In Memoriam: UM School of Medicine Honors the Life of Outstanding Educator and Former Radiology Vice Chair, Robert D. Pugatch, MD

The University of Maryland School of Medicine (UMSOM) community is deeply saddened to share the passing of Robert D. Pugatch, MD, a stellar educator and former Vice Chair of the Department of Diagnostic Radiology and Nuclear Medicine. An expert in thoracic imaging, he was passionately known as one of the best in medical education, dedicated to mentoring and training generations of radiologists and physicians.

Fondly remembered as “Dr. P” and “Bob” by colleagues, students and friends, Dr. Pugatch joined the UMSOM faculty in 1998 and served as a Professor of Diagnostic Radiology and Nuclear Medicine and Vice Chairman of Academic Affairs for the department.

After graduating from the George Washington University School of Medicine in 1971, he moved to Boston to continue his medical training, completing his residency at Tufts New England Medical Center and a fellowship at Boston Veterans Administration Medical Center. He became the Director of Thoracic Radiology at the Brigham and Women’s Hospital, where he also mentored residents and met long-time colleagues.

Throughout his career, Dr. Pugatch was a highly sought-after lecturer for major medical meetings, publishing over 60 studies on chest imaging and receiving numerous awards for his excellence in teaching. His national reach and impact in the field led him to serve as President of the New England Roentgen Ray Society and Society of Thoracic Imaging, and Chair of the Chest Subcommittee of the Radiological Society of North America -- the premier professional organization in the field of radiology. In 1991, he was also honorably named the sixth Distinguished Scientist in the Department of Radiologic Pathology, Armed Forces Institute of Pathology.

Dr. Pugatch was a commensurate and decorated educator at UMSOM. He spoke as the graduation commencement hooder eight times; he also received the Student Council Award for Inspirational Guidance in the Teaching and Practice of Medicine three times, the Golden Apple Award for Best Clinical Teacher twice, and the Radiology Resident Best Teacher Award and Emergency Medicine’s Outstanding Teacher Award.

His commitment to delivering the best in medical education was undeniable and will have long-lasting impacts on all. His persistent faith in his students and charismatic energy will be dearly missed.

“This is a huge loss to our department, the School of Medicine, and health system,” said Elias Melhem, MD, Professor of Diagnostic Radiology and Nuclear Medicine and the Dean John M. Dennis Chair of Radiology. “Bob dedicated his career to mentoring junior faculty, teaching fellows, residents and medical students. He was the recipient of innumerable departmental, School of Medicine, and national teaching awards. He was loved and admired by all. Bob was my teacher at the Brigham and Women’s Hospital and our close friendship began over 20 years ago. I will miss him tremendously.”

The entire UMSOM community extends heartfelt sympathies to his family and friends. In lieu of flowers, the family requests donations be directed to Pathfinders for Autism.

The Department of Radiology and Nuclear Medicine has also established the Radiology Education Fund to help continue his impacts and legacy in resident education, development and wellness.