The award for medical Exellence

is presented to a physician who inspires others with exceptional care for patients, extensive knowledge of medicine, valued teaching, superior abilities and accessibility to colleagues throughout the hospital. In spring 2007, at a hospital event marking Dr. André Lisbona's decision to step down as Chief of Radiology, President James Alexander listed the guest of honour's many professional accomplishments, but went on to explain what really makes him an outstanding physician: "As a compassionate individual, Dr. Lisbona has won the trust of his patients and the admiration of his colleagues for his soft-spoken personality, his gentle humour and his comforting disposition." Executive Director Henri Elbaz agreed: "He defended the Radiology Department with all his might, but above all, he defended the best interests of the patients with all his soul."Dr. Lisbona joined JGH staff in 1969, after earning his medical degree in 1964 from the University of Montreal, where he received the Sir William Hingston Gold Medal for highest academic standing. He was appointed Chief of Radiology in 1996 after a term as Acting Chief from 1993 to 1996. In addition to his position as Associate Professor in McGill's Faculty of Medicine, Dr. Lisbona has served as Chief Examiner in Diagnostic Radiology for the Professional Corporation of Physicians of Quebec, and as an executive member of the Association of Quebec Radiologists and the Canadian Association of Radiologists.
Dedication to his patients is why Dr. Lisbona has stayed on as Senior Radiologist, rather than opting for retirement. "I've got a full schedule, a full week, except I'm now spared the administrative burdens," he says. ''I'm honoured and humbled to receive the hospital's award, and it only adds to the enjoyment I get from my work. This is why I don't think of this place as just another hospital, but as my second home. I couldn't ask for more."