Читать книгу Discovering Precision Health - Lloyd Minor - Страница 7

The idea for a book describing Stanford Medicine’s vision for Precision Health was suggested to me in 2016 during discussions with faculty and staff who were working on plans for the initiatives that have become a part of this vision. Bob Harrington, chair of the Department of Medicine, and Priya Singh, chief strategy officer and senior associate dean for Stanford Medicine, were leaders of this planning process. It has been heartening to see the engagement of our communities in the planning, communication, and execution of the strategy for Precision Health. Those who encouraged me to write the book were correct that the process of writing would help us to shape ideas and plans for the future. The book is also a reflection of a dictum, first emphasized to me by Jay Goldberg (my scientific mentor at the University of Chicago), that concepts only become meaningful and incisive when they are written, revised, and refined.

I have the honor of working every day with wonderful colleagues at Stanford. Their work is a constant source of inspiration for me and for so many others. The patients who entrust their care to us provide a grounding and focus to our scientific and educational pursuits. Our partnership with them is a privilege never to be taken for granted.

Although this book turned into a larger and lengthier project than initially envisioned, I want to express my regret that I could not describe all of the people, projects, and activities that are having a transformative impact. The same can be said for my description of companies focused on digital health, where there are also many more than I can cover here.

I want to thank Harry Clark for introducing me to Matt Rees. Matt’s keen insights and his assistance with the interviews and writing enabled this book to be completed. Jessica Best, director of strategic initiatives and communications, is an exceptionally talented writer and gave us valuable feedback on the manuscript. Sandy Yujuico, chief of staff in the Dean’s Office, arranged and coordinated the interviews and helped us keep the project on track. Esmond Harmsworth, our literary agent, provided valuable assistance during every step of the process.

Finally, and most importantly, I want to express my appreciation to my family. Lisa Keamy, my wife, has been my partner, companion, and adviser for these past 32 years. Her love and support energize and motivate me every day. Our children, Emily and Sam, amaze and inspire us as we watch their journey through life. Phoebe and Watson, our canine companions, make even the most challenging days seem a lot better.

Lloyd Minor Stanford, California 2019

Working on this book has been the most intellectually stimulating project of my professional life. It has been a privilege to collaborate with Lloyd Minor and help explain his inspiring vision for a new approach to health and well‐being. I am particularly grateful to Lloyd for enabling me to interview so many distinguished members of the faculty at Stanford’s School of Medicine, as well as a remarkable collection of entrepreneurs and investors. Harry Clark is a valued friend who introduced me to the School of Medicine’s leadership—making this one more in a long line of fascinating projects he has referred to me. I want to thank my wife, Nina, and my daughter, Sophia, for their everyday love and support, and for accommodating my sometimes‐chaotic schedule. My parents, Don Rees and Marilyn Rees, both Stanford graduates, laid the foundation that has enabled me to have a rewarding career and a fulfilling life.

Matthew Rees McLean, Virginia 2019