Dr. Horia Vulpe, specialist in radiation oncology – Associate Professor of ”Nicolae Testemitanu” State University of Medicine and Pharmacy

”Nicolae Testemitanu” State University of Medicine and Pharmacy conferred the Associate Professor honorary title to Dr. Horia Vulpe, specialist in radiation oncology, Amethyst Radiotherapy Center in Bucharest, Romania, affiliated with Kaiser Permanente, Dublin Cancer Center, California, USA, senior scientific researcher at the Center for Oncology Policies at King's College, London, United Kingdom.

At the opening of the ceremony, rector Emil Ceban stated that the high title was awarded to the researcher in appreciation of his contribution to the development of the oncology system in the Republic of Moldova, by exchanging knowledge and experience in the field of oncology, providing support for the participation of young specialists and resident physicians from the country in specialized conferences and congresses in Romania, strengthening relations between the community of young oncologists of Nicolae Testemitanu State University of Medicine and Pharmacy and that of romanian specialists, the integration into specialized academic networks and increasing the visibility of the University internationally. ”Dr. Horia Vulpe contributed to the implementation of diagnostic and treatment methods, according to international criteria and guidelines; promoted the standardization and updating of clinical standards in oncology practice in the Republic of Moldova. He stood out as an active mentor of young specialists and resident physicians within the University, providing them with access to current teaching materials, international guides, scientific articles and webinars, dedicated to oncology topics”, prof. Emil Ceban specified.

A speech in support of the decision of the University Senate was given by Ruslan Baltaga, director of the Oncology Institute of Moldova, who spoke about the collaboration with Dr. Horia Vulpe, which began with the outbreak of the war in Ukraine, by providing medical services of chemotherapy and radiotherapy to cancer refugees transferred to our country. Subsequently, two joint publications were developed, international tumor boards were organized - multidisciplinary oncology commissions, through which the treatment of cancer patients was conceptually changed, educational courses, practical workshops, exchange of experiences through practical internships with experts from Romania were organized, as well as curricula for the disciplines of chemotherapy and radiotherapy were developed.

In turn, dr. Horia Vulpe sent a message of gratitude for this honorable gesture of Nicolae Testemitanu State University of Medicine and Pharmacy. The Romanian professor spoke about his motivation to practice medicine, about his study experience and professional activity in the USA, and the moment when he decided to return to the country to support, through an international program, cancer patients from Ukraine. ”This was the basis on which a fruitful collaboration with the Oncology Institute of Moldova was later built in the scientific, educational and mentoring areas. It is incredible what we have managed to achieve in these 3 years - from rudimentary 3D treatments to the linear accelerator and the introduction of treatments in line with international standards. Currently, I notice a rapid change in the oncology service in the Republic of Moldova and I hope to continue this partnership in the future”, dr. Vulpe assured.

The event was also attended by professor dr. Ion-Christian Chiricuta from Carol Davila University of Medicine and Pharmacy in Bucharest. The romanian professor emphasized the advanced professional level of dr. Vulpe: ”His activity is unique. He is a young specialist, trained according to a different concept, from whom we should learn. Here, in Chisinau, we found a fantastic institute, another level of perfection, and the greatest asset resides in the young specialists who the future belongs to. I congratulate you on your potential”.

The ceremony for conferring the honorary title of Associate Professor took place on may 22 in the presence of members of the Senate of Nicolae Testemitanu State University of Medicine and Pharmacy, representatives of the Department of Oncology, students and resident physicians.