that could lead to misunderstanding.

• Clarity and Brevity: Ability to communicate essential PAD information clearly and concisely within platform limitations while maintaining message integrity.

2. Visual Impact and Creativity

• Eye-Catching Design: Use of compelling visuals, graphics, or text formatting that stands out in crowded social feeds and captures immediate attention.

• Creative Approach: Innovative presentation of PAD information through unique visuals, unexpected perspectives, or creative hooks that make the content memorable.

3. Engagement and Reach

• Measurable Engagement: Evidence of significant audience interaction through likes, shares, comments, saves, or other platform-specific engagement metrics.

• Conversation Generation: Ability to spark meaningful discussion about PAD in comments or responses, particularly conversations that expand awareness or correct misconceptions.

4. Educational Value

• Knowledge Transfer: Effectiveness in teaching followers something specific and valuable about PAD that they may not have known previously.

• Myth Busting: Success in addressing common misconceptions about PAD, leg pain, or vascular health in a direct, accessible way.

5. Call to Action Effectiveness

• Clear Next Steps: Inclusion of specific, actionable guidance for followers, such as recognizing symptoms, talking to their doctor, or seeking more information from reliable sources.

• Resource Connection: Effective linking to additional PAD resources, screening information, or support communities where appropriate.

6. Audience Targeting and Relevance

• Appropriate Tone: Use of language, references, and tone that resonate specifically with the intended audience, whether healthcare professionals, at-risk populations, or the general public.

• Cultural Relevance: Content that connects PAD information to relevant cultural contexts, current events, or trending topics to increase relatability and shareability.

“PAD Podiatrist of the Year”

The “PAD Podiatrist of the Year” Award honors a podiatrist who demonstrates exceptional dedication and skill in providing care for patients with Peripheral Artery Disease (PAD) and complex wounds. This award recognizes those who go above and beyond in their efforts to heal challenging wounds, prevent amputations, and improve quality of life for PAD patients while exemplifying compassion and patient-centered care.

1. Excellence in Clinical Practice

• Advanced Wound Management: Demonstrated expertise in the assessment, diagnosis, and management of complex wounds associated with PAD, with a focus on limb preservation.

• Evidence-Based Approaches: Implementation of evidence-based practices and innovative treatment strategies that lead to improved healing outcomes and reduced amputation rates.

2. Patient-Centered Care

• Compassionate Approach: A strong commitment to providing empathetic, patient-centered care that addresses the physical, emotional, and psychological needs of patients living with PAD.

• Communication Excellence: Exceptional ability to communicate complex medical information to patients and families in clear, understandable terms, ensuring they feel informed and supported throughout their treatment journey.

3. Multidisciplinary Collaboration

• Team Integration: Active participation in multidisciplinary vascular care teams, working seamlessly with vascular surgeons, interventional specialists, wound care professionals, and primary care providers.

• Referral Excellence: Demonstrated skill in timely recognition of patients requiring vascular intervention, with appropriate referral pathways that optimize outcomes and prevent unnecessary complications.

4. Education and Advocacy

• Patient Education: Development or implementation of exceptional patient education resources or programs that empower PAD patients in self-care and early symptom recognition.

• Professional Education: Contributions to educating colleagues, students, or other healthcare providers about the podiatrist’s role in PAD management and the importance of foot assessments in PAD detection.

5. Innovation in PAD Care

• Novel Approaches: Introduction or adoption of innovative techniques, technologies, or protocols in podiatric care that enhance PAD management and wound healing outcomes.

• Quality Improvement: Implementation of systems or processes that have measurably improved the quality, efficiency, or effectiveness of podiatric care for PAD patients.

6. Professional Development and Leadership

• Continued Learning: Demonstrated commitment to ongoing professional development specific to vascular disease and wound care, including specialized certifications or advanced training.

• Leadership: Evidence of leadership within the podiatric community in advancing standards of care for PAD patients through committee work, guideline development, or professional organizations.

7. Community Impact

• Screening Initiatives: Participation in or development of PAD screening programs that promote early detection and intervention, particularly in underserved communities.

• Public Awareness: Efforts to raise public awareness about foot health as it relates to PAD, including community education events, media engagement, or development of public resources.

“Global PAD Podiatrist of the Year”

The “Global PAD Podiatrist of the Year” Award honors a podiatrist who has made outstanding international contributions to the field of Peripheral Artery Disease (PAD) management and limb preservation. This award recognizes podiatrists who have demonstrated exceptional clinical excellence, cross-cultural competence, and global leadership in advancing podiatric approaches to PAD care worldwide. The recipient will exemplify how podiatric expertise can transcend borders to improve outcomes for PAD patients across diverse healthcare settings and populations.

1. International Clinical Impact

• Global Best Practices: Implementation or adaptation of podiatric PAD management techniques that have demonstrated effectiveness across different healthcare settings and resource environments worldwide.

• Cross-Cultural Care: Demonstrated ability to provide culturally competent foot care for PAD patients from diverse backgrounds, addressing unique challenges in different regions and populations.

2. Knowledge Sharing and Education

• International Teaching: Significant contributions to educating podiatrists and other healthcare providers globally about PAD detection, management, and limb preservation through lectures, workshops, or digital education platforms.

• Resource Development: Creation or adaptation of PAD educational materials, protocols, or guidelines that have been implemented in multiple countries or regions, particularly in underserved areas.

3. Global Leadership and Advocacy

• International Advocacy: Efforts to raise global awareness about the podiatrist’s role in PAD management and amputation prevention through international forums, policy initiatives, or global health organizations.

• Mentorship Across Borders: Mentoring podiatrists or establishing training programs in regions with limited access to specialized foot care for PAD patients.

4. Innovation for Diverse Healthcare Settings

• Adaptable Solutions: Development of innovative approaches to PAD management that can be implemented effectively in various healthcare systems, including resource-limited settings.

• Technology Accessibility: Work to make PAD assessment tools, wound care technologies, or treatment approaches more accessible or adaptable to different global healthcare contexts.

5. International Collaboration

• Cross-Border Partnerships: Active participation in or leadership of international collaborative initiatives, research networks, or multi-country projects focused on improving PAD outcomes.

• Multidisciplinary Global Teams: Demonstrated excellence in working with international multidisciplinary teams to address the complex needs of PAD patients across different healthcare systems.

6. Research and Publications with Global Relevance

• International Research: Contributions to research addressing PAD management challenges and solutions with applicability across different countries and healthcare systems.

• Knowledge Dissemination: Publication of findings in international journals or presentation at global conferences to share podiatric perspectives on PAD management worldwide.

7. Addressing Global Health Disparities

• Underserved Populations: Dedicated work to improve PAD outcomes in regions with limited access to specialized podiatric care or vascular services.

• Sustainable Programs: Development of sustainable programs or approaches that can continue to serve PAD patients in various global settings beyond the direct involvement of the podiatrist.

“PAD Innovation Excellence Award”

The “PAD Innovation Excellence Award” honors breakthrough medical technologies and devices that represent significant advancements in the treatment of Peripheral Artery Disease (PAD) and prevention of amputations. This prestigious accolade celebrates innovations that healthcare professionals consider game-changers in vascular care, recognizing technologies that have demonstrated exceptional clinical impact, technical ingenuity, and potential to transform standard treatment approaches for patients with advanced PAD.

1. Transformative Clinical Impact

• Improved Patient Outcomes: Documented evidence of the technology’s ability to significantly improve critical clinical outcomes such as limb salvage rates, reduced amputations, improved wound healing, or enhanced quality of life for PAD patients.

• Expanded Treatment Options: Demonstrated capacity to provide effective treatment for patients who previously had limited or no options, particularly those with advanced disease states such as chronic limb-threatening ischemia (CLTI).

2. Technical Innovation and Design Excellence

• Novel Mechanism of Action: Implementation of innovative mechanisms, approaches, or scientific principles that represent a significant departure from conventional PAD treatment modalities.

• Engineering Excellence: Superior design elements that enhance efficacy, safety, ease of use, or accessibility compared to existing technologies or treatment approaches.

3. Evidence-Based Validation

• Robust Clinical Data: High-quality clinical evidence supporting the technology’s safety and effectiveness, including well-designed trials, registries, or real-world evidence studies.

• Peer-Reviewed Research: Publication of findings in respected medical journals and presentation at major scientific conferences, demonstrating scientific validity and clinical relevance.

4. Practice-Changing Potential

• Clinical Adoption: Evidence of growing implementation and integration into clinical practice guidelines, treatment algorithms, or standard of care considerations.

• Healthcare Professional Endorsement: Recognition from leading practitioners in vascular medicine, surgery, or interventional specialties as a significant advancement in PAD care.

5. Patient Access and Economic Value

• Accessibility Solutions: Efforts to ensure broad patient access to the technology through reimbursement pathways, cost-effectiveness considerations, or programs addressing barriers to adoption.

• Economic Impact: Demonstrated economic value through reduced healthcare costs, fewer complications, shorter hospital stays, or decreased need for subsequent interventions.

6. Adaptability and Future Development

• Continuous Refinement: Ongoing development and improvement of the technology based on clinical feedback, technological advancements, and emerging research.

• Platform Potential: Capability for the technology to evolve into a platform that addresses multiple aspects of PAD care or expands to related vascular conditions.

7. Educational and Training Support

• Professional Education: Development of comprehensive training programs, procedural guidance, or educational resources that support safe and effective implementation by healthcare providers.

• Patient Education: Creation of materials that help patients understand the technology, its benefits, and its role in their overall treatment plan.

“Champion of Vascular Innovation Award”

The “Champion of Vascular Innovation Award” honors physicians and clinicians who have made extraordinary contributions to the development of game-changing technologies for Peripheral Artery Disease (PAD) care. This award recognizes clinical innovators who collaborate with industry, contribute their expertise to technology design, conduct pioneering research, and champion novel approaches that transform PAD treatment. These visionary clinicians bridge the gap between unmet patient needs and technological solutions, driving the field forward through their dedication to innovation.

1. Innovative Contributions to Technology Development

• Clinical Insight Application: Demonstrated ability to identify unmet clinical needs and translate them into technological innovations or significant improvements to existing technologies for PAD care.

• Development Partnership: Significant collaboration with industry, engineering teams, or research institutions in the design, refinement, or clinical application of novel PAD technologies.

