Wilford Hall doctor selected for AMSUS award Published Sept. 28, 2009 By Senior Airman Amber Bressler 59th Medical Wing Public Affairs LACKLAND AIR FORCE BASE, Texas -- The Association of Military Surgeons of the United States will present Maj. (Dr.) Vikhyat Bebarta this year's Donald F. Hagen Young Physician Award at their 115th annual meeting in St. Louis, Nov. 15. The Donald F. Hagen Young Physician Award recognizes early accomplishments and demonstrates future potential in federal healthcare leadership. "I definitely feel humbled and surprised to receive this award," said Doctor Bebarta, chief of medical toxicology, 59th Emergency Medical Squadron. "To receive a prestigious award like this definitely takes a good team of people to support what we do." Among Doctor Bebarta's many accomplishments are his work to improve combat casualty care, his support of Operation Iraqi Freedom and his achievements in medical research. "Doctor Bebarta is one of the brightest stars in a constellation of promising young Air Force Medical Service physicians who have dedicated themselves to clinical, academic and operational excellence," said Col. (Dr.) James King, chairman of emergency medicine. "During the four years I have known Doctor Bebarta, I have witnessed the tremendous impact he has made on our department and on Air Force medicine." Doctor Bebarta created Wilford Hall Medical Center's first toxicology consultative service which provides 24-hour coverage. During his two deployments, Doctor Bebarta served as an Emergency Department Flight commander. While deployed, he developed a clinical policy on the treatment of white phosphorus burns and created the Department of Defense toxicology e-mail consult service for deployed providers. "I couldn't ask for a better boss, I love working for Doctor Bebarta," said Rebecca Pitotti, 59th EMDS research nurse coordinator. "I can't think of anyone who deserved this award more."