Dr. Francis J. Tedesco is a distinguished physician leader and former president of the Medical College of Georgia, now part of Augusta University. He was appointed as president of the Medical College of Georgia in May 1988, bringing visionary leadership to the institution during a critical period of growth and development. Prior to his presidency, Dr. Tedesco held significant academic and administrative positions that prepared him for guiding one of the Southeast's premier medical institutions. His leadership extended beyond campus boundaries as he actively engaged with the broader medical community and healthcare policy discussions at state and national levels. Under his tenure, the Medical College of Georgia significantly strengthened its research portfolio and expanded clinical education programs, establishing foundations for future growth and institutional excellence.
Dr. Tedesco made significant contributions to the field of telemedicine, recognizing its potential to transform healthcare delivery long before it became mainstream practice. His 1993 publication 'Telemedicine: Bringing Medical Care to Isolated Communities' demonstrated his forward-thinking approach to addressing healthcare disparities through technological innovation. This seminal work helped establish frameworks for delivering quality medical services to rural and underserved populations across Georgia, directly impacting healthcare accessibility. His leadership in implementing telemedicine initiatives at the Medical College of Georgia positioned the institution as an early adopter of this transformative technology, creating models that would be replicated by academic medical centers nationwide. These efforts significantly expanded access to specialty care for thousands of Georgians who previously faced substantial barriers to receiving timely medical attention.
Beyond his direct research contributions, Dr. Tedesco's legacy endures through the institutional structures he helped establish and the culture of innovation he fostered at the Medical College of Georgia. His commitment to advancing medical education and research is honored through the Tedesco Distinguished Chair in Pediatric Hematology/Oncology at Augusta University, which continues to support cutting-edge work in children's cancer care. As President Emeritus, his influence remains evident in the institution's ongoing commitment to serving Georgia's healthcare needs through education, research, and clinical innovation. The award named in his honor recognizes outstanding graduates who embody his dedication to excellence in medical practice and service to the community. This enduring legacy ensures that his vision continues to inspire future generations of healthcare professionals across the state and beyond.
