ACCC Honors Community Oncologist with National Award

ROCKVILLE, Md. – The Association of Community Cancer Centers (ACCC) has honored Eric Lee Raefsky, MD, with a posthumous presentation of its prestigious David King Community Clinical Scientist Award. He was a physician at Tennessee Oncology, PLLC, for 25 years, serving on the Board of Directors and, most recently, as Medical Director. Dr. Raefsky, who passed away on August 5, 2014, was an advocate for clinical trials research through the Sarah Cannon Research Institute, enrolling 40–50 patients in clinical trials annually, totaling 1,000 during his career.

"It is our privilege to recognize Dr. Raefsky’s exceptional contribution to the oncology community with the presentation of this award," said Becky DeKay, MBA, ACCC President 2014—2015.

In accepting the award on behalf of the late Dr. Raefsky, his daughter Stacy Maciuk spoke of his legacy of personal and professional kindness, generosity, and compassion for others.

Dr. Raefsky established a full–time clinic at Summit Medical Center and served as a charter staff member, Chairman of the Department of Medicine, Oncology Committee Chairman, and on multiple committees. He served as the Co–Medical Director and board member of a local hospice, and Chairman of Centennial Medical Center’s Oncology Committee.

Dr. Raefsky was a member of the American Society of Clinical Oncology, American Society of Hematology, Tennessee Medical Association, Nashville Academy of Medicine, and the Phi Beta Kappa and Alpha Omega Alpha Honor Societies. He was named the Leukemia and Lymphoma Society of Middle Tennessee’s "Man of the Year" in 2006. He was the recipient of the Frist Humanitarian Award, Gilda’s Club Shining Star Award, Sarah Cannon Cancer Center’s Celebration of Life Award, and Best Doctors in America in 2013.

Dr. Raefsky received his BS degree from the Massachusetts Institute of Technology and graduated first in his class with a MD degree from Temple University School of Medicine. He served as a clinical fellow in the Division of Hematology and Oncology at Washington University School of Medicine.

The award was presented on March 18, 2015, during the ACCC 41st Annual Meeting, CANCERSCAPE held at the Hyatt Regency Crystal City, Arlington, Va.