Dr. Merle Clarke, a nephrologist by profession and president of the Saint Lucia Medical and Dental Association (SLMDA) has been awarded the 2023 International Society of Nephrology (ISN) Pioneer Award (North America and the Caribbean) for her outstanding contribution to kidney care.
The ISN Pioneer Awards recognize outstanding and sustained contribution to establishing and developing kidney care in emerging regions of the world.
Given the significant social, psychological, biological, and financial toll that chronic kidney disease (CKD) has on individuals, families and communities, Dr. Clarke campaigns for CKD prevention and healthier lifestyles. She has also lobbied successfully for increased access to kidney replacement therapy for her fellow citizens.
Dr. Clarke is a member of numerous internal societies, including a distinguished fellow of the American Society of Nephrology, patron of the Saint Lucia Renal Association, member of the Saint Lucia Diabetes and Hypertension Association, and the Saint Lucia Cancer Society as well as the host of the SLMDA-produced medical program HEALTHWISE, which aims to educate and sensitize the general public on a wide range of medical issues.
Dr. Clarke will receive her award at the ISN World Congress of Nephrology 2023 from March 30 to April 2, 2023 in Bangkok, Thailand.