Honoring a Pillar of Education and Guidance for Countless Urologists
Renowned pediatric urologist Ronald Rabinowitz has been celebrated for his esteemed career and commitment to teaching, with a Festschrift held in his honour in September 2023. Rabinowitz, who grew up near steel mills along Pittsburgh's Monongahela River, had an acute asthma attack that sparked his interest in becoming a doctor.
Rabinowitz's teaching and mentorship have left a lasting impact on his students and residents, with many attributing their success to his guidance. Stephen Nakada, MD, FACS, FRCS, first met Rabinowitz as a medical student at the University of Rochester in 1986 and served as a resident in the early 1990s. Nakada credits Rabinowitz with instilling in him a commitment to quality patient care, the importance of establishing personal relationships, and the value of taking time to enjoy the journey.
One of Rabinowitz's most notable students is Helen Bernie, DO, MPH, who describes Rabinowitz as treating his students and residents as part of his professional family. Rabinowitz's influence on Bernie was evident when he encouraged her to take her oral boards at the right time, stressing the need for balance between work and family, and helping her to believe in herself.
Rabinowitz has trained over 100 urology residents and medical students, and he is most proud of his role as a teacher and mentor. He has held leadership positions such as Pediatric Urology Division Chief and professor of Urology and Pediatrics at the University of Rochester Medical Center. Rabinowitz added "Teach Something" to the school's motto: "Know Something. Do Something. Be Something."
Scott Quarrier, MD, MPH, listed many unique titles that he and other former residents crafted with Rabinowitz for publications during Rabinowitz's Festschrift presentation. Rabinowitz also invited Bernie to write part of a book and to participate in the annual ethics debate on sexual dysfunction.
Rabinowitz's contributions to the field of pediatric urology and urologic history have earned him numerous accolades. He has authored or co-authored more than 250 publications and has served as chair of the American Academy of Pediatrics Section on Urology, as a member of the American Urological Association board of directors, and as AUA Northeastern Section president, secretary, and historian.
The AUA recognised Rabinowitz's work and expertise with its Distinguished Service Award, Lifetime Achievement Award, and the William P. Didusch Art and History Award. Rabinowitz continues to provide comprehensive care for children with a broad range of anatomic and functional genitourinary abnormalities.
Despite the absence of specific information about Ronald Rabinowitz's unique teaching methods or catchphrases in publicly documented sources, it is clear that his impact on his students and residents extends far beyond the operating room. Rabinowitz's influence is evident in the success of his students and residents, who credit him with instilling in them a commitment to quality patient care, the importance of personal relationships, and the value of enjoying the journey.
- Rabinowitz's students and residents, such as Stephen Nakada and Helen Bernie, credit him for instilling in them a commitment to quality patient care, the importance of establishing personal relationships, and the value of personal growth through learning and self-development.
- In addition to his achievements in the field of pediatric urology, Rabinowitz has made significant contributions to health and wellness by teaching and mentoring over 100 medical students and residents, with his influence extending beyond the operating room.
- Rabinowitz's impact on his students' lives goes beyond technical skills by encouraging balance in their lives, fostering self-belief, and instilling a broader appreciation for education and self-development beyond their medical careers.
