Infectious Diseases Expert Receives Outstanding Achievement Award

St. Luke's infectious diseases specialist Dr. Johan Bakken has received an outstanding achievement award from the Infectious Diseases Society of America (IDSA).

Dr. Bakken, of St. Luke's Infectious Disease Associates, was one of two recipients of the Watanakunakorn Clinician Award at IDWeek 2013 in San Francisco from October 2-6.

The IDSA named Dr. Bakken as a "leading expert in anaplasmosis" (a tick-borne disease) and praised his "incomparable clinical acumen and academic productivity."

In a statement, the organization added: "In addition to his clinical responsibilities, Dr. Bakken has been committed to teaching colleagues and physicians in training. He is knowledgeable and well known for his excellent speaking ability. He has repeatedly contributed to the infectious disease community by publishing groundbreaking articles."

The IDSA Watanakunakorn Clinician Award is presented to an IDSA member or fellow for outstanding achievement in the clinical practice of infectious diseases (ID). It is awarded to honor the memory of Dr. Chatrchai Watanakunakorn.

Also announced at IDWeek was the news that Dr. Bakken has been elected Vice President of the IDSA. He will serve as the organization's president for one year starting during IDWeek 2015.