GET TO KNOW YOUR LEADERSHIP
David L. Bowton, MD, FCCP
Read through a Q&A with one of the CHEST Network leaders, David L. Bowton, MD, FCCP, Pulmonary Vascular and Cardiovascular Network Chair.
June 24, 2022
Where do you work?
I am an Emeritus Professor of Critical Care in the Department of Anesthesiology at Wake Forest University School of Medicine. That means I am retired, so, technically, I don’t work. However, I continue to teach residents and fellows, and it gives me more time to be active in other areas like CHEST.
What are your research interests, and how does this apply to your position within the Networks?
While I no longer have extramural funding, I am primarily concerned with implementation of best practices in care delivery in ICUs, focusing on mechanical ventilatory support and cardiovascular support.
How did you become interested and involved in the Pulmonary Vascular and Cardiovascular Network?
I was Chair of the Cardiovascular Medicine and Surgery (CVMS) Network before the Network reorganization, and, then, the CVMS Network was merged with the Pulmonary Vascular Network. The two Networks had quite different focus, but their interests have exciting potential overlap, and I believe the combination will provide a great nucleus for future program development and educational opportunities.
Are you involved in any other activities or volunteer positions at CHEST?
In addition to being faculty in CHEST courses, I am active on the Difficult Airway Management and Mechanical Ventilation Domain Task Forces and have been the Chair of the Respiratory Care Network. I am currently one of the CHEST representatives to the Board of Medical Advisors (BOMA) of the American Association of Respiratory Care (AARC) and am the current Chair of BOMA.
What clinical research is most interesting to you right now?
The hemodynamic support of critically ill patients is a current central interest. It is remarkable to me how little our pharmacologic treatment of cardiovascular collapse (especially due to sepsis) has evolved over the past decades. We remain unsure of the most appropriate method to monitor adequacy of fluid resuscitation or blood pressure support and their respective targets for individual patients.
What are your hobbies?
I am an avid biker (pedal not hog). As I age, I ride less technical single track and more on fire roads, but it keeps me outside and active. I enjoy skiing as well and still have an annual ski trip with friends.
What is something you cannot live without (after family and friends)?
Getting outside and into nature is very important to me. I am fortunate to live in an area where I can be surrounded by trees, lakes, and wildlife within minutes of home.
Is there anything else you’d like to share with your Network peers?
I am grateful for the opportunities CHEST provides to continue to actively engage in my profession—even though I’m retired.
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