2. Pioneering Clinical Investigation

• First-in-Human Experience: Leadership in conducting initial clinical evaluations, first-in-human studies, or early feasibility studies of innovative PAD technologies.

• Clinical Evidence Generation: Spearheading pivotal clinical trials, registries, or other research initiatives that establish the safety and effectiveness of novel PAD technologies.

3. Technology Adoption and Implementation

• Clinical Integration: Development of protocols, techniques, or best practices that optimize the implementation of innovative technologies in real-world clinical settings.

• Knowledge Dissemination: Active sharing of expertise through peer-to-peer training, proctoring, or educational initiatives that help other clinicians adopt and effectively utilize new PAD technologies.

4. Impact on Patient Care

• Improved Outcomes: Evidence that the clinician’s work with innovative technologies has led to measurable improvements in patient outcomes, such as increased limb salvage rates, reduced amputations, or enhanced quality of life.

• Expanded Treatment Options: Success in bringing new treatment alternatives to patients with limited options, particularly those with advanced disease or complex anatomical challenges.

5. Forward-Looking Vision

• Unmet Needs Identification: Demonstrated ability to identify gaps in current treatment approaches and articulate a clear vision for how technology can address these challenges.

• Future Direction Influence: Impact on setting the direction for future technological development in PAD care through publications, presentations, or thought leadership.

6. Collaborative Leadership

• Multidisciplinary Engagement: Leadership in bringing together diverse specialties (vascular surgery, interventional cardiology, radiology, podiatry, etc.) to advance technological innovation in PAD care.

• Patient Perspective Integration: Commitment to incorporating patient feedback and experiences into technology development and refinement.

7. Innovation Legacy

• Sustained Contributions: Evidence of ongoing, sustained contributions to technological innovation in PAD care throughout the clinician’s career.

• Mentorship: Development of the next generation of clinician innovators through formal or informal mentorship and creation of innovation pathways.

“Global PAD Research Team of the Year”

The “Global PAD Research Team of the Year” Award honors collaborative research teams that have made exceptional contributions to the understanding, treatment, or prevention of Peripheral Artery Disease (PAD). This award recognizes groups of researchers and clinicians working together—whether based at universities, medical centers, research institutes, or across multiple organizations—whose collective efforts have significantly advanced the field of PAD care through innovative studies, clinical trials, or breakthrough discoveries. The award celebrates the power of collaborative science in addressing this global vascular health challenge.

1. Collaborative Research Excellence

• Team Composition: Evidence of effective collaboration among diverse team members with complementary expertise, potentially including vascular specialists, interventionalists, basic scientists, epidemiologists, data analysts, and other relevant disciplines.

• Cohesive Output: Demonstration of the team’s ability to work effectively together, with clear contributions from multiple team members toward a common research objective focused on PAD.

2. PAD-Specific Impact and Innovation

• Focus on PAD: Clear dedication of the team’s research efforts specifically to PAD-related questions, challenges, or treatments, with explicit relevance to improving PAD patient outcomes.

• Novel Approaches: Implementation of innovative methodologies, study designs, or conceptual frameworks that represent new ways of investigating or addressing PAD challenges.

3. Research Output and Dissemination

• Publication Quality: Production of high-impact publications in peer-reviewed journals that advance knowledge in PAD prevention, diagnosis, treatment, or management.

• Comprehensive Dissemination: Evidence of efforts to share findings through multiple channels, including conference presentations, open-access publications, datasets, or other means that maximize the research impact.

4. Clinical and Translational Significance

• Patient Outcome Focus: Research specifically designed to improve critical PAD patient outcomes such as limb salvage rates, walking ability, quality of life, or reduced cardiovascular events.

• Translational Pathway: Clear pathway for translating research findings into clinical practice, healthcare policy, or further studies that will ultimately benefit PAD patients.

5. Funding and Sustainability

• Research Support: Demonstrated ability to secure funding for PAD research through competitive grants, foundations, or other sources that enable sustained investigation.

• Research Program Development: Evidence of building sustainable research programs or platforms that will continue to generate important PAD insights beyond a single study.

6. Mentorship and Team Development

• Training Environment: Creation of a productive research environment that fosters the development of early-career investigators interested in PAD research.

• Capacity Building: Efforts to expand PAD research capacity through training, skill development, or creating opportunities for new investigators to contribute to team projects.

7. Global and Community Engagement

• Cross-Border Collaboration: Evidence of international collaboration or research addressing PAD as a global health challenge across different healthcare settings and populations.

• Stakeholder Engagement: Involvement of patients, community members, or healthcare providers in research design, implementation, or dissemination to ensure relevance and impact.

“Limb Preservation Excellence Award”

The “Limb Preservation Excellence Award” honors outstanding clinical programs and their leadership teams who have established effective systems of care that significantly reduce amputation rates and improve outcomes for patients with limb-threatening conditions, particularly those with Peripheral Artery Disease (PAD). This award recognizes initiatives that demonstrate measurable success through collaborative approaches, innovative care pathways, and commitment to amputation prevention in their communities. The Global PAD Association reserves the right to present this award to one recipient per country when sufficient quality nominations are received, acknowledging excellence in limb preservation across different healthcare systems and geographic regions.

1. Comprehensive Program Development

• Integrated Care Model: Implementation of a structured, interdisciplinary limb preservation program that seamlessly coordinates care across specialties including vascular surgery, interventional specialties, podiatry, wound care, infectious disease, and rehabilitation services.

• Standardized Protocols: Development and implementation of evidence-based protocols and clinical pathways specifically designed to identify at-risk patients early and expedite appropriate care for PAD and other limb-threatening conditions.

2. Demonstrated Outcomes Improvement

• Amputation Rate Reduction: Documented evidence of significant reduction in major amputation rates within the program’s service area, with data showing year-over-year improvements.

• Comprehensive Metrics: Tracking of multiple quality indicators beyond amputation rates, such as wound healing rates, time to revascularization, length of stay, readmission rates, and patient-reported outcomes.

3. Health Equity and Access Initiatives

• Vulnerable Population Outreach: Specific strategies to address disparities in amputation rates among underserved populations, including initiatives targeting communities with historically higher rates of PAD-related amputations.

• Geographic Access Solutions: Implementation of innovative approaches to overcome geographic barriers to specialized limb preservation care, such as telehealth consultations, satellite clinics, or mobile diagnostic services.

4. Advanced Diagnostic and Treatment Capabilities

• Early Detection Initiatives: Proactive screening programs to identify PAD and foot complications before they become limb-threatening.

• Full Spectrum of Services: Availability of comprehensive diagnostic and therapeutic options from conservative management through advanced endovascular and surgical revascularization techniques.

5. Patient-Centered Approaches

• Shared Decision-Making: Implementation of structured shared decision-making processes that incorporate patient preferences, values, and goals into treatment planning.

• Support Services Integration: Incorporation of comprehensive support services including diabetes education, smoking cessation, nutrition counseling, and psychological support to address factors impacting limb preservation.

6. Education and Advocacy

• Professional Education: Development of training programs for healthcare providers across disciplines to improve recognition and management of limb-threatening conditions.

• Community Awareness: Implementation of public education campaigns about PAD risk factors, warning signs of limb ischemia, and the importance of seeking timely care.

7. Sustainability and Innovation

• Program Sustainability: Evidence of long-term institutional commitment to the limb preservation program, including appropriate staffing, resources, and administrative support.

• Continuous Improvement: Utilization of quality improvement methodologies to regularly evaluate outcomes and refine approaches based on data and evolving best practices.

“PAD Family Advocate of the Year Award”

The “PAD Family Advocate of the Year Award” honors an individual who has demonstrated exceptional dedication in advocating for a family member with Peripheral Artery Disease (PAD) who was facing amputation. This award recognizes someone who not only fought to save their loved one’s limbs but has transformed their personal experience into a mission to help others navigate similar challenges. Through their journey of contacting the Leg Saver Hotline, pursuing alternative solutions, and developing innovative approaches to care, they exemplify the power of informed, persistent advocacy in preventing unnecessary amputations.

1. Extraordinary Advocacy for a Family Member

• Persistent Intervention: Evidence of determined advocacy for a family member who was recommended for amputation due to PAD complications, including contacting the Leg Saver Hotline (1-833-PAD-LEGS) to seek alternative solutions.

• Sustained Commitment: Demonstration of unwavering support and advocacy over an extended period, fighting alongside their family member through multiple medical consultations, treatments, and recovery phases.

2. Navigation of the Healthcare System

• Medical Partnership: Successful collaboration with healthcare providers to explore all possible options for limb salvage, including seeking second opinions and specialized care when necessary.

• Resource Utilization: Effective use of available resources, including the Global PAD Association’s services, to access information, support, and referrals to appropriate specialists.

3. Development of Innovative Solutions

• Creative Problem-Solving: Creation of unique or adaptive solutions to address gaps in traditional care when standard approaches were insufficient or unavailable.

• Holistic Support: Implementation of comprehensive care strategies that address not only medical needs but also emotional, physical, and practical challenges faced by their family member.

4. Knowledge Acquisition and Application

• Self-Education: Demonstration of significant effort to understand PAD, its treatments, and limb salvage options, becoming highly informed about the condition and potential interventions.

• Informed Decision-Making: Application of acquired knowledge to make educated decisions about care options and to effectively communicate with healthcare providers.

5. Transformation of Personal Experience into Community Support

• Peer Mentorship: Active engagement in supporting other families facing similar challenges, sharing insights, strategies, and emotional support based on their personal experience.

• Advocacy Education: Efforts to teach others how to effectively advocate for themselves or their loved ones within the healthcare system to prevent unnecessary amputations.

6. Community Impact and Awareness

• Educational Outreach: Participation in initiatives to increase public awareness about PAD, its symptoms, and the importance of early intervention to prevent amputations.

• Resource Development: Contribution to the development or dissemination of resources that help others navigate the challenges of PAD care and advocacy.

7. Inspirational Leadership

• Resilience and Determination: Demonstration of exceptional perseverance in the face of obstacles, serving as an inspiration to others in similar situations.

• Positive Influence: Evidence of positive impact on the lives of others facing PAD challenges, creating hope and empowering others to take an active role in their healthcare journey.

