It was 1983 and Dr. Quindlen was recruited to lead the USA Department of Neurosurgery as its second chair. Founding chair Dr. David Dean had helped establish the department. Dr. Quindlen’s task was to build on that foundation.
“I think we’ve done that,” said Dr. Quindlen, who served as chair of the department for 28 years, stepping down from the chair position in 2011.
“We have provided excellent cranial aneurysm surgery, pituitary surgery, tumor surgery and pediatric neurosurgery to many patients in our region,” he said. “In more recent years, we also excelled at complex spine surgery.”
Dr. Quindlen is known for his enthusiasm for technology and was ahead of his time in many ways. He led an effort in neurosurgery to adopt an electronic medical record system and electronic fax system 14 years ago. “We were the first paperless practice in the Mobile area,” he explained. “This became an important advantage not only in supporting patient care, but also in our neurosurgical clinic relocations – we moved six times in the past 34 years,” he said.
“During his career, Dr. Quindlen has trained and served as a mentor for countless medical students, residents, faculty and staff,” said Dr. Anthony Martino, chair of the USA Department of Neurosurgery. “The direct impact he has made through patient care and medical education is immeasurable.”
During his career at USA, Dr. Quindlen provided leadership in many ways serving on the College of Medicine’s Executive Council; as president of the Health Services Foundation Medical Executive Committee; chair of the Health Services Foundation Investment Committee; chair of the Bylaws Committee; chair of the Surgical Case Review Committee; and director of the Neurotrauma Intensive Care Unit.
Dr. Quindlen taught neurosurgical clerkship courses and had a profound positive impact on medical students – many of whom chose to pursue a career in neurosurgery. “It has been a pleasure to serve and be a part of the USA College of Medicine and health system,” Dr. Quindlen said.
According to Dr. Quindlen, the job did come with its challenges; namely, the ever-expanding health care system with the University of South Alabama’s hospital acquisitions in the early 90s, adding to both the inpatient and our clinic’s coverage responsibilities.
Throughout his career, Dr. Quindlen has made significant contributions to the mission of USA Health.
Later this month – after 34 years of dedicated service – he will officially retire from USA.
A reception in Dr. Quindlen’s honor will be held December 7th from 3 p.m. to 5 p.m. at the Strada Patient Care Center Conference Center. We hope you will be able to attend as we celebrate the career of Dr. Quindlen and honor him for his many years of service to the USA College of Medicine and USA Health. The Strada Patient Care Center is located at 1601 Center St. in Mobile.
