Melissa George

About Melissa George

Versatile, forward-thinking pathology leader; responsible steward of resources; board-certified in Anatomic & Clinical Pathology, Hematopathology, and Blood Banking/Transfusion Medicine. I recently served as the Interim Chair of the Pathology Department (8/18 to 5/21) where I was responsible for 40 faculty in 3 divisions (Anatomic, Clinical and Experimental Pathology) and over 300 staff members. I have also served as the Medical Director of the Transfusion Medicine service since 2010 where I run a complex transfusion service, and treat patients using Therapeutic Apheresis. I also provide service coverage for Hematopathology, Clinical Chemistry and Coagulation. I am a Professor in the Department of Pathology and have served as either Program Director or Associate Program Director for the Pathology Residency, since 2012.I have significant experience working in interdisciplinary teams as highlighted by select projects listed below:1.) Getting 7 platforms up and running for SARS-CoV-2 molecular testing, including an innovative MALDI-TOF instrument (able to perform variant testing), and 1 platform for antigen testing at Penn State Health2.) Preparing for the growth of Penn State Health by expanding the histology laboratory without costly renovation, and collaborating on design of new community hospital laboratories 3.) Implementation of an innovative “Blood Vending Machine” for providing immediate access to emergency use, uncrossmatched blood in the trauma bay. 4.) Improved teamwork and decreased blood wastage during Massive Transfusion Protocol activations.5.) Implementation of pre-hospital transfusion in conjunction with Life Lion Emergency Medical Services and Critical Care.6.) Implementation of whole blood for trauma. I have participated in the Physician Leadership Academy at the Wharton School of Business, the CAP Engaged Leadership Academy, Penn State Health/Smeal Leadership Academy, and AAMC Mid-Career Women\'s Leadership Seminar. I serve on several CAP, ASCP, APC and AABB committees, and have significant graduate medical educational leadership experience. I was one of ASCP\'s 40 under 40 in 2015, and was named to The Pathologist 2020 Power List in the category \"A Solid Foundation\" for teaching/mentoring.

Experience

1. Program Director, Pathology Residency

   Penn State Health

   Jan 2016 — Present

Education

• Immaculata University

  B.A. , Biology/Chemistry

• Philadelphia College of Osteopathic Medicine

  D.O., Osteopathic Medicine/Osteopathy

  2000 — 2004

• Immaculata University

  Bachelor of Arts - BA, Biology-Chemistry

  1996 — 2000

Skills

• Healthcare
• Patient Safety
• Healthcare Information Technology
• Medical Education
• Cancer
• Pathology
• Medicine
• Management
• Molecular Biology
• Teamwork
• Clinical Trials
• Research
• Life Sciences
• Customer Service
• Clinical Research
• Public Health
• Teaching