“Global PAD Association Volunteer Excellence Award”

The “Global PAD Association Volunteer Excellence Award” honors individuals who selflessly dedicate their time and efforts to assist the Global PAD Association in providing critical life and limb-saving education, advocacy, and real-time support for patients with Peripheral Artery Disease (PAD). This award recognizes the significant contributions of outstanding volunteers who go above and beyond to make a positive impact in the PAD community. The Global PAD Association may recognize multiple volunteers with this award in a given year to acknowledge exceptional service across different roles, regions, or initiatives within the organization.

1. Commitment to Volunteer Service

• Dedication of Time: Evidence of a significant and sustained commitment to volunteering with the Global PAD Association, demonstrating a willingness to go above and beyond in their service.

• Active Participation: Involvement in various initiatives, programs, or events organized by the association, contributing to its mission and goals.

2. Contribution to Education and Advocacy

• Educational Outreach: Engagement in efforts to provide education about PAD, including participation in workshops, seminars, or community events aimed at raising awareness and understanding of the condition.

• Advocacy Efforts: Active involvement in advocacy initiatives that promote the needs and rights of PAD patients, helping to influence policy and improve access to care.

3. Real-Time Support for Patients

• Peer Support Initiatives: Provision of real-time support to patients and their families, offering guidance, encouragement, and resources to help them navigate their PAD journey.

• Mentorship: Serving as a mentor to other volunteers or patients, sharing knowledge and experiences to empower others in their advocacy and care efforts.

4. Impact on the PAD Community

• Positive Outcomes: Evidence of measurable impact resulting from the volunteer’s efforts, such as increased awareness, improved patient engagement, or enhanced access to resources for PAD patients.

• Recognition by Peers: Acknowledgment from fellow volunteers, patients, or the Global PAD Association for contributions that have significantly advanced the organization’s mission.

5. Collaboration and Teamwork

• Team Player: Demonstrated ability to work collaboratively with other volunteers, staff, and stakeholders to achieve common goals and enhance the effectiveness of the association’s initiatives.

• Building Relationships: Efforts to build and maintain positive relationships within the PAD community, fostering a supportive and inclusive environment.

6. Innovation and Initiative

• Creative Solutions: Development of innovative ideas or initiatives that enhance the association’s educational and advocacy efforts, demonstrating a proactive approach to addressing challenges faced by PAD patients.

• Leadership in Projects: Taking the lead on specific projects or initiatives that align with the association’s mission, showcasing initiative and dedication.

7. Sustained Engagement

• Long-Term Commitment: Evidence of a long-term commitment to the Global PAD Association, demonstrating a passion for the cause and a desire to make a lasting difference in the lives of PAD patients.

• Ongoing Involvement: Continued engagement in volunteer activities, even in the face of challenges, reflecting resilience and dedication to the mission of the association.

“Excellence in PAD Multidisciplinary Care Award”

This award honors a physician who demonstrates exceptional leadership in establishing, promoting, and implementing collaborative approaches to Peripheral Artery Disease (PAD) management. The recipient exemplifies excellence in breaking down silos between medical specialties, fostering integrated care pathways, and achieving superior outcomes through multidisciplinary PAD treatment strategies. This physician not only excels in their own PAD practice but also actively transforms the broader healthcare ecosystem to ensure comprehensive, coordinated care for patients with vascular disease.

1. Breaking Down Specialty Silos in PAD Care

• Cross-Specialty Bridges: Demonstrated success in bridging traditional divides between vascular surgery, interventional cardiology, interventional radiology, podiatry, and other PAD-related specialties.

• Territorial Barrier Removal: Evidence of overcoming traditional territorial challenges and creating unified approaches to PAD management across different departments or practice groups.

2. Establishing Formal PAD Collaborative Structures

• Multidisciplinary PAD Programs: Creation or leadership of formal multidisciplinary programs specifically for PAD patients, such as limb preservation clinics or vascular centers of excellence.

• Structured Collaboration Processes: Implementation of systematic approaches to cross-specialty collaboration, such as regular PAD case conferences, joint clinics, or coordinated care pathways.

3. Transforming PAD Care Delivery Models

• Innovative Care Pathways: Development of new care delivery models that integrate multiple specialties for PAD patients, demonstrating improved efficiency, patient experience, or clinical outcomes.

• Systems-Level Innovation: Evidence of influencing institutional or systemic changes that support collaborative PAD care, such as joint credentialing, collaborative billing models, or shared resources.

4. Championing Team-Based PAD Decision Making

• Consensus-Based Protocols: Development of collaborative treatment algorithms or decision pathways for PAD that incorporate input from multiple specialties.

• Shared Authority Models: Implementation of approaches that distribute decision-making authority appropriately across specialties based on expertise rather than traditional hierarchies.

5. Fostering Mutual Respect Among PAD Specialists

• Professional Culture Change: Demonstrated leadership in changing the professional culture around PAD care from competition to collaboration.

• Cross-Specialty Appreciation: Creation of opportunities for specialists to gain understanding and appreciation of other disciplines’ contributions to PAD care.

6. Achieving Superior PAD Outcomes Through Collaboration

• Documented Outcome Improvements: Evidence that the physician’s collaborative approaches have led to measurable improvements in PAD-specific outcomes, such as reduced amputation rates, improved wound healing, or enhanced functional status.

• Comparative Excellence: Demonstration that multidisciplinary approaches championed by the physician achieve better results than traditional siloed care models for PAD patients.

7. Influencing the Broader PAD Care Ecosystem

• Beyond Individual Practice: Evidence of impact extending beyond the nominee’s immediate practice to influence regional or national approaches to collaborative PAD care.

• Advocacy for Collaboration: Active promotion of multidisciplinary PAD care models in professional societies, publications, or policy forums.

“PAD Diagnostic Excellence in Primary Care Award”

This prestigious award recognizes a primary care physician who has demonstrated exceptional commitment and skill in diagnosing Peripheral Artery Disease (PAD), directly addressing the critical issue of PAD underdiagnosis in primary care settings. The recipient exemplifies how primary care providers can serve as frontline defenders against this often-missed vascular condition, implementing systematic approaches to identify PAD early and connect patients with appropriate care. The award honors those who have gone above and beyond standard practice to ensure PAD does not go undetected in their patient population.

1. Exceptional PAD Diagnostic Rates

• Above-Average Detection: Demonstrates significantly higher rates of PAD diagnosis compared to national averages in primary care, with documented evidence of identifying previously undiagnosed cases.

• Diagnostic Precision: Shows excellence in accurately identifying PAD through appropriate use of diagnostic criteria, avoiding both under and over-diagnosis.

2. Systematic Screening Implementation

• Risk-Based Screening Protocols: Development and implementation of systematic, evidence-based protocols for identifying at-risk patients and screening them for PAD.

• Comprehensive Assessment: Consistent incorporation of PAD assessment into routine care, including thorough vascular examinations, ankle-brachial index (ABI) measurements, and careful evaluation of symptoms that might otherwise be attributed to other conditions.

3. Diagnostic Skill Development

• Enhanced Clinical Skills: Demonstrated mastery of physical examination techniques specific to PAD detection, including pulse assessment, skin examination, and recognition of subtle PAD manifestations.

• Diagnostic Tool Proficiency: Expertise in using and interpreting diagnostic tools accessible in primary care settings, such as handheld Doppler, ABI measurements, or pulse volume recordings.

4. Overcoming Diagnostic Challenges

• Atypical Presentation Recognition: Exceptional ability to identify PAD in patients with atypical presentations, including those with diabetes who may not experience classic claudication symptoms.

• Differential Diagnosis Expertise: Skill in distinguishing PAD from other conditions with similar presentations, ensuring accurate diagnosis and appropriate management.

5. Closing Diagnostic Gaps

• Addressing Disparities: Specific efforts to improve PAD diagnosis in populations where it is traditionally underdiagnosed, including women, minorities, and rural communities.

• Proactive Case Finding: Implementation of innovative approaches to identify PAD patients who might otherwise go undiagnosed, such as reviewing medication lists for cardiovascular risk factors or implementing PAD screening days.

6. Education and Awareness

• Patient Education: Excellence in educating patients about PAD symptoms that warrant medical attention, helping overcome the common patient assumption that leg pain is a normal part of aging.

• Professional Education: Efforts to educate colleagues, nursing staff, and other healthcare professionals about PAD diagnosis, raising awareness throughout the primary care community.

7. Diagnostic-to-Treatment Pathway

• Effective Referral Networks: Development of streamlined referral pathways to ensure patients diagnosed with PAD receive timely specialized care when needed.

• Diagnosis Follow-Through: Excellence in communicating diagnostic findings to patients, explaining implications, and ensuring appropriate next steps in management or referral.

PAD MacGyver Award

The “PAD MacGyver Award” recognizes a physician who, according to patient testimonials and reported outcomes, demonstrates exceptional resourcefulness and innovation in treating complex Peripheral Artery Disease (PAD) cases. This honor celebrates a doctor whom patients credit with finding creative solutions when conventional approaches have failed, particularly in cases where amputation seemed inevitable. Patients consistently highlight this physician’s unwavering determination, ability to adapt when standard treatments aren’t working, and remarkable success in saving limbs that other providers considered untreatable.

1. Patient-Reported “Impossible” Case Success

• Last Hope Outcomes: Consistently recognized by patients who were told by other providers that amputation was their only option, yet experienced successful limb salvage under this physician’s care.
• Patient Testimonials: Significant collection of patient stories highlighting how this physician found solutions when others could not.

2. Reputation for Never Giving Up

• Persistence Recognition: Widely acknowledged by patients for extraordinary determination in pursuing multiple approaches rather than accepting treatment failure.
• Beyond Standard Care: Patient reports of the physician going above and beyond conventional treatments, trying unique approaches when standard methods weren’t working.

3. Creative Solutions Experienced by Patients

• Adaptation Witnessed: Patient testimonials describing how the physician adapted techniques or approaches during their care when challenges arose.
• Personalized Innovation: Reports from patients about receiving treatments specifically tailored to their unique situations rather than one-size-fits-all approaches.

4. Cross-Specialty Care Coordination

• Seamless Experience: Patient accounts of receiving comprehensive care that bridged multiple specialties without disruption or fragmentation.
• Coordinated Approach: Recognition from patients for orchestrating effective collaboration between different specialists for their benefit.

