Philadelphia’s Korman Respiratory Institute Names Jesse Román New CEO

Respiratory disease expert Jesse Román, MD, is the new CEO of Philadelphia’s Jane and Leonard Korman Respiratory Institute.

Románhas published about 115 peer-reviewed articles in scientific journals and 20 manuscripts — primarily on sarcoidosis, interstitial lung disease and pulmonary fibrosis.

Román’s most recent position was chairman of the Department of Medicine at the University of Louisville School of Medicine. Known for his advocacy efforts and community engagement, Román established the university’s Interstitial Lung Disease Program and also helped set up the Puerto Rico Center for Pulmonary Fibrosis in his native Mayagüez, Puerto Rico. He continues to see patients in both locations.

“World-class medicine cannot be delivered in a vacuum,” he said. “It takes teams of outstanding clinicians, staff, educators and researchers, all united to provide the best care to patients.”

The Jane and Leonard Korman Respiratory Institute was established in 2017 as the result of a collaboration between Jefferson Health and National Jewish Health, two highly ranked institutions.

“We are excited to have Dr. Román coming on board in this leadership role at Jefferson,” Jay Finigan, MD, director of the Centers for Respiratory Excellence at National Jewish Health, said in a press release. “Together, National Jewish Health, Jefferson Health and Mount Sinai bring extraordinary expertise in developing a patient-centered, multi-disciplinary model of care for complex respiratory illnesses as well as a commitment to working together on breakthrough research.”

Added Bruce A. Meyer, MD, chief physician executive at Jefferson Health: “Dr. Román’s combination of leadership and pulmonary expertise makes him an excellent choice to shape this new collaboration, which will deliver unparalleled respiratory care and research for patients throughout the Delaware Valley.”

The Philadelphia institution offers screening for all types of lung conditions, including sarcoidosis, asthma, interstitial lung disease and lung cancer. It also provides comprehensive lung care services that include lung nodule screening and monitoring, diagnostic tests, minimally invasive surgeries and targeted radiation therapies, acupuncture, stress relief and nutrition plans, as well as federally funded clinical trials and research.