The Rhode Island Hospital Medical Staff Association has announced that Dr. Edward Akelman is the recipient of the 2025 Milton W. Hamolsky, MD Outstanding Physician of the Year Award.
The highest honor bestowed by the Rhode Island Hospital medical staff—the Milton W. Hamolsky, MD Outstanding Physician of the Year Award recognizes physicians who exemplify exceptional skill, leadership, professionalism, and commitment to medicine. Dr. Akelman’s career reflects these values through his clinical expertise, academic leadership, and ongoing contributions to orthopedic education and research.
In addition to his duties as president of University Orthopedics, Dr. Akelman serves as Chairman of the Orthopaedic Departments at the Warren Alpert Medical School of Brown University, Rhode Island Hospital, and Miriam Hospital. A nationally respected, board-certified expert in his field, Dr. Akelman treats a wide range of upper extremity conditions and disorders. His dedication to patient care, education, and surgical excellence has made a lasting impact on both his patients and colleagues.
“Dr. Akelman’s commitment to teaching and patient care has been inspiring since my first day working with him during my PGY-2 year. His patience, particularly as he guided me through my first LRTI procedure, left a lasting impression on my development as a physician,” said UOI Hand and Upper Extremity Surgeon Dr. Joseph Gil, one of the nominating physicians. “He consistently demonstrates the importance of forming meaningful, personal connections with patients—an approach I continue to emphasize with residents and fellows today.”
The Physician of the Year award will be virtually presented to Dr. Akelman at the Medical Staff Association’s annual meeting on January 21, 2026, with an in-person celebration planned during the Biannual Meeting in September 2026.
Congratulations to Dr. Akelman on this well-deserved recognition and for his continued dedication to advancing orthopedic care in Rhode Island and beyond.