5. Exceptional Communication About Creative Approaches

• Understanding Complex Options: Patient feedback about the physician’s ability to clearly explain innovative or non-standard treatment approaches in understandable terms.
• Confidence Building: Testimonials about how the physician instilled confidence when proposing unique solutions to complex PAD problems.

6. Community Recognition of Problem-Solving Abilities

• Referral Reputation: Recognition as the “go-to” doctor for complex cases based on patient referrals and community reputation.
• Success Stories Spread: Evidence that patient success stories have spread through PAD communities, creating hope for others with complex disease.

7. Patient Quality of Life Impact

• Functional Outcomes: Patient reports of maintained or improved mobility and independence following innovative interventions.
• Emotional Impact: Testimonials about the psychological benefit of limb preservation and restored function when amputation seemed inevitable.
  
  

PAD MacGyver Award

Presented to

Dr. Carlos Bechara

Rush Hospital, Chicago, Illinois

For exceptional resourcefulness and innovation in complex PAD cases as recognized through patient testimonials and reported outcomes. Patients consistently credit Dr. Bechara with finding creative solutions when conventional approaches have failed, particularly in cases where amputation seemed inevitable.

His unwavering determination to preserve limbs, ability to adapt when standard treatments aren’t working, and remarkable success in cases others deemed untreatable have earned him the highest praise from the PAD patient community.

Presented by the Global PAD Association
Based on Patient Recognition and Testimonials
[Date of Presentation]

”Global PAD Vascular Surgeon of the Year Award"

The "PAD Vascular Surgeon of the Year Award" recognizes a healthcare professional whom patients in the Global PAD Association’s network of 12,000 have voted on as having the greatest life and limb-saving impact. This doctor also embraces innovative approaches to PAD care, actively participates in awareness and educational initiatives, has a proven track record of reducing amputations, and values interdisciplinary collaboration, all contributing to improved patient outcomes and advancements in PAD management.

1. Emphasis on Patient-Reported Outcomes (PROMs)

PROMs Integration: Demonstrated use of Patient-Reported Outcome Measures (PROMs) in clinical practice to guide management decisions and evaluate treatment effectiveness for PAD.

• Outcome Improvement: Evidence of significant improvement in PROMs, indicating enhanced health-related quality of life (HRQoL), functional status, and patient satisfaction under the nominee's care.

2. Reduction in Repeated Interventions

Minimized Re-interventions: A track record of minimizing the need for repeated interventional and surgical treatments through effective initial treatment choices, emphasizing non-invasive management and preventive care.

• Long-Term Patient Management: Demonstrated success in long-term management plans that lead to stable disease control, reducing the need for subsequent interventions.

3. Empathy and Patient-Centered Care

Empathetic Approach: Exceptional empathy and understanding towards PAD patients, recognizing and addressing the social and emotional deficits associated with PAD.

• Patient-Centered Communication: Excellence in patient communication, ensuring that patients feel heard, understood, and actively involved in their care decisions.

4. Innovative Thinking and Approaches

Innovative Treatment Strategies: Adoption and implementation of innovative treatment strategies and technologies that improve patient outcomes and HRQoL.

• Research and Development: Active involvement in research on new PAD treatments, preventive measures, and strategies for incorporating PROMs into clinical practice.

5. Advocacy for PAD Awareness and Education

PAD Awareness Initiatives: Involvement in initiatives aimed at raising public and professional awareness about PAD, its risks, and the importance of early detection.

• Educational Contributions: Contributions to the education of patients, the public, and healthcare professionals about PAD through seminars, workshops, publications, or online platforms.

6. Interdisciplinary Collaboration

• Collaborative Practice: Demonstrated ability to work collaboratively with a multidisciplinary team for comprehensive PAD care, emphasizing the importance of a holistic approach to patient management.
• Community and Professional Engagement: Active engagement in professional communities related to PAD, sharing knowledge, experiences, and best practices for the benefit of the field.

Dr. Tatsuya Nakama earned his medical degree from the Faculty of Medicine, University of Miyazaki, Japan. After the primary residency in Miyazaki University Hospital, he has been started his Cardiologist career at Miyazaki Medical Association Hospital, Japan. He has shown well-balanced activities in the daily clinical practice, clinical research, and education. In 2018, he relocated to Tokyo and started working at Tokyo Bay Medical Center, Urayasu, Japan and is devoting his energies to educating young interventional fellows, clinical research and contributing to development of community medicine.
Among his sub-specialties, in the field of PAD, he has contributed many publications regarding the technique, feasibility, and clinical implication of challenging endovascular treatment. Currently He is active as a principal investigator of several clinical studies. He is particularly passionate about the treatment of chronic limb threatening ischemia, especially in the EVT for infrapopliteal and Inframalleolar diseases. In addition, with his outstanding EVT techniques, he conducts educational live demonstrations at congresses around the world, including the LINC (2022-present) and JET (2017-Present). In addition, the Tokyo Endovascular Challenging Conference, an online educational live course on PAD intervention was established before the COVID-19 pandemic (from 2018) and has conducted a wide range of educational activities not only in Japan but also in Asia. Furthermore, He is listed as the author of the latest PAD guidelines of the Japanese Circulation Society. He received 2023 Vascular Career Achievement Awards from VIVA Foundations. His outstanding work and wide-range activity is worthy of being called a leader of his generation.

”Global PAD Interventional Cardiologist of the Year Award"

The "PAD Interventional Cardiologist of the Year Award" recognizes a healthcare professional whom patients in the Global PAD Association’s network of 12,000 have voted on as having the greatest life and limb-saving impact. This doctor also embraces innovative approaches to PAD care, actively participates in awareness and educational initiatives, has a proven track record of reducing amputations, and values interdisciplinary collaboration, all contributing to improved patient outcomes and advancements in PAD management.

1. Emphasis on Patient-Reported Outcomes (PROMs)

PROMs Integration: Demonstrated use of Patient-Reported Outcome Measures (PROMs) in clinical practice to guide management decisions and evaluate treatment effectiveness for PAD.

• Outcome Improvement: Evidence of significant improvement in PROMs, indicating enhanced health-related quality of life (HRQoL), functional status, and patient satisfaction under the nominee's care.

2. Reduction in Repeated Interventions

Minimized Re-interventions: A track record of minimizing the need for repeated interventional and surgical treatments through effective initial treatment choices, emphasizing non-invasive management and preventive care.

• Long-Term Patient Management: Demonstrated success in long-term management plans that lead to stable disease control, reducing the need for subsequent interventions.

3. Empathy and Patient-Centered Care

Empathetic Approach: Exceptional empathy and understanding towards PAD patients, recognizing and addressing the social and emotional deficits associated with PAD.

• Patient-Centered Communication: Excellence in patient communication, ensuring that patients feel heard, understood, and actively involved in their care decisions.

4. Innovative Thinking and Approaches

Innovative Treatment Strategies: Adoption and implementation of innovative treatment strategies and technologies that improve patient outcomes and HRQoL.

• Research and Development: Active involvement in research on new PAD treatments, preventive measures, and strategies for incorporating PROMs into clinical practice.

5. Advocacy for PAD Awareness and Education

PAD Awareness Initiatives: Involvement in initiatives aimed at raising public and professional awareness about PAD, its risks, and the importance of early detection.

• Educational Contributions: Contributions to the education of patients, the public, and healthcare professionals about PAD through seminars, workshops, publications, or online platforms.

6. Interdisciplinary Collaboration

• Collaborative Practice: Demonstrated ability to work collaboratively with a multidisciplinary team for comprehensive PAD care, emphasizing the importance of a holistic approach to patient management.
• Community and Professional Engagement: Active engagement in professional communities related to PAD, sharing knowledge, experiences, and best practices for the benefit of the field.

Global PAD IMPACT Awards.

”Global PAD Vascular Surgeon of the Year Award"

The Global PAD IMPACT Awards honor individuals and organizations across the globe who have made exceptional contributions to the field of PAD through research, innovation, patient education, advocacy, and/or professional leadership. Awardees are recognized for their selfless dedication to life and limb-saving care, advancing the field, and significantly improved the quality of life for PAD patients across the globe.

Award Announcement Schedule: Starting on September 1, 2024, the Global PAD Association will host a daily livestream on our YouTube channel at www.YouTube.com/TheWayToMyHeart. Each session will feature the announcement of award winners, followed by in-depth interviews that highlight their remarkable contributions and personal stories.

WHAT WE NEED FROM YOU SOONEST:

1. We have 30 timeslots for 30 award announcements. The sooner you use this calendly link to select your announcement date and time, the more flexibility there is in the calendar.

Choose your timeslot here: https://calendly.com/thewaytomyheart/2024-pad-impact-awards

2. Reply to this email with the picture you want us to use for future promotions and feel free to copy any media relations/social media managers for additional support.

3. Reply to this email with addresses to send certificates.

Attached is a draft press release to use on the DAY of your announcement. Below the signature line are the criteria used by our expert panel of physicians, clinicians, industry, and patients in selecting you for this award.

IMPORTANT: Please do NOT share your award recognition until after the date of the announcement

If you have any questions, don't hesitate to reach out to me! Congratulations!

Thank you for all you do to help us save life and limb!

Best,
Kym McNicholas

CEO

PADhelp.org

Criteria for your award is below:

”Global PAD Interventional Cardiologist of the Year Award"

The "PAD Vascular Surgeon of the Year Award" recognizes a healthcare professional whom patients in the Global PAD Association’s network of 12,000 have voted on as having the greatest life and limb-saving impact. This doctor also embraces innovative approaches to PAD care, actively participates in awareness and educational initiatives, has a proven track record of reducing amputations, and values interdisciplinary collaboration, all contributing to improved patient outcomes and advancements in PAD management.

1. Emphasis on Patient-Reported Outcomes (PROMs)

PROMs Integration: Demonstrated use of Patient-Reported Outcome Measures (PROMs) in clinical practice to guide management decisions and evaluate treatment effectiveness for PAD.

Outcome Improvement: Evidence of significant improvement in PROMs, indicating enhanced health-related quality of life (HRQoL), functional status, and patient satisfaction under the nominee's care.

2. Reduction in Repeated Interventions

Minimized Re-interventions: A track record of minimizing the need for repeated interventional and surgical treatments through effective initial treatment choices, emphasizing non-invasive management and preventive care.

