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 Robert J. McKay,
M.D.
2002 VMS Distinguished Service Award
Dr.
Robert James McKay has made the study and practice of pediatrics a way of life
for over fifty years. As one of the field’s giants, Dr. McKay filled the
interview with an incredible account of both his involvement in the evolution of
the pediatric department at UVM and pediatrics in Vermont since 1950.
Before attending Princeton University as an undergraduate and then Harvard as a
medical student, Dr. McKay grew up in Basking Ridge, NJ. Following his residency
at Boston Children’s Hospital and a fellowship at Harvard Medical School, he was
enticed into moving up to Vermont to found the pediatric department at UVM.
During his long and impressive tenureship as the founder and chairman of the
department of pediatrics at the College of Medicine, Dr. McKay emphasized
quality ambulatory care, parental involvement and open visiting privileges. He
also coined a phrase known as GRUSC (Gentle, Respectful, Understanding,
Sympathetic Care) which epitomized his philosophy on how medicine should be
practiced. It is precisely this kind of philosophy that motivated Dr. McKay to
practice, study and teach pediatrics in such an inspiring manner.
His commitment to pediatrics and his community was reflected in his
participation in such programs as the United Way, the Vermont Governor’s
Committee to Study Child Abuse and the Vermont Infant Apnea Program. Dr. McKay’s
incredible array of community and professional activities exemplifies why he was
such a deserving recipient of the VMS 2002 Distinguished Service Award. Dr.
McKay was slow to acknowledge any of his professional accolades but his
commitment to serving his community was undeniable.
Although he officially retired from his pediatric practice in 1990 and his
geriatric practice in 1996, Dr. McKay remains active as a Professor of
Pediatrics, Emeritus, of UVM and as a resident of the Wake Robin Continuing Care
Retirement Community. Outside of his professional life, Dr. McKay proudly boasts
that he has four adult sons and 11 grandchildren, many of whom live in Vermont.
We at the Society appreciate all of the contributions he has made to the medical
profession.
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