National Academy of Medicine selects Rachel Hadler as a 2026 fellow
September 15, 2026 Ethan Fogus
Clear communication makes a world of difference when a loved one is in the intensive care unit (ICU). Early discussions about recovery expectations give care teams more agency, improving quality of life while also saving patients and caregivers from long-lasting stress.
Rachel A. Hadler (anesthesiology) is an intensivist, palliative care physician and researcher. Her research includes methods for enhancing the vital communication patients receive during critical illness. In recognition of her work, the National Academy of Medicine handpicked Hadler as a 2026 fellow. Hadler is one of seven fellows chosen.
During the two-year appointment, the fellows will work with eminent researchers, policy experts and clinicians from across the country and contribute to providing nonpartisan, evidence-based guidance for policymakers and the public. All fellows receive a flexible research grant from the National Academy of Medicine.
Improving health for people and communities everywhere
In 2025, Hadler received a one-year $25,000 pilot grant from the Emory Center for Health in Aging. The pilot program encourages collaboration and builds connections within the Emory community to enhance well-being among older adults.
Hadler’s research focuses on care intensity at end-of-life and on supporting patients and families during and after critical illness. Her findings suggest that patient care trajectories are impacted by many factors beyond their individual preferences and care needs.
Her work also suggests that opening conversations between patients and care teams is important for addressing ICU patients’ long-term needs and improving quality of life. She has validated a version of the Patient Dignity Inventory — an assessment tool for measuring distress — for use in the ICU. Her work aims to create a more patient-centric experience, ultimately reducing suffering during and after critical illness.
Previously, Hadler received funding through the Foundation for Anesthesia Education and Research, the Department of Veterans Affairs and the Hillman Family Foundation.
“Congratulations to this remarkable new class of Emerging Leaders in Health and Medicine,” said National Academy of Medicine President Victor J. Dzau. “At a time of rapid change across science and health, their breadth of perspectives and willingness to work across disciplines will be essential to driving progress, strengthening systems and improving health and well-being for people and communities everywhere.”
About the National Academy of Medicine
The National Academy of Medicine, established in 1970 as the Institute of Medicine, is an independent organization of eminent professionals from diverse fields including health and medicine; the natural, social and behavioral sciences; and beyond. It serves alongside the National Academy of Sciences and the National Academy of Engineering as an adviser to the nation and the international community. Through its domestic and global initiatives, the National Academy of Medicine works to address critical issues in health, medicine, and related policy and inspire positive action across sectors. The National Academy of Medicine collaborates closely with its peer academies and other divisions within the National Academies of Sciences, Engineering and Medicine.