Long-Term Patient Management: Demonstrated success in long-term management plans that lead to stable disease control, reducing the need for subsequent interventions.

3. Empathy and Patient-Centered Care

Empathetic Approach: Exceptional empathy and understanding towards PAD patients, recognizing and addressing the social and emotional deficits associated with PAD.

Patient-Centered Communication: Excellence in patient communication, ensuring that patients feel heard, understood, and actively involved in their care decisions.

4. Innovative Thinking and Approaches

Innovative Treatment Strategies: Adoption and implementation of innovative treatment strategies and technologies that improve patient outcomes and HRQoL.

Research and Development: Active involvement in research on new PAD treatments, preventive measures, and strategies for incorporating PROMs into clinical practice.

5. Advocacy for PAD Awareness and Education

PAD Awareness Initiatives: Involvement in initiatives aimed at raising public and professional awareness about PAD, its risks, and the importance of early detection.

Educational Contributions: Contributions to the education of patients, the public, and healthcare professionals about PAD through seminars, workshops, publications, or online platforms.

6. Interdisciplinary Collaboration

Collaborative Practice: Demonstrated ability to work collaboratively with a multidisciplinary team for comprehensive PAD care, emphasizing the importance of a holistic approach to patient management.

Community and Professional Engagement: Active engagement in professional communities related to PAD, sharing knowledge, experiences, and best practices for the benefit of the field.

“PAD MacGyver Award”

The “PAD MacGyver Award” recognizes a physician who embodies the spirit of innovation, creativity, and resourcefulness in the treatment of complex Peripheral Artery Disease (PAD) cases. This award honors a doctor who combines technical virtuosity with ingenious problem-solving to tackle cases others might consider untreatable, particularly by developing hybrid approaches that cross traditional specialty boundaries. Like the legendary TV character, this physician can “fix anything” through a remarkable combination of technical skill, creative thinking, and the ability to adapt and improvise when conventional approaches fail, ultimately restoring blood flow and saving limbs that might otherwise be lost to amputation.

1. Creative Problem-Solving in Complex PAD Cases

• “Unfixable” Case Success: Demonstrated ability to successfully treat PAD cases that were deemed untreatable or at high risk for primary amputation by other providers.

• Novel Technical Solutions: Development of innovative procedural techniques or adaptations of existing tools to overcome challenging vascular anatomy or complex lesions.

2. Mastery of Hybrid Approaches

• Cross-Specialty Techniques: Exceptional skill in combining endovascular, surgical, and hybrid approaches to address complex PAD cases, crossing traditional specialty boundaries.

• Procedural Versatility: Demonstrated proficiency across multiple revascularization techniques, allowing seamless transition between approaches as needed during complex cases.

3. Technical Virtuosity and Adaptability

• Procedural Creativity: Ability to modify standard techniques in real-time when faced with unexpected challenges or anatomical variations.

• Tool Adaptation: Ingenious use or modification of available devices and instruments to solve unique technical problems during PAD interventions.

4. Success with Challenging Vascular Anatomy

• Complex Lesion Navigation: Exceptional skill in successfully treating challenging lesion types including heavily calcified vessels, chronic total occlusions, or complex bifurcation disease.

• Anatomical Problem-Solving: Creative approaches to overcome difficult vascular access, unusual anatomical variants, or previously failed intervention sites.

5. “Never Give Up” Mindset

• Perseverance: Demonstrated willingness to pursue multiple approaches or staged procedures rather than defaulting to amputation when initial revascularization attempts are challenging.

• Salvage Expertise: Exceptional skill in salvaging failed procedures or addressing complications with innovative solutions rather than abandoning revascularization efforts.

6. Knowledge Integration and Application

• Cross-Disciplinary Expertise: Integration of knowledge from vascular surgery, interventional radiology, interventional cardiology, podiatry, and wound care to develop comprehensive solutions.

• Continuous Technical Evolution: Evidence of constantly expanding technical repertoire, incorporating new devices and approaches while developing unique modifications.

7. Teaching and Sharing Innovative Approaches

• Innovation Dissemination: Active sharing of novel techniques and approaches through publications, presentations, or teaching, rather than keeping innovations proprietary.

• Mentorship in Innovation: Mentoring other physicians in developing creative problem-solving skills and technical adaptability for complex PAD cases.

America’s Vascular Surgeon of the Year Award

The “America’s Vascular Surgeon of the Year Award” recognizes a vascular surgical specialist who exemplifies extraordinary clinical excellence, innovation, and leadership in the field of vascular surgery across the United States. This surgeon demonstrates mastery across the full spectrum of vascular interventions, maintains an exceptional commitment to limb preservation, advances the field through research and education, and delivers patient-centered care that transforms lives and inspires colleagues nationwide.

1. Comprehensive Surgical Excellence

• Procedural Versatility: Demonstrated expertise across open surgical, endovascular, and hybrid techniques, with the ability to tailor interventional approaches to individual patient needs.
• Technical Innovation: Leadership in adopting, refining, or developing new surgical or endovascular techniques that expand treatment options or improve outcomes.
• Complex Case Management: Distinguished record of successfully managing technically challenging vascular pathologies that require exceptional surgical judgment and skill.

2. Commitment to Conservative Therapy

• Walking as Medicine Advocacy: Outstanding promotion and implementation of structured walking programs as a primary or complementary treatment for PAD patients.
• Non-Invasive Prioritization: Demonstrated commitment to appropriate use of conservative management strategies before pursuing surgical interventions when clinically indicated.
• Patient Empowerment: Excellence in educating and motivating patients to actively participate in their vascular health through lifestyle modifications and adherence to conservative therapies.

3. Limb Preservation Leadership

• Amputation Prevention: Documented success in reducing amputation rates through aggressive revascularization strategies, wound care integration, and multidisciplinary collaboration.
• Critical Limb Ischemia Expertise: Outstanding outcomes in the management of critical limb ischemia using the full spectrum of available interventions.
• Salvage Success: Exceptional skill in limb salvage for patients who have been recommended for amputation or deemed untreatable by others.

4. Research and Evidence Development

• Clinical Investigation: Significant contributions to vascular surgery research through leadership in clinical trials, registries, or outcomes studies that advance the evidence base.
• Publication Impact: Substantial publication record in peer-reviewed journals with demonstrable influence on clinical practice or treatment guidelines.
• Innovation Translation: Successful translation of research findings or technological innovations into clinical practice improvements that benefit patients across the United States.

5. Patient-Centered Vascular Care

• Personalized Approach: Exceptional commitment to individualized treatment planning that considers patients’ unique circumstances, preferences, and quality of life goals.
• Patient Satisfaction: Outstanding patient satisfaction metrics and recognition for compassionate, accessible care that addresses both physical and emotional needs.
• Long-term Engagement: Demonstrated excellence in establishing enduring patient relationships through comprehensive follow-up care and lifestyle management support.

6. Educational Leadership

• Knowledge Dissemination: Significant contributions to vascular surgery education through publications, presentations, workshops, or innovative teaching methodologies.
• Mentorship Excellence: Distinguished record of mentoring residents, fellows, and early-career surgeons who have gone on to successful careers in vascular surgery.
• Public Education: Leadership in raising awareness about vascular health, disease prevention, and treatment options among patients and communities across America.

7. Professional Leadership and Advocacy

• Organizational Impact: Significant contributions to national vascular surgery or related professional organizations through leadership positions, committee work, or policy initiatives.
• Quality Improvement: Leadership in quality improvement initiatives, best practice development, or registry participation that advances the standard of vascular surgical care.
• Specialty Advancement: Advocacy for the vascular surgery specialty through efforts that strengthen its position within American healthcare systems and improve patient access to specialized care.

8. Collaborative Practice Model

• Team Leadership: Excellence in developing or enhancing multidisciplinary vascular care teams that optimize patient outcomes through integrated treatment approaches.
• Cross-Specialty Collaboration: Demonstrated commitment to collaborative practice with interventional specialists, wound care providers, primary care physicians, and other healthcare professionals.
• Systems Integration: Leadership in developing integrated care pathways or practice models that enhance the efficiency, effectiveness, and patient-centeredness of vascular surgical care.

“America’s Vascular Interventional Radiologist of the Year Award”

The “America’s Vascular Interventional Radiologist of the Year Award” recognizes a healthcare professional who has demonstrated exceptional impact in advancing vascular interventional radiology across the United States. This specialist exemplifies mastery in image-guided minimally invasive techniques, champions innovative approaches to complex vascular pathologies, leads in research and education initiatives, maintains an outstanding track record of patient outcomes, and promotes interdisciplinary collaboration within the American healthcare system.

1. Clinical Excellence in Vascular Interventions

• Procedural Expertise: Demonstrated exceptional skill in performing complex vascular interventions using advanced imaging guidance across diverse patient populations.
• Quality Metrics: Outstanding performance on national quality measures and registry outcomes that exceed benchmarks for vascular interventional procedures.
• Safety Innovation: Leadership in developing or implementing safety protocols that have enhanced procedural outcomes while minimizing complications.

2. Patient-Centered Interventional Care

• Access Advocacy: Commitment to expanding access to high-quality interventional radiology services across diverse communities in America, including rural and underserved populations.
• Patient Experience: Exceptional dedication to improving the patient experience during interventional procedures through innovations in pain management, procedural efficiency, and recovery protocols.
• Patient Engagement: Excellence in patient education, shared decision-making, and longitudinal care relationships that extend beyond procedural interventions.

3. Leadership in Advanced Vascular Techniques

• Technical Innovation: Pioneer in adapting, refining, or developing interventional techniques that address complex vascular pathologies or improve existing treatment approaches.
• Challenging Case Management: Distinguished record of successfully treating complex vascular cases that demonstrate exceptional problem-solving abilities and technical skill.
• Technology Integration: Leadership in evaluating and implementing new devices, imaging technologies, or procedural approaches that advance the practice of vascular interventional radiology.

4. Contributions to American IR Education

• Training Excellence: Exceptional commitment to educating the next generation of interventional radiologists through formal fellowship programs, mentorship, or educational leadership roles.
• Knowledge Dissemination: Significant contributions to continuing medical education, including publications, lectures, workshops, or educational resources that benefit practitioners across the United States.
• Public Awareness: Leadership in raising awareness about vascular interventional radiology among patients, referring physicians, and healthcare stakeholders throughout America.

5. Research Advancement

• Clinical Investigation: Substantial contributions to the interventional radiology evidence base through leadership in clinical trials, registries, or outcomes research relevant to American patient populations.
• Practice Innovation: Development of novel interventional approaches, treatment algorithms, or care pathways that have improved clinical practice in the United States.
• Translational Impact: Success in translating research findings into clinical practice improvements that benefit patients across American healthcare systems.

6. Health System Integration

• Interdisciplinary Leadership: Excellence in establishing or enhancing collaborative care models that position interventional radiology as an essential component of comprehensive vascular care in American hospitals and health systems.
• Value Demonstration: Leadership in documenting and communicating the value of interventional radiology services within evolving U.S. payment models and healthcare delivery systems.
• Quality Improvement: Demonstrated commitment to continuous quality improvement through participation in or leadership of national quality initiatives, registries, or accreditation programs.

7. Professional Leadership

• Organizational Impact: Significant contributions to national interventional radiology or vascular medicine professional organizations through committee work, leadership positions, or advocacy efforts.
• Specialty Advancement: Leadership in initiatives that strengthen the position of interventional radiology within American medicine, including certification, privileging, or scope of practice advancements.
• National Influence: Recognized influence in shaping the direction of vascular interventional radiology across the United States through policy contributions, practice guidelines, or thought leadership.

“America’s Vascular Interventional Cardiologist of the Year Award”

The “America’s Vascular Interventional Cardiologist of the Year Award” recognizes a healthcare professional whom patients across the United States have identified as having extraordinary impact in both cardiac and peripheral vascular care. This specialist demonstrates exceptional skill in cardiac-focused interventions while extending expertise to peripheral vascular disease management, embraces innovative approaches to comprehensive cardiovascular care, actively participates in national awareness and educational initiatives, has a proven track record of improving both cardiac outcomes and reducing limb amputations, and champions interdisciplinary collaboration across specialties.

1. Integrated Cardiovascular-Peripheral Vascular Excellence

• Dual Expertise: Demonstrated mastery in both coronary interventions and peripheral vascular procedures, with particular emphasis on the connection between cardiac and peripheral arterial disease.
• Comprehensive Management: Excellence in providing unified treatment approaches that address the complete cardiovascular system, recognizing the systemic nature of vascular disease.

2. Patient-Reported Outcomes Leadership

• PROMs Implementation: Pioneering use of Patient-Reported Outcome Measures (PROMs) in interventional cardiology practice with emphasis on both cardiac and vascular quality of life metrics.
• Outcome Documentation: Evidence of significant improvements in both cardiac function and peripheral vascular health as reported through validated patient outcome measures.

3. Sustainable Intervention Success

• Durability of Results: Exceptional track record of long-term success from initial interventions, reducing the need for repeated procedures.
• Progressive Care Planning: Demonstrated excellence in developing staged, patient-specific treatment plans that address both immediate needs and long-term cardiovascular health.

4. Patient-Centered Cardiovascular Care

• Comprehensive Communication: Excellence in explaining complex cardiovascular concepts to patients, ensuring informed participation in treatment decisions.
• Psychological Support: Recognition and management of the emotional impact of dual cardiac-vascular disease diagnoses, with appropriate support resources.

5. Innovation in Cardiovascular Intervention

• Advanced Techniques: Implementation of cutting-edge approaches that bridge cardiac and peripheral vascular interventions.
• Technology Integration: Leadership in adopting and adapting new technologies to address the full spectrum of cardiovascular disease.
• Research Contributions: Active participation in clinical research advancing the field of interventional cardiology with vascular applications.

6. National PAD and Cardiovascular Disease Advocacy

• Public Education: Leadership in raising awareness about the connection between cardiac and peripheral vascular disease among both patients and healthcare professionals.
• Professional Development: Contributions to training and education of the next generation of interventional cardiologists with emphasis on comprehensive vascular care.

7. Multidisciplinary Collaboration

• Team Leadership: Demonstrated excellence in leading multidisciplinary cardiovascular care teams that include vascular specialists, surgeons, and other healthcare professionals.
• Cross-Specialty Partnerships: Established record of collaborative practice with vascular medicine specialists, surgeons, and other disciplines to ensure optimal patient outcomes.
• National Impact: Recognized influence in advancing cardiovascular care standards across America through professional organizations, publications, or practice innovation.

“PAD MacGyver Award”

The “PAD MacGyver Award” recognizes a physician who embodies the spirit of innovation, creativity, and resourcefulness in the treatment of complex Peripheral Artery Disease (PAD) cases. This award honors a doctor who combines technical virtuosity with ingenious problem-solving to tackle cases others might consider untreatable, particularly by developing hybrid approaches that cross traditional specialty boundaries. Like the legendary TV character, this physician can “fix anything” through a remarkable combination of technical skill, creative thinking, and the ability to adapt and improvise when conventional approaches fail, ultimately restoring blood flow and saving limbs that might otherwise be lost to amputation.

1. Creative Problem-Solving in Complex PAD Cases

• “Unfixable” Case Success: Demonstrated ability to successfully treat PAD cases that were deemed untreatable or at high risk for primary amputation by other providers.

• Novel Technical Solutions: Development of innovative procedural techniques or adaptations of existing tools to overcome challenging vascular anatomy or complex lesions.

2. Mastery of Hybrid Approaches

• Cross-Specialty Techniques: Exceptional skill in combining endovascular, surgical, and hybrid approaches to address complex PAD cases, crossing traditional specialty boundaries.

• Procedural Versatility: Demonstrated proficiency across multiple revascularization techniques, allowing seamless transition between approaches as needed during complex cases.

3. Technical Virtuosity and Adaptability

• Procedural Creativity: Ability to modify standard techniques in real-time when faced with unexpected challenges or anatomical variations.

• Tool Adaptation: Ingenious use or modification of available devices and instruments to solve unique technical problems during PAD interventions.

4. Success with Challenging Vascular Anatomy

• Complex Lesion Navigation: Exceptional skill in successfully treating challenging lesion types including heavily calcified vessels, chronic total occlusions, or complex bifurcation disease.

• Anatomical Problem-Solving: Creative approaches to overcome difficult vascular access, unusual anatomical variants, or previously failed intervention sites.

5. “Never Give Up” Mindset

• Perseverance: Demonstrated willingness to pursue multiple approaches or staged procedures rather than defaulting to amputation when initial revascularization attempts are challenging.

• Salvage Expertise: Exceptional skill in salvaging failed procedures or addressing complications with innovative solutions rather than abandoning revascularization efforts.

6. Knowledge Integration and Application

• Cross-Disciplinary Expertise: Integration of knowledge from vascular surgery, interventional radiology, interventional cardiology, podiatry, and wound care to develop comprehensive solutions.

• Continuous Technical Evolution: Evidence of constantly expanding technical repertoire, incorporating new devices and approaches while developing unique modifications.

7. Teaching and Sharing Innovative Approaches

• Innovation Dissemination: Active sharing of novel techniques and approaches through publications, presentations, or teaching, rather than keeping innovations proprietary.

• Mentorship in Innovation: Mentoring other physicians in developing creative problem-solving skills and technical adaptability for complex PAD cases.

“PAD MacGyver Award”

The “PAD MacGyver Award” recognizes a physician who embodies the spirit of innovation, creativity, and resourcefulness in the treatment of complex Peripheral Artery Disease (PAD) cases. This award honors a doctor who combines technical virtuosity with ingenious problem-solving to tackle cases others might consider untreatable, particularly by developing hybrid approaches that cross traditional specialty boundaries. Like the legendary TV character, this physician can “fix anything” through a remarkable combination of technical skill, creative thinking, and the ability to adapt and improvise when conventional approaches fail, ultimately restoring blood flow and saving limbs that might otherwise be lost to amputation.

1. Creative Problem-Solving in Complex PAD Cases

• “Unfixable” Case Success: Demonstrated ability to successfully treat PAD cases that were deemed untreatable or at high risk for primary amputation by other providers.

• Novel Technical Solutions: Development of innovative procedural techniques or adaptations of existing tools to overcome challenging vascular anatomy or complex lesions.

2. Mastery of Hybrid Approaches

• Cross-Specialty Techniques: Exceptional skill in combining endovascular, surgical, and hybrid approaches to address complex PAD cases, crossing traditional specialty boundaries.

• Procedural Versatility: Demonstrated proficiency across multiple revascularization techniques, allowing seamless transition between approaches as needed during complex cases.

3. Technical Virtuosity and Adaptability

• Procedural Creativity: Ability to modify standard techniques in real-time when faced with unexpected challenges or anatomical variations.

• Tool Adaptation: Ingenious use or modification of available devices and instruments to solve unique technical problems during PAD interventions.

4. Success with Challenging Vascular Anatomy

• Complex Lesion Navigation: Exceptional skill in successfully treating challenging lesion types including heavily calcified vessels, chronic total occlusions, or complex bifurcation disease.

• Anatomical Problem-Solving: Creative approaches to overcome difficult vascular access, unusual anatomical variants, or previously failed intervention sites.

5. “Never Give Up” Mindset

• Perseverance: Demonstrated willingness to pursue multiple approaches or staged procedures rather than defaulting to amputation when initial revascularization attempts are challenging.

• Salvage Expertise: Exceptional skill in salvaging failed procedures or addressing complications with innovative solutions rather than abandoning revascularization efforts.

6. Knowledge Integration and Application

• Cross-Disciplinary Expertise: Integration of knowledge from vascular surgery, interventional radiology, interventional cardiology, podiatry, and wound care to develop comprehensive solutions.

• Continuous Technical Evolution: Evidence of constantly expanding technical repertoire, incorporating new devices and approaches while developing unique modifications.

7. Teaching and Sharing Innovative Approaches

• Innovation Dissemination: Active sharing of novel techniques and approaches through publications, presentations, or teaching, rather than keeping innovations proprietary.

• Mentorship in Innovation: Mentoring other physicians in developing creative problem-solving skills and technical adaptability for complex PAD cases.

“PAD MacGyver Award”

The “PAD MacGyver Award” recognizes a physician who embodies the spirit of innovation, creativity, and resourcefulness in the treatment of complex Peripheral Artery Disease (PAD) cases. This award honors a doctor who combines technical virtuosity with ingenious problem-solving to tackle cases others might consider untreatable, particularly by developing hybrid approaches that cross traditional specialty boundaries. Like the legendary TV character, this physician can “fix anything” through a remarkable combination of technical skill, creative thinking, and the ability to adapt and improvise when conventional approaches fail, ultimately restoring blood flow and saving limbs that might otherwise be lost to amputation.

1. Creative Problem-Solving in Complex PAD Cases

• “Unfixable” Case Success: Demonstrated ability to successfully treat PAD cases that were deemed untreatable or at high risk for primary amputation by other providers.

• Novel Technical Solutions: Development of innovative procedural techniques or adaptations of existing tools to overcome challenging vascular anatomy or complex lesions.

2. Mastery of Hybrid Approaches

• Cross-Specialty Techniques: Exceptional skill in combining endovascular, surgical, and hybrid approaches to address complex PAD cases, crossing traditional specialty boundaries.

• Procedural Versatility: Demonstrated proficiency across multiple revascularization techniques, allowing seamless transition between approaches as needed during complex cases.

3. Technical Virtuosity and Adaptability

• Procedural Creativity: Ability to modify standard techniques in real-time when faced with unexpected challenges or anatomical variations.

• Tool Adaptation: Ingenious use or modification of available devices and instruments to solve unique technical problems during PAD interventions.

4. Success with Challenging Vascular Anatomy

• Complex Lesion Navigation: Exceptional skill in successfully treating challenging lesion types including heavily calcified vessels, chronic total occlusions, or complex bifurcation disease.

• Anatomical Problem-Solving: Creative approaches to overcome difficult vascular access, unusual anatomical variants, or previously failed intervention sites.

5. “Never Give Up” Mindset

• Perseverance: Demonstrated willingness to pursue multiple approaches or staged procedures rather than defaulting to amputation when initial revascularization attempts are challenging.

• Salvage Expertise: Exceptional skill in salvaging failed procedures or addressing complications with innovative solutions rather than abandoning revascularization efforts.

6. Knowledge Integration and Application

• Cross-Disciplinary Expertise: Integration of knowledge from vascular surgery, interventional radiology, interventional cardiology, podiatry, and wound care to develop comprehensive solutions.

• Continuous Technical Evolution: Evidence of constantly expanding technical repertoire, incorporating new devices and approaches while developing unique modifications.

7. Teaching and Sharing Innovative Approaches

• Innovation Dissemination: Active sharing of novel techniques and approaches through publications, presentations, or teaching, rather than keeping innovations proprietary.

• Mentorship in Innovation: Mentoring other physicians in developing creative problem-solving skills and technical adaptability for complex PAD cases.

Walking As Therapy Breakthrough Research of the Year

This award recognizes groundbreaking clinical research that significantly advances the understanding and application of walking therapy for peripheral artery disease. The recipient study demonstrates exceptional innovation, methodological rigor, and clinical impact that fundamentally changes how we approach walking interventions for PAD patients.

1. Research Innovation & Design Excellence

• Novel Therapeutic Approach: Investigated an innovative intervention or therapy that enhances walking ability in PAD patients.
• Methodological Rigor: Employed robust scientific methodology including appropriate controls, randomization, and validated outcome measures.
• Scale & Diversity: Successfully recruited and retained a significant, diverse patient population to ensure broad applicability of findings.

2. Clinical Significance & Patient Impact

• Meaningful Functional Improvement: Demonstrated statistically and clinically significant improvements in walking capacity or distance.
• Quality of Life Enhancement: Showed measurable positive effects on patient-reported symptoms and health-related quality of life.
• Addressed Unmet Need: Targeted a significant gap in current PAD treatment options for walking limitation.

3. Scientific Contribution & Evidence Generation

• Mechanism Elucidation: Advanced understanding of biological or physiological mechanisms underlying walking impairment in PAD.
• Outcome Measurement Innovation: Utilized or validated meaningful metrics for assessing walking improvement.
• Translational Potential: Generated evidence that can directly inform clinical practice guidelines or standards of care.

4. Field Advancement & Future Impact

• Paradigm Shift: Changed conventional thinking about walking therapy approaches for PAD.
• Clinical Practice Implications: Provided clear pathways for implementing findings in routine clinical care.
• Research Trajectory Impact: Opened new avenues for future investigation and therapeutic development.
  
  

Walking As Therapy Breakthrough Research of the Year

Presented to

The STRIDE Trial Research Team

Led by Dr. Marc P. Bonaca

For pioneering research demonstrating significant improvements in walking capacity, symptoms, and quality of life for peripheral artery disease patients through innovative therapeutic intervention. The STRIDE trial represents a landmark advancement that transforms our understanding of walking therapy and opens new frontiers in PAD treatment.

[Date of Presentation]

“PAD MacGyver Award”

The “PAD MacGyver Award” recognizes a physician who embodies the spirit of innovation, creativity, and resourcefulness in the treatment of complex Peripheral Artery Disease (PAD) cases. This award honors a doctor who combines technical virtuosity with ingenious problem-solving to tackle cases others might consider untreatable, particularly by developing hybrid approaches that cross traditional specialty boundaries. Like the legendary TV character, this physician can “fix anything” through a remarkable combination of technical skill, creative thinking, and the ability to adapt and improvise when conventional approaches fail, ultimately restoring blood flow and saving limbs that might otherwise be lost to amputation.

1. Creative Problem-Solving in Complex PAD Cases

• “Unfixable” Case Success: Demonstrated ability to successfully treat PAD cases that were deemed untreatable or at high risk for primary amputation by other providers.

• Novel Technical Solutions: Development of innovative procedural techniques or adaptations of existing tools to overcome challenging vascular anatomy or complex lesions.

2. Mastery of Hybrid Approaches

• Cross-Specialty Techniques: Exceptional skill in combining endovascular, surgical, and hybrid approaches to address complex PAD cases, crossing traditional specialty boundaries.

• Procedural Versatility: Demonstrated proficiency across multiple revascularization techniques, allowing seamless transition between approaches as needed during complex cases.

3. Technical Virtuosity and Adaptability

• Procedural Creativity: Ability to modify standard techniques in real-time when faced with unexpected challenges or anatomical variations.

• Tool Adaptation: Ingenious use or modification of available devices and instruments to solve unique technical problems during PAD interventions.

4. Success with Challenging Vascular Anatomy

• Complex Lesion Navigation: Exceptional skill in successfully treating challenging lesion types including heavily calcified vessels, chronic total occlusions, or complex bifurcation disease.

• Anatomical Problem-Solving: Creative approaches to overcome difficult vascular access, unusual anatomical variants, or previously failed intervention sites.

5. “Never Give Up” Mindset

• Perseverance: Demonstrated willingness to pursue multiple approaches or staged procedures rather than defaulting to amputation when initial revascularization attempts are challenging.

• Salvage Expertise: Exceptional skill in salvaging failed procedures or addressing complications with innovative solutions rather than abandoning revascularization efforts.

6. Knowledge Integration and Application

• Cross-Disciplinary Expertise: Integration of knowledge from vascular surgery, interventional radiology, interventional cardiology, podiatry, and wound care to develop comprehensive solutions.

• Continuous Technical Evolution: Evidence of constantly expanding technical repertoire, incorporating new devices and approaches while developing unique modifications.

7. Teaching and Sharing Innovative Approaches

• Innovation Dissemination: Active sharing of novel techniques and approaches through publications, presentations, or teaching, rather than keeping innovations proprietary.

• Mentorship in Innovation: Mentoring other physicians in developing creative problem-solving skills and technical adaptability for complex PAD cases.

Criteria for the "PAD Rising Star Award"

The "PAD Physician Rising Star Award" is designed to honor an early-career physician who has shown exceptional promise in the field of PAD through innovative research, patient-centered care, advocacy, and education. The recipient of this award exemplifies the qualities necessary to become a future leader in PAD, demonstrating a commitment to improving patient outcomes, advancing the field, and serving the community.

1. Early Career Excellence

• Early Achievement: The nominee should be in the early stages of their career but has already made significant contributions to the field of Peripheral Artery Disease (PAD) through research, patient care, or community service.
• Recognized Potential: Demonstrated potential for future leadership and innovation in PAD, as evidenced by peer recognition, mentor endorsements, or achievements relative to career stage.

2. Innovative Research and Clinical Practice

• Research Contributions: The physician has contributed to innovative research that advances understanding, prevention, diagnosis, or treatment of PAD. This includes publications, presentations at professional conferences, or involvement in clinical trials.
• Clinical Innovation: Implementation of cutting-edge clinical practices or development of novel treatment strategies that improve patient outcomes in PAD.

3. Patient Advocacy and Education

• Patient-Centered Care: Demonstrated commitment to patient-centered care, including efforts to improve patient education, engagement, and empowerment in managing PAD.
• Advocacy for PAD: Active involvement in advocacy efforts aimed at raising awareness about PAD, improving patient access to care, or addressing health disparities related to PAD.

4. Professional Development and Education

• Continuing Education: The nominee actively pursues opportunities for professional development and stays abreast of the latest advancements in PAD care and research 1.
• Educational Contributions: Contributions to the education and training of peers, medical students, or other healthcare professionals in PAD, through teaching, mentorship, or development of educational resources.

5. Interdisciplinary Collaboration

• Collaborative Work: The physician demonstrates an ability to work effectively within interdisciplinary teams, contributing to comprehensive and holistic care for PAD patients. This includes collaboration with vascular surgeons, cardiologists, podiatrists, and other specialists as necessary.
• Professional Engagement: Active participation in professional organizations or councils related to vascular disease, contributing to the broader professional community through collaboration, networking, and shared learning.

6. Community Service and Outreach

• Community Engagement: Participation in or organization of community outreach programs related to PAD, such as public health screenings, educational seminars, or support groups for patients and their families.
• Service to Underserved Populations: Efforts to provide PAD care, education, or resources to underserved or at-risk populations, demonstrating a commitment to equity in healthcare.

7. Measurable Impact

• Positive Outcomes: Evidence of positive impact on PAD patient care, community health, or the field of PAD, which could include improved patient outcomes, increased awareness, or contributions to policy changes benefiting PAD patients.
• Feedback and Recognition: Positive feedback from patients, peers, mentors, or professional organizations, recognizing the nominee's contributions and impact in the field of PAD.

“Global Vascular Interventional Radiologist of the Year Award”

The “Global Vascular Interventional Radiologist of the Year Award” recognizes a healthcare professional whom patients in the Global PAD Association’s network have identified as having exceptional impact in image-guided vascular interventions. This specialist demonstrates mastery in minimally invasive techniques, embraces innovative approaches to complex vascular pathologies, actively advances the field through research and education, has a proven track record of improving patient outcomes, and champions interdisciplinary collaboration across specialties.

1. Technical Excellence in Image-Guided Interventions

• Procedural Mastery: Demonstrated exceptional skill in complex vascular interventions across multiple vascular territories using advanced imaging techniques.
• Innovative Applications: Excellence in adapting and applying novel image-guided techniques to challenging vascular pathologies where conventional approaches may be limited.

2. Patient-Centered Vascular Care

• Clinical Integration: Outstanding ability to integrate imaging expertise with comprehensive clinical management of vascular patients.
• Outcomes Documentation: Evidence of superior patient outcomes through meticulous follow-up, quality metrics, and patient-reported outcome measures.
• Patient Advocacy: Exceptional commitment to patient education, informed consent, and shared decision-making throughout the treatment process.

3. Advanced Interventional Solutions

• Complex Case Management: Distinguished record of successfully addressing challenging vascular pathologies through creative interventional approaches.
• Technique Refinement: Leadership in developing or refining interventional techniques that enhance safety, efficacy, or patient comfort.

4. Research and Innovation

• Scientific Contributions: Significant contributions to the interventional radiology literature through high-quality research, technique development, or outcomes analysis.
• Technology Advancement: Leadership in evaluating and implementing new devices, imaging technologies, or procedural approaches that advance the field.

5. Education and Mentorship

• Knowledge Transfer: Excellence in teaching interventional techniques to the next generation of specialists through formal training programs, workshops, or educational publications.
• Professional Development: Commitment to advancing interventional radiology as a clinical specialty through curriculum development, certification advocacy, or leadership in professional societies.

6. Global Vascular Disease Advocacy

• Disease Awareness: Leadership in raising awareness about vascular diseases, their detection, and interventional treatment options among both patients and healthcare professionals.
• Access Improvement: Efforts to expand access to interventional radiology services for underserved populations or regions with limited vascular expertise.

7. Multidisciplinary Collaboration

• Team Integration: Exceptional ability to work collaboratively within multidisciplinary vascular teams, including vascular surgeons, cardiologists, and other specialists.
• Collaborative Innovation: Leadership in developing integrated care pathways that leverage the unique capabilities of interventional radiology within comprehensive vascular programs.
• Global Impact: Recognized influence in advancing interventional radiology standards across international boundaries through collaboration, publication, or educational initiatives.

Walking As Therapy Research Team of the Year

This award recognizes a research team demonstrating excellence in advancing walking-based interventions for peripheral artery disease prevention and management. The recipient team demonstrates pragmatic innovation in developing evidence-based protocols that improve PAD patient outcomes through walking therapy.

1. Evidence-Based Research Excellence

• Clinical Trial Implementation: Successfully designed and conducted studies evaluating walking interventions for PAD patients with measurable outcomes.
• Publication Impact: Contributed meaningful research to peer-reviewed literature supporting walking therapy for PAD.
• Practical Protocol Development: Created implementable, reproducible walking protocols that clinicians can readily adopt.

2. Innovation in Walking Therapy

• Technology Integration: Effectively incorporated relevant technology (monitoring devices, apps, etc.) to enhance walking therapy implementation or adherence.
• Novel Approaches: Developed or tested innovative walking intervention methods addressing specific PAD patient challenges.
• Adaptive Solutions: Created solutions that work across different clinical settings or patient populations.

3. Patient-Centered Focus

• Adherence Strategies: Researched and developed effective methods to improve patient engagement with walking programs.
• Outcome Measurement: Prioritized meaningful patient outcomes in research design and reporting.
• Accessibility Considerations: Addressed barriers to walking therapy adoption in diverse patient populations.

4. Field Leadership

• Knowledge Dissemination: Actively shared findings through publications, presentations, and educational initiatives.
• Collaborative Approach: Engaged with clinicians, patients, and other researchers to improve walking therapy approaches.
• Implementation Focus: Demonstrated commitment to translating research into clinical practice rather than research for its own sake.

“Global Excellence in Transformative PAD Prevention & Management Award”

The “Global Excellence in Transformative PAD Prevention & Management Award” recognizes a healthcare professional who has demonstrated exceptional commitment to fundamentally changing the paradigm of peripheral arterial disease care. This visionary clinician looks beyond conventional interventions to identify and address the root causes of vascular disease, employs advanced diagnostic approaches for early detection and precision management, and works collaboratively with patients to transform their vascular health trajectory through comprehensive lifestyle and metabolic optimization.

1. Root-Cause Investigation Excellence

• Comprehensive Etiology Assessment: Demonstrated excellence in identifying the underlying metabolic, inflammatory, autoimmune, or other systemic factors contributing to a patient’s vascular disease progression.
• Precision Diagnostics: Leadership in utilizing advanced laboratory testing, genetic analysis, metabolic assessments, and inflammatory markers that go beyond standard vascular diagnostics to uncover disease mechanisms.
• Systems-Based Analysis: Exceptional ability to connect various physiological systems and recognize how dysfunction in one area (gut health, hormone balance, immune function) may manifest as vascular disease.

2. Early Detection and Prevention Leadership

• Proactive Screening Protocols: Development or implementation of innovative screening approaches to identify PAD and its metabolic precursors before significant vascular damage occurs.
• Risk Stratification Innovation: Excellence in developing personalized risk assessment models that incorporate both traditional and emerging risk factors for vascular disease.
• Pre-clinical Intervention: Demonstrated success in implementing interventions at the earliest stages of vascular dysfunction to prevent disease progression and clinical manifestations.

3. Metabolic Health Optimization

• Metabolic Medicine Integration: Outstanding ability to assess and address metabolic health factors including insulin resistance, glycemic variability, lipid metabolism, and mitochondrial function as core components of vascular care.
• Nutritional Intervention Excellence: Leadership in applying evidence-based nutritional approaches tailored to individual patient needs to improve vascular health markers and outcomes.
• Inflammatory Modulation: Expertise in identifying and addressing chronic inflammation through targeted interventions that improve vascular function and slow disease progression.

4. Patient-Centered Collaborative Care

• Personalized Approach: Exceptional ability to develop highly individualized treatment plans that account for each patient’s unique physiological status, lifestyle factors, preferences, and capabilities.
• Patient Activation: Excellence in empowering patients with knowledge, skills, and motivation to actively participate in their vascular health improvement journey.
• Longitudinal Engagement: Demonstrated commitment to sustained patient partnerships that support long-term lifestyle change and health transformation rather than episodic interventions.

5. Multimodal Intervention Integration

• Comprehensive Treatment Planning: Leadership in combining appropriate conventional interventions with evidence-informed lifestyle, nutritional, and metabolic approaches to create synergistic treatment effects.
• Therapeutic Sequencing: Expertise in determining optimal timing and sequencing of various interventions to maximize vascular health improvement and minimize procedural interventions.
• Complementary Modality Integration: Skill in appropriately incorporating evidence-based complementary approaches to enhance conventional care and address patient needs holistically.

6. Outcome Transformation Documentation

• Beyond Anatomical Metrics: Excellence in tracking and documenting improvements in functional status, metabolic parameters, quality of life, and long-term disease progression, not just anatomical measures.
• Intervention Reduction: Demonstrated success in reducing the need for repeated endovascular or surgical interventions through comprehensive disease management approaches.
• Long-term Outcome Focus: Commitment to measuring and improving outcomes that matter to patients over years, not just immediate procedural success.

7. Knowledge Advancement and Professional Education

• Paradigm-Shifting Education: Leadership in educating colleagues about the importance of addressing root causes and metabolic factors in vascular disease management.
• Evidence Integration: Excellence in incorporating emerging research on vascular biology, metabolic medicine, and lifestyle interventions into clinical practice and professional education.
• Collaborative Learning: Commitment to interdisciplinary knowledge exchange with specialists in metabolic health, functional medicine, nutrition, and other relevant fields to enhance vascular care approaches.

“Global PAD Patient Advocacy & Wound Care Excellence Award”

The “Global PAD Patient Advocacy & Wound Care Excellence Award” recognizes a healthcare professional who demonstrates extraordinary dedication to patients with peripheral arterial disease and complex wounds. This clinician goes well beyond standard care expectations, refuses to give up on challenging cases, advances wound care research, and dedicates exceptional time and effort to helping patients achieve the best possible outcomes.

1. Extraordinary Patient Commitment

• Above and Beyond Care: Demonstrated willingness to extend extraordinary effort for patients with complex PAD-related wounds, including additional time, resources, and personal commitment.
• Persistence with Challenging Cases: Refusal to abandon difficult cases when conventional approaches fail, instead continuing to seek solutions for patients with limited options.
• Accessibility and Responsiveness: Exceptional availability to patients and healthcare team members, ensuring timely intervention and continuous support throughout the healing process.

2. Advanced Wound Care Expertise

• Clinical Excellence: Outstanding knowledge and skill in managing complex wounds associated with peripheral arterial disease and related complications.
• Research Involvement: Active participation in advancing wound care science through clinical research, treatment innovations, or outcomes studies.
• Knowledge Application: Exceptional ability to translate research findings and advanced techniques into practical patient care that improves healing outcomes.

3. Patient Advocacy Leadership

• System Navigation: Excellence in helping patients overcome barriers to care, including insurance challenges, access limitations, or resource constraints.
• Continuity Champion: Dedication to ensuring seamless care coordination across healthcare settings for optimal wound management.
• Patient Empowerment: Commitment to educating and involving patients in their wound care journey, helping them understand their condition and treatment options.

4. Dedication Impact

• Healing Success: Demonstrated record of achieving positive outcomes in cases that might otherwise have had poor prognoses.
• Time Investment: Willingness to devote significant personal time and effort beyond typical practice expectations to ensure optimal patient care.
• Community Recognition: Acknowledgment by patients, colleagues, and community members of the nominee’s exceptional dedication to PAD wound care.